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About the train journey from Calais to Essen

Want to travel from Calais to Essen by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Calais to Essen usually takes 4 hours 54 minutes on average to travel 118 miles (190 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 2 hours 55 minutes. You can expect to find 17 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Calais and Essen, you’ll need to make 2 changes on your way to Essen.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Calais to Essen in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Essen, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you’re ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

Calais to Essen by train

First train

06:06

Last train

20:31

Departure station

Calais

Arrival station

Essen

Journey time

From 2h 55m

Distance

118 miles (190 km)

Frequency

17 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

FAQs about the train journey from Calais to Essen

Want to know more about your journey from Calais to Essen? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Essen from Calais?

To get to Essen from Calais, why not take the train? With 17 trains per day and an average journey time of 4 hours and 54 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Calais to Essen by train?

On average, it takes around 4 hours and 54 minutes to travel from Calais to Essen by train, although you can get there in 2 hours and 55 minutes on the fastest services. With 17 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Calais to Essen?

The fastest time a train can travel the 118 miles (190 km) from Calais to Essen is 2 hours and 55 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Calais to Essen?

There are no direct trains that run between Calais and Essen. You’ll need to make at least 2 changes along the way.

Calais to Essen train times

Check out the next trains departing from Calais to Essen for Tuesday 6th May 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
07:3311:554h 22m, 3 changes
07:3312:134h 40m, 2 changes
08:0012:554h 55m, 4 changes
08:0013:135h 13m, 3 changes
08:1614:135h 57m, 4 changes
08:1615:136h 57m, 3 changes
09:1615:135h 57m, 4 changes
09:1616:136h 57m, 3 changes
09:3516:136h 38m, 4 changes
14:3118:133h 42m, 2 changes

Cheap train tickets from Calais to Essen

Book in advance

Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Calais to Essen by booking early.§

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting train

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Look out for special deals

Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

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