- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
Major art museum with strong 19th- and 20th-century collections, posters and photography. A leading cultural stop in central Essen.
Cheapest price on 13 Sept
£43
Average ticket price on 13 Sept
£71
Fastest journey on 13 Sept
2 h 21 m
Average journey duration on 13 Sept
2 h 24 m
Trains on 13 Sept
37
Distance
190 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Essen will cost around £71 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £43.
To travel from Frankfurt am Main to Essen you need to make at least one change.
IC 2441 · S9
ICE 1022 · S6
S8 · ICE 820 · S6
ICE 316 · 26813 · S6
S8 · ICE 728 · S6
ICE 128 · 63607
ICE 126 · 63609
ICE 314 · ICE 926 · 63629
ICE 220 · 63605
ICE 824 · S6Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £17 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, while a flight costs an average of £101.
Distance: 190 km
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£36 Average Price | £17 Average Price Cheapest | £101 Average Price | £32 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 39m Average total duration 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 12m Average total duration 3h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Essen:
A coach is £19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen costing on average £36.
A coach is £85 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Essen costing on average £101.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 9m.
Coach takes on average 3h 42m.
Tickets start at around £36 compared to roughly £32 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-4.08. The journey takes 3h 9m versus 2h 59m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Essen trains for tomorrow, Sunday 13 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 18 · 26809 · S6 | On time 6:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h38 | 9:12 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 2441 · S9 | On time 6:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h57 | 10:40 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 2441 · ICE 204 · Bus RE1 | On time 6:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h54 | 10:37 Essen | 2 changes | |
ICE 824 · S6 | On time 7:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h34 | 9:42 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 220 · 63605 | 7:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h21 | 9:55 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1022 · Bus RE1 | On time 7:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h59 | 11:42 Essen | 1 change | |
ICE 1022 · S6 | On time 7:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h59 | 11:42 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1612 · IC 2204 · 63625 | On time 8:12 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h43 | 10:55 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 316 · 26813 · S6 | On time 8:33 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h39 | 11:12 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
4491 · IC 2049 · S9 | 8:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 4h02 | 12:40 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
4491 · IC 2049 · ICE 202 · Bus RE1 | 8:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h59 | 12:37 Essen | 3 changes | |
ICE 1656 · ICE 614 · S9 | On time 8:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h57 | 11:40 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 1656 · ICE 614 · ICE 1022 · Bus RE1 | On time 8:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h59 | 11:42 Essen | 3 changes | |
S8 · ICE 820 · S6 | 8:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h55 | 11:42 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 820 · S6+ 24324 | Delayed 7:22 8:57Frankfurt South station | 2h45 | 11:42 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 128 · 63607 | On time 9:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h21 | 11:55 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1020 · ICE 202 · IC 2049 · S9 | On time 9:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h57 | 12:40 Essen Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 1020 · ICE 202 · Bus RE1 | On time 9:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h54 | 12:37 Essen | 2 changes | |
S8 · ICE 728 · S6 | 9:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h55 | 12:42 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 728 · S6+ 24330 | Delayed 8:22 9:57Frankfurt South station | 2h45 | 12:42 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 1610 · IC 2202 · 63627 | On time 10:11 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h44 | 12:55 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 16 · 26817 · S6 | On time 10:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h38 | 13:12 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
4493 · IC 2047 · ICE 200 · 10218 | 10:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h43 | 14:21 Essen Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 1654 · ICE 612 · ICE 1020 · 10216 | On time 10:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h38 | 13:21 Essen Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 1654 · ICE 612 · S9 | On time 10:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h57 | 13:40 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
S8 · ICE 726 · S6 | 10:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h55 | 13:42 Essen Hbf | 2 changes | |
S9 · ICE 1010 · Bus RE1 | 11:02 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h00 | 14:02 Essen | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 190 km distance in 1h 55m.
Distance 190 km |
Average train duration 3h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 55m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:48 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
Major art museum with strong 19th- and 20th-century collections, posters and photography. A leading cultural stop in central Essen.
Industrial history museum in the former boiler house at Zollverein. Engaging displays explain coal, steel and daily life across the Ruhr.
Design museum inside the Zollverein complex, showing contemporary design, everyday objects and changing exhibitions in a dramatic industrial setting.
Large lake south of the centre, popular for walks, boat trips and cycling. It combines water views, leisure activities and green surroundings.
Former industrial complex turned cultural district with open spaces, architecture, art and walking routes. It is one of Essen’s essential urban experiences.
Extensive park with lawns, sculptures and event spaces near Museum Folkwang. It is ideal for a central stroll and relaxed city views.
A hearty potato stew from the Ruhr area, traditionally cooked with beef, onions and vegetables. It is a classic working-class comfort dish in Essen.
Mashed potatoes mixed with apples and onions, often served with black pudding or sausage. It is a well-known Rhineland and Ruhr comfort meal.
Pickled herring fillets in a sour marinade, often served with potatoes. This classic northern and western German fish dish is common in the Ruhr.
Elegant fine dining in Essen known for creative modern cooking and polished service in a calm, contemporary setting.
Long-established local favourite for classic German and Ruhr-style fare, with a cosy pub feel and straightforward cooking.
Traditional brewery restaurant serving hearty regional German dishes and fresh beer in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are often slightly cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transport and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Service is usually not included. In restaurants, round up or tip about 5-10%. For taxis, round up the fare. In cafés, small change or rounding up is customary.
Official public transport app
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Frankfurt am Main to Essen trains use the Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt am Main and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt (Main) 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 options include: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport.
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Steigenberger Airport Hotel.
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 options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.
Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Food options include: Kettner's Kamota, Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962, La Piazzetta, Pia
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Werden. ATMs are available at Essen-Werden.
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Werden. Information desks are available at Essen-Werden.
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Werden. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Essen-Werden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Essen-Werden: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Werden.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hohenstein, Domstuben.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need