- 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 Charleroi to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$16
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$23
Fastest journey on Sep 01
2 h 22 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
2 h 22 m
Trains on Sep 01
2
Distance
117 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charleroi to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charleroi to Essen will cost around $23 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 2 trains from Charleroi to Essen, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 117 km distance in an average of 2 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 22 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 2 h 22 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.
9:51 AM2h22Charleroi12:13 PMEssen$161One-way0 transfers- 8:51 AM2h22Charleroi11:13 AMEssen$291One-way0 transfers
- 9:51 AM2h22Charleroi12:13 PMEssen$161One-way0 transfers
- 8:51 AM2h22Charleroi11:13 AMEssen$291One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Charleroi to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charleroi to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $26 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 2h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $26, while a bus costs an average of $28.
Distance: 72 miles (117 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$26 Average price Cheapest | $28 Average price | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 52m Average total duration 2h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration Fastest 2h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Charleroi to Essen is a train with an average price of $26.
This is compared to other travel options from Charleroi to Essen:
A train is $1 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Charleroi to Essen costing on average $28.
The fastest way to travel from Charleroi to Essen is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 15m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Charleroi and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleroi 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 $26 compared to roughly $51 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $25. The journey takes 2h 22m versus 2h 1m 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
Charleroi to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Charleroi to Essen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:51 AM Charleroi | 2h22 | 11:13 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:51 AM Charleroi | 2h22 | 12:13 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charleroi 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.
Tue
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Why should you book Charleroi to Essen trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as EuroCity, Regional, SNCB and more offer trains services from Charleroi 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 or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Charleroi to Essen
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Charleroi to Essen run on average 17 times per day, taking around 2h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 but you can travel from only $25 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:05, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 72 miles (117 km) distance in 2h 18m.
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 $25
Distance 72 miles (117 km) |
Average train duration 2h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 18m |
First train 5:05 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $25
Train companies: Intercity from Charleroi to Essen trainsIntercity trains will get you between Charleroi and Essen from $25. 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
2h 18m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$26
Intercity frequency
10 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
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 Charleroi to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26, while the average price is around $26.
The train from Charleroi to Essen takes 2h 18m and runs 17 per day.
The first train from Charleroi to Essen leaves at 5:05 AM.
The distance by train from Charleroi to Essen is 72 miles (117 km).
The last train from Charleroi to Essen leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charleroi to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Charleroi to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charleroi to Essen.
The train station in Charleroi that goes to Essen is Charleroi-Sud, which connects to Essen station.
The cheapest way to get from Charleroi to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $25.
The train journey from Charleroi to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Belgian countryside, quaint villages, and industrial areas, providing a varied visual experience.
A day trip from Charleroi to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 18m. There are 10 train trips per day for this route.
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 Charleroi to Essen.
Since both Charleroi 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, Brussels, Roosendaal, Zaventem, Ghent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Essen
Most Charleroi to Essen trains use the Charleroi-Sud to Essen station pair, with some services arriving at Wildert. Use this guide to compare Charleroi and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Charleroi
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Charleroi station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Charleroi to Essen leave from Charleroi-Sud. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Charleroi city centre at Place Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium.
Charleroi-SudPlace Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Charleroi-Sud from Charleroi city centre
SubwayM2, M3 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
Charleroi-Sud train station facilities and services
Charleroi-Sud has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: La Manufacture Urbaine, Le Pain Quotidien
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charleroi-Sud. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charleroi-Sud. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charleroi-Sud: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charleroi-Sud: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charleroi-Sud: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare, Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center, Novotel Charleroi Centre.
Charleroi-OuestPlace de la Digue, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Charleroi-Ouest from Charleroi city centre
BusCity · 2m · $2 · every ~2 min
Charleroi-Ouest train station facilities and services
Charleroi-Ouest has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Le Pain Quotidien, La Table de la Manufacture Urbaine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charleroi-Ouest. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charleroi-Ouest. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charleroi-Ouest: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charleroi-Ouest: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charleroi-Ouest: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center, Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare.
Gare de Couillet6010 Charleroi, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Gare de Couillet from Charleroi city centre
Gare de Couillet is 2 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainP, L, S61 · 5m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus13, 18 · 9m · $2 · every ~7 min
18 · 15m · $2 · every ~5 min
Gare de Couillet train station facilities and services
Gare de Couillet has practical services for this route, including Dining and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Gare de Couillet.
Bike and car services
Available at Gare de Couillet: Bike Parking.
Which Essen station do trains from Charleroi arrive at?
Trains from Charleroi to Essen most often arrive at Essen. Some services arrive at Wildert, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
Essen2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen from Essen city centre
TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · $56 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · $64
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.
Wildert2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Wildert from Essen city centre
Wildert is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIntercity · 4h 0m · $57 · every ~4 min
Ice · 5h 5m · $66
Bus023 · 4h 11m · $28
Wildert train station facilities and services
Wildert has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Wildert.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Wildert.
Bike and car services
Available at Wildert: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wildert.
Most popular train connections from Charleroi
More options for your journey from Charleroi to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Charleroi
Most popular train connections to Essen
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