- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$22
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$23
Fastest journey on Sep 08
1 h 1 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
1 h 2 m
Trains on Sep 08
2
Distance
31 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Düsseldorf to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Düsseldorf to Essen will cost around $23 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
It's difficult to get from Düsseldorf to Essen without transferring at least once.
ICE 618 · Bus RE1
IC 2206 · Bus RE1
IC 2206 · Bus RE1
ICE 618 · Bus RE1Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Düsseldorf to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $4 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 58m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $4, while a train costs an average of $7.
Distance: 19 miles (31 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$7 Average price | $4 Average price Cheapest | $7 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
58m Average total duration Fastest 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 4m Average total duration 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Düsseldorf to Essen:
A bus is $3 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Düsseldorf to Essen costing on average $7.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 34m.
The journey is about 13m faster (28m by train vs 41m by car) and roughly $0.10 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($7 vs $7). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Düsseldorf to Essen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 618 · Bus RE1 | On time 6:34 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 1h03 | 7:37 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
IC 2206 · Bus RE1 | On time 8:11 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 1h01 | 9:12 AM Essen | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus and train 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.

Trains from Düsseldorf to Essen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $3 if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 19 miles (31 km) distance in 24m.
Distance 19 miles (31 km) |
Average train duration 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $3 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 24m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.
Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
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.
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.
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
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.
Official public transport app
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
The train connection between Düsseldorf and Essen is well-served by several providers, including Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, and VIAS Rail GmbH. With frequent services throughout the day, travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey that typically takes around 30 minutes. Whether you're commuting for work or exploring the vibrant culture of these two cities in North Rhine-Westphalia, you'll find convenient options to suit your schedule.
The train connection between Düsseldorf and Essen is direct, with a travel duration of just 23 minutes. There are 18 connections available per day, making it convenient for travelers. The departure station is Düsseldorf Hbf and the arrival station is Essen Hbf.
The first daily train from Düsseldorf to Essen departs at 06:02 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Essen. The last journey of the day leaves at 09:37 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their evening activities before returning.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Düsseldorf and Essen is €3. The average ticket price typically hovers around €12, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in Germany.
Welcome to the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site that played a pivotal role in Germany's industrial revolution. This remarkable complex not only symbolizes the region’s rich coal mining history but also showcases stunning Bauhaus architecture, making it an iconic example of modern industrial design. As you explore its vast grounds and museums, you'll discover how this once-thriving mine has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub.
Next on our journey is the Essen Cathedral, or Essener Münster, which dates back to the 9th century and serves as one of North Rhine-Westphalia's most significant religious landmarks. Its impressive Romanesque architecture houses exquisite treasures like the Golden Madonna and offers insight into centuries of spiritual heritage intertwined with local history. The cathedral stands as a testament to resilience through time—having survived wars and renovations while still captivating visitors with its serene beauty.
Finally, we arrive at Museum Folkwang, renowned for its exceptional collection of 19th-21st-century art that reflects both historical significance and contemporary relevance. Founded by philanthropist Karl Ernst Osthaus in 1922, this museum emphasizes accessibility to culture through innovative exhibitions featuring masterpieces from artists such as Van Gogh and Picasso alongside groundbreaking photography collections. With its commitment to fostering creativity within society today, Museum Folkwang invites you not just to observe art but truly engage with it on multiple levels.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Düsseldorf 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.

Most Düsseldorf to Essen trains use the Düsseldorf Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen West. Use this guide to compare Düsseldorf and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Düsseldorf Hbf is 1 km from Düsseldorf city centre. Public transport options include:
Düsseldorf 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 options include: Zaxopondeiva Cafe, Lauren's Cafe, China Imbiss, Fu chu yuan
Wi-Fi is available at Düsseldorf Hbf. ATMs are available at Düsseldorf Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Düsseldorf Hbf. Information desks are available at Düsseldorf Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Düsseldorf Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Düsseldorf Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Düsseldorf Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Düsseldorf Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Lindenhof, Hotel Batavia, Sir Astor, Lady Astor.
Düsseldorf Flughafen is 1 km from Düsseldorf city centre. Public transport options include:
Düsseldorf Flughafen 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 options include: Telefónica Kantine, Telefónica Cafeteria, Snack Point, Imbiss
Wi-Fi is available at Düsseldorf Flughafen. ATMs are available at Düsseldorf Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Düsseldorf Flughafen. Information desks are available at Düsseldorf Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Düsseldorf Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Düsseldorf Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Düsseldorf Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Düsseldorf Flughafen.
Nearby hotels include Novotel, Ibis.
Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal is 6 km from Düsseldorf city centre. Public transport options include:
Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal 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 options include: L'Osteria, Bauernstube Deppe, Luxor Grill, McDonald's
Wi-Fi is available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal. ATMs are available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal. Information desks are available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal.
Luggage storage is available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Düsseldorf Flughafen Terminal.
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Düsseldorf Airport Hotel, Lindner Airport, Hotel Maritim.
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 options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Essen West is 2 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen West 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 options include: Pizzeria Don Camillo, Lindos, Zur Platte, Arman Döner
Wi-Fi is available at Essen West. ATMs are available at Essen West.
Ticket office support is available at Essen West. Information desks are available at Essen West.
Luggage storage is available at Essen West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen West.
Nearby hotels include McDreams.
Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen-Werden 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 options include: Kettner's Kamota, Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962, La Piazzetta, Pia
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Werden. ATMs are available at Essen-Werden.
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Werden. Information desks are available at Essen-Werden.
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Werden. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen-Werden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen-Werden: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Werden.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hohenstein, Domstuben.
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