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  3. Berlin to Essen Train

Berlin to Essen train times

Discover detailed train schedules from Berlin to Essen, showcasing the quickest travel time of 3h 47m. With 20 daily departures, the first train leaves at 00:23 and the last at 20:37. Stay informed with real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations for a smooth travel experience.

Berlin to Essen train times

Find detailed train schedules from Berlin to Essen, where the fastest trip duration is 3h 47m. 20 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:23 and the last at 20:37. Review DB train schedules and fares to stay updated with live information on delays and cancellations for a seamless journey.

Thu

31 Jul

Fri

01 Aug

Sat

02 Aug

Sun

03 Aug

Mon

04 Aug

Tue

05 Aug

Wed

06 Aug

DepartsArrivesStatusDurationOperator

18:48

Berlin Central Station

22:35

Essen Central Station
On time3h 47mDeutsche Bahn
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19:48

Berlin Central Station

23:35

Essen Central Station
On time3h 47mDeutsche Bahn
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20:01

Berlin Central Station

02:06

Essen Central Station
On time6h 5mDeutsche Bahn
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20:37

Berlin Central Station (Low Level)

02:07

Essen Central Station
On time5h 30mDeutsche Bahn
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Berlin to Essen train journey information

Find detailed DB train schedules from Berlin to Essen, including first and last departure times, stops, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a smooth journey.

First train
00:23
Last train
20:37
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
282 miles (453km)
Journey time
3h 47m
Price
From £47.41
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Berlin to Essen train travel guide

Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Berlin to Essen. Benefit from an average travel time of 3h 47m and the convenience of economical ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long does the train take from Berlin to Essen?

The average travel time from Berlin to Essen on a train is 3h 47m. For those seeking the quickest option, the fastest travel time is 3h 47m. To get more detailed train information, precise timings, and schedules, explore TrainPal and plan your trip effectively.

2. Are there direct trains from Berlin to Essen?

No, even if direct train services between Berlin and Essen are not accessible. Nevertheless, TrainPal can help you find the best routes. It provides detailed timings, costs, and transfer information, making it easy to plan your journey.

3. How much is a train ticket from Berlin to Essen?

The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Berlin to Essen starts at £47.41, with the average price being around £71.31*. Ticket prices fluctuate based on when you book, the type of train service, and any discounts that may be available. Hence, check the latest prices to secure the best discounts. Enjoy economical and flexible travel choices.

4. Are there frequent trains from Berlin to Essen?

There are frequent trains from Berlin to Essen, with 20 trains running each day. Enjoy convenient and regular departures throughout the day, ensuring flexible travel options. Check the latest schedules for the most accurate and up-to-date information on train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Berlin to Essen train?

Yes, you can take your bicycle on the train from Berlin to Essen. Make sure to reserve your bicycle ticket and parking spot in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

Key Points:

  • Train Types: Bicycles are permitted on local transportation, including Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn, in addition to long-distance transport like Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T.
  • Advance Booking:Book your bicycle ticket, secure a parking spot, and steer clear of peak hours.
  • Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, while daily bike tickets for local transportation cost between €6 and €6.50.
  • Check Local Regulations:The regulations for transporting bikes vary by region.
  • Properly Park Bicycle:Put your bike in the designated spot as directed.
Using both train and bike for travel is environmentally friendly and convenient.

2. What amenities are available on trains from Berlin to Essen?

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 Good to know

Good to know

1. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Berlin to Essen

In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Berlin to Essen online, at ticket machines, and at station counters. However, it is strongly advised to book your train tickets ahead of time for better availability and pricing. While it is not required, booking in advance, especially during busy travel periods, can ensure better seat availability and often lower prices. Plan ahead to secure your journey effortlessly and benefit from the advantages of early reservations.

2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Berlin to Essen

In Germany, the peak times for train travel from Berlin to Essen are generally during weekday rush hours, roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Moreover, weekends, particularly Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, along with holidays and school vacations, often experience increased demand. Booking tickets ahead of time during these periods is recommended to ensure a seat and potentially get better prices.

3. How early should I arrive at the station for my train from Berlin to Essen

For a trouble-free travel experience, it is often recommended to reach the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. This provides you with enough time to locate your platform, pass through any crowds, and resolve last-minute tasks such as finding your seat or purchasing snacks. If you are not familiar with the station or if it is especially large, consider arriving even earlier to ensure a smooth beginning to your trip.

4. Can I use a regional day pass for the Berlin to Essen train?

Yes, regional day passes are valid on DB trains in Germany, but they are confined to regional trains within the specified region. Passes like the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket offer unlimited travel for a day on regional trains (such as RE, RB, and IRE) and some local public transportation, including buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains. However, they do not apply to long-distance trains like ICE, IC, or EC. Make sure to check the exact terms and conditions of the regional day pass to ensure it applies to your intended travel routes.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Berlin to Essen route?

Yes, a Eurail Pass can be used on DB trains in Germany. The pass is applicable on most DB services, such as InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) trains. However, for some high-speed or night trains, a seat reservation may be needed in advance, which might incur an additional fee. Verify the specific train requirements and arrange the necessary seat reservations to ensure a seamless travel experience.

6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Berlin to Essen by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: For domestic travel on DB trains in Germany, no passport is needed. However, it's recommended to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, especially if your ticket requires identification.
  • Visa: With legal residency in Germany, you can travel domestically on DB trains without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: When using DB trains for international travel, such as trips to neighbouring countries, you will need a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents.
  • Visa:
    • 1) Schengen Area: For travel to or from a Schengen Area country, separate visas for each Schengen Zone country are generally unnecessary if you have a valid Schengen visa or are from a visa-exempt nation.
    • 2) Non-Schengen Countries: Travel to or from a non-Schengen country might require a visa, depending on the specific entry requirements of that country.

Confirm the entry and travel criteria for your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Consulting the embassies or consulates will yield the most precise and up-to-date information.

Find cheap Berlin to Essen ticket prices

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Exchange and cancellation

Refunds for delayed or cancelled trains

  • When your train is delayed by more than 20 minutes, you can switch to another train on the same or a different route, travel later, or take a train without reservations. If you have a local transport ticket, you can upgrade by paying the difference and then claiming the cost back under passenger rights. For any cancellations or delays, you can submit a passenger rights compensation request online through your customer account on DB Navigator or int.bahn.de. Complete the form and send both the form and your ticket to DB headquarters. For more details, visit DB Official Exchanges and cancellation info page.
  • Exchange and cancellation

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    Discover the cheapest train tickets with TrainPal. Compare second and first-class prices, and use our journey planner for the best deals. Save more with discount codes.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Second-class Super Saver fares start at €17.99, first class at €23.99.

    Book early for ICE trains

    Secure lower prices by booking German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early; prices increase closer to travel.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) starts at €46, offering unlimited rides on regional trains for one day.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Discover destinations in Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares from €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.

    Group travel for 6+ people

    Group of six or more? DB offers super saver fares from €8.90, and European fares from €13.90 per person.

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    * The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.