Essen to Hamburg train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Thu 28 May
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Avanti West Coast
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 Hamburg

Showing times and prices for 28 May

Cheapest price

£25

Average price

£55

Fastest journey

3 h 32 m

Average duration

3 h 32 m

Trains per day

22

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 £55 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £25.

Fast trains

Of the 22 trains that leave Essen for Hamburg every day 18 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 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 32 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 32 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 920
    3:064h17
    Essen Hbf
    7:23Hamburg Hbf
    £251One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    17:046h01
    Essen Hbf
    23:05Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof
    £281One-way
    1 change
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    9:047h30
    Essen Hbf
    16:34Hamburg Hbf
    £301One-way
    1 change
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    9:045h46
    Essen Hbf
    14:50Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof
    £331One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnICE 208
    6:003h32
    Essen Hbf
    9:32Hamburg Hbf
    £331One-way
    0 changes

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 £14. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 0m. 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 £14, and a flight costs an average of £74.

Distance: 311 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£40

Average Price

£24

Average Price

Cheapest

£215

Average Price

3h 44m

Average total duration

3h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 14m

Average total duration

4h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 0m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 1.9kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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 Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Hamburg trains for today, Wednesday 27 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 200
Delayed
12:59 14:00Essen Hbf
3h32
16:09 16:09Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 610
Delayed
13:05 14:59Essen Hbf
3h33
16:36 16:36Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 108
Delayed
14:09 16:00Essen Hbf
3h32
17:35 17:35Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 518
Delayed
16:59 Essen Hbf
3h33
18:35 18:35Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus17:04 Essen Hbf
6h01
23:05 Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 106
Delayed
18:00 Essen Hbf
3h32
19:35 19:35Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 516
Delayed
18:59 Essen Hbf
3h33
20:35 20:35Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 104
Delayed
20:00 Essen Hbf
3h39
21:42 21:42Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 514
Delayed
20:59 Essen Hbf
4h21
23:22 23:22Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Thursday 28 May
Deutsche BahnICE 1028
On time
4:59 Essen Hbf
3h40
8:39 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 208
On time
6:00 Essen Hbf
3h32
9:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 618
On time
7:00 Essen Hbf
3h32
10:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 206
On time
8:00 Essen Hbf
3h32
11:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 616
On time
8:59 Essen Hbf
3h33
12:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus9:04 Essen Hbf
5h46
14:50 Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof1 change
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain9:04 Essen Hbf
7h30
16:34 Hamburg Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 204
On time
10:00 Essen Hbf
3h32
13:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 614
On time
10:59 Essen Hbf
3h33
14:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 202
On time
12:00 Essen Hbf
3h32
15:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 612
On time
12:59 Essen Hbf
3h33
16:32 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain13:05 Essen Hbf
7h29
20:34 Hamburg Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 200
On time
14:00 Essen Hbf
3h32
17:32 Hamburg Hbf
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 Hamburg by train, coach or flight

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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

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Hamburg run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.

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 39m.

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 £14
Distance
311 km
Average train duration
3h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
£17
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
2h 39m
First train
0:03
Last train
23:56
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £14

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 £14. 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
2h 39m
Cheapest Price
£17
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
£21
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
£55
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
17 a day

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
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £40.
The train journey from Essen to Hamburg covers a distance of 311 km and takes approximately 2h 39m. 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 coach, costing approximately £14.
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 39m. 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

Essen
Hamburg
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 Hamburg.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Essen WestWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Pizzeria Don Camillo
  • Lindos
  • Zur Platte
  • Arman Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • McDreams
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
7 km
Dining
Dining
  • Kettner's Kamota
  • Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962
  • La Piazzetta
  • Pia
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Hohenstein
  • Domstuben

Most popular train connections from Essen

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