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About the train journey from Essen to Zagreb

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

The train from Essen to Zagreb usually takes 17 hours 13 minutes on average to travel 565 miles (909 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 14 hours 47 minutes. You can expect to find 5 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Essen and Zagreb, you’ll need to make 1 change on your way to Zagreb.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Essen to Zagreb 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 Zagreb, 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.

Trains to Zagreb from Essen

First train

06:14

Last train

23:00

Departure stationEssen
Arrival stationZagreb
Journey time

From 14h 47m

Distance

565 miles (909 km)

Frequency

5 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Essen to Zagreb?

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

How do you get to Zagreb from Essen?

To travel to Zagreb from Essen, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 17 hours and 13 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 14 hours and 47 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the bus from Essen to Zagreb. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Essen to Zagreb?

Trains from Essen to Zagreb take an average of 17 hours and 13 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 14 hours and 47 minutes. You'll usually find 5 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Essen and Zagreb by train?

The quickest journey time between Essen and Zagreb by train is 14 hours and 47 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Essen to Zagreb?

No, there are no direct trains running from Essen to Zagreb, you’ll usually need to make at least 1 change during the journey.

What are the train times from Essen to Zagreb?

Check out the next trains departing from Essen to Zagreb for Tuesday 18th November 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
05:1420:0114h 47m, 3 changes
12:3908:5020h 11m, 6 changes
17:1509:3916h 24m, 2 changes
17:1509:4716h 32m, 1 change
22:0016:1118h 11m, 3 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Essen to Zagreb?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Essen to Zagreb starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

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

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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