- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
Major art museum known for outstanding 19th- to 21st-century collections, photography, and temporary exhibitions; one of Germany’s best museum visits.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Nantes to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jul 07
Cheapest price
$218
Average price
$218
Fastest journey
8 h 11 m
Average duration
8 h 11 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
779 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nantes to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nantes to Essen will cost around $218 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $218.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Nantes for Essen on Tue, Jul 07, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jul 07 the direct trains cover the 779 km distance in an average of 8 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 11 m .
On Tue, Jul 07 the slowest trains will take 8 h 11 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
1:04 PM8h11Nantes9:15 PMEssen$2181One-way0 transfers
- 1:04 PM8h11Nantes9:15 PMEssen$2181One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Nantes to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Nantes to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, and a train costs an average of $218.
Distance: 484 miles (779 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$300 Average price | $91 Average price Cheapest | $285 Average price | $251 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 3m Average total duration Fastest 8h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 2m Average total duration 15h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 36m Average total duration 9h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Nantes to Essen is a bus with an average price of $91 (€75).
This is compared to other travel options from Nantes to Essen:
A bus is $193 (€159) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Nantes to Essen costing on average $285 (€234).
A bus is $209 (€171) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nantes to Essen costing on average $300 (€247).
The fastest way to travel from Nantes to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 8h 33m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Flight takes on average 9h 36m.
Bus takes on average 15h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Nantes and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Nantes to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 4m sooner (8h 33m by train vs 9h 37m by car). Tickets start at around $300 (€247) compared to roughly $251 (€206) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Nantes to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Nantes to Essen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:04 PM Nantes | 8h11 | 9:15 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Nantes to Essen by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Tue
Jul 07
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
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Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Journey information
Overview: Train from Nantes to Essen
France
Germany
Trains from Nantes to Essen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $218 (€179) but you can travel from only $53 (€44) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 21:52. The fastest train covers the 484 miles (779 km) distance in 8h 11m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $53 (€44)
Distance 484 miles (779 km) |
Average train duration 8h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $218 (€179) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 8h 11m |
First train 12:35 AM |
Last train 9:52 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $53 (€44)
Train companies: Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI from Nantes to Essen trainsSociété Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Nantes and Essen from $53 (€44). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 7m
Cheapest Price
$327 (€269)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 25m
Cheapest Price
$383 (€315)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
The main regional museum of the Ruhr area, located in the former coal washery at Zollverein, with archaeology, history, and industrial culture displays.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum in the Zollverein complex showing contemporary product and industrial design in a striking former boiler house.
- Must visit
Margarethenhöhe
Picturesque garden-city district with distinctive early 20th-century planning, charming streets, and strong local character; very photogenic and walkable.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake area popular for walking, cycling, sailing views, and relaxed Ruhr landscapes; one of Essen’s top outdoor recreation spots.
- Must visit
Zollverein Park
Contemporary landscape park woven through the former industrial complex, mixing architecture, art, and broad walking spaces popular on social media.
Currywurst
Sliced sausage with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a Ruhr area classic found at snack stands and pubs across Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and onions; common in the wider region around Essen.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Pot roast marinated for days in vinegar and spices, usually served with gravy and dumplings or potatoes; a classic festive dish in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Schote
An established fine-dining restaurant known for modern German cuisine, tasting menus, and an elegant atmosphere.
Unperfekthaus
A well-known creative venue with casual dining, buffet-style meals, and a lively cultural atmosphere in central Essen.
Tablo
A popular long-running restaurant serving generous Turkish and Mediterranean dishes in a busy, friendly setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable; hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is included, but tipping is customary. Round up small bills or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Taxis are usually rounded up; no tip is expected for counter service.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.60
- Day pass
- EUR 8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf, Essen -> Essen City Center, Essen
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Check in the VRR App for ticket validity zones before travel, as fares depend on the price level.
- On most VRR buses and trams, card payment is not always available onboard, so buy tickets in the app or from machines in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Nantes to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nantes to Essen by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Nantes to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $218 (€179), while the average price is around $300 (€247).
The train from Nantes to Essen takes 8h 11m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Nantes to Essen leaves at 12:35 AM.
The distance by train from Nantes to Essen is 484 miles (779 km).
The last train from Nantes to Essen leaves at 9:52 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Nantes to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Nantes to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Nantes to Essen.
The train station in Nantes that goes to Essen is Nantes station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Nantes to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $53 (€44).
The train journey from Nantes to Essen offers varying scenery, with picturesque views of the French countryside, charming villages, and rolling hills, transitioning to more urban and industrial landscapes as you approach Essen.
A day trip from Nantes to Essen is not feasible as the travel duration is 8h 11m. There are 2 trips per day by train for this journey, covering a distance of 484 miles (779 km).
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Nantes to Essen.
Since both Nantes and Essen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Nantes to Essen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Nantes to Essen
Most Nantes to Essen trains use the Gare de Nantes to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Nantes and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Nantes
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Nantes station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Nantes to Essen leave from Gare de Nantes. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Nantes city centre at 27 Boulevard de Stalingrad, 44041 Nantes, France.
Gare de Nantes27 Boulevard de Stalingrad, 44041 Nantes, France+33 892 35 35 35
City-centre transport
Getting to Gare de Nantes from Nantes city centre
BusC2, C3, C8 · 4m · $2 · every ~31 min
Gare de Nantes train station facilities and services
Gare de Nantes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Café de la Gare, La Cigale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gare de Nantes. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gare de Nantes. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gare de Nantes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gare de Nantes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gare de Nantes: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include ibis Styles Nantes Centre Gare, Mercure Nantes Centre Gare, Hotel Astoria.
Which Essen station do trains from Nantes arrive at?
Trains from Nantes to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Most popular train connections from Nantes
More options for your journey from Nantes to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Nantes
Most popular train connections to Essen
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