- Must visit
Hamburger Kunsthalle
Major art museum with European painting, modern works and temporary exhibitions, all within walking distance of the main station.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Essen to Hamburg
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 25 Oct
Cheapest price on 25 Oct
£30
Average ticket price on 25 Oct
£52
Fastest journey on 25 Oct
4 h 40 m
Average journey duration on 25 Oct
5 h 14 m
Buses on 25 Oct
8
Distance
311 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Essen to Hamburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Hamburg will cost around £52 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £30.
Fast coaches
On Sun 25 Oct, we found 8 buses from Essen to Hamburg, including 4 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 311 km distance in an average of 5 h 14 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 40 m .
The slowest buses will take 5 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.
FlixBus · FlixBus13:059h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)22:50Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport£301One-way1 change- FlixBus11:305h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)17:15Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof£371One-way0 changes
- FlixBus13:106h10Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)19:20Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof£381One-way0 changes
- FlixBus+
FlixTrain16:154h53Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)21:08Hamburg Hbf£561One-way1 change - FlixBus+FlixTrain16:154h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)20:55Hamburg Harburg£561One-way1 change
- FlixBus+FlixTrain16:154h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)20:55Hamburg Harburg£561One-way1 change
- FlixBus+FlixTrain16:154h53Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)21:08Hamburg Hbf£561One-way1 change
- FlixBus1:155h25Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)5:40Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof£581One-way0 changes
- FlixBus16:155h25Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)21:40Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof£671One-way0 changes
- FlixBus11:305h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)17:15Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof£371One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Essen to Hamburg
GermanyGermany
Buses from Essen to Hamburg run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £12 but you can travel from only £7 by train.
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:50. The fastest coach covers the 311 km distance in 5h 25m.
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
Train from £7
Distance 311 km |
Average bus duration 6h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £12 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 25m |
First bus 0:10 |
Last bus 23:50 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 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
Train from £7
Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Hamburg trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Hamburg.
Cheap coach tickets from Essen to Hamburg can start from as little as £12 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Essen to Hamburg is £31; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 0:10. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 23:50.
Yes, there are 3 direct coaches a day from Essen to Hamburg with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Essen to Hamburg bus times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Hamburg coaches for tomorrow, Sunday 25 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 51122 · 51111 | 7:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 14h15 | 22:05 Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 11:30 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 5h45 | 17:15 Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 13:05 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 9h45 | 22:50 Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 13:10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 6h10 | 19:20 Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 16:15 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 5h25 | 21:40 Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 16:15 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 4h53 | 21:08 Hamburg Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 16:15 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 4h40 | 20:55 Hamburg Harburg | 1 change | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Hamburg coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer coaches services from Essen to Hamburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Hamburg.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Hamburg.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Hamburg.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Hamburg.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Hamburg.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Essen to HamburgYou can travel by bus between Essen to Hamburg with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as £7. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
5h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£12
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
13h 10m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
£39
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Hamburg
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Essen to Hamburg, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Hamburg. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Essen and Hamburg and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Essen to Hamburg:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Essen to Hamburg for coach company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company {providersWithBike}.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Essen to Hamburg depends on the coach companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Essen to Hamburg.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Essen to Hamburg:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Essen to Hamburg:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Essen to Hamburg. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Essen to Hamburg with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Essen to Hamburg with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Essen to Hamburg with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Complete guide to Hamburg
Things to do in Hamburg
Discover the best of Hamburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hamburg trip today.
- Recommended
Deichtorhallen Hamburg
Striking contemporary art gallery in the HafenCity area, showing rotating exhibitions in a modern waterside building.
- Recommended
Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg
Interactive maritime museum in a historic warehouse, covering ship models, navigation, naval history and global sea trade.
- Must visit
Speicherstadt
Historic warehouse district of canals, bridges and red-brick buildings. Ideal for walks, photography and easy access to nearby museums.
- Must visit
HafenCity
Modern waterfront quarter with promenades, architecture and public plazas. Good for walking between the Elbe, museums and concert hall.
- Must visit
Jungfernstieg
Long lakeside promenade by the Inner Alster, popular for strolling, boat views and classic city-centre scenery close to shops and arcades.
- Gluten-free
Finkenwerder Scholle
Hamburg’s pan-fried fillet of plaice, usually served with bacon, shrimps and potatoes. A classic North German fish dish tied to the port and nearby coast.
- Gluten-free
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck
A hearty stew of pears, beans and bacon, often with potatoes. It is a beloved late-summer Hamburg and northern German comfort dish.
Grünkohl mit Pinkel
Traditional North German kale stew cooked with sausages and pork, usually served with potatoes. A winter favourite in and around Hamburg.
Fischereihafen Restaurant
Historic fish restaurant by the harbour, known for classic Hamburg seafood and maritime atmosphere.
Rive
Well-known waterside restaurant focusing on northern German fish and seafood with a refined but relaxed atmosphere.
Old Commercial Room
Traditional St Pauli restaurant serving northern German dishes such as Labskaus in a lively, old Hamburg setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller cities, but public transport is efficient and daily food options remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is customary but modest: round up or add 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change in cafés.
hvv switch
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.00
- Day pass
- €7.80
To the city centre
Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof -> Rathausmarkt, Hamburg
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the hvv switch app for a 7% online discount on single and day tickets.
- On buses in Hamburg, cash is not standard; use the hvv prepaid card, app, or a ticket machine before boarding where possible.
Best day trips from Hamburg by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Hamburg are Lübeck, Bremen, Kiel, Schwerin and Hanover. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Hamburg on Omio.
Day trip from Hamburg to Lübeck by bus
Why visit Lübeck for the day?
Lübeck is known for its Hanseatic past, brick Gothic churches and marzipan tradition. Its UNESCO-listed old town, set between waterways, feels historic, compact and quietly maritime.
How to get from Hamburg to Lübeck by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 07:25, the last at 19:55. The fastest coach covers the 55 km distance in 1h 0m.
Day trip from Hamburg to Bremen by bus
Why visit Bremen for the day?
Bremen is a historic Hanseatic city on the Weser, known for its market square and the Town Musicians of Bremen. Its compact centre mixes brick Gothic architecture, maritime heritage and a relaxed northern character.
How to get from Hamburg to Bremen by bus?
There are 10 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:50. The fastest coach covers the 98 km distance in 1h 20m.
Day trip from Hamburg to Kiel by bus
Why visit Kiel for the day?
Kiel is a Baltic port city known for its harbour, naval heritage and the annual Kieler Woche sailing festival. Its modern centre and waterside setting give it a practical, relaxed feel with easy access to the coast.
How to get from Hamburg to Kiel by bus?
There are 5 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 02:30, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 83 km distance in 1h 10m.
Day trip from Hamburg to Schwerin by bus
Why visit Schwerin for the day?
Schwerin is known for Schwerin Castle, which stands dramatically on an island among the city's lakes. Its historic centre, gardens and waterside setting give the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern capital a calm, elegant feel.
How to get from Hamburg to Schwerin by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 07:25, the last at 18:40. The fastest coach covers the 92 km distance in 2h 25m.
Day trip from Hamburg to Hanover by bus
Why visit Hanover for the day?
Hanover is known for major trade fairs, elegant gardens and a relaxed, green cityscape. The Herrenhausen Gardens, Maschsee and a polished centre give it a calm character with culture close at hand.
How to get from Hamburg to Hanover by bus?
There are 8 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:10, the last at 23:35. The fastest coach covers the 135 km distance in 2h 0m.
FAQs: Essen to Hamburg coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Hamburg by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Hamburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Hamburg including taking a train, coach and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Hamburg
Most Essen to Hamburg buses use the Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) to Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof station pair, with some services arriving at Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport. Use this guide to compare Essen and Hamburg bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Essen
Arrival bus stations in Hamburg
Which Essen station do buses to Hamburg leave from?
Buses from Essen to Hamburg leave from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). The station is 1 km from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany.
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 7m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) bus station facilities and services
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and snack bars nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available.
Which Hamburg station do buses from Essen arrive at?
Buses from Essen to Hamburg most often arrive at Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof. Some services arrive at Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Hamburg arrival station.
Hamburg, Zentraler OmnibusbahnhofAdenauerallee 78, 20097 Hamburg, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof from Hamburg city centre
Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof is 2 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX80, 610, 609, 3, 641, 608, 606, 603, 19, 5 · 6m · £3 · every ~45 min
SubwayU3 · 3m · £2 · every ~27 min
Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof bus station facilities and services
Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria im ZOB (in the station), Burger Lounge (0.3 km), Café Paris (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and inside the waiting area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.
Hamburg, S Hamburg AirportHamburg Airport station, 22335 Hamburg, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport from Hamburg city centre
Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport is 6 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1 · 28m · £3 · every ~13 min
BusN73, 353, 198, 172 · 30m · £1
606 · 42m · £4
105 · 54m · £7 · every ~5 min
Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport bus station facilities and services
Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several dining options available in the airport.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in designated areas. ATMs are aTMs available in the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport: Elevators and ramps available for accessibility.
Bus stations for Essen to Hamburg
Check bus stations information for Essen and Hamburg, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Essen , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) . When arriving in Hamburg , you can end your route in coach stations like Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof, Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), which is located around 1 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof, located 3 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Hamburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Hamburg and Essen
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