Antwerp to Essen train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,EC,ICE)

Tue, Apr 21
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
SNCB
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
SNCB
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Antwerp to Essen

Showing times and prices for Apr 21

Cheapest price

$88

Average price

$89

Fastest journey

3 h 29 m

Average duration

3 h 30 m

Trains per day

2

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 $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $88.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Antwerp for Essen on Tue, Apr 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Apr 21 the direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 29 m .

On Tue, Apr 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 31 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:45 AM3h31
    Antwerp
    12:16 PMEssen
    $881One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:45 AM3h29
    Antwerp
    11:14 AMEssen
    $901One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Antwerp to Essen

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Antwerp to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $143.

Distance: 113 miles (183 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

$92

Average price

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$315

Average price

3h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 22m

Average total duration

3h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 27m

Average total duration

6h 27m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Antwerp to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Antwerp to Essen trains for today, Monday, April 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
sncb2038+eurostar-direct94594:25 PM Antwerp-Central
3h50
8:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
sncb3139+eurostar-direct94716:05 PM Antwerp-Central
4h10
10:15 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Tuesday, April 21
deutsche_bahn7:45 AM Antwerp
3h29
11:14 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn8:45 AM Antwerp
3h31
12:16 PM Essen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Antwerp to Essen by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Tue
Apr 21
Wed
Apr 22
Thu
Apr 23
Fri
Apr 24
Sat
Apr 25
Sun
Apr 26
Mon
Apr 27

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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Antwerp to Essen

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Antwerp to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 (€51) but you can travel from only $18 (€14) 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 $18 (€14)
Distance
113 miles (183 km)
Average train duration
3h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
$63 (€51)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
3h 24m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:08 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
63 days
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 $18 (€14)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB from Antwerp to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB trains will get you between Antwerp and Essen from $18 (€14). 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
$63 (€51)
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

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
$206 (€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
4h 8m
Cheapest Price
$135 (€108)
SNCB frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Antwerp to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63 (€51), while the average price is around $92 (€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 cheapest way to get from Antwerp to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€14).
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.
A day trip from Antwerp to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 24m. However, there are 8 trains per day for this route, covering a distance of 113 miles (183 km).
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Antwerp to Essen.
Since both Antwerp and Essen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Antwerp to Essen among Omio's users.
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

Antwerp
Essen
The major train station for departures in Antwerp is Antwerpen Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Antwerpen Centraal for your trip from Antwerp to Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station after logging in to the Free Wifi-NmbsSncb network.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located at the top of the escalators in the retail area.
Dining
Dining
  • Café - Brasserie Royal
  • Einstein Koffie
  • Leonidas
  • Starbucks
  • Yam Yam
  • Panos
  • Sweetz To Go
  • Frituur Centraal
  • lunch & pasta coffee
  • Döner Company
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hampton by Hilton Antwerp Central Station
  • A-Stay Antwerpen
  • Hotel NH Collection Antwerp Centre
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 22:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main station hall on the ground floor (entrance/exit Koningin Astridplein).
Public transit options for Antwerpen Centraal
  • Tram lines: 11
  • Bus lines: 17, 20, 21, 23, 32, 68, 410, 415, 416, 417, 418, 427, 429
  • Train lines: Thalys, Intercity Direct 9200, IC, RER S1, L (22, 23, 24, 30)
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
10
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park via Binnensingel.
Dining
Dining
  • Wagamama
  • Brasserie Dikke Mee
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • €0.50
Hotel
Hotel
  • Radisson Hotel Antwerp Berchem
  • Tulip Inn Antwerpen
  • Ibis Budget Antwerpen Centraal Station
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for domestic trains
  • Hall 2: platform 5-10 for international and regional trains
Public transit options for Antwerpen-Berchem
  • Tram: Line 4, Line 9, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available
Antwerpen-ZuidWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
4
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available near the station with access from the main road.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Zuidcafé
  • Restaurant Het Gerecht
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Restrooms.
WC
WC
  • €0.50
Hotel
Hotel
  • B&B HOTEL Antwerpen Zuid
  • Hotel Rubenshof
  • Hotel Pilar
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to Belgium, Netherlands, and France
  • Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Antwerpen-Zuid
  • Tram: Line 4, Line 10
  • Bus: Several lines available

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone