Prague to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Wed, Nov 04
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Deutsche Bahn
České dráhy
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
České dráhy
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Prague to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$56
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$72
Fastest journey on Nov 04
7 h 57 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
9 h 21 m
Trains on Nov 04
7
Distance
542 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Prague to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Prague to Essen will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 7 trains from Prague to Essen, including 7 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 542 km distance in an average of 9 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 57 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 10 h 58 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0 transfers
  • České dráhy
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Prague to Essen

CzechiaCzechia
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Prague to Essen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 8h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 but you can travel from only $36 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 336 miles (542 km) distance in 7h 33m.

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 $36

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance336 miles (542 km)
  • Average train duration8h 36m
  • Cheapest ticket price$36
  • Trains per day9
  • Fastest train7h 33m
  • First train12:03 AM
  • Last train11:56 PM
  • Cheapest MonthSep
  • Cheapest DayWed
  • High SeasonOct - Dec
  • Low SeasonApr - Jun
  • Busiest DayWed
  • Least Busy DaySat
  • Best time to book14 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $36

Frequently asked questions about your Prague to Essen trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Prague to Essen.

Train ticket prices from Prague to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36, while the average price is around $158.
The train from Prague to Essen takes 7h 33m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Prague to Essen is 336 miles (542 km).
The first train from Prague to Essen leaves at 12:03 AM.
The last train from Prague to Essen leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Prague to Essen.

Live departures

Prague to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Prague to Essen trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
České dráhyrj 382 · rj 10382 · IC 2586 · ICE 544
On time
10:31 AM Prague hlavní nádraží
10h07
8:38 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnRJ 382 · BUS 10382 · IC 2444 · 2683610:31 AM Prague hlavní nádraží
11h36
10:07 PM Essen Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnRJ 382 · BUS 10382 · IC 2586 · ICE 54410:31 AM Prague hlavní nádraží
10h14
8:45 PM Essen Hbf4 transfers
České dráhyEC 356 · EC 60356 · R 3572 · ICE 620
On time
11:35 AM Prague hlavní nádraží
9h27
9:02 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
České dráhyrj 176 · rj 10176 · IC 2446 · ICE 209
On time
12:31 PM Prague hlavní nádraží
11h30
12:01 AM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
České dráhyEC 354 · EC 60354 · R 3576 · ICE 5261:35 PM Prague hlavní nádraží
10h15
11:50 PM Essen Hbf4 transfers
Wednesday, November 4
FlixTrain12:00 AM Prague
10h48
10:48 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain3:50 AM Prague
10h58
2:48 PM Essen0 transfersDirect
České dráhy7:31 AM Prague
9h04
4:35 PM Essen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Prague to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as České dráhy offer trains services from Prague to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Prague 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 České dráhy to find the best option for your trip from Prague 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 Prague to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Prague to Essen.

Train companies

Train companies from Prague to Essen

Trains from Prague to Essen with Deutsche Bahn and České dráhy. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and České dráhy. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and České dráhy. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
7h 33m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$36
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

České dráhy

About
Czech Railways (České dráhy, ČD) is the largest railway company in the Czech Republic, connecting major cities, small towns, and even international destinations across Europe. Its extensive fleet of modern trains ranges from comfortable regional services with A/C and onboard WiFi to high-speed trains offering dining cars, power outlets, and premium seating for long-distance journeys. Czech Railways combines affordability and convenience, making it a popular choice for travelers exploring the Czech Republic and beyond.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average České dráhy Duration
7h 39m
Cheapest České dráhy Price
$50
České dráhy frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
You can transport briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags and suitcases on board at no charge.
Additional luggage
Items of luggage must not be so big or heavy that they cannot be carried by a single person, with a generous maximum size of 90 x 60 x 40 cm and a maximum weight of 50kg.
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored above or below the seat, on the passenger's lap, or in special luggage racks in certain carriages.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets purchased online can be returned free of charge up to 15 minutes before the train's departure.
Refund
If a train is completely canceled, booking fees are refundable, and compensation may be due directly from the rail operator.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed.
Unaccompagned minor
Automatic compensation for online ČD domestic tickets applies if the system registers a delay of more than 60 minutes at the destination and the ticket was checked by the conductor.
Amenities on board the train
Food sold onboard
A hearty breakfast is included in the ticket price for sleeper carriage services.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with tickets and adjacent seats are booked wherever possible.
Accessibility
Czech Railways is continuously expanding its fleet of wheelchair-accessible carriages and offers assistance for passengers with limited mobility.
Pets
Small pets are allowed on board, but cannot be transported in 1st class, restaurant, or bistro cars.

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Prague and Essen

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Prague to Essen.
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.

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

Museum Folkwang

World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Ruhr Museum

Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.

  • Recommended

Deutsches Plakat Museum

Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is typical.

Plan your visit to Essen

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Essen.

The train journey from Prague to Essen offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Czech countryside and the rolling hills of Germany, passing charming villages and lush forests along the way.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Prague to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Prague 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.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Prague to Essen.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Prague to Essen

Most Prague to Essen trains use the Praha hlavní nádraží to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen West. Use this guide to compare Prague and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Prague
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Prague station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Prague to Essen leave from Praha hlavní nádraží. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Prague city centre at Wilsonova 300/8, 120 00 Praha 2, Czechia.
Praha hlavní nádražíWilsonova 300/8, 120 00 Praha 2, Czechia+420 221 111 122WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Praha hlavní nádraží from Prague city centre

Praha hlavní nádraží is 1 km from Prague city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRj, 600, 602, 604, 606, 608, 610, 612, 614, 616, 618, 670, 674, 676, 678, 680, 682, 684, 686, 688, 690, 692, 694, 696, 698, 2474, Re · 8m · $2 · every ~3 min
Nj · 8m · $17
Bus478 · 5m
Tram17, 93 · 10m · $3 · every ~23 min
17, 93 · 12m · $3 · every ~23 min
SubwayC · 5m · $3 · every ~29 min

Praha hlavní nádraží train station facilities and services

Praha hlavní nádraží has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Fantova Kavárna, Sushi Time

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Praha hlavní nádraží. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Praha hlavní nádraží. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Praha hlavní nádraží: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Praha hlavní nádraží: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Praha hlavní nádraží: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Esplanade Prague, Falkensteiner Hotel Maria Prag, Hotel City Central.

Praha-HolesovicePartyzánská 26, Holesovice, Prague 7, Czechia+420 296 191 817WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Praha-Holesovice from Prague city centre

Praha-Holesovice is 2 km from Prague city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRj, 600, 602, 604, 606, 608, 610, 612, 614, 616, 618, 670, 674, 676, 678, 680, 682, 684, 686, 688, 690, 692, 694, 696, 698, 2474, Re · 8m · $2 · every ~3 min
Nj · 8m · $17
Bus478 · 5m
Tram17, 93 · 10m · $3 · every ~23 min
17, 93 · 12m · $3 · every ~23 min
SubwayC · 5m · $3 · every ~29 min

Praha-Holesovice train station facilities and services

Praha-Holesovice 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: Restaurant Na Kovárně, Cross Club

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Praha-Holesovice. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Praha-Holesovice. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Praha-Holesovice: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Praha-Holesovice: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Praha-Holesovice: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Mama Shelter Prague, Plaza Alta Hotel, Hotel Belvedere.

Praha Masarykovo NádražíHybernská 1014/13, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia+420 221 111 122WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Praha Masarykovo Nádraží from Prague city centre

Tram15, 22 · 14m · $3 · every ~12 min

Praha Masarykovo Nádraží train station facilities and services

Praha Masarykovo Nádraží 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: Restaurant Kotleta, Café Imperial

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Praha Masarykovo Nádraží. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Praha Masarykovo Nádraží. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Praha Masarykovo Nádraží: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Praha Masarykovo Nádraží: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Praha Masarykovo Nádraží: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Kings Court, Grand Hotel Bohemia, Hotel Paris Prague.

Train stations for Prague to Essen

Check train stations information for Prague and Essen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Prague that goes to Essen is Praha hlavní nádraží, which connects to Essen Hbf.

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