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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund to Essen
Showing times and prices for 17 Dec
Cheapest price
£4
Average price
£8
Fastest journey
22 m
Average duration
23 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
32 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dortmund to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dortmund to Essen will cost around £8 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £4.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Dortmund for Essen every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 32 km distance in an average of 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 22 m .
The slowest trains will take 25 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.
19:270h23
Dortmund19:50Essen
£41One-way
0 changes
10:260h22
Dortmund10:48Essen
£41One-way
0 changes
04:230h25
Dortmund04:48Essen
£61One-way
0 changes
14:150h22
Dortmund14:37Essen
£181One-way
0 changes
10:260h22
Dortmund10:48Essen
£41One-way
0 changes
14:150h22
Dortmund14:37Essen
£181One-way
0 changes
19:270h23
Dortmund19:50Essen
£41One-way
0 changes
04:230h25
Dortmund04:48Essen
£61One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Dortmund to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dortmund to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £3, and a coach costs an average of £4.
Distance: 32 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£6 Average Price Cheapest | £9 Average Price |
53m Average total duration Fastest 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 9m Average total duration 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Dortmund to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Dortmund to Essen trains for today, Tuesday 16 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 00:20
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 915 | On time 07:10 Dortmund Hbf | 0h25 | 07:35 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 646 | On time 07:15 Dortmund Hbf | 0h23 | 07:38 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 27 | On time 07:35 Dortmund Hbf | 0h23 | 07:58 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 219 | On time 07:39 Dortmund Hbf | 0h23 | 08:02 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 946 | Delayed 08:14 08:13Dortmund Hbf | 0h22 | 08:35 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 105 | On time 08:36 Dortmund Hbf | 0h22 | 08:58 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 644 | On time 09:15 Dortmund Hbf | 0h23 | 09:38 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 15:27 Dortmund Hbf | 0h21 | 15:48 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Dortmund to Essen by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Dortmund to Essen?
The best time to book your train from Dortmund to Essen is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Dortmund to Essen route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Dortmund to Essen per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Dortmund to Essen.
Trains
from £3ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Dortmund to Essen
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
SeatCleanliness in the carPunctualityDisadvantages
Cleanliness of the toiletsThe train journey from Dortmund to Essen started on time. I quickly found a seat with a power socket. However, just like the wifi, I didn't need it on the short journey. What was positive for me was the cleanliness of the carriage. The toilets, on the other hand, were not exactly clean.
Advantages
SpeedDisadvantages
Toilet in compartment closedOn Tuesday, I travelled from Dortmund main station to Essen main station with the ICE 529. The journey was relatively short and the distance covered quickly. The board staff were nice and polite, hygiene was good, but unfortunately the toilet in my compartment was closed. So unfortunately I had to go to another compartment. Nevertheless, the journey was very pleasant and especially because of the price-performance ratio with only 17€ per journey, I would travel again with Deutsche Bahn from Dortmund HBF to Essen HBF.
Advantages
YesDisadvantages
YesThis trip was just a dream. The wifi was fine, as were the sockets and the volume, the seating was! The staff were very friendly and always helpful and very vigilant of the hygiene in the toilet, because I was not so enthusiastic, but it was quite ok, the prices were also justified.
Advantages
Staff was very niceCar was cleanDisadvantages
The train was lateWhen I took the train from Dortmund to Essen yesterday, I was unfortunately disappointed by the punctuality of the train. The train was about 20 minutes late, but the rest of the journey was very pleasant. The staff were nice and the toilets and the train in general were very clean. The wifi had a few dropouts now and then, but that's normal. Otherwise, the price was worth the trip.
Advantages
Service/PriceDisadvantages
PunctualityLast year, I took a trip from Dortmund to Essen with DB. In fact, I was very impressed with the service. The workers were very friendly and quickly looked after my interests. You could also quickly connect your mobile phone to the wifi. The seats were very comfortable and clean. It was pleasantly quiet. The toilets were very clean and hygienic. There was no need to change planes. The price was very good, only €3.00. The only problem was that the train did not arrive on time. Otherwise, I would really heartily recommend the train journey from Dortmund to Essen. Apart from arriving on time, everything was tip-top.
Advantages
Short driveDisadvantages
Floor quite dirtyI didn't like the journey back to Essen because there were often passengers who had harassed me. Nevertheless, the train was quite clean. The service was not so good, as the ticket inspector looked at me stupidly when I was looking for my ticket. Since the train leaves every 15 minutes, you didn't have to worry about being late because it always came back. The price-performance ratio is really good for the trip.
Advantages
SpeedPunctualityCleanlinessWIFISocketsDisadvantages
PriceI recently took a train journey from Dortmund to Essen and have to say that I was not entirely satisfied. The price for the journey was unfortunately not particularly cheap and I had the feeling that I had paid more than I had actually expected. Nevertheless, the train journey was pleasant and comfortable overall. The train was on time and the journey went smoothly. The station in Dortmund was well equipped and there were enough seats and toilets. The display boards were also clear and informative. All in all, I can say that the train journey from Dortmund to Essen was pleasant and comfortable overall, but the price is a point of criticism.
If I want to travel by train again in the future, I will definitely check beforehand exactly how much I have to pay and whether there are better offers.
Advantages
QuickCosyWIFIOn timeDisadvantages
PriceI recently had the opportunity to travel by ICE from Dortmund to Essen and must say that I had a satisfactory experience overall. The train was on time and provided a pleasant and comfortable journey. The interior was modern and clean, with comfortable seats and plenty of space for luggage. Unfortunately, the price was not as reasonable as I expected. It felt like I paid a high price for the convenience and speed offered by the ICE. Although I enjoyed the journey, it would be hard for me to justify paying high prices for train travel on a regular basis. All in all, the journey by ICE from Dortmund to Essen was a pleasant and comfortable experience, but the price was regrettably a little too high. I think I will consider other means of transport when I travel to Essen in the future.
Advantages
The ride was very pleasantDisadvantages
The staff was unfriendlyThe wifi on the train was surprisingly fast. The toilets were clean and were cleaned during the journey. The price of the journey was definitely worth it.
I didn't have to change trains and the train was there relatively quickly (compared to other trains). Overall, I would recommend the train to others
Advantages
Fast travel timeDisadvantages
DelayI was travelling with the Eurobahn. There are sockets for charging at the 4-seater seats with table. The seats were comfortable and clean. There is no catering on the train as it is a local train. Accordingly, you cannot reserve a seat. The toilets are so-so, I wouldn't sit on them to do my business. I could travel directly from Neuss to Dortmund without changing trains, which is of course convenient. Price-performance ratio is top, of course. Cheaper than by car.
Advantages
PriceNeed to changePersonnelDisadvantages
VolumeBooking optionsHygieneThe journey was thoroughly enjoyable - the attractive price, the punctuality of the train and the lack of any need to change trains made the journey much easier. The staff were friendly and the reservation options proved to be excellent. Unfortunately, the inadequate noise level on the train spoilt the positive picture somewhat. Despite this minor inconvenience, the comfort was maintained thanks to the brilliant reservation options. One regrettable aspect was the lack of hygiene in the toilets, which were perceived as not being clean. Nevertheless, the positive elements outweigh the negative and the trip is considered satisfactory overall.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dortmund to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Dortmund to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £3 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 32 km distance in 22m.
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
Distance 32 km |
Average train duration 23m |
Cheapest ticket price £3 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 22m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:52 |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, Eurostar from Dortmund to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, Eurostar trains will get you between Dortmund and Essen from £3. 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
22m
Cheapest Price
£6
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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
22m
Cheapest Price
£2
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
21m
Cheapest Price
£42
Eurostar frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
21m
Cheapest Price
£9
National Express frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
FAQs: Dortmund to Essen train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund 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.
To fully experience Essen's cultural and historical highlights, plan for 2 to 3 days.
Yes, a day trip from Dortmund to Essen is feasible. The journey takes only 22m, and the cities are 32 km apart. Trains run frequently, with a frequency of 5 per day, allowing for easy travel between the two locations.
The cost of a train ticket from Dortmund to Essen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £3, while the average price tends to be around £6.
Booking trains from Dortmund to Essen in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Dortmund to Essen is not particularly scenic, primarily featuring urban and industrial landscapes typical of the Ruhr region.
The train journey from Dortmund to Essen covers a distance of 32 km and takes approximately 22m. Trains run 5 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Dortmund to Essen is by train, costing approximately £3.
The train station in Dortmund that goes to Essen is Dortmund Hbf, and it arrives at Essen Hbf.
The train distance from Dortmund to Essen is 32 km.
The first train from Dortmund to Essen leaves at 0:01.
Trains from Dortmund to Essen run approximately 5 times per day.
The last train from Dortmund to Essen departs at 23:52.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Essen.
To get from Dortmund to Essen, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a direct train between Dortmund and Essen. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, Eurostar.
There is no night train service from Dortmund to Essen.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Dortmund and Essen
Dortmund
Essen
The major train station for departures in Dortmund is Dortmund Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dortmund Hbf for your trip from Dortmund to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information 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
- Subway
- Caliente
- Ong Bui Asia Fusion
- Kleimann
Hotel
- Cityhotel Dortmund
- Esplanade
- Drei Kronen
- Hotel Unique Novum
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
8 kmDining
- The Greek
- Peking Garden
- Piccola Enzo
- Restaurant Symbol
Dortmund Signal Iduna Park
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Strobels
- Rosenterassen
The 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 Dortmund.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
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
Essen West
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
Most popular train connections from Dortmund
More options for your journey from Dortmund to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Dortmund
Most popular train connections to Essen
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