Essen Hbf to Berlin train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Mon 02 Nov
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen Hbf to Berlin

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
Cheapest price on 02 Nov
£15
Average ticket price on 02 Nov
£44
Fastest journey on 02 Nov
4 h 58 m
Average journey duration on 02 Nov
5 h 3 m
Trains on 02 Nov
20
Distance
454 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen Hbf to Berlin is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen Hbf to Berlin will cost around £44 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £15.

Fast trains

On Mon 02 Nov, we found 20 trains from Essen Hbf to Berlin, including 12 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 454 km distance in an average of 5 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 58 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 7 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.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen Hbf to Berlin

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen Hbf to Berlin run on average 11 times per day, taking around 4h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:13, the last at 21:56. The fastest train covers the 454 km distance in 3h 41m.

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
454 km
Average train duration
4h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
£11
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
8
Fastest train
3h 41m
First train
6:13
Last train
21:56
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
1 day
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

Frequently asked questions about your Essen Hbf to Berlin trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen Hbf to Berlin.

The cost of a train ticket from Essen Hbf to Berlin can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £11, while the average price tends to be around £68.
The train journey from Essen Hbf to Berlin covers a distance of 454 km and takes approximately 3h 41m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Essen Hbf to Berlin is 454 km.
The first train from Essen Hbf to Berlin leaves at 6:13.
The last train from Essen Hbf to Berlin departs at 21:56.
Trains from Essen Hbf to Berlin run approximately 11 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Essen Hbf and Berlin. The service operates 8 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

Live departures

Essen Hbf to Berlin train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen Hbf to Berlin trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1028 · ICE 507
On time
4:59 Essen Hbf
5h23
10:22 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 843
On time
6:21 Essen Hbf
4h58
11:19 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 618 · ICE 509
On time
7:00 Essen Hbf
5h22
12:22 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 543
On time
7:19 Essen Hbf
5h07
12:26 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn26709 · ICE 845
On time
8:13 Essen Hbf
5h06
13:19 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn89711 · ICE 555
On time
8:29 Essen Hbf
5h48
14:17 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn26809 · ICE 616 · ICE 601
On time
8:52 Essen Hbf
5h30
14:22 Berlin Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche Bahn26711 · ICE 545 · 737719:13 Essen Hbf
5h12
14:25 Berlin-Charlottenburg2 changes
Deutsche Bahn26711 · ICE 545
On time
9:13 Essen Hbf
5h13
14:26 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 545
On time
9:19 Essen Hbf
5h07
14:26 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 545 · 73771
On time
9:19 Essen Hbf
5h06
14:25 Berlin-Charlottenburg
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 847
On time
10:20 Essen Hbf
4h58
15:18 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
VIAS Rail GmbH31310+Deutsche BahnICE 557
On time
10:34 Essen Hbf
5h43
16:17 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 1022 · ICE 603
On time
11:03 Essen Hbf
5h19
16:22 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 547 · 73775
On time
11:19 Essen Hbf
5h06
16:25 Berlin-Charlottenburg
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 547
On time
11:19 Essen Hbf
5h07
16:26 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 849
On time
12:21 Essen Hbf
4h58
17:19 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
VIAS Rail GmbH31314+Deutsche BahnICE 559
On time
12:34 Essen Hbf
5h43
18:17 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn26817 · ICE 612 · ICE 605
On time
12:52 Essen Hbf
5h30
18:22 Berlin Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 1020 · ICE 605
On time
13:01 Essen Hbf
5h21
18:22 Berlin Hbf
1 change
FlixTrainFlixTrain13:05 Essen Hbf
5h46
18:51 Berlin Südkreuz station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain13:05 Essen Hbf
5h14
18:19 Berlin-Wannsee station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain13:05 Essen Hbf
5h36
18:41 Berlin Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn26719 · ICE 549
On time
13:13 Essen Hbf
5h13
18:26 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn26719 · ICE 549 · 7377913:13 Essen Hbf
5h12
18:25 Berlin-Charlottenburg2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 549
On time
13:19 Essen Hbf
5h07
18:26 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 549 · 73779
On time
13:19 Essen Hbf
5h06
18:25 Berlin-Charlottenburg
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 1032 · ICE 147
On time
13:34 Essen Hbf
5h17
18:51 Berlin Hbf
1 change
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain14:15 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)
8h34
22:49 Berlin Südkreuz station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain14:15 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)
8h25
22:40 Berlin Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 941
On time
14:21 Essen Hbf
4h58
19:19 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
VIAS Rail GmbH31318+Deutsche BahnICE 651
On time
14:34 Essen Hbf
5h43
20:17 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn26821 · ICE 610 · ICE 607
On time
14:52 Essen Hbf
5h30
20:22 Berlin Hbf
2 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:04 Essen Hbf
5h14
22:18 Berlin-Wannsee station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:04 Essen Hbf
5h36
22:40 Berlin Hbf0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:04 Essen Hbf
5h45
22:49 Berlin Südkreuz station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:05 Essen Hbf
5h13
22:18 Berlin-Wannsee station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:05 Essen Hbf
5h44
22:49 Berlin Südkreuz station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:05 Essen Hbf
5h35
22:40 Berlin Hbf0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain17:56 Essen Hbf
5h48
23:44 Berlin Spandau1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen Hbf to Berlin trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Essen Hbf to Berlin.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen Hbf to Berlin.

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 FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Essen Hbf to Berlin.
  • 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 Essen Hbf to Berlin.

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 Essen Hbf to Berlin.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen Hbf to Berlin

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
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
IconPrice
Disadvantages
Iconwifi
The value for money of this train journey was good. The train arrived on time and the cleanliness was very satisfactory due to the high standard of hygiene. The service was also good and the staff were friendly. The seats were comfortable and it was not too noisy. Unfortunately, the wifi didn't really work.
Advantages
IconRecumbent seat
IconPunctuality
I really enjoyed this trip and what I liked most was the comfort, because my reclining seat had a massage function, which was great. Then I found it very decent that my train arrived on time and the food was actually quite good too. I was surrounded by very nice staff who also did their job well. Then I liked the cleanliness of the whole train and that I could charge my mobile phone.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconPrice
There was no wifi and also no power socket. The seats were comfortable and it was very quiet. There was no catering either. The staff was friendly and I had a reservation. I also received information through the staff. Toilets were very dirty. I did not have to change trains. Train was also on time. Price-performance ratio is poor.
Advantages
IconComfortable
Disadvantages
IconDelay
IconHygiene
IconWc
IconSockets
IconWIFI
I did not enjoy this trip. I was hoping for a pleasant journey. Unfortunately, that did not happen. The train was late and when I boarded the train, an unpleasant smell came into my nose. In addition, the toilet, lavatory and seats were clean. This surprised me negatively. Sockets, wifi and other things did not work either. I cannot recommend this journey.
Advantages
IconComfort
IconQuick
Iconwifi
IconComfortable
IconClean
Disadvantages
IconUnpunctual
IconToilets very dirty
The ICE was delayed by about 25 minutes in Essen. I got a seat directly in the quiet carriage without having made a reservation beforehand. I sat down there and connected directly to the wifi, which was really easy and fast. The seating area was very clean. Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the toilets. They were really incredibly dirty, so I couldn't use them. But overall, the train ride was very comfortable. The seats are comfortable and time flies. Definitely recommended as a single traveller with the saver fare.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconPrices
IconHygiene of the toilets
IconEquipment
The train did not smell very good and the toilets were not clean. There was toilet paper lying around on the floor and the soap dispenser had half run out. I had a socket to charge tech gadgets, but there was no curtain and the sun was very blinding. Also, the window was very scratched. Nevertheless, the train arrived in Berlin on time.
Advantages
IconPleasant
Disadvantages
IconNo weakness
The journey was very pleasant, the toilets were clean, there was delicious food and drinks, the staff were very friendly, there were sockets for the mobile phone, the seats were clean and comfortable, the train left and arrived on time, the atmosphere and the volume were very pleasant.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconPrice
The ride was really 1a. I always had wifi and a power socket. The seats were very comfortable and the volume was pleasant. I had some food with me myself, so I didn't have to use the catering. She had enough there though. The staff were very friendly and I used the reservation facility. I didn't get any information during the journey, but I did in advance when I bought my ticket. The toilets were very clean and fortunately I did not have to change trains. As nicely said, the train was on time. However, the price-performance ratio is not so OK. It was already too expensive for me.
Advantages
IconQuick
IconDirect connection
Disadvantages
IconExpensive
The train left Essen on time. The first class was clean, as were the toilets. The train was at a good temperature. We had service at the seat, but only because of the first class. We also arrived in Berlin on time. The direct connection made it comfortable, but expensive. Despite BahnCard
Advantages
Iconcheap
Icontasty food
Iconmuch choice of food
That was my outward journey and it went great. I can definitely only give it 5 stars because I didn't notice anything negative. There was a lot of choice of food and the food was also delicious. The temperature was very pleasant on the train and it was also quiet on the train, so the atmosphere was cool. The staff was very good and motivated. My ticket was also cheap. The wifi was OK and I had several sockets at my seat and a table. Since there are only positive things, I'll pass on the ride, of course. Great ride!

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen Hbf to Berlin trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen Hbf and Berlin from £11. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£16
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
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 FlixTrain Duration
4h 5m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
£11
FlixTrain frequency
5 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen Hbf and Berlin

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Essen Hbf to Berlin.

Complete guide to Berlin

Things to do in Berlin

Discover the best of Berlin — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Berlin trip today.

  • Must visit

Neues Museum

A major museum of ancient civilisations, known for monumental architecture and celebrated collections from Egypt and the Near East.

  • Must visit

Neue Nationalgalerie

A leading collection of 20th-century art, showing key works of modernism in Mies van der Rohe’s striking glass building.

  • Recommended

Gemäldegalerie

A world-class art museum with European paintings, sculptures and decorative arts from the 13th to 18th centuries.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Western Europe: hostels and hotels vary widely, dining is fair-value, and public transport is good value for a capital city.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually not included. In restaurants, round up or tip about 5-10%. In cafés, round up small bills. For taxis, round up the fare or add about 5-10%.

Plan your visit to Berlin

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Berlin.

The train journey from Essen Hbf to Berlin is not particularly known for being scenic, as it mostly passes through urban and industrial areas before reaching the outskirts of Berlin. Passengers can expect views of cities and typical German countryside, but it lacks the dramatic landscapes found on other routes.

FAQs: Essen Hbf to Berlin train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen Hbf to Berlin 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 Berlin, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Booking trains from Essen Hbf to Berlin in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen Hbf to Berlin.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen Hbf and Berlin

Most Essen Hbf to Berlin trains use the Essen Hbf to Berlin Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Berlin Spandau. Use this guide to compare Essen Hbf and Berlin train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Berlin
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre

BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min

Essen Hbf train station facilities and services

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 and drink

Food options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.

Most popular train connections from Essen Hbf

More options for your journey from Essen Hbf to Berlin

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone