- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
Major art museum with strong 19th- and 20th-century collections, posters and photography. A leading cultural stop in central Essen.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Munich to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 01 Nov
- Cheapest price on 01 Nov
- £45
- Average ticket price on 01 Nov
- £74
- Fastest journey on 01 Nov
- 9 h 45 m
- Average journey duration on 01 Nov
- 10 h 13 m
- Buses on 01 Nov
- 13
- Distance
- 493 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Munich to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Munich to Essen will cost around £74 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £45.
Fast coaches
On Sun 01 Nov, we found 13 buses from Munich to Essen, including 7 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 493 km distance in an average of 10 h 13 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 45 m .
The slowest buses will take 10 h 55 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.
FlixBus21:40 9h45 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 7:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £45 1 One-way 0 changes- FlixBus
19:30 10h55 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 6:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £47 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
7:00 10h45 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 17:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £54 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
2:00 9h50 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 11:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £61 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
12:45 11h10 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 23:55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £63 1 One-way 0 changes
- FlixBus
21:40 9h45 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 7:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £45 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
8:00 9h50 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 17:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £80 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
2:00 9h50 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 11:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £61 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
7:00 10h45 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 17:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £54 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
19:30 10h55 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) 6:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) £47 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Munich to Essen
GermanyGermany
Buses from Munich to Essen run on average 11 times per day, taking around 11h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £21 but you can travel from only £16 by train.
There are 6 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 493 km distance in 9h 0m.
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 £16
Distance 493 km |
Average bus duration 11h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £21 |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 9h 0m |
First bus 0:25 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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 £16
Frequently asked questions about your Munich to Essen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Munich to Essen.
Cheap coach tickets from Munich to Essen can start from as little as £21 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Munich to Essen is £46; 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 Munich to Essen leaves at 0:25. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Munich to Essen leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 6 direct coaches a day from Munich to Essen with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Munich to Essen bus times
The table below shows live departures for Munich to Essen coaches for tomorrow, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 2:00 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 9h50 | 11:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 7:00 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 10h45 | 17:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:00 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 9h50 | 17:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
 30489 · 50448 | 8:45 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 23h55 | 8:40 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 10:00 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 11h50 | 21:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 12:45 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 11h10 | 23:55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 17:40 München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz | 12h45 | 6:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 19:30 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 10h55 | 6:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 30493 · 50428 | 20:30 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 23h15 | 19:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 21:40 Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 9h45 | 7:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 22:05 München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz | 11h50 | 9:55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 23:25 München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz | 13h20 | 12:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Munich to Essen coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer coaches services from Munich to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Munich to Essen.
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 Munich 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Munich to Essen.
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 Munich to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Munich to Essen.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Munich to EssenYou can travel by bus between Munich to Essen with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as £16. 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
9h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£21
FlixBus frequency
10 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
22h 0m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
£57
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 Munich and Essen
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 Munich to Essen, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Munich and Essen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Munich to Essen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Munich to Essen 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 Munich to Essen 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 Munich to Essen.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Munich to Essen:
- 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 Munich to Essen:
- 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 Munich to Essen. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Munich to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Munich to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Munich to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
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
Industrial history museum in the former boiler house at Zollverein. Engaging displays explain coal, steel and daily life across the Ruhr.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum inside the Zollverein complex, showing contemporary design, everyday objects and changing exhibitions in a dramatic industrial setting.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake south of the centre, popular for walks, boat trips and cycling. It combines water views, leisure activities and green surroundings.
- Must visit
Zeche Zollverein
Former industrial complex turned cultural district with open spaces, architecture, art and walking routes. It is one of Essen’s essential urban experiences.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten
Extensive park with lawns, sculptures and event spaces near Museum Folkwang. It is ideal for a central stroll and relaxed city views.
- Gluten-free
Potthucke
A hearty potato stew from the Ruhr area, traditionally cooked with beef, onions and vegetables. It is a classic working-class comfort dish in Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
Mashed potatoes mixed with apples and onions, often served with black pudding or sausage. It is a well-known Rhineland and Ruhr comfort meal.
- Gluten-free
Matjes mit Hausfrauensosse
Pickled herring fillets in a sour marinade, often served with potatoes. This classic northern and western German fish dish is common in the Ruhr.
Schote
Elegant fine dining in Essen known for creative modern cooking and polished service in a calm, contemporary setting.
Hannappel
Long-established local favourite for classic German and Ruhr-style fare, with a cosy pub feel and straightforward cooking.
Meisenburg
Traditional brewery restaurant serving hearty regional German dishes and fresh beer in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are often slightly cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transport and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually not included. In restaurants, round up or tip about 5-10%. For taxis, round up the fare. In cafés, small change or rounding up is customary.
ZÄPP
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €7.90
To the city centre
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) -> Essen Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
Best option: Tram/U-Bahn (Ruhrbahn, Price level A single ticket)
- Price
- €3.60
- Duration
- 5 min
- Use the Ruhrbahn app ZÄPP for journey planning and mobile tickets in Essen and Mülheim. It is the official local app.
- Ruhrbahn uses the VRR fare. For travel within Essen, use Price level A; ticket machines are available, but contactless acceptance on vehicles was not clearly confirmed from official sources.
FAQs: Munich to Essen coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Munich to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Munich and Essen 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 Munich and Essen
Most Munich to Essen buses use the München, ZOB to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) station pair. Use this guide to compare Munich and Essen bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Munich
Arrival bus stations in Essen
Which Munich station do buses to Essen leave from?
Buses from Munich to Essen leave from München, ZOB. The station is 2 km from Munich city centre at Arnulfstrasse 21, 80335 Munchen, Germany.
München, ZOBArnulfstrasse 21, 80335 Munchen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to München, ZOB from Munich city centre
München, ZOB is 1 km from Munich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1, S3, S8, S2, S6, S5, S4 · 9m · £1 · every ~61 min
Tram17, 16, N17 · 16m · £3 · every ~25 min
München, ZOB bus station facilities and services
München, ZOB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria München ZOB (in the station), Bavarian Bistro (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the waiting area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at München, ZOB.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at München, ZOB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at München, ZOB: Elevators, ramps.
München, Fröttmaning P+R ParkplatzMünchen Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz, 80939 München, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz from Munich city centre
München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz is 8 km from Munich city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus N199, N280, N34, N899, 1307, N86, 1304A · 21m · £1
SubwayU6, U3 · 20m · £3 · every ~17 min
München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz bus station facilities and services
München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz. ATMs are available at München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz: Wheelchair accessible parking available.
München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe)Am Messefreigelände, 81829 München-Trudering-Riem, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe) from Munich city centre
München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe) is 9 km from Munich city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN74 · 26m · £3
N236, 036 · 27m · £1
190 · 45m · every ~7 min
SubwayU2 · 28m · £4 · every ~20 min
München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe) bus station facilities and services
München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe). ATMs are available at München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe): Wheelchair accessible.
Which Essen station do buses from Munich arrive at?
Buses from Munich to Essen arrive at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) is 1 km from Essen city centre.
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.
Bus stations for Munich to Essen
Check bus stations information for Munich and Essen, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Munich , you have various coach station options to start your route from including München, ZOB, München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz, München, Am Messefreigelände (München Messe) . When arriving in Essen , you can end your route in coach stations like Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).Passengers board the coach most frequently from München, ZOB, which is located around 2 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), located 1 away from the city centre.
More options for your journey from Munich to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Essen and Munich
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