- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for outstanding 19th- and 20th-century painting, photography, and modern art collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Essen
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$127
Average price
$165
Fastest journey
5 h 56 m
Average duration
7 h 6 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
468 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Essen will cost around $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $127.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Essen without transferring at least once.
ECE 4 · ICE 104+
TGV 92221:34 PM6h24Zurich HB7:58 PMEssen Hbf$1271One-way2 transfers- IC 772 · ICE 278 · ICE 62212:59 PM8h28Zurich HB9:27 PMEssen Hbf$1521One-way2 transfers
- IC 520 · ICE 10612:02 PM5h56Zurich HB5:58 PMEssen Hbf$1741One-way1 transfer
- IC 188 · ICE 516 · 4262 · ICE 122412:37 PM8h22Zurich HB8:59 PMEssen Hbf$1861One-way4 transfers
- IC 188 · ICE 51612:37 PM6h22Zurich HB6:59 PMEssen Hbf$1861One-way1 transfer
- IC 520 · ICE 10612:02 PM5h56Zurich HB5:58 PMEssen Hbf$1741One-way1 transfer
- IC 188 · ICE 51612:37 PM6h22Zurich HB6:59 PMEssen Hbf$1861One-way1 transfer
- ECE 4 · ICE 104+TGV 92221:34 PM6h24Zurich HB7:58 PMEssen Hbf$1271One-way2 transfers
- IC 188 · ICE 516 · 4262 · ICE 122412:37 PM8h22Zurich HB8:59 PMEssen Hbf$1861One-way4 transfers
- IC 772 · ICE 278 · ICE 62212:59 PM8h28Zurich HB9:27 PMEssen Hbf$1521One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 14m. 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 $44, and a flight costs an average of $83.
Distance: 290 miles (468 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$162 Average price | $189 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $189 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 49m Average total duration 6h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 13m Average total duration 8h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Zurich to Essen is a bus with an average price of $70 (€56).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Essen:
A bus is $92 (€74) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Essen costing on average $162 (€130).
A bus is $119 (€96) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Essen costing on average $189 (€152).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 19m.
Bus takes on average 8h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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 $162 (€130) compared to roughly $189 (€152) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27 (€22). The journey takes 6h 19m versus 6h 16m 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
Zurich to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Essen trains for tomorrow, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 520 · ICE 106 | On time 12:02 PM Zurich HB | 5h56 | 5:58 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 Zurich 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
May 31
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Why should you book Zurich to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SBB or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Zurich to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich 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 SBB or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Essen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Essen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 (€52) but you can travel from only $44 (€35) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 290 miles (468 km) distance in 5h 48m.
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 $44 (€35)
Distance 290 miles (468 km) |
Average train duration 6h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $65 (€52) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 48m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 77 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 $44 (€35)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Zurich to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, SBB, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Zurich and Essen from $44 (€35). 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
5h 48m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
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
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
5h 59m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€90)
SBB frequency
4 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 59m
Cheapest Price
$137 (€110)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
A major regional museum inside the Zollverein Coal Mine complex, covering the natural, cultural, and industrial history of the Ruhr area.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum in a former boiler house at Zollverein, showcasing contemporary product design and award-winning objects.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake area popular for walking, cycling, sailing, and scenic relaxation, especially in warmer months.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Essen’s main pedestrian shopping street, busy and central, useful for first-time visitors exploring the heart of the city.
- Recommended
Grugapark
Large landscaped park with botanical features, open lawns, and family-friendly paths; one of Essen’s best green escapes.
Currywurst
Sliced sausage served with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a beloved Ruhrgebiet snack commonly eaten with fries.
Grugahalle Bratwurst
Classic grilled German sausage associated with fairs and events in Essen, typically served in a bread roll with mustard.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper, valued across the wider region for its hearty flavor.
Restaurant Schote
Refined Michelin-starred dining known for modern tasting menus, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Hannappel
Well-regarded upscale restaurant serving modern German cuisine with seasonal ingredients in an elegant but relaxed environment.
Zur Kluse
Traditional and long-running local restaurant praised for hearty German and regional dishes in a cozy, classic setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are affordable, while hotels and upscale restaurants cost more during trade fairs and events.
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, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis and small café bills; tips are not obligatory.
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 City Center, Essen
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tap-in is not used; keep your valid ticket with you for inspection on VRR services.
- Card payment is available in many ticket machines, but not always on board buses or trams, so buy in the app or carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $162 (€130).
The train from Zurich to Essen takes 5h 48m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Essen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Essen is 290 miles (468 km).
The last train from Zurich to Essen leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Essen.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Essen is Zurich HB, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $44 (€35).
The train journey from Zurich to Essen offers scenic views, particularly through the Swiss and German countryside, including picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Zurich to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 48m. The distance is 290 miles (468 km) with 17 trains 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 Zurich to Essen.
Since both Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Essen
Zurich
Essen
The major train station for departures in Zurich is Zürich HB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich HB for your trip from Zurich to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
26Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
- Cost CHF 12
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transit options for Zürich HB
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
Zürich Stadelhofen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
Dining
- Outback Lodge
- Tibits
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Opera Zurich
- Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
- Hotel Seehof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1000 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 4 for regional trains
Public transit options for Zürich Stadelhofen
- Tram: Line 11, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmThe 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 Zurich.
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
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
More options for your journey from Zurich to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Essen
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