- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Thun to Essen
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$172
Average price
$184
Fastest journey
7 h 24 m
Average duration
7 h 24 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
525 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Thun to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Thun to Essen will cost around $184 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $172.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Thun for Essen on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 525 km distance in an average of 7 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 24 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 7 h 24 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.
7:34 AM7h24Thun2:58 PMEssen$1721One-way0 transfers- 6:34 AM7h24Thun1:58 PMEssen$1961One-way0 transfers
- 7:34 AM7h24Thun2:58 PMEssen$1721One-way0 transfers
- 6:34 AM7h24Thun1:58 PMEssen$1961One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Thun to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Thun to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a flight costs an average of $159.
Distance: 326 miles (525 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$176 Average price | $215 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $150 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 32m Average total duration 8h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 11m Average total duration Fastest 6h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 16h 2m Average total duration 15h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Thun to Essen is a bus with an average price of $70.
This is compared to other travel options from Thun to Essen:
A bus is $106 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Thun to Essen costing on average $176.
A bus is $145 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Thun to Essen costing on average $215.
The fastest way to travel from Thun to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 11m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 2m.
Bus takes on average 15h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Thun and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Thun 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 $176 compared to roughly $150 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-26.53. The journey takes 8h 2m versus 7h 14m 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
Thun to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Thun to Essen trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:33 AM Thun | 6h25 | 12:58 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:34 PM Thun | 6h24 | 6:58 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 Thun 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
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Aug 09
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Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Thun to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) and more offer trains services from Thun to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Thun 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 Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Thun 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 Thun 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 Thun to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Thun to Essen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Thun to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $150 but you can travel from only $60 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:09, the last at 20:57. The fastest train covers the 326 miles (525 km) distance in 6h 24m.
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 $60
Distance 326 miles (525 km) |
Average train duration 8h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $150 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 24m |
First train 2:09 AM |
Last train 8:57 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $60
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Thun to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Thun and Essen from $60. 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
6h 24m
Cheapest Price
$150
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.
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
SBB
About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 24m
Cheapest Price
$112
SBB frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 54m
Cheapest Price
$181
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 24m
Cheapest Price
$175
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
3 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
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.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten Essen
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
- Vegetarian
Reibekuchen
A hearty potato pancake from the Ruhr area, usually served with applesauce or beet syrup. It is a beloved regional comfort food eaten at fairs and homes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Traditional rye bread from Westphalia, baked dark and dense with a slightly sweet flavor. It is a staple across the region and often served with ham or cheese.
Sauerbraten
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Restaurant Hannappel
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Hausbrauerei Im Fcxschen Essen
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Meisenburg
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
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.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, or onboard where offered. Tap validators if your ticket requires validation before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not reliably onboard all buses or trams. Keep a valid ticket ready for inspection.
FAQs: Trains from Thun to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thun 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 Thun to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $150, while the average price is around $176.
The train from Thun to Essen takes 6h 24m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Thun to Essen leaves at 2:09 AM.
The distance by train from Thun to Essen is 326 miles (525 km).
The last train from Thun to Essen leaves at 8:57 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Thun to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Thun to Essen.
The train station in Thun that goes to Essen is Thun station, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Thun to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $60.
The train journey from Thun to Essen offers scenic views, particularly through the Swiss Alps and along the Rhine River, providing picturesque landscapes and charming villages along the route.
A day trip from Thun to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 24m one-way. The trip is 525 and there are 6 train connections 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 Thun to Essen.
Since both Thun 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 Thun 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 Thun to Essen
Most Thun to Essen trains use the Thun to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Thun and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Thun
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Thun station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Thun to Essen leave from Thun. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Thun city centre at Bahnhofstrasse 2, 3600 Thun, Switzerland.
ThunBahnhofstrasse 2, 3600 Thun, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Thun from Thun city centre
Bus3 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min
Thun train station facilities and services
Thun 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 Dampfschiff, Restaurant Schlossberg
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thun. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Thun. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thun: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Thun: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thun: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Freienhof, Hotel Krone Thun, Hotel Emmental.
Which Essen station do trains from Thun arrive at?
Trains from Thun 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 Thun
More options for your journey from Thun to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Thun
Most popular train connections to Essen
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