Essen to Hamburg train with Deutsche Bahn

Sun 30 Nov
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Regionale
1,000+ 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 to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for 30 Nov

Cheapest price

£93

Average price

£93

Fastest journey

8 h 5 m

Average duration

8 h 5 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

443 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to Hamburg will cost around £93 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £93.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Essen for Hamburg every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 443 km distance in an average of 8 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 5 m .

The slowest trains will take 8 h 5 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
13:058h05
Essen
21:10Hamburg
£931One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Essen to Hamburg

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to Hamburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £16. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £16, and a flight costs an average of £79.

Distance: 443 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Coach

£111

Average Price

£226

Average Price

£32

Average Price

Cheapest

7h 17m

Average total duration

6h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 44m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

11h 6m

Average total duration

10h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Essen to Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Hamburg trains for tomorrow, Sunday 30 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 22:50
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrain13:05 Essen
8h05
21:10 Hamburg0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare coach, train 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.

Sun
30 Nov
Mon
01 Dec
Tue
02 Dec
Wed
03 Dec
Thu
04 Dec
Fri
05 Dec
Sat
06 Dec

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Hamburg

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
Iconwifi
Disadvantages
IconCleanliness
The train journey from Essen to Hamburg was alright overall, but there was room for improvement in terms of comfort and cleanliness.The comfort during the journey was quite good. The seats were acceptable but not particularly comfortable for longer journeys. The availability of power outlets was limited but the wifi was stable. Cleanliness was OK but there were occasional spills that would have required more thorough cleaning.Train staff were polite but not particularly present. There were limited announcements and information about the next stops.The value for money of the train journey was reasonable. Ticket prices were fair, but there was potential for more comfort and improved cleanliness.
Advantages
IconHygiene
Disadvantages
IconNone
I have absolutely nothing to criticise about the return journey. The train was very punctual and also kept very hygienic and clean. The benches were very comfortable and I could feel a sense of security. The staff always helped me with any questions I had and were very friendly. I rate the price-performance ratio as very good and I can give the train connection a positive review.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Hamburg

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Hamburg run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £93 but you can travel from only £16 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:37, the last at 23:21. The fastest train covers the 443 km distance in 6h 43m.

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 £16
Distance
443 km
Average train duration
6h 47m
Cheapest ticket price
£93
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
6h 43m
First train
04:37
Last train
23:21
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 £16

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Essen to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Essen and Hamburg from £16. 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
6h 43m
Cheapest Price
£106
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
8h 5m
Cheapest Price
£93
FlixTrain frequency
3 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 Hamburg train

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

FAQs
A visit of three to four days is generally recommended to explore the main attractions in Hamburg, including the Miniatur Wunderland, the Elbphilharmonie, and the Port of Hamburg.
In Hamburg, visitors can explore the vibrant nightlife of the Reeperbahn, take a scenic boat tour of the Port of Hamburg, and visit the lively Hamburg Fish Market. Discover the city's rich maritime history at the International Maritime Museum, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Alster Lakes, and visit top sights such as Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, and Speicherstadt. St. Michael's Church offers sweeping views, while Planten un Blomen provides themed gardens and recreational activities.
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £93, while the average price tends to be around £111.
Booking trains from Essen to Hamburg in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Hamburg is by coach, costing approximately £16.
The train journey from Essen to Hamburg covers a distance of 443 km and takes approximately 6h 43m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train station in Essen that goes to Hamburg is Essen station, and it arrives at Hamburg Hbf.
The first train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 4:37.
The train distance from Essen to Hamburg is 443 km.
Trains from Essen to Hamburg run approximately 6 times per day.
The last train from Essen to Hamburg departs at 23:21.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Hamburg.
Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Hamburg. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
To get from Essen to Hamburg, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Essen to Hamburg.
A day trip from Essen to Hamburg is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 43m. There are 6 trains per day for this route, covering a distance of 443 km.
The train journey from Essen to Hamburg offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring industrial areas, small towns, and stretches of countryside, though it is not particularly known for scenic views compared to more picturesque routes in Germany.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Hamburg

Essen
Hamburg
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen for your trip from Essen to Hamburg.
EssenParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information

Most popular train connections from Essen

More options for your journey from Essen to Hamburg

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