The average train between Essen and Kiel takes 5h 4m and the fastest train takes 4h 26m. There is a train service every few hours from Essen to Kiel. 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 Kiel. The earliest departure is at 3:07 AM at night, and the last departure from Essen is at 8:59 PM which arrives into Kiel at 4:52 AM. All services require a transfer, and take on average 5h 4m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.

5h 45m • 1 change

5h 22m • 1 change

4h 55m • 1 change

4h 52m • 1 change

5h 46m • 1 change

5h 22m • 1 change

4h 55m • 1 change

5h 7m • 1 change

5h 45m • 1 change

5h 22m • 1 change

4h 55m • 1 change

4h 52m • 1 change
Want to know about travelling from Essen to Kiel? 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 Kiel. However, there are services departing from Essen station and arriving at Kiel station via Hamburg Hbf. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 5h 4m.
Essen to Kiel train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), depart from Essen Hbf station.
Essen to Kiel train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), arrive at Kiel Hbf station.
The distance between Essen and Kiel is 381.2 km. The road distance is 482 km.
You can take a train from Essen Hbf to Kiel Hbf via Hamburg Hbf in around 4h 42m.