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  3. Essen to Frankfurt (Main) Train

Essen to Frankfurt (Main) train times

Discover detailed train schedules from Essen to Frankfurt (Main), showcasing the quickest travel time of 1h 54m. With 17 daily departures, the first train leaves at 06:00 and the last at 09:09. Stay informed with real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations for a smooth travel experience.

Essen to Frankfurt (Main) train journey information

Find detailed DB train schedules from Essen to Frankfurt (Main), 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
06:00
Last train
09:09
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
117 miles (189km)
Journey time
1h 54m
Price
From £43.99
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Essen to Frankfurt (Main) train travel guide

Travelling from Essen to Frankfurt (Main) with Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains is both efficient and comfortable. The average travel time is 2h 18m, and you can enjoy affordable ICE train tickets or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long is the train journey from Essen to Frankfurt (Main)?

The average duration of a train trip from Essen to Frankfurt (Main) is 2h 18m. For travellers aiming for the shortest travel time, the quickest journey is 1h 54m. To obtain detailed train information, exact timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip effortlessly.

2. Are there direct trains from Essen to Frankfurt (Main)?

Yes, direct train services from Essen to Frankfurt (Main) are available. With TrainPal, you can access detailed information on stops, times, departure and arrival stations, and train types, such as high-speed ICE and regional trains. To secure the best fares, consider ticket options like Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis.

3. How much does a ticket from Essen to Frankfurt (Main) cost?

The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Essen to Frankfurt (Main) starts at £43.99, with the average price being around £78.71*. 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 Essen to Frankfurt (Main)?

There are frequent trains from Essen to Frankfurt (Main), with 17 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 Essen to Frankfurt (Main) train?

Yes, you can bring your bicycle on the train from Essen to Frankfurt (Main). Be sure to book your bicycle ticket and parking space ahead of time to guarantee a hassle-free trip.

Key Points:

  • Train Types: Bicycles are permitted on local transportation (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) together with long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
  • Advance Booking:Reserve bicycle tickets, and parking space, and avoid busy periods.
  • Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, and local transit bicycle day tickets vary from €6 to €6.50.
  • Check Local Regulations: Bike transport regulations differ by region.
  • Properly Park Bicycle: Place your bike in the allocated area as instructed.
Combining train and bicycle travel is both sustainable and convenient.

2. What amenities are available on the ICE train from Essen to Frankfurt (Main)?

All ICE trains, some IC trains, and certain regional trains offer WiFi. First class on ICE and IC trains provide quieter spaces, comfortable seating, access to first-class lounges, digital newspapers and magazines, and seat reservations for passengers with flexible fares. Experience travel with ease and comfort!

 Good to know

Good to know

1. Do I need to book train tickets in advance for Essen to Frankfurt (Main)?

In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Essen to Frankfurt (Main) 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 Essen to Frankfurt (Main)

In Germany, the peak times for train travel from Essen to Frankfurt (Main) 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 Essen to Frankfurt (Main)

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 Essen to Frankfurt (Main) train?

Yes, regional day passes can be used on DB trains in Germany, but they are limited to regional trains within the specified region. Passes like the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket allow for unlimited travel on regional trains (such as RE, RB, and IRE) and some local public transportation, including buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains, for a day. However, they are not valid on long-distance trains such as ICE, IC, or EC. Always verify the specific terms and conditions of the regional day pass to ensure it covers your intended travel routes.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Essen to Frankfurt (Main) 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 Essen to Frankfurt (Main) by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: Travelling within Germany on DB trains doesn't require a passport. However, it's advisable to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, particularly if identification is required for your ticket.
  • Visa: Having legal residency in Germany allows you to travel on DB trains within the country without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: For international journeys on DB trains, including trips to neighbouring countries, a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents are required.
  • 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 Essen to Frankfurt (Main) ticket prices

Sparpreis tickets

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Saver Fare

Super Sparpreis tickets

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Super Saver Fare

Flexpreis tickets

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Flexible Fare
 Find cheap Essen to Frankfurt (Main) ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

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  • Purchased your DB train ticket through TrainPal?You can cancel it for free within 3 hours of purchase and up to the day before its validity starts. Enjoy a full refund without any trouble!
  • Exchange and cancellation

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    Find affordable train tickets with TrainPal. We list second and first-class prices, and our journey planner secures the best deals. Use discount codes for extra savings.

    Super Saver from €17.99

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

    Book early for ICE trains

    Book German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early for lower prices, as they increase closer to the departure date.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) offers unlimited regional travel in Germany for one day, from €46.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Explore Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares starting at €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.

    Group travel for 6+ people

    Groups of six+ get super saver fares in Germany from €8.90, and in Europe 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.