- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$163
Average price
$168
Fastest journey
5 h 53 m
Average duration
6 h 10 m
Trains per day
6
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 $168 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $163.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Zurich for Essen on Wed, Jul 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 15 the direct trains cover the 468 km distance in an average of 6 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 53 m .
On Wed, Jul 15 the slowest trains will take 6 h 45 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.
IC 794 · ICE 372 · IC 2045 · ICE 1088:59 AM6h59Zurich HB3:58 PMEssen Hbf$1631One-way3 transfers- IC 282 · ICE 9188:37 AM6h45Zurich HB3:22 PMEssen Hbf$1651One-way1 transfer
- IR 2064 · ICE 6 · ICE 9189:10 AM6h12Zurich HB3:22 PMEssen Hbf$1701One-way2 transfers
- IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 · ICE 7228:59 AM6h03Zurich HB3:02 PMEssen Hbf$1701One-way3 transfers
- IR 1764 · IC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 9189:29 AM5h53Zurich HB3:22 PMEssen Hbf$1701One-way3 transfers
- IR 1764 · IC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 9189:29 AM5h53Zurich HB3:22 PMEssen Hbf$1701One-way3 transfers
- ICE 2007:59 AM5h59Zurich HB1:58 PMEssen Hbf$1701One-way0 transfers
- IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 · ICE 7228:59 AM6h03Zurich HB3:02 PMEssen Hbf$1701One-way3 transfers
- IR 2064 · ICE 6 · ICE 9189:10 AM6h12Zurich HB3:22 PMEssen Hbf$1701One-way2 transfers
- IC 282 · ICE 9188:37 AM6h45Zurich HB3:22 PMEssen Hbf$1651One-way1 transfer
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 $43. 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 $43, and a flight costs an average of $81.
Distance: 290 miles (468 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$158 Average price | $185 Average price | $68 Average price Cheapest | $185 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 $68 (€56).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Essen:
A bus is $90 (€74) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Essen costing on average $158 (€130).
A bus is $116 (€96) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Essen costing on average $185 (€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 $158 (€130) compared to roughly $185 (€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, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 200 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h59 | 1:58 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 282 · ICE 918 | On time 8:37 AM Zurich HB | 6h45 | 3:22 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 794 · ICE 372 · IC 2045 · ICE 108 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h59 | 3:58 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 · ICE 722 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h03 | 3:02 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IR 2064 · ICE 6 · ICE 918 | On time 9:10 AM Zurich HB | 6h12 | 3:22 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IR 1764 · IC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918 | On time 9:29 AM Zurich HB | 5h53 | 3:22 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
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.
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
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 $64 (€52) but you can travel from only $43 (€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 $43 (€35)
Distance 290 miles (468 km) |
Average train duration 6h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€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 $43 (€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 $43 (€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
$64 (€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
$109 (€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
$133 (€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
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 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 $64 (€52), while the average price is around $158 (€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 $43 (€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.
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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
