The average train between Essen and Kiel takes 4h 45m and the fastest train takes 4h 18m. 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 3:06 AM at night, and the last departure from Essen is at 8:00 PM which arrives into Kiel at 12:52 AM. All services require a transfer, and take on average 4h 45m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.

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4h 40m • 1 changeWant 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 Hbf station and arriving at Kiel Hbf station via Hamburg Hbf station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4h 45m.
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 Regio (DB Regional), arrive at Kiel Hbf station.
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The distance between Essen and Kiel is 381.2 km. The road distance is 446 km.
You can take a train from Essen Hbf to Kiel Hbf via Hamburg Hbf in around 4h 13m.