Essen to Berlin train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sat 18 Jul
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Deutsche Bahn
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Berlin

Showing times and prices for 18 Jul

Cheapest price

£21

Average price

£65

Fastest journey

4 h

Average duration

4 h 3 m

Trains per day

24

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 £65 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £21.

Fast trains

Of the 24 trains that leave Essen for Berlin every day 24 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 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 14 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 645
    19:194h22
    Essen Hbf
    23:41Berlin Hbf
    £211One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 947
    20:214h28
    Essen Hbf
    0:49Berlin Hbf
    £211One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    13:054h52
    Essen Hbf
    17:57Berlin Südkreuz station
    £271One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    13:054h26
    Essen Hbf
    17:31Berlin Spandau
    £271One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    17:044h42
    Essen Hbf
    21:46Berlin Südkreuz station
    £271One-way
    0 changes

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 £19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. 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 £19, and a flight costs an average of £74.

Distance: 454 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£46

Average Price

£32

Average Price

Cheapest

£190

Average Price

6h 2m

Average total duration

5h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 21m

Average total duration

5h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

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, Friday 17 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1541
Delayed
22:22 0:22Essen Hbf
5h11
3:57 3:57Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 845
On time
8:21 Essen Hbf
4h18
12:39 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1545
Delayed
6:57 8:47Essen Hbf
3h44
12:31 Berlin Spandau
0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain9:04 Essen Hbf
4h26
13:30 Berlin Spandau0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain9:04 Essen Hbf
4h41
13:45 Berlin Hbf0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain9:04 Essen Hbf
5h01
14:05 Berlin Südkreuz station0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 545
On time
9:19 Essen Hbf
4h01
13:20 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 545 · ICE 555
Delayed
9:19 Essen Hbf
3h36
11:09 11:09Berlin Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 847
On time
10:20 Essen Hbf
4h21
14:41 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1547
On time
10:47 Essen Hbf
3h44
14:31 Berlin Spandau
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 547
On time
11:19 Essen Hbf
4h15
15:34 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 849
On time
12:21 Essen Hbf
4h18
16:39 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1053
On time
12:32 Essen Hbf
3h59
16:31 Berlin Spandau
0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain13:05 Essen Hbf
4h42
17:47 Berlin Hbf0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain13:05 Essen Hbf
4h51
17:56 Berlin Südkreuz station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain13:05 Essen Hbf
4h25
17:30 Berlin Spandau0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 549
On time
13:19 Essen Hbf
4h01
17:20 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 941
On time
14:21 Essen Hbf
4h17
18:38 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1549
On time
14:44 Essen Hbf
3h47
18:31 Berlin Spandau
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 641
On time
15:19 Essen Hbf
4h14
19:33 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 943
On time
16:21 Essen Hbf
4h20
20:41 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:04 Essen Hbf
4h42
21:46 Berlin Südkreuz station0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:04 Essen Hbf
4h30
21:34 Berlin Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 643
On time
17:19 Essen Hbf
4h00
21:19 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 945
On time
18:21 Essen Hbf
4h30
22:51 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 645
On time
19:19 Essen Hbf
4h23
23:42 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 947
On time
20:21 Essen Hbf
4h00
0:21 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Saturday 18 July
Deutsche BahnICE 541
On time
5:19 Essen Hbf
4h00
9:19 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 843
On time
6:21 Essen Hbf
4h18
10:39 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 543
On time
7:19 Essen Hbf
4h15
11:34 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect

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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Why should you book Essen to Berlin trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Berlin.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen 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 or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen 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 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 to Berlin.

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.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen 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
Icongood atmosphere
Iconclean air
Iconcomfort
That 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
IconGood connection
IconNo change
Disadvantages
IconDelays
There 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
IconAir conditioning
IconPunctuality
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconReservations
IconToo full
Here 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
Icongood wifi
Icontasty food
Iconfree space on the square
I 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
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Berlin run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 454 km distance in 3h 55m.

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
5h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
£17
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
10
Fastest train
3h 55m
First train
0:02
Last train
23:58
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
28 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Berlin trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 55m
Cheapest Price
£57
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.
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 Duration
4h 6m
Cheapest Price
£17
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 51m
Cheapest Price
£71
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

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.

FAQs
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 £46.
The train journey from Essen to Berlin covers a distance of 454 km and takes approximately 3h 55m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Essen to Berlin is 454 km.
The first train from Essen to Berlin leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Essen to Berlin departs at 23:58.
Trains from Essen to Berlin run approximately 12 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Berlin. The service operates 10 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To get from Essen to Berlin, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Essen to Berlin.
The train station in Essen that goes to Berlin is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Berlin Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Berlin is by train, costing approximately £17.
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.
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.
A day trip from Essen to Berlin is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 55m. Trains operate 15 times per day, covering a distance of 454 km.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Berlin.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Berlin

Most Essen 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 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

Which Essen station do trains to Berlin leave from?

Trains from Essen to Berlin 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 Thyssenhaus
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 · £0.89 · 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.

More options for your journey from Essen to Berlin

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

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