- 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 Nuremberg to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$92
Average price
$159
Fastest journey
4 h 3 m
Average duration
4 h 56 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
364 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nuremberg to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nuremberg to Essen will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $92.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Nuremberg for Essen on Fri, Jul 10, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct trains cover the 364 km distance in an average of 4 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 3 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 the slowest trains will take 5 h 14 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.
7:00 AM4h03Nuremberg11:03 AMEssen$921One-way0 transfers- 6:31 AM5h12Nuremberg11:43 AMEssen$1531One-way0 transfers
- 8:31 AM5h14Nuremberg1:45 PMEssen$1811One-way0 transfers
- 7:31 AM5h14Nuremberg12:45 PMEssen$2091One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM4h03Nuremberg11:03 AMEssen$921One-way0 transfers
- 6:31 AM5h12Nuremberg11:43 AMEssen$1531One-way0 transfers
- 8:31 AM5h14Nuremberg1:45 PMEssen$1811One-way0 transfers
- 7:31 AM5h14Nuremberg12:45 PMEssen$2091One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Nuremberg to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Nuremberg to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $226.
Distance: 226 miles (364 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$115 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $530 Average price | $84 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 49m Average total duration 4h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 16m Average total duration 6h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Nuremberg to Essen is a bus with an average price of $41 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Nuremberg to Essen:
A bus is $74 (€61) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nuremberg to Essen costing on average $115 (€95).
A bus is $489 (€401) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Nuremberg to Essen costing on average $530 (€435).
The fastest way to travel from Nuremberg to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 40m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 19m.
Bus takes on average 6h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Nuremberg and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Nuremberg 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 47m sooner (4h 19m by train vs 5h 6m by car). Tickets start at around $115 (€95) compared to roughly $84 (€69) 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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
Nuremberg to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Nuremberg to Essen trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:31 AM Nuremberg | 5h12 | 11:43 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:00 AM Nuremberg | 4h03 | 11:03 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:31 AM Nuremberg | 5h14 | 12:45 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:31 AM Nuremberg | 5h14 | 1:45 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 Nuremberg 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.
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
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Jul 12
Jul 12
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Jul 13
Tue
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Jul 14
Wed
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Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Why should you book Nuremberg to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Nuremberg to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Nuremberg to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Nuremberg to Essen.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nuremberg to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Nuremberg to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Nuremberg to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Nuremberg to Essen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 226 miles (364 km) distance in 4h 3m.
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 $25 (€20)
Distance 226 miles (364 km) |
Average train duration 4h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€27) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 4h 3m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 91 days |
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 $25 (€20)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Nuremberg to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Nuremberg and Essen from $25 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
24 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 1m
Cheapest Price
$85 (€70)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 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 Nuremberg to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33 (€27), while the average price is around $115 (€95).
The train from Nuremberg to Essen takes 4h 3m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Nuremberg to Essen is 226 miles (364 km).
The first train from Nuremberg to Essen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Nuremberg to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Nuremberg to Essen. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Nuremberg to Essen.
The train station in Nuremberg that goes to Essen is Nuremberg Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Nuremberg to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Nuremberg to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Franconian countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, although it is not widely renowned for being particularly scenic compared to other routes in Germany.
A day trip from Nuremberg to Essen is not feasible due to the travel time of 4h 3m. However, there are 13 train connections per day covering the distance of 226 miles (364 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 Nuremberg to Essen.
Since both Nuremberg 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Nuremberg 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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.
More options for your journey from Nuremberg to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Nuremberg
Most popular train connections to Essen
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