The average train between Potsdam and Essen takes 4h 44m and the fastest train takes 4h 25m. There is a train service every few hours from Potsdam to Essen. 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 Potsdam and Essen. The earliest departure is at 12:53 AM at night, and the last departure from Potsdam is at 10:32 PM which arrives into Essen at 5:14 AM. All services require a transfer, and take on average 4h 44m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.

5h 51m • 1 change

4h 28m • 1 change

4h 25m • 1 change

4h 28m • 1 change

7h 45m • 1 change

4h 28m • 1 change

4h 25m • 1 change

4h 28m • 1 change

7h 45m • 1 change

4h 28m • 1 change

4h 25m • 1 change

4h 28m • 1 change
Want to know about travelling from Potsdam to Essen? 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 Potsdam to Essen. However, there are services departing from Potsdam station and arriving at Essen station via Essen Hbf. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4h 44m.
Potsdam to Essen train services, operated by ODEG, depart from Berlin Hbf station.
Potsdam to Essen train services, operated by ODEG, arrive at Essen Hbf station.
Book your Potsdam to Essen train tickets online with ODEG and Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
The distance between Potsdam and Essen is 428 km. The road distance is 521 km.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) operates a train from Berlin Hbf to Essen Hbf hourly. Tickets cost €95–210 and the journey takes 3h 51m.