The average train between Essen and Heerlen takes 2h 30m and the fastest train takes 2h 26m. There is a train service every few hours from Essen to Heerlen. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
Trains run hourly between Essen and Heerlen. The earliest departure is at 5:16 AM in the morning, and the last departure from Essen is at 10:16 PM which arrives into Heerlen at 12:42 AM. All services require a transfer, and take on average 2h 30m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 27m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 27m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 27m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change

2h 31m • 1 change
Want to know about travelling from Essen to Heerlen? We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions from our users such as: What is the cheapest mode of transport? What is the quickest option? How much do tickets usually cost? and many more.
No, there is no direct train from Essen to Heerlen. However, there are services departing from Essen station and arriving at Heerlen station via Herzogenrath, Bf. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2h 30m.
Essen to Heerlen train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), depart from Essen Hbf station.
Essen to Heerlen train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), arrive at Herzogenrath, Bf station.
The distance between Essen and Heerlen is 96 km. The road distance is 122 km.
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) operates a train from Essen Hbf to Herzogenrath, Bf hourly. Tickets cost €30–45 and the journey takes 1h 53m. Two other operators also service this route.