Essen to Basel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sat 05 Sept
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Basel

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept

Cheapest price on 05 Sept

£34

Average ticket price on 05 Sept

£127

Fastest journey on 05 Sept

4 h 48 m

Average journey duration on 05 Sept

8 h 26 m

Trains on 05 Sept

6

Distance

435 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to Basel will cost around £127 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £34.

Fast trains

On Sat 05 Sept, we found 6 trains from Essen to Basel, including 6 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 435 km distance in an average of 8 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 48 m .

The slowest trains will take 15 h 41 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.

  • FlixTrain
    0:3015h41
    Essen
    16:11Basel
    £341One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixTrain
    23:4016h31
    Essen
    16:11Basel
    £411One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:406h08
    Essen
    13:48Basel
    £781One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:005h48
    Essen
    12:48Basel
    £1271One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:004h48
    Essen
    10:48Basel
    £1361One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Essen to Basel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 44m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £38, while a flight costs an average of £154.

Distance: 435 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight
Driving

£63

Average Price

£38

Average Price

Cheapest

£154

Average Price

£131

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 20m

Average total duration

7h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

13h 14m

Average total duration

11h 14m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

5h 54m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

1.3 - 2.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Basel is a coach with an average price of £38.

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Basel:

A coach is £24 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Basel costing on average £63.

A coach is £116 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Basel costing on average £154.

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Basel is by train with an average journey time of 5h 14m.

Other travel options to Basel take longer:

Coach takes on average 7h 50m.

Flight takes on average 11h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Basel including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 40m faster (5h 14m by train vs 5h 54m by car) and roughly £68 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£63 vs £131). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Basel train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Basel trains for tomorrow, Saturday 5 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
FlixTrain0:30 Essen
15h41
16:11 Basel0 changesdirect
Eurostar5:41 Essen
9h45
15:26 Basel0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn6:00 Essen
4h48
10:48 Basel0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn7:00 Essen
5h48
12:48 Basel0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn7:40 Essen
6h08
13:48 Basel0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Basel by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach and flight 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.

Sat
05 Sept
Sun
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept
Tue
08 Sept
Wed
09 Sept
Thu
10 Sept
Fri
11 Sept

Why should you book Essen to Basel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Basel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Basel.

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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Basel.
  • 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 to Basel.

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 to Basel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Basel

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Basel run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £32 but you can travel from only £27 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:05, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 435 km distance in 4h 45m.

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
Coach from £27
Distance
435 km
Average train duration
5h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
£32
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
4h 45m
First train
1:05
Last train
23:46
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
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
Coach from £27

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Basel from £27. 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
4h 45m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£37
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
4h 36m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
£72
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day

Complete guide to Basel

Things to do in Basel

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

  • Must visit

Kunstmuseum Basel

A major art museum with works from old masters to modern art. It is essential for understanding Basel’s strong cultural scene.

  • Must visit

Fondation Beyeler

A leading museum for contemporary art and design. The building and collection make it a highlight for modern architecture fans.

  • Recommended

Museum der Kulturen Basel

This museum presents fine art from the 15th to 19th centuries in a grand setting near the cathedral and old town lanes.

Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)

Basel is costly versus most European cities, with high hotel, dining and daily transport prices for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up in restaurants and cafés or add 5-10% for great service; round up taxi fares.

FAQs: Essen to Basel train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Basel can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £32, while the average price tends to be around £63.
The train journey from Essen to Basel covers a distance of 435 km and takes approximately 4h 45m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Essen to Basel is 435 km.
The first train from Essen to Basel leaves at 1:05.
The last train from Essen to Basel departs at 23:46.
Trains from Essen to Basel run approximately 10 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Basel. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To get from Essen to Basel, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Essen to Basel.
The train station in Essen that goes to Basel is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Basel SBB.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Basel is by coach, costing approximately £27.
Booking trains from Essen to Basel in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Essen to Basel offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, featuring views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, charming German towns, and lush landscapes, making it a pleasant and scenic experience.
A day trip from Essen to Basel is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 45m. The distance is 435 km, and there are 14 trains per day.
In Basel, you can explore the Tinguely Museum, dedicated to Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, and his kinetic sculptures. Enjoy a Rhine River Cruise for scenic views of the city's architecture and landscapes. Discover the Old Town with its medieval buildings and vibrant markets. Visit the Fondation Beyeler for modern and tribal art. Attend Art Basel, an international art fair. Key sights include the Basel Minster, Kunstmuseum Basel, Tinguely Fountain, Basel Zoo, and Rathaus Basel.
To fully experience Basel's rich cultural scene, historic architecture, and vibrant art museums, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Basel.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Basel

Most Essen to Basel trains use the Essen Hbf to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel Bad Bhf. Use this guide to compare Essen and Basel 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 Basel

Which Essen station do trains to Basel leave from?

Trains from Essen to Basel leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 1 km from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
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.

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, GermanyWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre

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Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus 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 Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.

Essen WestEssen West, Am Westbahnhof 1, 45144 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen West from Essen city centre

Essen West is 2 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe14 · 2m · £0.90 · every ~1 min
BusRb33, S1, S9, S3 · 12m · £3
Tram101 · 24m · every ~10 min

Essen West train station facilities and services

Essen West has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Pizzeria Don Camillo, Lindos, Zur Platte, Arman Döner

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen West: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen West.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include McDreams.

Most popular train connections from Essen

More options for your journey from Essen to Basel

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

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