The average train between Essen and Heidelberg takes 2h 47m and the fastest train takes 2h 40m. There is an hourly train service from Essen to Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg. The earliest departure is at 6:00 AM in the morning, and the last departure from Essen is at 11:00 PM which arrives into Heidelberg at 3:38 AM. All services require a transfer, and take on average 2h 47m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.

2h 44m • 1 change

2h 40m • 1 change

2h 46m • 1 change

2h 45m • 1 change

2h 44m • 1 change

2h 40m • 1 change

2h 46m • 1 change

2h 45m • 1 change

2h 44m • 1 change

2h 40m • 1 change

2h 46m • 1 change

2h 45m • 1 change
Want to know about travelling from Essen to Heidelberg? 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 Heidelberg. However, there are services departing from Essen station and arriving at Heidelberg station via Mannheim, Hauptbahnhof. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2h 47m.
Essen to Heidelberg train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), depart from Essen Hbf station.
Essen to Heidelberg train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), arrive at Mannheim, Hauptbahnhof station.
Book your Essen to Heidelberg train tickets online with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
The distance between Essen and Heidelberg is 257 km. The road distance is 340 km.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) operates a train from Essen Hbf to Mannheim, Hauptbahnhof hourly. Tickets cost €60–150 and the journey takes 2h 26m.