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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Berlin
Showing times and prices for 04 Dec
Cheapest price
£26
Average price
£31
Fastest journey
4 h 26 m
Average duration
4 h 49 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
454 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen 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 to Berlin will cost around £31 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £26.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Essen for Berlin every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 454 km distance in an average of 4 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 26 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 46 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.
FlixTrain09:064h26
Essen Hbf13:32Berlin Hbf
£261One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain09:064h38
Essen Hbf13:44Berlin Ostbahnhof
£261One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain · FlixTrain07:555h46
Essen Hbf13:41Berlin Spandau
£271One-way
1 change
FlixTrain17:054h27
Essen Hbf21:32Berlin Hbf
£461One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain09:064h26
Essen Hbf13:32Berlin Hbf
£261One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain17:054h27
Essen Hbf21:32Berlin Hbf
£461One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain09:064h38
Essen Hbf13:44Berlin Ostbahnhof
£261One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain · FlixTrain07:555h46
Essen Hbf13:41Berlin Spandau
£271One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Essen to Berlin
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Berlin among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, and a flight costs an average of £46.
Distance: 454 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£44 Average Price | £33 Average Price Cheapest | £171 Average Price |
4h 50m Average total duration 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 20m Average total duration 6h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 12m Average total duration Fastest 1h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Essen to Berlin train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Berlin trains for today, Wednesday 3 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 12:39
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14:26 Essen | 5h02 | 19:28 Berlin | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:21 Essen | 4h15 | 20:36 Berlin | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18:21 Essen | 5h05 | 23:26 Berlin | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 4 December | |||||
| FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 06:55 Essen Hbf | 5h46 | 12:41 Berlin Spandau | 1 change | |
| FlixTrain | 08:06 Essen Hbf | 4h26 | 12:32 Berlin Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 08:06 Essen Hbf | 4h38 | 12:44 Berlin Ostbahnhof | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Berlin 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Essen to Berlin?
The best time to book your train from Essen to Berlin is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Essen to Berlin route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Essen to Berlin 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 Essen to Berlin.
Trains
from £21Coaches
from £24Flights
from £184ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Berlin
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
good atmosphereclean aircomfortThat was my return trip and it was great. I went inside and it smelled very fresh. Then I sat down. I ordered something for myself and it arrived very quickly and was very fresh. Then I got out my tablet and used the internet and the internet was very strong. I looked out the window and the atmosphere was very good. My train also came on time, I pass on this trip.
Advantages
Good connectionNo changeDisadvantages
DelaysThere was only a minimal delay on the journey from Berlin to Essen. The train was not completely full at this time of day, which made the journey very pleasant. The wifi had a fairly stable connection. There were no problems with seat reservations. The train attendants were also friendly. The price-performance ratio was right here.
Advantages
Air conditioningPunctualityComfortDisadvantages
ReservationsToo fullHere I would like to share my positive experiences on the journey from Berlin to Essen. I travelled by ICE 1st class. Thank God I had booked my seat in advance, the train was very full. The cool air conditioning in the train was pleasant. The toilets were really very clean and the service was done right after the start. At every seat there was the possibility to put the laptop on a folding table and directly at the seat there were sockets so that you could charge the device directly. My train was also on time and the connecting trains were reached, I will travel 1st class by ICE again. The price was also reasonable.
Advantages
good wifitasty foodfree space on the squareI travelled in second class and this was my return journey. I rate this journey with five stars as I have nothing to criticise. The train looked very nice from the inside and also from the outside. The food was very tasty, there were also vegan and vegetarian dishes. The internet was very good, although many people used it, so I was able to complete my work on the computer. My seat was very comfortable and I had a lot of space at my seat. My train was also on time. It was a wonderful journey.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Berlin
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Berlin run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 454 km distance in 3h 52m.
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 £17
Distance 454 km |
Average train duration 4h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 3h 52m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
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 £17
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Berlin trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Berlin from £17. 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
3h 46m
Cheapest Price
£50
Deutsche Bahn frequency
15 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
4h 24m
Cheapest Price
£10
FlixTrain frequency
4 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
FAQs: Essen to Berlin train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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.
To fully experience Berlin, a visit of 3 to 4 days is recommended, allowing time to explore key attractions such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, and Museum Island.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Berlin is by coach, costing approximately £17.
The train journey from Essen to Berlin, while efficient and comfortable, primarily passes through urban and industrial areas, offering limited scenic views compared to more rural routes.
In Berlin, you can explore the vibrant street art scene in Kreuzberg and enjoy a leisurely boat tour on the River Spree. Visit the bustling markets at Mauerpark and experience the nightlife in the trendy district of Friedrichshain. Don't miss attending a classical concert at the Berlin Philharmonic. For sightseeing, the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island, Reichstag Building, and Charlottenburg Palace offer rich historical and cultural experiences.
The train distance from Essen to Berlin is 454 km.
Booking trains from Essen to Berlin in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
A day trip from Essen to Berlin is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 52m. Trains operate 15 times per day, covering a distance of 454 km.
The train journey from Essen to Berlin covers a distance of 454 km and takes approximately 3h 52m. Trains run 15 per day.
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Berlin can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £44.
The train station in Essen that goes to Berlin is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Berlin Hbf.
The last train from Essen to Berlin departs at 23:58.
The first train from Essen to Berlin leaves at 0:01.
Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Berlin. The service operates 9 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Trains from Essen to Berlin run approximately 15 times per day.
There is no night train service from Essen to Berlin.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Berlin.
To get from Essen to Berlin, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Berlin
Essen
Berlin
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Berlin.
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
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen-Steele
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmDining
- Bootshaus Ruhreck
- Da Vinici
- Asia-Nudeln
- Bacchos
Hotel
- Zur Guten Quelle
- Hotel Töff-Töff
- Budike
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
The major train station for arrivals in Berlin is Berlin-Lichtenberg. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Berlin-Lichtenberg for your journey to Berlin from Essen.
Berlin-Lichtenberg
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
6 kmDining
- AVCI Bistro
- Restaurant Athos
- Yoko Sushi
- Payamlino Bistro
Hotel
- Hotel Nova
- Pension Adamshof
- Pension Zum Lichtenberger
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 17:30
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Jäger & Lustig
- BLOCK HOUSE
- Pizza und Pasta
- Lang Van II
Hotel
- Upstalsboom Hotel Friedrichshain
- Armony Hotel
- Nu hotel berlin
- Holiday Inn Berlin - City East Side
Berlin-Charlottenburg
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Haus der 100 Biere
- Ach!NikO!Ach!
- Ristorante Salve
- Mommsen-Eck
Hotel
- Hotel Orion
- Come Inn Berlin Kurfürstendamm Opera
- Ku’ Damm 101 Design-Hotel Berlin
- EnergieHotel
More options for your journey from Essen to Berlin
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Berlin and Essen
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