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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleroi to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
$16
Average price
$26
Fastest journey
2 h 22 m
Average duration
2 h 22 m
Trains per day
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 $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Charleroi for Essen on Wed, Jun 03, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 03 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 Wed, Jun 03 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$351One-way0 transfers
- 9:51 AM2h22Charleroi12:13 PMEssen$161One-way0 transfers
- 8:51 AM2h22Charleroi11:13 AMEssen$351One-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 prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $16, and a bus costs an average of $26.
Distance: 72 miles (117 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$22 Average price Cheapest | $27 Average price | $50 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 0m Average total duration 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 8m Average total duration Fastest 1h 38m 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 |
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 $22 (€18).
This is compared to other travel options from Charleroi to Essen:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Charleroi to Essen costing on average $27 (€22).
The fastest way to travel from Charleroi to Essen is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 38m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 30m.
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 {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.
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 today, Tuesday, June 2. 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.
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
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Why should you book Charleroi to Essen trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as EuroCity, Deutsche Bahn, 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, Deutsche Bahn, 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 20 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.
There are 3 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 22m.
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 72 miles (117 km) |
Average train duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Trains per day 20 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 22m |
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
Train companies: Intercity, EuroCity, Deutsche Bahn, Regional, SNCB from Charleroi to Essen trainsIntercity, EuroCity, Deutsche Bahn, Regional, SNCB trains will get you between Charleroi and Essen from $16 (€13). 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
2h 22m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
Intercity frequency
19 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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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 Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
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
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
3h 56m
Cheapest Price
$121 (€98)
SNCB frequency
1 a day
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 $16 (€13), while the average price is around $22 (€18).
The train from Charleroi to Essen takes 2h 22m and runs 20 per day.
The distance by train from Charleroi to Essen is 72 miles (117 km).
The first train from Charleroi to Essen leaves at 5:05 AM.
The last train from Charleroi to Essen leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charleroi to Essen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Charleroi to Essen. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Intercity.
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 train, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
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 22m. 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
Charleroi
Essen
The major train station for departures in Charleroi is Charleroi-Sud. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Charleroi-Sud for your trip from Charleroi to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Rue de la Villette.
Dining
- La Manufacture Urbaine
- Le Pain Quotidien
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare
- Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center
- Novotel Charleroi Centre
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 7-10 for local and regional trains
Public transit options for Charleroi-Sud
- Bus: TEC lines 1, 3, 4, 18
- Metro: Line M1, Line M2
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available near the station with access from Rue de la Digue.
Dining
- Restaurant Le Pain Quotidien
- La Table de la Manufacture Urbaine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center
- Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for regional trains
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Charleroi-Ouest
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Line M1
Gare de Couillet
Amenities at train station
DiningBike Parking
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen for your journey to Essen from Charleroi.
Essen
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
Wildert
Amenities at train station
DiningATMAccessibilityBike ParkingMost 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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