What is the cheapest way to get from Antwerp to Essen?

The cheapest way to get from Antwerp to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€13).

ANTWERP to ESSEN train from $15 (€13) with Deutsche Bahn (IC,EC,RE,ICE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Antwerp to Essen

Showing times and prices for Aug 01

Cheapest price

$51

Average price

$95

Fastest journey

3 h 29 m

Average duration

3 h 35 m

Trains per day

Distance

183 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Antwerp to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Antwerp to Essen will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.

Fast trains

Of the 7 trains that leave Antwerp for Essen on Sat, Aug 01, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 3 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 29 m .

On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 3 h 42 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.

4:40 AM3h38
Antwerp
8:18 AMEssen
$511One-way
0 transfers
6:45 AM3h29
Antwerp
10:14 AMEssen
$861One-way
0 transfers
8:45 AM4h29
Antwerp
1:14 PMEssen
$871One-way
0 transfers
7:45 AM3h29
Antwerp
11:14 AMEssen
$881One-way
0 transfers
8:40 AM3h39
Antwerp
12:19 PMEssen
$1121One-way
0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Antwerp to Essen

Belgium

Germany

Trains from Antwerp to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€41) but you can travel from only $15 (€13) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 113 miles (183 km) distance in 3h 24m.

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

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $15 (€13)

Distance

113 miles (183 km)

Average train duration

3h 12m

Cheapest ticket price

$51 (€41)

Trains per day

Fastest train

3h 24m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:08 PM

Cheapest Month

Jun

Cheapest Day

Thu

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jul - Sep

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Sat

Best time to book

63 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $15 (€13)

Live departures

Antwerp to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Antwerp to Essen trains for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
IC 4531 · ICE 15 · 26419 · 10139	9:54 AM Antwerp-Central	4h20	2:14 PM Essen Hbf	3 transfers
IC 4531 · ICE 15 · 10324	9:54 AM Antwerp-Central	4h49	2:43 PM Essen Hbf	2 transfers
Saturday, August 1
	4:40 AM Antwerp	3h38	8:18 AM Essen	0 transfersDirect
	6:45 AM Antwerp	3h29	10:14 AM Essen	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Antwerp to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or SNCB offer trains services from Antwerp to Essen.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Antwerp to Essen.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Antwerp to Essen.
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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Antwerp to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Antwerp to Essen.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Antwerp to Essen.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB from Antwerp to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB trains will get you between Antwerp and Essen from $15 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

3h 24m

Cheapest Price

$51 (€41)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

4 a day

Luggage included

Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves

Luggage storage

Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.

Cancellation Policy

Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?

Refund

If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.

Seat reservation

Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.

Pets

Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.

Quiet zone

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Eurostar

About

Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

3h 42m

Cheapest Price

$201 (€164)

Eurostar frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket

Luggage storage

Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks

Cancellation Policy

Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled trains

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes

Seat reservation

Included in ticket price for all classes

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs

Quiet zone

SNCB

About

SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

3h 33m

Cheapest Price

$150 (€122)

SNCB frequency

1 a day

Learn more about SNCB

Complete guide to Essen

Things to do in Essen

Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.

Must visit

Museum Folkwang

World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Ruhr Museum

Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Deutsches Plakat Museum

Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range: €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee: €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is typical.

FAQs: Trains from Antwerp to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Antwerp to Essen by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from Antwerp to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€41), while the average price is around $89 (€73).

The train from Antwerp to Essen takes 3h 24m and runs 5 per day.

The distance by train from Antwerp to Essen is 113 miles (183 km).

The first train from Antwerp to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.

The last train from Antwerp to Essen leaves at 11:08 PM.

There is no direct train service currently available from Antwerp to Essen.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Antwerp to Essen.

The train station in Antwerp that goes to Essen is Antwerp-Central, which connects to Essen Hbf.

The train journey from Antwerp to Essen offers a pleasant view of the Belgian countryside, with glimpses of quaint villages and green landscapes, but it is not considered a particularly scenic route compared to others in Europe.

Yes, you can take the train from Antwerp to Essen.

Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.

Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.

Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.

In Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.

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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Antwerp to Essen

Most Antwerp to Essen trains use the Antwerpen Centraal to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen Süd. Use this guide to compare Antwerp and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Antwerp

Arrival train stations in Essen

Which Antwerp station do trains to Essen leave from?

Trains from Antwerp to Essen leave from Antwerpen Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Antwerp city centre at Koningin Astridplein, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium.

Antwerpen CentraalKoningin Astridplein, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium+32 25282828 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Antwerpen Centraal from Antwerp city centre

Antwerpen Centraal is 1 km from Antwerp city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus17 · 19m · $4 · every ~13 min

Tram11 · 11m · $4 · every ~14 min

Antwerpen Centraal train station facilities and services

Antwerpen Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café - Brasserie Royal, Einstein Koffie, Leonidas, Starbucks, Yam Yam, Panos, Sweetz To Go, Frituur Centraal, lunch & pasta coffee, Döner Company, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station after logging in to the Free Wifi-NmbsSncb network. ATMs are located inside the atrium and retail area.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 22:00. Information desks are located in the main station hall on the ground floor (entrance/exit Koningin Astridplein).

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the top of the escalators in the retail area. .

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Antwerpen Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Antwerpen Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Antwerpen Centraal: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hampton by Hilton Antwerp Central Station, A-Stay Antwerpen, Hotel NH Collection Antwerp Centre.

More about Antwerpen Centraal

Antwerpen-BerchemBurgemeester E. Ryckaertsplein, 2600 Berchem, Antwerp, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Antwerpen-Berchem from Antwerp city centre

Antwerpen-Berchem is 2 km from Antwerp city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainStoptrein, S32, Ic, S34, S33, S1, Ec, L, P, Ext, T, Trn · 4m · $1 · every ~42 min

Bus32 · 13m · $4 · every ~10 min

Tram4 · 18m · $4 · every ~11 min

11 · 28m · $4 · every ~14 min

Antwerpen-Berchem train station facilities and services

Antwerpen-Berchem has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.