- 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 Utrecht to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$64
Average price
$66
Fastest journey
2 h 52 m
Average duration
3 h 8 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
148 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Utrecht to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Utrecht to Essen will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Utrecht for Essen on Mon, Jun 22, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 148 km distance in an average of 3 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 52 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 3 h 52 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.
7:43 AM2h52Utrecht10:35 AMEssen$641One-way0 transfers- 8:43 AM2h52Utrecht11:35 AMEssen$661One-way0 transfers
- 9:39 AM2h56Utrecht12:35 PMEssen$671One-way0 transfers
- 6:43 AM3h52Utrecht10:35 AMEssen$671One-way0 transfers
- 8:43 AM2h52Utrecht11:35 AMEssen$661One-way0 transfers
- 7:43 AM2h52Utrecht10:35 AMEssen$641One-way0 transfers
- 9:39 AM2h56Utrecht12:35 PMEssen$671One-way0 transfers
- 6:43 AM3h52Utrecht10:35 AMEssen$671One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Utrecht to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Utrecht to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $26.
Distance: 91 miles (148 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$62 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $39 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 56m Average total duration 2h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Utrecht to Essen is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Utrecht to Essen:
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Utrecht to Essen costing on average $62 (€50).
The fastest way to travel from Utrecht to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 2h 13m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Utrecht and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Utrecht 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 3m sooner (2h 13m by train vs 2h 16m by car). Tickets start at around $62 (€50) compared to roughly $39 (€32) 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.
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
Utrecht to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Utrecht to Essen trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 143 | On time 8:02 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h50 | 9:52 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 225 · ICE 614 | On time 9:02 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h56 | 10:58 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 145 | On time 10:02 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h50 | 11:52 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 123 · ICE 1020 | On time 11:02 AM Utrecht Centraal | 1h53 | 12:55 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 147 | On time 12:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h50 | 1:52 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 125 · ICE 610 | On time 1:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h56 | 2:58 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 149 | On time 2:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h50 | 3:52 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 127 · ICE 518 | On time 3:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h56 | 4:58 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 241 | On time 4:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h50 | 5:52 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 129 · ICE 216 | On time 5:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h51 | 6:53 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 243 | On time 6:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h50 | 7:52 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 221 · ICE 514 | On time 7:02 PM Utrecht Centraal | 1h56 | 8:58 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Utrecht 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.
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
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Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
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Jun 27
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Jun 28
Jun 28
Why should you book Utrecht to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Utrecht to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Utrecht 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 VIAS Rail GmbH or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Utrecht 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Utrecht to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Utrecht to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Utrecht to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Utrecht to Essen
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Utrecht to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:32, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 91 miles (148 km) distance in 1h 56m.
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 $17 (€14)
Distance 91 miles (148 km) |
Average train duration 2h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 (€21) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 1h 56m |
First train 12:32 AM |
Last train 11:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 $17 (€14)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Utrecht to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Utrecht and Essen from $17 (€14). 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
1h 56m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
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
VIAS Rail GmbH
About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€81)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
6 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 Utrecht to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Utrecht 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 Utrecht to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $62 (€50).
The train from Utrecht to Essen takes 1h 56m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Utrecht to Essen is 91 miles (148 km).
The first train from Utrecht to Essen leaves at 12:32 AM.
The last train from Utrecht to Essen leaves at 11:08 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Utrecht to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Utrecht to Essen.
The train station in Utrecht that goes to Essen is Utrecht Centraal, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Utrecht to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Utrecht to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of charming Dutch and German countryside, picturesque towns, and some industrial areas, making it moderately scenic.
A day trip from Utrecht to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 56m and the distance is 91 miles (148 km). However, there are 11 train trips 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 Utrecht to Essen.
Since both Utrecht 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 Utrecht 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 Utrecht to Essen
Utrecht
Essen
The major train station for departures in Utrecht is Utrecht Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Utrecht Centraal for your trip from Utrecht to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Spoorstraat and Jaarbeursplein
Dining
- Restaurant De Rechtbank
- Humphrey's Utrecht
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Crowne Plaza Utrecht
- NH Utrecht
- Park Plaza Utrecht
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 12,656 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and regional trains
- Hall 2: domestic intercity and sprinter services
- Hall 3: tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Utrecht Centraal
- Tram: Line 22
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Domestic and international connections
Utrecht Leidsche Rijn
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike ParkingCar RentalThe major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from Utrecht.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Kettner's Kamota
- Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962
- La Piazzetta
- Pia
Hotel
- Hotel Hohenstein
- Domstuben
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Burger King
- Werner
- Bückmannsmühle
- Muckel-Eis
More options for your journey from Utrecht to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Utrecht
Most popular train connections to Essen
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