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

Fri 05 Dec
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg to Essen

Showing times and prices for 06 Dec

Cheapest price

£23

Average price

£44

Fastest journey

2 h 59 m

Average duration

3 h 7 m

Trains per day

8

Distance

311 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Hamburg to Essen will cost around £44 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £23.

Fast trains

Of the 8 trains that leave Hamburg for Essen every day 6 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 7 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 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.

FlixTrainFlixTrain
15:012h59
Hamburg Harburg
18:00Essen Hbf
£231One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
14:503h10
Hamburg Hbf
18:00Essen Hbf
£231One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
08:493h12
Hamburg Hbf
12:01Essen Hbf
£371One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
09:013h00
Hamburg Harburg
12:01Essen Hbf
£371One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 91 · ICE 944
08:023h33
Hamburg Hbf
11:35Essen Hbf
£551One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Hamburg to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg to Essen 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 27m. 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 £55.

Distance: 311 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£34

Average Price

£25

Average Price

Cheapest

£188

Average Price

3h 43m

Average total duration

3h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 10m

Average total duration

4h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 27m

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

Hamburg to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Essen trains for today, Friday 5 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 04:55
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 91 · ICE 944 · RE 26712
On time
07:02 Hamburg Hbf
3h43
10:45 Essen Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 91 · ICE 944 · IC 2156
Delayed
07:02 Hamburg Hbf
3h36
10:39 10:39Essen Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 107
On time
07:45 Hamburg Hbf
3h13
10:58 Essen Hbf
0 changesdirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain07:49 Hamburg Hbf
3h12
11:01 Essen Hbf0 changesdirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain08:01 Hamburg Harburg
3h00
11:01 Essen Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 519
On time
08:46 Hamburg Hbf
3h12
11:58 Essen Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 787 · ICE 942 · RE 26716
On time
09:01 Hamburg Hbf
3h44
12:45 Essen Hbf
2 changes
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain13:50 Hamburg Hbf
3h10
17:00 Essen Hbf0 changesdirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain14:01 Hamburg Harburg
2h59
17:00 Essen Hbf0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Hamburg to Essen 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.

Sat
06 Dec
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Mon
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11 Dec
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hamburg to Essen run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £14 if you book in advance.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 311 km distance in 2h 57m.

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 13m
Cheapest ticket price
£14
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
2h 57m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:56
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Hamburg to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Hamburg and Essen 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 57m
Cheapest Price
£27
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 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
£9
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: Hamburg to Essen train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg 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.

FAQs
To fully experience Essen's cultural and historical highlights, plan for 2 to 3 days.
The cost of a train ticket from Hamburg to Essen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £14, while the average price tends to be around £34.
Booking trains from Hamburg to Essen in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
A day trip from Hamburg to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 57m. The distance is 311 km, and there are 15 trains per day.
The train journey from Hamburg to Essen covers a distance of 311 km and takes approximately 2h 57m. Trains run 15 per day.
The train journey from Hamburg to Essen is not particularly renowned for its scenic views, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas, though some stretches do offer glimpses of the North German countryside.
The train station in Hamburg that goes to Essen is Hamburg Hbf, and it arrives at Essen Hbf.
The first train from Hamburg to Essen leaves at 0:01.
The cheapest way to get from Hamburg to Essen is by train, costing approximately £14.
Trains from Hamburg to Essen run approximately 15 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Hamburg to Essen.
The train distance from Hamburg to Essen is 311 km.
To get from Hamburg to Essen, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
The last train from Hamburg to Essen departs at 23:56.
Yes, there is a direct train between Hamburg and Essen. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
There is no night train service from Hamburg to Essen.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Hamburg and Essen

Hamburg
Essen
The major train station for departures in Hamburg is Hamburg-Harburg. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Hamburg-Harburg for your trip from Hamburg to Essen.
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: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Tuesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Wednesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Thursday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Friday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 13:30
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 14:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bom Dia
  • Hünkar
  • Yoko Sushi Harburg
  • Mathewes Grill
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Panorama
  • Hotel Harburger Hof
  • Hotel Jeta
  • Hotel Süderelbe
Hamburg Berliner TorWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
  • McDonald's
  • Subway
  • Essino
  • Schanzenbäcker
Hotel
Hotel
  • Novum Hotel Belmondo Hamburg
  • Mercure Hamburg City
  • Eleazar Novum
  • Terminus
Hamburg AirportWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
6 km
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald's
  • St. Pauli
  • Scoom
  • McCafé
Hotel
Hotel
  • Leonardo Inn Airport

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