Essen to Brussels train with Intercity

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

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$18

Average price

$18

Fastest journey

1 h 13 m

Average duration

1 h 13 m

Trains per day

36

Distance

68 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Brussels is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Brussels will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.

Fast trains

Of the 36 trains that leave Essen for Brussels on Fri, Jun 19, 18 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 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 13 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 13 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.

  • Intercity2029
    6:47 AM1h13
    Essen station
    8:00 AMBrussels-North
    $181One-way
    0 transfers
  • Intercity2032
    9:47 AM1h13
    Essen station
    11:00 AMBrussels-North
    $181One-way
    0 transfers
  • Intercity2032
    9:47 AM1h24
    Essen station
    11:11 AMBrussels-Midi
    $181One-way
    0 transfers
  • Intercity2031
    8:47 AM1h24
    Essen station
    10:11 AMBrussels-Midi
    $181One-way
    0 transfers
  • Intercity2031
    8:47 AM1h13
    Essen station
    10:00 AMBrussels-North
    $181One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Essen to Brussels

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Brussels 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 bus which can get you there in 35m. 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

$22

Average price

Cheapest

$29

Average price

$46

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 8m

Average total duration

1h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Intercity

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Brussels is a train with an average price of $22 (€18).

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

A train is $7 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Essen to Brussels costing on average $29 (€24).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Brussels is by bus with an average journey time of 35m.

Other travel options to Brussels take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Brussels including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Brussels among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 2m faster (1h 38m by train vs 1h 40m by car) and roughly $25 (€20) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($22 (€18) vs $46 (€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 Intercity, Eurostar.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Brussels train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Regional2377+Intercity45286:05 AM Essen station
1h31
7:36 AM Brussels-Central1 transfer
Regional2377+Intercity45286:05 AM Essen station
1h36
7:41 AM Brussels-Midi1 transfer
Regional2377+Intercity45286:05 AM Essen station
1h24
7:29 AM Brussels-North1 transfer
Intercity20296:47 AM Essen station
1h13
8:00 AM Brussels-North0 transfersDirect
Intercity20296:47 AM Essen station
1h24
8:11 AM Brussels-Midi0 transfersDirect
Intercity20296:47 AM Essen station
1h19
8:06 AM Brussels-Central0 transfersDirect
Regional2378+Intercity45297:05 AM Essen station
1h36
8:41 AM Brussels-Midi1 transfer
Regional2378+Intercity45297:05 AM Essen station
1h31
8:36 AM Brussels-Central1 transfer
Regional2378+Intercity45297:05 AM Essen station
1h24
8:29 AM Brussels-North1 transfer
Intercity20307:47 AM Essen station
1h19
9:06 AM Brussels-Central0 transfersDirect
Intercity20307:47 AM Essen station
1h13
9:00 AM Brussels-North0 transfersDirect
Intercity20307:47 AM Essen station
1h24
9:11 AM Brussels-Midi0 transfersDirect
Regional2379+Intercity45308:04 AM Essen station
1h37
9:41 AM Brussels-Midi1 transfer
Regional2379+Intercity45308:04 AM Essen station
1h26
9:30 AM Brussels-North1 transfer
Regional2379+Intercity45308:04 AM Essen station
1h32
9:36 AM Brussels-Central1 transfer
Intercity20318:47 AM Essen station
1h24
10:11 AM Brussels-Midi0 transfersDirect
Intercity20318:47 AM Essen station
1h13
10:00 AM Brussels-North0 transfersDirect
Intercity20318:47 AM Essen station
1h19
10:06 AM Brussels-Central0 transfersDirect
Regional2380+Intercity45319:05 AM Essen station
1h36
10:41 AM Brussels-Midi1 transfer
Regional2380+Intercity45319:05 AM Essen station
1h31
10:36 AM Brussels-Central1 transfer
Regional2380+Intercity45319:05 AM Essen station
1h24
10:29 AM Brussels-North1 transfer
Intercity20329:47 AM Essen station
1h13
11:00 AM Brussels-North0 transfersDirect
Intercity20329:47 AM Essen station
1h24
11:11 AM Brussels-Midi0 transfersDirect
Intercity20329:47 AM Essen station
1h19
11:06 AM Brussels-Central0 transfersDirect
Regional2381+Intercity453210:05 AM Essen station
1h24
11:29 AM Brussels-North1 transfer
Regional2381+Intercity453210:05 AM Essen station
1h36
11:41 AM Brussels-Midi1 transfer
Regional2381+Intercity453210:05 AM Essen station
1h31
11:36 AM Brussels-Central1 transfer
Intercity203310:47 AM Essen station
1h19
12:06 PM Brussels-Central0 transfersDirect
Intercity203310:47 AM Essen station
1h24
12:11 PM Brussels-Midi0 transfersDirect
Intercity203310:47 AM Essen station
1h13
12:00 PM Brussels-North0 transfersDirect
Regional2382+Intercity453311:05 AM Essen station
1h24
12:29 PM Brussels-North1 transfer
Regional2382+Intercity453311:05 AM Essen station
1h36
12:41 PM Brussels-Midi1 transfer
Regional2382+Intercity453311:05 AM Essen station
1h31
12:36 PM Brussels-Central1 transfer
Intercity203411:47 AM Essen station
1h13
1:00 PM Brussels-North0 transfersDirect
Intercity203411:47 AM Essen station
1h19
1:06 PM Brussels-Central0 transfersDirect
Intercity203411:47 AM Essen station
1h24
1:11 PM Brussels-Midi0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Brussels by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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 Essen to Brussels trains with Omio?

Intercity as well as Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Essen to Brussels.
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 Essen to Brussels.
  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Brussels.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Brussels

BelgiumBelgium
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Brussels run on average 16 times per day, taking around 1h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 1h 24m.

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
16
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
1h 24m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
28 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, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar from Essen to Brussels trainsIntercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar trains will get you between Essen and Brussels 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 24m
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
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

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 54m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€110)
Eurostar frequency
3 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
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Regional frequency
6 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 Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
SNCB | BUS frequency
9 a day

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€72)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day

Complete guide to Brussels

Things to do in Brussels

Discover the best of Brussels — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brussels trip today.

  • Must visit

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Major museum complex with Old Masters, Magritte works, and Belgian art; one of the city’s essential cultural visits.

  • Must visit

Magritte Museum

Dedicated to René Magritte, with the world’s largest collection of his surrealist works in a central historic setting.

  • Recommended

Musical Instruments Museum

Celebrated museum in an Art Nouveau building, known for its global instrument collection and audio-guided displays.

Euro

Moderate by Western European standards. Food and transport are manageable, but central hotels cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 10-15 for fries, kebab, or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxi fares; no tip is expected for bars or cafés.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Brussels

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Brussels 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 Brussels, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Brussels can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $22 (€18).
The train from Essen to Brussels takes 1h 24m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Brussels is 42 miles (68 km).
The first train from Essen to Brussels leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Essen to Brussels leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Essen to Brussels.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Brussels. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Intercity, Eurostar.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Brussels.
The train station in Essen that goes to Brussels is Essen station, which connects to Brussels-Midi.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Brussels is by train, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Essen to Brussels offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the lush countryside, small towns, and industrial areas, though it may not be considered overwhelmingly scenic compared to other European routes.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Essen to Brussels. The journey takes 1h 24m with a distance of 42 miles (68 km), and there are 8 train trips available per day.
In Brussels, explore the vibrant Marolles district with its antique shops and street art, and enjoy a stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire with its impressive arches and museums. Sample Belgian chocolates at the city's renowned chocolatiers, and experience the lively Saint-Géry district's trendy bars and cafes. Attend a performance at the historic La Monnaie opera house. Don't miss top sights like the opulent Grand Place, Atomium for panoramic views, the iconic Manneken Pis statue, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and the Magritte Museum.
For a fulfilling experience in Brussels, plan on spending 2 to 3 days to explore key attractions such as the Grand Place, Atomium, and various museums, as well as to enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Brussels.
Since both Essen and Brussels 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 Brussels include Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Lille, Rotterdam.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Brussels 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 Brussels, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Grand Place, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake petitions. It's advisable to stay vigilant, avoid displaying expensive items, and use official taxi services 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 Essen to Brussels

Most Essen to Brussels trains use the Essen to Bruxelles-Midi station pair, with some services arriving at Bruxelles-Central. Use this guide to compare Essen and Brussels train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Brussels

Which Essen station do trains to Brussels leave from?

Trains from Essen to Brussels leave from Essen. The station is from Essen city centre at 2910 Essen, Belgium.
Essen2910 Essen, BelgiumParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
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.

Wildert2910 Essen, BelgiumDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
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 · $56 · every ~4 min
Ice · 5h 5m · $65
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.

More options for your journey from Essen to Brussels

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

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