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

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Saarbrücken to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$49

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$75

Fastest journey on Sep 19

4 h 34 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

4 h 49 m

Trains on Sep 19

23

Distance

247 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Saarbrücken to Essen will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Saarbrücken to Essen without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche Bahn29501 · ICE 18 · 26809 · S6
    3:42 AM5h30
    Saarbrücken Hbf
    9:12 AMEssen Hbf
    $491One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn29503 · IC 2441 · S9
    4:42 AM5h58
    Saarbrücken Hbf
    10:40 AMEssen Hbf
    $501One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn29503 · IC 2441 · ICE 204 · Bus RE1
    4:42 AM5h55
    Saarbrücken Hbf
    10:37 AMEssen
    $541One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn29503 · ICE 1014 · Bus RE1
    4:42 AM5h20
    Saarbrücken Hbf
    10:02 AMEssen
    $561One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn29501 · ICE 616 · S9
    3:42 AM5h58
    Saarbrücken Hbf
    9:40 AMEssen Hbf
    $561One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Saarbrücken to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Saarbrücken to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $49 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 53m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, while a train costs an average of $90.

Distance: 153 miles (247 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$90

Average price

$49

Average price

Cheapest

$57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 57m

Average total duration

8h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 56m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Saarbrücken to Essen is a bus with an average price of $49.

This is compared to other travel options from Saarbrücken to Essen:

A bus is $41 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Saarbrücken to Essen costing on average $90.

The fastest way to travel from Saarbrücken to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 4h 23m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 27m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Saarbrücken and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Saarbrücken to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $90 compared to roughly $57 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-32.84. The journey takes 4h 23m versus 3h 56m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Saarbrücken to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Saarbrücken to Essen trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn29501 · ICE 18 · 26809 · S63:42 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h30
9:12 AM Essen Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn29501 · ICE 616 · S93:42 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h58
9:40 AM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn29503 · ICE 1014 · Bus RE14:42 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h20
10:02 AM Essen2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn29503 · IC 2441 · ICE 204 · Bus RE14:42 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h55
10:37 AM Essen3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn29503 · IC 2441 · S94:42 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h58
10:40 AM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn29503 · ICE 1014 · 636054:42 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h13
9:55 AM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1091 · ICE 204 · Bus RE1
On time
5:36 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h01
10:37 AM Essen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1091 · ICE 204 · IC 2441 · S9
On time
5:36 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h04
10:40 AM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1091 · ICE 204 · S6
On time
5:36 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h06
10:42 AM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4107 · ICE 1022 · Bus RE16:19 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h23
11:42 AM Essen2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4107 · ICE 1022 · S66:19 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h23
11:42 AM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 932 · ICE 614 · ICE 1022 · Bus RE1
On time
6:28 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h14
11:42 AM Essen
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 932 · ICE 614 · S9
On time
6:28 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h12
11:40 AM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4109 · IC 2049 · S97:19 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h21
12:40 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4109 · IC 2049 · ICE 202 · Bus RE17:19 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h18
12:37 PM Essen3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4146 · ICE 202 · S67:47 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
4h55
12:42 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4146 · ICE 202 · Bus RE17:47 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
4h50
12:37 PM Essen2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4146 · ICE 202 · IC 2049 · S97:47 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
4h53
12:40 PM Essen Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4141 · ICE 1020 · 102168:19 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h02
1:21 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 563 · ICE 612 · ICE 1020 · 10216
On time
8:27 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
4h54
1:21 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 563 · ICE 612 · S9
On time
8:27 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h13
1:40 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4343 · IC 2047 · S99:19 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
5h21
2:40 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn4102 · ICE 2520 · 102189:47 AM Saarbrücken Hbf
4h34
2:21 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Saarbrücken to Essen by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Saarbrücken to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Saarbrücken to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Saarbrücken to Essen.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Saarbrücken to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Saarbrücken to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Saarbrücken to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 but you can travel from only $25 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:48, the last at 23:03. The fastest train covers the 153 miles (247 km) distance in 3h 41m.

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
Distance
153 miles (247 km)
Average train duration
4h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
$29
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 41m
First train
12:48 AM
Last train
11:03 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
7 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Saarbrücken to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Saarbrücken and Essen from $25. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$29
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

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.

FAQs: Trains from Saarbrücken to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Saarbrücken 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
Train ticket prices from Saarbrücken to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29, while the average price is around $90.
The train from Saarbrücken to Essen takes 3h 41m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Saarbrücken to Essen is 153 miles (247 km).
The first train from Saarbrücken to Essen leaves at 12:48 AM.
The last train from Saarbrücken to Essen leaves at 11:03 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Saarbrücken to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Saarbrücken to Essen.
The train station in Saarbrücken that goes to Essen is Saarbrücken Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Saarbrücken to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $25.
The train journey from Saarbrücken to Essen offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes, with some scenic views of the German countryside, including rolling hills and occasional rivers, but it is primarily a functional route with industrial and urban sights as you approach the Ruhr area.
A day trip from Saarbrücken to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 41m and covers 153 miles (247 km). There are 13 trains available per day.
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 Saarbrücken to Essen.
Since both Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Saarbrücken to Essen

Most Saarbrücken to Essen trains use the Saarbrücken Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Saarbrücken and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Saarbrücken
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Saarbrücken station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Saarbrücken to Essen leave from Saarbrücken Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Saarbrücken city centre at Saarbrücken Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 6-12, 66111 Saarbrücken.
Saarbrücken HbfSaarbrücken Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 6-12, 66111 SaarbrückenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Saarbrücken Hbf from Saarbrücken city centre

TrainRe1 · 4m · $7
Bus128, 105 · 11m · every ~8 min
Tram1 · 6m · every ~14 min

Saarbrücken Hbf train station facilities and services

Saarbrücken 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: Il Giardino, Eiscafe Jesolo, Pizza Hut, Brauhaus zum Stiefel

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Saarbrücken Hbf. ATMs are available at Saarbrücken Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Saarbrücken Hbf. Information desks are available at Saarbrücken Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Saarbrücken Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Saarbrücken Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Saarbrücken Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Saarbrücken Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Premier Inn Saarbrücken City Centre Hotel, Mercure SB City, Europa Hotel Saarbrücken, Hotel Stadt Hamburg Saarbrücken.

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