ESSEN to HAMBURG train from £7 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for 26 Aug

Cheapest price

£14

Average price

£52

Fastest journey

2 h 59 m

Average duration

3 h 13 m

Trains per day

Distance

311 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 £52 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £14.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Essen for Hamburg 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 311 km distance in an average of 3 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 59 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 35 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
9:562h59
Essen Hbf
12:55Hamburg Harburg
£141One-way
0 changes
ICE 1547 · ICE 614
10:473h28
Essen Hbf
14:15Hamburg Hbf
£591One-way
1 change
ICE 2310
8:353h00
Essen Hbf
11:35Hamburg Harburg
£591One-way
0 changes
ICE 1036
9:343h04
Essen Hbf
12:38Hamburg Harburg
£591One-way
0 changes
10209 · ICE 616
8:403h35
Essen Hbf
12:15Hamburg Hbf
£691One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Essen to Hamburg

Omio recommends booking the train 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 £13. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £13, and a flight costs an average of £65.

Distance: 311 km

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Coach	Flight
£32 Average Price	£29 Average Price Cheapest	£173 Average Price
3h 46m Average total duration 3h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	5h 13m Average total duration 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 56m Average total duration Fastest 56m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions	0.9 - 1.9kg 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 Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Hamburg trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 26 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
ICE 2310	On time 8:35 Essen Hbf	3h00	11:35 Hamburg Harburg	0 changesdirect
10209 · ICE 616	On time 8:40 Essen Hbf	3h35	12:15 Hamburg Hbf	1 change
ICE 1036	On time 9:34 Essen Hbf	3h04	12:38 Hamburg Harburg	0 changesdirect
FlixTrain	9:56 Essen Hbf	2h59	12:55 Hamburg Harburg	0 changesdirect
ICE 1547 · ICE 614	On time 10:47 Essen Hbf	3h28	14:15 Hamburg Hbf	1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Hamburg 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.

Wed
26 Aug

Thu
27 Aug

Fri
28 Aug

Sat
29 Aug

Sun
30 Aug

Mon
31 Aug

Tue
01 Sept

Why should you book Essen to Hamburg trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Hamburg.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Hamburg.

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 Hamburg.
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 Hamburg.

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 Hamburg.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Hamburg

Germany

Trains from Essen to Hamburg run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 311 km distance in 2h 59m.

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

311 km

Average train duration

3h 16m

Cheapest ticket price

£7

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

2h 59m

First train

0:03

Last train

23:56

Cheapest Month

Mar

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sept

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Fri

Best time to book

42 days

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Hamburg from £7. 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 15m

Cheapest Price

£7

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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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

2h 59m

Cheapest Price

£10

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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 46m

Cheapest Price

£54

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

17 a day

Complete guide to Hamburg

Things to do in Hamburg

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

Must visit

Hamburger Kunsthalle

Major art museum with European painting, modern works and temporary exhibitions, all within walking distance of the main station.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Deichtorhallen Hamburg

Striking contemporary art gallery in the HafenCity area, showing rotating exhibitions in a modern waterside building.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg

Interactive maritime museum in a historic warehouse, covering ship models, navigation, naval history and global sea trade.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller cities, but public transport is efficient and daily food options remain manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-15 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range: €18-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining: €70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is customary but modest: round up or add 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change in cafés.

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.

The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £7, while the average price tends to be around £32.

The train journey from Essen to Hamburg covers a distance of 311 km and takes approximately 2h 59m. Trains run 11 per day.

The train distance from Essen to Hamburg is 311 km.

The first train from Essen to Hamburg leaves at 0:03.

The last train from Essen to Hamburg departs at 23:56.

Trains from Essen to Hamburg run approximately 11 times per day.

Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Hamburg. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

To get from Essen to Hamburg, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.

There is no night train service from Essen to Hamburg.

The train station in Essen that goes to Hamburg is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Hamburg Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Essen to Hamburg is by train, costing approximately £7.

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 train journey from Essen to Hamburg offers a range of scenery, including industrial landscapes, quaint villages, and verdant countryside, providing a pleasant and varied view for travellers.

A day trip from Essen to Hamburg is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 59m. However, trains run frequently, with 15 trips per day.

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.

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.

Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Hamburg.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Hamburg

Most Essen to Hamburg trains use the Essen Hbf to Hamburg Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Hamburg-Harburg. Use this guide to compare Essen and Hamburg 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 Hamburg

Which Essen station do trains to Hamburg leave from?

Trains from Essen to Hamburg 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 Essen Wifi

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.

More about Essen Hbf

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

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

TRUE

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-WerdenEssen-Werden, Im Löwental 11, 45239 Essen Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Werden from Essen city centre

Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 11m · £2 · every ~6 min

BusS6 · 14m · £4

Ne8 · 22m · £4

Essen-Werden train station facilities and services

Essen-Werden 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.