- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts Ghent
Major fine arts museum with Flemish masters, Belgian art, and rotating exhibitions. Essential for understanding Ghent's artistic heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Essen to Ghent
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $24
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $36
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 5 h
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 9 h 21 m
- Buses on Nov 03
- 4
- Distance
- 234 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Essen to Ghent is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Ghent will cost around $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.
Fast buses
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 4 buses from Essen to Ghent, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct buses cover the 234 km distance in an average of 9 h 21 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h .
On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest buses will take 11 h 25 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
3:40 AM 11h25 Essen 3:05 PM Ghent $24 1 One-way 0 transfers12:55 PM 5h00 Essen 5:55 PM Ghent $36 1 One-way 0 transfers8:40 PM 10h45 Essen 7:25 AM Ghent $39 1 One-way 0 transfers8:10 PM 10h15 Essen 6:25 AM Ghent $45 1 One-way 0 transfers
12:55 PM 5h00 Essen 5:55 PM Ghent $36 1 One-way 0 transfers8:10 PM 10h15 Essen 6:25 AM Ghent $45 1 One-way 0 transfers8:40 PM 10h45 Essen 7:25 AM Ghent $39 1 One-way 0 transfers3:40 AM 11h25 Essen 3:05 PM Ghent $24 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Essen to Ghent
Germany
Belgium
Buses from Essen to Ghent run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $15 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:45, the last at 21:15. The fastest bus covers the 145 miles (234 km) distance in 4h 30m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance145 miles (234 km)
- Average bus duration5h 37m
- Cheapest ticket price$15
- Buses per day3
- Direct buses1
- Fastest bus4h 30m
- First bus3:45 AM
- Last bus9:15 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DaySat
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DayTue
- Least Busy DayTue
- Best time to book91 days
Understand & plan this route
- Operators on this routeFlixBus • BlaBlaCar Bus
- Departure & arrivalEssen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) → Gent, Ghent
- Cross-border busesGermany–Belgium services
- Overnight busesAvailable on this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Ghent trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Ghent.
Cheap bus tickets from Essen to Ghent can start from as little as $15 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Essen to Ghent is $39 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Essen to Ghent leaves at 3:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Essen to Ghent leaves at 9:15 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Essen to Ghent with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Essen to Ghent Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 10h30 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:03PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 6h37 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 07:25AM | Duration 10h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:40PM | Arrival Time 07:25AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $35 |
Live departures
Essen to Ghent bus times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Ghent buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:40 AM Essen | 11h25 | 3:05 PM Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:55 PM Essen | 5h00 | 5:55 PM Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 PM Essen | 10h15 | 6:25 AM Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:40 PM Essen | 10h45 | 7:25 AM Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Ghent buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses services from Essen to Ghent.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Ghent.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Ghent.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Ghent.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Ghent.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Ghent.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Essen to Ghent
Buses from Essen to Ghent with FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$15
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
8h 30m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
$32
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Ghent
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Essen to Ghent, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Ghent. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Essen and Ghent and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Essen to Ghent:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Essen to Ghent for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Essen to Ghent depends on the bus companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Essen to Ghent.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Essen to Ghent:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Essen to Ghent:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Essen to Ghent. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Essen to Ghent with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Essen to Ghent with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Essen to Ghent with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Complete guide to Ghent
Things to do in Ghent
Discover the best of Ghent — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ghent trip today.
- Must visit
S.M.A.K.
Bold contemporary art museum beside the fine arts museum, known for modern Belgian and international works and ambitious temporary shows.
- Recommended
STAM Ghent City Museum
Museum in the former Bijloke abbey and hospital complex exploring the city's history through objects, stories, and changing exhibitions.
- Must visit
Graslei
Historic quay lined with guild houses and river views. It is Ghent's signature postcard scene and one of the best places for a stroll.
- Must visit
Korenlei
Opposite the Graslei, this elegant quay offers classic canal panoramas, boat departures, and some of the city's finest evening views.
- Recommended
Korenmarkt
Lively square in the medieval core surrounded by major landmarks. A practical meeting point and excellent base for exploring central Ghent.
Waterzooi
A creamy Gentian stew of chicken or veal with mushrooms, meatballs and white wine, traditionally served with fries or bread.
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A rich mash of potatoes with carrots and onions, often served with sausage or bacon; a classic hearty Flemish comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tierenteyn Mustard
A smooth mustard from nearby East Flanders, known for its strong fresh heat and traditional stone-ground character.
Stadsbrouwerij Gruut
City brewery and taproom pouring house-brewed gruut beers with a relaxed atmosphere and good introduction to Ghent beer culture.
Brasserie Pakhuis
Historic brasserie in central Ghent known for refined Belgian classics, seafood and elegant Art Nouveau surroundings.
Du Progres
Traditional restaurant focused on East Flemish cuisine, especially waterzooi and other regional dishes, in a warm classic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while transit is reasonable. Cheaper than Brussels in some areas, but pricier than smaller Belgian cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up for taxis, and small change is enough at cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Gent-Sint-Pieters -> Korenmarkt, Ghent
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on De Lijn trams and buses via the onboard validator. Buying in the app can offer more ticket options.
- Use De Lijn for Ghent trams and buses. Validate your ticket before boarding or when you enter, depending on the ticket type.
Plan your visit to Ghent
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Ghent.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Ghent, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and near major attractions. Common scams include distraction techniques where individuals create a commotion to divert attention while accomplices steal belongings. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Additionally, travelers should use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent fare scams.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Essen to Ghent
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Ghent by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Ghent, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Ghent including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Essen to Ghent
Most Essen to Ghent buses use the Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) to Gent, Ghent station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Ghent bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Essen
Arrival bus stations in Ghent
Which Essen station do buses to Ghent leave from?
Buses from Essen to Ghent leave from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany.
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 7m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) bus station facilities and services
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and snack bars nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available.
Which Ghent station do buses from Essen arrive at?
Buses from Essen to Ghent arrive at Gent, Ghent. Gent, Ghent is 1 miles (2 km) from Ghent city centre.
Gent, GhentGhent, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Gent, Ghent from Ghent city centre
Gent, Ghent is 1 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus5a, G71 · 9m · $4 · every ~12 min
5a · 15m · $4 · every ~13 min
Gent, Ghent bus station facilities and services
Gent, Ghent has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gent, Ghent. ATMs are available at Gent, Ghent.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gent, Ghent.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gent, Ghent: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gent, Ghent: Limited accessibility features for disabled persons.
Bus stations for Essen to Ghent
Check bus stations information for Essen and Ghent, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Gent, Ghent, located 2 away from the city centre.
Most popular buses to and from Ghent and Essen
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