Brussels to Essen train with Intercity

Fri, Jun 19
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Intercity
EuroCity
Regional
SNCB | BUS
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
2,000+ travel companies
Intercity
EuroCity
Regional
SNCB | BUS
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels to Essen

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$11

Average price

$15

Fastest journey

1 h 23 m

Average duration

1 h 23 m

Trains per day

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

Of the 2 trains that leave Brussels for Essen on Fri, Jun 19, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 19 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, Jun 19 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.

  • Intercity
    10:50 AM1h23
    Brussels
    12:13 PMEssen
    $111One-way
    0 transfers
  • Intercity
    9:50 AM1h23
    Brussels
    11:13 AMEssen
    $201One-way
    0 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 prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 38m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $11, and a bus costs an average of $29.

Distance: 42 miles (68 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$15

Average price

Cheapest

$32

Average price

$46

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 7m

Average total duration

5h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 30m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is a train with an average price of $15 (€12).

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

A train is $17 (€14) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Brussels to Essen costing on average $32 (€26).

The fastest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 38m.

Other travel options to Essen take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 37m.

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

Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.

Direct services run with Intercity, Eurostar.

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

Live departures

Brussels to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Essen trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Intercity9:50 AM Brussels
1h23
11:13 AM Essen0 transfersDirect
Intercity10:50 AM Brussels
1h23
12:13 PM Essen0 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
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Why should you book Brussels to Essen trains with Omio?

Intercity as well as EuroCity, Regional, 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 EuroCity, Regional, 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
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Brussels to Essen run on average 20 times per day, taking around 1h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.

There are 7 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 23m.

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 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$11 (€9)
Trains per day
20
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
1h 23m
First train
12:36 AM
Last train
11:32 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
3 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

Train companies: Intercity, EuroCity, Regional, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, SNCB from Brussels to Essen trainsIntercity, EuroCity, Regional, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, SNCB 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 Duration
1h 23m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Intercity frequency
14 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 Duration
1h 39m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
EuroCity frequency
7 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

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
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€110)
Eurostar frequency
2 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

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
Regional frequency
7 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
SNCB | BUS frequency
12 a day

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€62)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day

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 34m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
SNCB frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Brussels to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $15 (€12).
The train from Brussels to Essen takes 1h 23m and runs 20 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 7 times per day, provided by Intercity, 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 23m, 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, with some services arriving at Wildert. 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 25282828WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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, BelgiumWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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, BelgiumWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

More options for your journey from Brussels to Essen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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