Innsbruck to Essen train with ÖBB | ICE

Fri 18 Sept
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ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Nightjet
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Nightjet
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Innsbruck to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£64

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£123

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

7 h 39 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

8 h 14 m

Trains on 18 Sept

9

Distance

564 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Innsbruck to Essen will cost around £123 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £64.

Fast trains

To travel from Innsbruck to Essen you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • Deutsche BahnRJX 13477 · REX 5357 · ICE 620 · S6
    12:568h46
    Innsbruck Hbf
    21:42Essen Hbf
    £641One-way
    4 changes
  • Deutsche BahnREX 5357 · ICE 620 · S6+Bayerische Regiobahn79078
    12:508h52
    Innsbruck Hbf
    21:42Essen Hbf
    £641One-way
    3 changes
  • Deutsche BahnRJX 13477 · REX 5357 · ICE 784 · 26734
    12:5610h09
    Innsbruck Hbf
    23:05Essen Hbf
    £731One-way
    5 changes
  • ÖBB | RailjetRJ 88+ÖBB | ICEICE 622+ÖBBDB S6
    12:428h00
    Innsbruck Hbf
    20:42Essen Hbf
    £871One-way
    2 changes
  • Deutsche BahnRJ 88 · ICE 1284 · 26732
    12:429h03
    Innsbruck Hbf
    21:45Essen Hbf
    £1361One-way
    2 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Innsbruck to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Innsbruck to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £45 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 25m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £45, while a flight costs an average of £308.

Distance: 564 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight
Driving

£77

Average Price

£45

Average Price

Cheapest

£308

Average Price

£120

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 47m

Average total duration

7h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 35m

Average total duration

12h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 25m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

8h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

1.7 - 3.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

ÖBB | ICE

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Transavia France

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Innsbruck to Essen is a coach with an average price of £45.

This is compared to other travel options from Innsbruck to Essen:

A coach is £32 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Innsbruck to Essen costing on average £77.

A coach is £264 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Innsbruck to Essen costing on average £308.

The fastest way to travel from Innsbruck to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 25m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 17m.

Coach takes on average 12h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Innsbruck and Essen including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 49m faster (7h 17m by train vs 8h 6m by car) and roughly £44 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£77 vs £120). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with ÖBB | Nightjet.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Compare prices and tickets Innsbruck to Essen 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.

Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept

Why should you book Innsbruck to Essen trains with Omio?

ÖBB | ICE as well as Deutsche Bahn or ÖBB | Nightjet offer trains services from Innsbruck to Essen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ÖBB | ICE tickets.

Why book with Omio vs ÖBB | ICE?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ÖBB | ICE, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or ÖBB | Nightjet to find the best option for your trip from Innsbruck to Essen.
  • 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 ÖBB | ICE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Innsbruck to Essen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Innsbruck to Essen

AustriaAustria
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Innsbruck to Essen run on average 15 times per day, taking around 7h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £32 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 564 km distance in 7h 20m.

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 £32
Distance
564 km
Average train duration
7h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
£36
Trains per day
15
Fastest train
7h 20m
First train
0:04
Last train
23:48
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
5 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 £32

Train companies: ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet from Innsbruck to Essen trainsÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet trains will get you between Innsbruck and Essen from £32. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | ICE Duration
7h 42m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
£63
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
7h 20m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£36
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

What's included in each class

Compare Deutsche Bahn classes and the amenities included in each one.

1st Class
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Extra legroom
  • Quiet zone
  • WC
2nd Class
  • Power plugs
  • WC

ÖBB | Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | Nightjet Duration
10h 19m
Cheapest ÖBB | Nightjet Price
£234
ÖBB | Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Essen

Things to do in Essen

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

  • Must visit

Museum Folkwang

Major art museum with strong 19th- and 20th-century collections, posters and photography. A leading cultural stop in central Essen.

  • Must visit

Ruhr Museum

Industrial history museum in the former boiler house at Zollverein. Engaging displays explain coal, steel and daily life across the Ruhr.

  • Recommended

Red Dot Design Museum

Design museum inside the Zollverein complex, showing contemporary design, everyday objects and changing exhibitions in a dramatic industrial setting.

Euro (€)

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.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

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.

FAQs: Innsbruck to Essen train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Innsbruck 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
The cost of a train ticket from Innsbruck to Essen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £77.
The train journey from Innsbruck to Essen covers a distance of 564 km and takes approximately 7h 20m. Trains run 15 per day.
The train distance from Innsbruck to Essen is 564 km.
The first train from Innsbruck to Essen leaves at 0:04.
The last train from Innsbruck to Essen departs at 23:48.
Trains from Innsbruck to Essen run approximately 15 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Innsbruck to Essen.
Yes, there is a direct train between Innsbruck and Essen. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by ÖBB | Nightjet.
To get from Innsbruck to Essen, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
Yes, there is a night train from Innsbruck to Essen.
The train station in Innsbruck that goes to Essen is Innsbruck Hbf, and it arrives at Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Innsbruck to Essen is by coach, costing approximately £32.
Booking trains from Innsbruck to Essen in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Innsbruck to Essen offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the Austrian Alps and picturesque German countryside, providing passengers with a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Innsbruck to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 20m and covers 564 km. However, there are 22 trains per day available for travel.
To fully experience Essen's cultural and historical highlights, plan for 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Innsbruck to Essen.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Innsbruck and Essen

Most Innsbruck to Essen trains use the Innsbruck Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Innsbruck and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Innsbruck
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Innsbruck station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Innsbruck to Essen leave from Innsbruck Hbf. The station is 1 km from Innsbruck city centre at Südtiroler Platz 7, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
Innsbruck HbfSüdtiroler Platz 7, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria+43 512 93000WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Innsbruck Hbf from Innsbruck city centre

BusA, C, F, J, M, R, N3, N8, N1, N2 · 2m · every ~23 min
501, 502, 503 · 4m · £2 · every ~10 min
412, 350, 355, 404, 408, 420, 435, 461, 462, 463, 464, 464N, 469, 650, 655 · 5m · £2 · every ~20 min
Tram1, 2, 5, 6, Stb · 2m · £3 · every ~10 min

Innsbruck Hbf train station facilities and services

Innsbruck Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Europa Stüberl, Die Pizzerei

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Innsbruck Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Innsbruck Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Innsbruck Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Innsbruck Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Innsbruck Hbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Sailer, Grand Hotel Europa, ibis Innsbruck.

Innsbruck, Bienerstraße (Messe Bahnhst)6020 Innsbruck, AustriaAccessibility

Innsbruck, Bienerstraße (Messe Bahnhst) train station facilities and services

Innsbruck, Bienerstraße (Messe Bahnhst) has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Innsbruck, Bienerstraße (Messe Bahnhst).

More options for your journey from Innsbruck to Essen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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