- Must visit
Musée de la Photographie
Major museum of photography in a former Carmelite convent. Its collections and exhibitions make it one of Belgium's standout cultural venues.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Charleroi
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$91
Average price
$132
Fastest journey
3 h 54 m
Average duration
4 h
Trains per day
7
Distance
117 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Charleroi is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Charleroi will cost around $132 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Charleroi without transferring at least once.
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6:00 AM4h42Essen10:42 AMCharleroi$911One-way2 transfers- 8:40 AM4h02Essen12:42 PMCharleroi$911One-way2 transfers
- 10:40 AM4h02Essen2:42 PMCharleroi$911One-way2 transfers
5:41 AM3h54Essen9:35 AMCharleroi$1441One-way1 transfer- 7:41 AM3h54Essen11:35 AMCharleroi$1441One-way1 transfer
- 5:41 AM3h54Essen9:35 AMCharleroi$1441One-way1 transfer
- 7:41 AM3h54Essen11:35 AMCharleroi$1441One-way1 transfer
- 8:40 AM4h02Essen12:42 PMCharleroi$911One-way2 transfers
- 10:40 AM4h02Essen2:42 PMCharleroi$911One-way2 transfers
5:32 AM4h10Essen9:42 AMCharleroi$1831One-way3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Charleroi
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Essen to Charleroi run on average 21 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 but you can travel from only $13 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 72 miles (117 km) distance in 2h 31m.
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 $13
Distance 72 miles (117 km) |
Average train duration 2h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 |
Trains per day 21 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 31m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 11:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $13
Live departures
Essen to Charleroi train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Charleroi trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 7:04 AM Essen | 2h31 | 9:35 AM Charleroi | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Charleroi trains with Omio?
Regional as well as Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar and more offer trains services from Essen to Charleroi.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Charleroi.
Why book with Omio vs Regional?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Regional, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Charleroi.
- 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 Regional with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Charleroi.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Charleroi.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Charleroi.
Train companies: Regional, Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar from Essen to Charleroi trainsRegional, Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar trains will get you between Essen and Charleroi from $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
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$16
Intercity frequency
20 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
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
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
3h 54m
Cheapest Price
$144
Eurostar frequency
1 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
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
$18
Regional frequency
10 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 2m
Cheapest Price
$91
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Charleroi
Things to do in Charleroi
Discover the best of Charleroi — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charleroi trip today.
- Must visit
Musée du Bois du Cazier
Museum and memorial at a former coal mine, focused on mining, labor, and the 1956 disaster. Essential for industrial heritage in Wallonia.
- Recommended
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Charleroi
Fine arts museum presenting Belgian and regional art in the renovated city center. A compact stop for painting, sculpture, and temporary shows.
- Must visit
Place Charles II
Main central square framed by city hall and belfry. It is the best starting point for architecture, markets, and local urban life.
- Recommended
Place Verte
Revived lower-town square with shops, events, and a lively feel. A practical stop for experiencing modern Charleroi's city-center renewal.
- Recommended
Quais de Sambre
Riverside area along the Sambre with changing urban views, bridges, and street art. Good for a walk that shows the city's industrial setting.
- Vegetarian
Tarte Al Djote
A rustic Walloon leek and potato tart, often enriched with cream or cheese. It is a classic regional comfort dish found in homes and local bakeries.
- Vegetarian
Gaufre De Liège
A sweet caramelized waffle from nearby Liège, made with pearl sugar that melts in the dough. It is one of Belgium's most iconic street snacks.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frites Belges
Belgian fries served hot with mayonnaise or sauces. In Charleroi and Wallonia, frites are a daily staple and a point of local pride.
L'Essentiel
Refined French-Belgian dining with polished service and seasonal ingredients. A strong choice for a more elegant meal in central Charleroi.
Le Roy D'Ys
Well-known brasserie-style venue serving Belgian classics, seafood, and grilled dishes in a lively, traditional setting.
Friterie De La Digue
Reliable spot for classic Belgian fries and quick local comfort food. Casual atmosphere and a good option for an everyday Walloon snack.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining cost more than budget EU cities, but Charleroi is often cheaper than Brussels. Local transit and casual meals are fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated. Round up for taxis; small change is fine in cafes.
TEC
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.20
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Charleroi-Sud -> Charleroi-Sud, Charleroi
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets in the TEC app or before boarding when possible; onboard fares can be higher on some services.
- Contactless bank card payment availability varies by vehicle, so carry a valid ticket or use the TEC app before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Charleroi
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Charleroi 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 Charleroi, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Charleroi can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $16, while the average price is around $23.
The train from Essen to Charleroi takes 2h 31m and runs 21 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Charleroi is 72 miles (117 km).
The first train from Essen to Charleroi leaves at 4:25 AM.
The last train from Essen to Charleroi leaves at 11:08 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Essen to Charleroi.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Charleroi. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Intercity.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Charleroi.
The train station in Essen that goes to Charleroi is Essen station, which connects to Charleroi-Sud.
The train journey from Essen to Charleroi offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Belgium, including rolling hills and quaint villages, making parts of the journey quite scenic.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Charleroi.
Popular day trips by train from Charleroi include Brussels, Antwerp, Lille, Ghent, Maastricht.
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 Charleroi, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the train station and city center. Avoid poorly lit or isolated places at night. Scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging taxi drivers can occur, so it is advised to use licensed taxis and verify fares beforehand. Staying alert and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Charleroi
Most Essen to Charleroi trains use the Essen to Charleroi-Sud station pair, with some services arriving at Lodelinsart. Use this guide to compare Essen and Charleroi 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 Charleroi
Which Essen station do trains to Charleroi leave from?
Trains from Essen to Charleroi leave from Essen. The station is from Essen city centre at 2910 Essen, Belgium.
Essen2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen from Essen city centre
TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · $55 · 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 · $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.
Which Charleroi station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Charleroi most often arrive at Charleroi-Sud. Some services arrive at Lodelinsart, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Charleroi arrival station.
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.
Lodelinsart6042 Charleroi, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Lodelinsart from Charleroi city centre
Lodelinsart is 2 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainL, S61 · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusBus · 11m
18 · 20m · $2 · every ~5 min
Lodelinsart train station facilities and services
Lodelinsart has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lodelinsart.
Bike and car services
Available at Lodelinsart: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lodelinsart.
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.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Charleroi
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charleroi and Essen
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