Essen to Munich train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,RE,IC,RB)

Thu 04 Dec
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Deutsche Bahn
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Great Western Rail
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Munich

Showing times and prices for 04 Dec

Cheapest price

£49

Average price

£103

Fastest journey

5 h 11 m

Average duration

5 h 12 m

Trains per day

45

Distance

493 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to Munich will cost around £103 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £49.

Fast trains

Of the 45 trains that leave Essen for Munich every day 22 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 493 km distance in an average of 5 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 11 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 12 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 619
23:027h01
Essen Hbf
06:03Munich Hbf
£491One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 102 · IC 60471 · ICE 827
22:0010h09
Essen Hbf
08:09Munich Hbf
£571One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 848 · IC 2340 · ICE 615
17:376h49
Essen Hbf
00:26Munich Hbf
£611One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 821
18:395h43
Essen Hbf
00:22Munich Hbf
£671One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 615
18:565h30
Essen Hbf
00:26Munich Hbf
£671One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Essen to Munich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Munich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 7m. 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 £22, and a flight costs an average of £32.

Distance: 493 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Coach

£116

Average Price

£145

Average Price

£37

Average Price

Cheapest

6h 13m

Average total duration

5h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 7m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

10h 36m

Average total duration

10h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.5 - 3.0kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Essen to Munich train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Munich trains for today, Wednesday 3 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 13:57
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahn14:00 Essen
6h26
20:26 Munich0 changesdirect
Thursday 4 December
deutsche_bahnRE 26709 · ICE 535
On time
07:13 Essen Hbf
6h30
13:43 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 915
On time
07:14 Essen Hbf
5h12
12:26 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 621
On time
07:49 Essen Hbf
5h19
13:08 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 515
On time
08:05 Essen Hbf
5h21
13:26 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnRE 26810 · ICE 13 · ICE 573 · ICE 565
On time
08:09 Essen Hbf
5h40
13:49 Munich Hbf
3 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 1223
On time
08:17 Essen Hbf
5h56
14:13 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 105 · ICE 595
On time
09:00 Essen Hbf
5h14
14:14 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnRB 10323 · ICE 225
On time
09:16 Essen Hbf
5h11
14:27 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2155 · ICE 537
On time
09:16 Essen Hbf
6h27
15:43 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 625
On time
09:54 Essen Hbf
5h14
15:08 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 517
On time
10:00 Essen Hbf
5h26
15:26 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnRE 26715 · ICE 789
On time
10:13 Essen Hbf
6h33
16:46 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2156 · IC 1744 · ICE 519
On time
10:40 Essen Hbf
6h46
17:26 Munich Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 627
On time
10:53 Essen Hbf
5h13
16:06 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 107 · ICE 597
On time
11:00 Essen Hbf
5h16
16:16 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnRE 26717 · ICE 689
On time
11:13 Essen Hbf
6h29
17:42 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 629
On time
11:54 Essen Hbf
5h13
17:07 Munich Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 51912:00 Essen Hbf
5h26
17:26 Munich Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnRE 26818 · ICE 315 · ICE 577 · ICE 569
On time
12:09 Essen Hbf
5h40
17:49 Munich Hbf
3 changes
deutsche_bahnRE 26719 · ICE 881
On time
12:13 Essen Hbf
6h32
18:45 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 72112:54 Essen Hbf
5h16
18:10 Munich Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 109 · IC 1746 · ICE 611
On time
13:00 Essen Hbf
6h29
19:29 Munich Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 109 · ICE 1219
On time
13:00 Essen Hbf
5h12
18:12 Munich Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnRE 26721 · ICE 63113:13 Essen Hbf
6h39
19:52 Munich Hbf1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 101113:14 Essen Hbf
5h13
18:27 Munich Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 72313:54 Essen Hbf
5h14
19:08 Munich Hbf0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Munich 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.

Thu
04 Dec
Fri
05 Dec
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24 Dec

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Essen to Munich?

The best time to book your train from Essen to Munich is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Essen to Munich route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Essen to Munich 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 Munich.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Munich

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Munich run on average 14 times per day, taking around 5h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £22 by coach.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 493 km distance in 5h 12m.

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 £22
Distance
493 km
Average train duration
5h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
£24
Trains per day
14
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
5h 12m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:53
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 £22

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Munich trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Munich from £22. 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
4h 47m
Cheapest Price
£44
Deutsche Bahn frequency
18 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

FAQs: Essen to Munich train

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

FAQs
In Munich, you can enjoy traditional Bavarian food and live music at the famous Hofbräuhaus, explore the latest BMW models and interactive exhibits at BMW Welt, visit the modern Allianz Arena, home to FC Bayern Munich, and admire the lavish rooms and treasury of the Munich Residenz. Olympiapark offers sports facilities and panoramic views from the Olympic Tower. For best sights, visit Marienplatz for its historic buildings and Glockenspiel show, the stunning Nymphenburg Palace with its gardens, the expansive English Garden, the interactive Deutsches Museum, and the vibrant Viktualienmarkt offering local and international delicacies.
Three to four days in Munich is typically enough to explore its main attractions, including Marienplatz, the English Garden, and Nymphenburg Palace, while also enjoying local cuisine and culture.
Booking trains from Essen to Munich 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 Munich offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through the picturesque Rhine Valley and scenic Bavarian countryside, making it a visually appealing route.
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Munich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £116.
The train journey from Essen to Munich covers a distance of 493 km and takes approximately 5h 12m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train station in Essen that goes to Munich is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Munich Hbf.
The first train from Essen to Munich leaves at 0:01.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Munich is by coach, costing approximately £22.
The train distance from Essen to Munich is 493 km.
Trains from Essen to Munich run approximately 14 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Munich.
The last train from Essen to Munich departs at 23:53.
Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Munich. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
To get from Essen to Munich, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
A day trip from Essen to Munich is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 12m. However, there are 14 train trips per day available for this route, covering a distance of 493 km.
There is no night train service from Essen to Munich.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Munich

Essen
Munich
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 Munich.
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 SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Haus Wilmes
  • Mana Mana
  • Karawane
Hotel
Hotel
  • Webers
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

Most popular train connections from Essen

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