- Must visit
KMSKA
Regional art museum in nearby Antwerp with strong old masters collections, worth the short trip from Essen.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$11
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$15
Fastest journey on Sep 18
1 h 23 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
1 h 23 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
68 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Brussels to Essen will cost around $15 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Brussels to Essen, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 23 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 1 h 23 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.
10:50 AM1h23Brussels12:13 PMEssen$111One-way0 transfers- 9:50 AM1h23Brussels11:13 AMEssen$201One-way0 transfers
- 10:50 AM1h23Brussels12:13 PMEssen$111One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM1h23Brussels11:13 AMEssen$201One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Brussels to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $17 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 51m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $17, while a train costs an average of $17.
Distance: 42 miles (68 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$17 Average price Cheapest | $47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 51m Average total duration Fastest 1h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is a train with an average price of $17 (€14).
The fastest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Brussels and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels to Essen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 9m faster (1h 21m by train vs 1h 30m by car) and roughly $30 (€25) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($17 (€14) vs $47 (€38)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Eurostar.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Brussels to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Essen trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
4508+ 2359 | 9:25 AM Brussels-Central | 1h30 | 10:55 AM Essen station | 1 transfer | |
| 4508+2359 | 9:33 AM Brussels-North | 1h22 | 10:55 AM Essen station | 1 transfer | |
| 2008 | 9:50 AM Brussels-Midi | 1h23 | 11:13 AM Essen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2008 | 9:55 AM Brussels-Central | 1h18 | 11:13 AM Essen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Brussels to Essen by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Brussels to Essen trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Brussels to Essen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Brussels 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 Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Brussels to Essen
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Brussels to Essen run on average 30 times per day, taking around 1h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:36, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 1h 8m.
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
Distance 42 miles (68 km) |
Average train duration 1h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Trains per day 30 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 1h 8m |
First train 12:36 AM |
Last train 11:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: Intercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Eurocity Direct from Brussels to Essen trainsIntercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Eurocity Direct trains will get you between Brussels and Essen from $11 (€9). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
1h 10m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$11 (€9)
Intercity frequency
16 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
EuroCity
About
EuroCity (EC) is an international train category and brand for inter-city trains that cross international borders within Europe. These trains are a collaboration between various European rail companies, including Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), and ÖBB (Austria). EuroCity trains connect major cities across Europe, offering both first and second-class coaches. They are known for meeting specific criteria for comfort, speed, cleanliness, and onboard food service, including air-conditioned cars and dining facilities. EuroCity services aim to provide convenient and comfortable cross-border travel, with stops typically lasting no more than 5 to 15 minutes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average EuroCity Duration
1h 32m
Cheapest EuroCity Price
$12 (€10)
EuroCity frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro service available on most routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, 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
Regional
About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional Duration
1h 8m
Cheapest Regional Price
$11 (€9)
Regional frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
SNCB | BUS
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCB | BUS Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest SNCB | BUS Price
$12 (€10)
SNCB | BUS frequency
8 a day
Eurocity Direct
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurocity Direct Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Eurocity Direct Price
$60 (€49)
Eurocity Direct frequency
4 a day
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.
- Recommended
Treinmuseum Essen
Railway museum in Essen’s old station area with locomotives, rolling stock, and exhibits on cross-border rail history.
- Recommended
Bezoekerscentrum De Vroente
Nearby botanical and heritage museum site in Kalmthout, valued for nature collections and regional cultural context.
- Must visit
Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide
Major heathland and forest reserve on the Belgian-Dutch border, ideal for walking, cycling, birdwatching, and quiet landscapes.
- Recommended
Heuvelplein
Central square and civic area of Essen, practical for orientation and local events, with easy access to shops and services.
- Recommended
Domein de Hemelrijk
Green domain with ponds and walking paths, popular for a relaxed stroll and nature close to the town center.
- Gluten-free
Kempense Asperges
Kempense asperges are local white asparagus, often served in season with butter sauce, egg, and ham. The sandy Kempen soils around Essen are known for quality asparagus.
- Gluten-free
Asperges Op Vlaamse Wijze
Asperges op Vlaamse wijze pairs white asparagus with chopped egg, melted butter, parsley, and often shrimp. It is a classic Flemish spring dish popular in the region.
- Gluten-free
Paling In 'T Groen
Paling in 't groen is eel in a sauce of fresh green herbs. It is a traditional Flemish dish, especially associated with river and polder areas of northern Belgium.
De Heusche Bollaert
Reputed dining venue near Essen with polished seasonal cuisine, suitable for a more upscale meal with attentive service.
De Kiekenhoeve
Established restaurant in Essen known for refined Belgian-French cooking and seasonal produce in an elegant, calm setting.
Brasserie Essen
Well-known local brasserie serving classic Belgian dishes and beers in a relaxed atmosphere suited to casual lunches and dinners.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable. Tourist costs are lower than Brussels or Bruges but higher than smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Essen -> Essen Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on De Lijn buses and trams; onboard payment is usually higher than buying in the app.
- NMBS/SNCB trains serve Essen station for regional travel, while local buses are run by De Lijn.
FAQs: Trains from Brussels to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels 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 Brussels to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $17 (€14).
The train from Brussels to Essen takes 1h 8m and runs 30 per day.
The distance by train from Brussels to Essen is 42 miles (68 km).
The first train from Brussels to Essen leaves at 12:36 AM.
The last train from Brussels to Essen leaves at 11:32 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Brussels to Essen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Brussels to Essen. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Eurostar.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brussels to Essen.
The train station in Brussels that goes to Essen is Brussels-Central, which connects to Essen station.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels to Essen is by train, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Brussels to Essen is not particularly scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas, with views of cityscapes and some countryside.
Yes, a day trip from Brussels to Essen is feasible. The journey takes 1h 8m, with a distance of 42 miles (68 km). There are 9 trains per day.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Essen is sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and the Grugapark botanical garden.
Yes, you can take the train from Brussels to Essen.
Since both Brussels 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 Antwerp, Roosendaal, Zaventem, Ghent, Mechelen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels 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.
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 Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular shopping streets. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging in taxis can also occur. Staying alert in busy places and using licensed transportation helps 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 Brussels to Essen
Most Brussels to Essen trains use the Bruxelles-Central to Essen station pair. Use this guide to compare Brussels and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Brussels
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Brussels station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Brussels to Essen leave from Bruxelles-Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Brussels city centre at Carr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.
Bruxelles-CentralCarr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium+32 25282828
City-centre transport
Getting to Bruxelles-Central from Brussels city centre
Bus29, 63, 65, 66, 87, 89 · 5m · $4 · every ~17 min
Subway1, 5 · 1m · $4 · every ~38 min
Bruxelles-Central train station facilities and services
Bruxelles-Central 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: Starbucks, Brasserie 28 Brewery, Panos, Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks. ATMs are aTM machine is downstairs from the main entrance on the right side.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00. Information desks are travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Central: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton Brussels Grand Palace, Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe, Hôtel The Moon.
Bruxelles-Midi47B Avenue Fonsny, 1060 Brussels, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Bruxelles-Midi from Brussels city centre
TrainEuroCity · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
Ice · 14m · $1
Bus48 · 16m · $4 · every ~9 min
Bus · 20m
FlixBus N1153 · 29m · $1
Subway2, 6 · 18m · $4 · every ~38 min
Bruxelles-Midi train station facilities and services
Bruxelles-Midi 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: Pullman Hotel Bar, Quick Gare du Midi, Subway, EXKi Zuid, Starbucks, Häagen-Dazs, Sbarro, The Coffee Club, The Belgian Chocolate House, PAUL, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are available at Bruxelles-Midi.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bruxelles-Midi. Information desks are located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Midi: 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 Les Lofts De Styliste, Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi, Pullman Brussels Centre Midi.
Brussels-NordRue du Progrès 76, Vooruitgangstraat 76, 1030 Schaerbeek, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Brussels-Nord from Brussels city centre
Brussels-Nord is 1 km from Brussels city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainP, S3, Ec, T, Ic, Ext, L, S1, S10, S4, S2, S8 · 4m · $1 · every ~58 min
Bus88 · 6m · $4 · every ~10 min
R24, 728, R28 · 7m · $4 · every ~10 min
Tram4, 10 · 4m · $4 · every ~34 min
10, 4 · 5m · $4 · every ~34 min
Brussels-Nord train station facilities and services
Brussels-Nord 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.
Food and drink
Food options include: Chabrol Brasserie, Winok Café, Félix Wine Bar
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brussels-Nord. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Brussels-Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brussels-Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Brussels-Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brussels-Nord: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Progress, Hilton Brussels City, Hotel Siru.
Which Essen station do trains from Brussels arrive at?
Trains from Brussels to Essen arrive at Essen. Essen is from Essen city centre.
Essen2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen from Essen city centre
TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · $55 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · $63
Bus023 · 4h 5m · $27
Essen train station facilities and services
Essen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Essen.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Essen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen.
More options for your journey from Brussels to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Brussels
Most popular train connections to Essen
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