The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen
Cheapest price
€35
Average price
€56
Fastest journey
1 h 54 m
Average duration
1 h 56 m
Trains per day
21
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 traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Essen will cost around €56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €35.
Of the 21 trains that leave Frankfurt am Main for Essen on Sat, Aug 01, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 190 km distance in an average of 1 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 54 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 1 h 58 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.
4495 · IC 2545 · IC 215712:38 PM3h36Frankfurt (Main) Hbf4:14 PMEssen Hbf€351One-way2 transfers
ICE 72810:08 AM1h55Frankfurt (Main) Hbf12:03 PMEssen Hbf€361One-way0 transfers
ICE 8209:08 AM1h58Frankfurt (Main) Hbf11:06 AMEssen Hbf€361One-way0 transfers
ICE 7221:08 PM1h54Frankfurt (Main) Hbf3:02 PMEssen Hbf€401One-way0 transfers
ICE 72412:07 PM1h57Frankfurt (Main) Hbf2:04 PMEssen Hbf€451One-way0 transfers
ICE 7221:08 PM1h54Frankfurt (Main) Hbf3:02 PMEssen Hbf€401One-way0 transfers
ICE 8228:08 AM1h55Frankfurt (Main) Hbf10:03 AMEssen Hbf€501One-way0 transfers
ICE 72810:08 AM1h55Frankfurt (Main) Hbf12:03 PMEssen Hbf€361One-way0 transfers
ICE 72412:07 PM1h57Frankfurt (Main) Hbf2:04 PMEssen Hbf€451One-way0 transfers
ICE 8209:08 AM1h58Frankfurt (Main) Hbf11:06 AMEssen Hbf€361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Frankfurt am Main to Essen
Omio 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 bus with prices starting from €14. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €14, and a flight costs an average of €92.
Distance: 190 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€67 Average price | €20 Average price Cheapest | €122 Average price |
3h 40m Average total duration 3h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Frankfurt am Main to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Essen trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 7:58 AM Frankfurt South station | 8h50 | 4:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 822 | On time 8:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h55 | 10:03 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 316 · 26813 | On time 8:16 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h34 | 10:50 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 316 · 28510 · 10213 | On time 8:16 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h21 | 10:37 AM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 994 · 26714 | On time 8:20 AM Frankfurt South station | 4h25 | 12:45 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S9 · ICE 614 · ICE 1022 | On time 8:32 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h30 | 11:02 AM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 820 | On time 9:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h58 | 11:06 AM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 128 · 26815 | On time 9:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h16 | 11:50 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 793 · ICE 202 | On time 9:41 AM Frankfurt South station | 2h17 | 11:58 AM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1020 | On time 9:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h15 | 12:58 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 728 | On time 10:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h55 | 12:03 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 11:58 AM Frankfurt South station | 8h50 | 8:48 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 724 | On time 12:07 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h57 | 2:04 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 314 · 28518 · 10221 | On time 12:16 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h21 | 2:37 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 314 · 26821 | On time 12:16 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h34 | 2:50 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 314 · 26821 | On time 12:16 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h34 | 2:50 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 798 · 26722 | On time 12:20 PM Frankfurt South station | 4h25 | 4:45 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
33091+ 31325+ 15112 | 12:20 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 4h07 | 4:27 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
4495 · IC 2545 · IC 2157 | On time 12:38 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 3h36 | 4:14 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1652 · ICE 610 · ICE 926 | 12:43 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h15 | 2:58 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 722 | On time 1:08 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h54 | 3:02 PM Essen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt am Main to Essen by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, 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.
Aug 01
Aug 02
Aug 03
Aug 04
Aug 05
Aug 06
Aug 07
Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Essen trains with Omio?
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 Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or vlexx to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt am Main to Essen.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Frankfurt am Main to Essen?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Essen
Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €18 but you can travel from only €14 by bus.
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 54m.
Distance 190 km |
Average train duration 3h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price €18 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 54m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 5 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), vlexx from Frankfurt am Main to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), vlexx trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main 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
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.
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.
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.
Hessische Landesbahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
vlexx
FAQs: Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Essen
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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Frankfurt am Main to Essen
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.
Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Essen leave from?
Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
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
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
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].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.
Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport.
Getting to Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (M) Flughafen Regionalbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Steigenberger Airport Hotel.
Which Essen station do trains from Frankfurt am Main arrive at?
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Getting to Essen-Werden from Essen city centre
Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen-Werden train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Kettner's Kamota, Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962, La Piazzetta, Pia
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Werden. ATMs are available at Essen-Werden.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Werden. Information desks are available at Essen-Werden.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Werden. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen-Werden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen-Werden: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Werden.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hohenstein, Domstuben.
Most popular train connections from Frankfurt am Main
More options for your journey from Frankfurt am Main to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need





