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

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Antwerp to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

$78

Average ticket price on Sep 15

$82

Fastest journey on Sep 15

4 h 4 m

Average journey duration on Sep 15

4 h 6 m

Trains on Sep 15

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 $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Antwerp to Essen without transferring at least 5 times.

EC 9243 · IC 1155 · IC 3553 · 20089
2:45 PM4h07
Antwerp-Central
6:52 PMEssen
$781One-way
5 transfers
EC 9235 · IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085
12:45 PM4h07
Antwerp-Central
4:52 PMEssen
$781One-way
5 transfers
EC 9239 · IC 1151 · IC 3549 · 20087
1:45 PM4h07
Antwerp-Central
5:52 PMEssen
$781One-way
5 transfers
EC 9235 · IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085
12:45 PM4h04
Antwerp-Central
4:49 PMEssen Hbf
$831One-way
6 transfers
EC 9239 · IC 1151 · IC 3549 · 20087
1:45 PM4h04
Antwerp-Central
5:49 PMEssen Hbf
$831One-way
6 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 an average ticket price of $39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, while a flight costs an average of $617.

Distance: 113 miles (183 km)

Compare train with

Train	Most popular Bus	Flight	Driving
$107 Average price	$39 Average price Cheapest	$617 Average price	$40 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 48m Average total duration Fastest 3h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	5h 24m Average total duration 4h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 27m Average total duration 2h 27m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	2h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Antwerp to Essen is a bus with an average price of $39.

This is compared to other travel options from Antwerp to Essen:

A bus is $69 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Antwerp to Essen costing on average $107.

A bus is $579 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Antwerp to Essen costing on average $617.

The fastest way to travel from Antwerp to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 27m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 18m.

Bus takes on average 4h 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Antwerp and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Antwerp to Essen among Omio's users.

Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $107 compared to roughly $40 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-66.97. The journey takes 3h 18m versus 2h 32m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Antwerp to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Antwerp to Essen trains for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
	5:45 PM Antwerp	3h40	9:25 PM Essen	0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, September 15
EC 9235 · IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085	12:45 PM Antwerp-Central	4h04	4:49 PM Essen Hbf	6 transfers
EC 9235 · IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085	12:45 PM Antwerp-Central	4h25	5:10 PM Essen Hbf	4 transfers
EC 9235 · IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085	12:45 PM Antwerp-Central	4h22	5:07 PM Essen Hbf	5 transfers
EC 9235 · IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085	12:45 PM Antwerp-Central	4h07	4:52 PM Essen	5 transfers
EC 9239 · IC 1151 · IC 3549 · 20087	1:45 PM Antwerp-Central	4h04	5:49 PM Essen Hbf	6 transfers
EC 9239 · IC 1151 · IC 3549 · 20087	1:45 PM Antwerp-Central	4h07	5:52 PM Essen	5 transfers
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
Sep 15

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Sep 17

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Sep 18

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Sep 19

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Sep 21

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

Belgium

Germany

Trains from Antwerp to Essen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 but you can travel from only $15 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 2h 53m.

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

Distance

113 miles (183 km)

Average train duration

3h 18m

Cheapest ticket price

$51

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 53m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:08 PM

Cheapest Month

Mar

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Thu

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $15

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH from Antwerp to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Antwerp and Essen from $15. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration

2h 53m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$51

Deutsche Bahn frequency

3 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 Eurostar Duration

3h 35m

Cheapest Eurostar Price

$111

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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About

VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration

3h 58m

Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price

$83

VIAS Rail GmbH frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled services

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snack and beverage service available

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for additional fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

Quiet zone

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, while the average price is around $107.

The train from Antwerp to Essen takes 2h 53m and runs 4 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 $15.

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 2h 53m. 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

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.