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

Mon, Nov 02
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
Cheapest price on Nov 02
€46
Average ticket price on Nov 02
€152
Fastest journey on Nov 02
4 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Nov 02
5 h 15 m
Trains on Nov 02
21
Distance
435 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Basel to Essen will cost around €152 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €46.

Fast trains

On Mon, Nov 02, we found 21 trains from Basel to Essen, including 1 direct services.

On Mon, Nov 02 the direct trains cover the 435 km distance in an average of 5 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 36 m .

On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest trains will take 6 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 74 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 · ICE 641
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 74 · ICE 1010
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 200
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 374 · IC 2047 · ICE 200
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 374 · ICE 612 · ICE 1020
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Essen

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Essen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €38 but you can travel from only €27 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 435 km distance in 4h 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
Bus from €27
Distance
435 km
Average train duration
5h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
€38
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
4h 20m
First train
12:03 AM
Last train
11:41 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Thu
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
Bus from €27

Live departures

Basel to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Essen trains for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
TER96206+SNCF | TGV INOUI9534+Eurostar94596:21 AM Basel SBB
13h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
SNCF | TGV INOUI9534+Eurostar9459+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187962066:21 AM Basel SBB
13h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
TER96210+TGV9568+Eurostar94597:21 AM Basel SBB
12h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
TGV9568+Eurostar9459+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187962107:21 AM Basel SBB
12h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · 4610 · ICE 926 · ICE 641
On time
8:16 AM Basel SBB
7h02
3:18 PM Essen Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · S3 · ICE 1010
On time
8:16 AM Basel SBB
5h06
1:22 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
SNCF | TGV Lyria9206+Eurostar94598:34 AM Basel SBB
11h41
8:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 200 · 89723
On time
9:16 AM Basel SBB
5h11
2:27 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 200 · IC 2045 · ICE 1749
On time
9:16 AM Basel SBB
6h58
4:14 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
SNCF | TGV INOUI12126+Eurostar9459+SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187962189:21 AM Basel SBB
10h54
8:15 PM Essen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 372 · S3 · ICE 918
On time
10:16 AM Basel SBB
5h06
3:22 PM Essen Hbf
2 transfers
SNCF | TGV Lyria9210+Eurostar945910:34 AM Basel SBB
9h41
8:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 108 · ICE 2012
On time
11:16 AM Basel SBB
6h58
6:14 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 108 · ICE 1749
On time
11:16 AM Basel SBB
4h58
4:14 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 106 · ICE 2012
On time
1:16 PM Basel SBB
4h58
6:14 PM Essen Hbf
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Basel to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or FlixTrain offer trains services from Basel to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Essen.

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 Eurostar or FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Basel 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Essen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Essen.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, FlixTrain from Basel to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, FlixTrain trains will get you between Basel and Essen from €27. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€38
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurostar Duration
7h 27m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
€119
Eurostar frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
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 FlixTrain Duration
11h 25m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
€40
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Basel and Essen

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a train from Basel to Essen, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, FlixTrain for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Basel and Essen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

FAQs: Trains from Basel to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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
Cheap train tickets from Basel to Essen can start from as little as €38 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Basel to Essen is €121; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Basel to Essen is 4h 20m to travel the 435 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Basel to Essen leaves at 12:03 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Basel to Essen leaves at 11:41 PM.
Yes,there are 1 direct trains a day from Basel to Essen with Deutsche Bahn. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
Yes, you can take a night train from Basel to Essen with Deutsche Bahn. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.
A trip to Essen from Basel is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Essen

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

Departure train stations in Basel
Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Basel station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Basel to Essen leave from Basel SBB. The station is 2 km from Basel city centre at Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre

Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 5m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · €2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · €2
1, 3, 2 · 7m · €2 · every ~25 min

Basel SBB train station facilities and services

Basel SBB 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.

Basel Bad BhfSchwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland+41 61 690 13 13WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel Bad Bhf from Basel city centre

Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus30 · 11m · €3 · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · €3 · every ~20 min

Basel Bad Bhf train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.

Basel MarkthalleCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, SwitzerlandAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel Markthalle from Basel city centre

Basel Markthalle is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 8m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 6m · €2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 3m · €2
1, 3, 2 · 6m · €2 · every ~25 min

Basel Markthalle train station facilities and services

Basel Markthalle has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Markthalle.

More options for your journey from Basel to Essen

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

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