- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major collections of 19th- to 21st-century painting, photography, and design.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ulm to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$98
Average price
$98
Fastest journey
5 h 11 m
Average duration
5 h 11 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
401 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ulm to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ulm to Essen will cost around $98 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Ulm for Essen on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 401 km distance in an average of 5 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 11 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 5 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.
12:47 PM5h11Ulm5:58 PMEssen$981One-way0 transfers
- 12:47 PM5h11Ulm5:58 PMEssen$981One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Ulm to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ulm to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 44m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, and a flight costs an average of $154.
Distance: 249 miles (401 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$125 Average price | $47 Average price Cheapest | $255 Average price | $92 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 53m Average total duration 4h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 16m Average total duration 8h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration Fastest 1h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Ulm to Essen is a bus with an average price of $47 (€38).
This is compared to other travel options from Ulm to Essen:
A bus is $78 (€64) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ulm to Essen costing on average $125 (€102).
A bus is $208 (€170) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ulm to Essen costing on average $255 (€208).
The fastest way to travel from Ulm to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 44m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 23m.
Bus takes on average 8h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Ulm and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ulm 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 29m sooner (4h 23m by train vs 5h 52m by car). Tickets start at around $125 (€102) compared to roughly $92 (€75) 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
Ulm to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Ulm to Essen trains for today, Saturday, June 20. 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 Ulm | 5h22 | 11:55 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:47 AM Ulm | 6h03 | 12:50 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:47 AM Ulm | 5h44 | 3:31 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 Ulm 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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
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Jun 23
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Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
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Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Ulm to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Ulm to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ulm 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) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Ulm 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 Ulm 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 Ulm to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Ulm to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Ulm to Essen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 249 miles (401 km) distance in 3h 39m.
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
Distance 249 miles (401 km) |
Average train duration 4h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 39m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 56 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Ulm to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Ulm and Essen from $23 (€19). 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
3h 39m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€75)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
11 a day
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
$276 (€226)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) 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.
- Recommended
Ruhr Museum
A key museum for the Ruhr region’s history, archaeology, and natural heritage, housed in the iconic Zollverein Coal Washery.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
A major design museum displaying award-winning contemporary product and industrial design inside the Zollverein complex.
- Must visit
Zollverein Park
Large open area around the Zollverein complex with striking industrial scenery, walking paths, and some of Essen’s most photographed views.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
A major leisure area around a reservoir on the Ruhr, popular for walking, cycling, lakeside views, and social-media-friendly sunsets.
- Recommended
Kettwig Old Town
Charming historic quarter with half-timbered buildings, cobbled streets, and a relaxed small-town feel within Essen.
Currywurst
Sliced grilled sausage with curry ketchup and fries, a beloved Ruhr area fast-food classic found across Essen.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper and onions, long associated with the wider region around Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A hearty Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and applesauce, often served with black pudding; common in western German home cooking.
Hugenpoet Restaurant 1831
Refined dining in Schloss Hugenpoet, offering upscale cuisine in a historic manor-house atmosphere south of central Essen.
Schote
Well-known fine-dining restaurant in Essen with modern creative cuisine and an elegant, intimate atmosphere.
Meisenburg
Long-established restaurant and beer garden popular for German and regional dishes in a relaxed, green setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are reasonable, while hotels and sit-down 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 usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. Little or no tip is fine 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 Hbf, Essen
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- You can buy tickets digitally in the VRR App before boarding local trains, trams, and buses.
- Card payment is commonly available in ticket machines, but on-board payment options can vary by operator and vehicle.
FAQs: Trains from Ulm to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ulm 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 Ulm to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $125 (€102).
The train from Ulm to Essen takes 3h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Ulm to Essen is 249 miles (401 km).
The first train from Ulm to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Ulm to Essen leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Ulm to Essen. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ulm to Essen.
The train station in Ulm that goes to Essen is Ulm Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Ulm to Essen is by train, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
The train journey from Ulm to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the scenic Swabian Jura, the Rhine Valley, and passing through historic cities like Stuttgart and Cologne, providing an enjoyable and varied visual experience.
A day trip from Ulm to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 39m. However, there are 18 train trips available per day for this route, covering a distance of 249 miles (401 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 Ulm to Essen.
Since both Ulm 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 Ulm 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 Ulm to Essen
Most Ulm to Essen trains use the Ulm Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen-Altenessen. Use this guide to compare Ulm and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Ulm
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Ulm station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Ulm to Essen leave from Ulm Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Ulm city centre at Ulm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm.
Ulm HbfUlm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm
City-centre transport
Getting to Ulm Hbf from Ulm city centre
Bus46 · 9m · $4 · every ~1 min
Tram1 · 3m · $4 · every ~11 min
Ulm Hbf train station facilities and services
Ulm 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: Café Schmizz, Blauflesch, Wilder Mann, Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Hbf. ATMs are available at Ulm Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ulm Hbf. Information desks are available at Ulm Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ulm Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ulm Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ulm Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Bäumle, InterCityHotel Ulm, Lehrertal Garni.
Ulm OstUlm Ost, An der Brenzbahn, 89073 Ulm
City-centre transport
Getting to Ulm Ost from Ulm city centre
TrainRs51 · 2m · $2
BusE, 7 · 6m · $4 · every ~6 min
Ulm Ost train station facilities and services
Ulm Ost 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: Bodhi, Schwarze Henne, Café Schmizz, Kornhäusle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Ost. ATMs are available at Ulm Ost.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ulm Ost. Information desks are available at Ulm Ost.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ulm Ost. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ulm Ost: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ulm Ost: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Ost.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Hotel Comfor, Bäumle, Stern.
Which Essen station do trains from Ulm arrive at?
Trains from Ulm 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.
Essen-AltenessenEssen-Altenessen, Hövelstraße 8, 45326 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen-Altenessen from Essen city centre
Essen-Altenessen is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusNe1 · 8m
Tram108 · 10m · every ~10 min
SubwayU11, U17 · 4m · every ~18 min
U17, U11 · 6m · every ~18 min
Essen-Altenessen train station facilities and services
Essen-Altenessen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Werner, Bückmannsmühle, Muckel-Eis
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Altenessen. ATMs are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Altenessen. Information desks are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Altenessen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen-Altenessen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen-Altenessen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Altenessen.
Most popular train connections from Ulm
More options for your journey from Ulm to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Ulm
Most popular train connections to Essen
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