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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Ghent
Showing times and prices for Nov 07
Cheapest price
$90
Average price
$107
Fastest journey
3 h 58 m
Average duration
4 h 13 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
234 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Ghent is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Ghent will cost around $107 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Ghent without transferring at least 2 times.
RE 10206 · ICE 121 · ICE 316 · IC 283308:21AM3h58
Essen Hbf12:19PMGhent St Pieters
$901One-way
3 transfers
RE 26808 · ICE 316 · IC 283308:09AM4h10
Essen Hbf12:19PMGhent St Pieters
$901One-way
2 transfers
RE 10114 · RE 26410 · RE 18926 · IC 53408:45AM4h50
Essen Hbf01:35PMGhent St Pieters
$1141One-way
3 transfers
IC 2013 · ICE 16 · IC 283510:14AM4h05
Essen Hbf02:19PMGhent St Pieters
$1151One-way
2 transfers
RB 10323 · ICE 225 · RE 28513 · ICE 1610:16AM4h03
Essen Hbf02:19PMGhent St Pieters
$1261One-way
4 transfers
RE 10206 · ICE 121 · ICE 316 · IC 283308:21AM3h58
Essen Hbf12:19PMGhent St Pieters
$901One-way
3 transfers
RB 10323 · ICE 225 · RE 28513 · ICE 1610:16AM4h03
Essen Hbf02:19PMGhent St Pieters
$1261One-way
4 transfers
IC 2013 · ICE 16 · IC 283510:14AM4h05
Essen Hbf02:19PMGhent St Pieters
$1151One-way
2 transfers
RE 26808 · ICE 316 · IC 283308:09AM4h10
Essen Hbf12:19PMGhent St Pieters
$901One-way
2 transfers
RE 10114 · RE 26410 · RE 18926 · IC 53408:45AM4h50
Essen Hbf01:35PMGhent St Pieters
$1141One-way
3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Essen to Ghent
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Essen to Ghent among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 25m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €8, and a flight costs an average of €148.
Distance: 145 miles (234 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€84 Average price | €24 Average price Cheapest | €283 Average price |
3h 55m Average total duration Fastest 3h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration 3h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 43m Average total duration 6h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Essen to Ghent train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Ghent trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 3:13 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RE 26808 · ICE 316 · IC 2833 | On time 7:09 AM Essen Hbf | 4h10 | 11:19 AM Ghent St Pieters | 2 transfers | |
| RE 10206 · ICE 121 · ICE 316 · IC 2833 | On time 7:21 AM Essen Hbf | 3h58 | 11:19 AM Ghent St Pieters | 3 transfers | |
| RE 10114 · RE 26410 · RE 18926 · IC 534 | On time 7:45 AM Essen Hbf | 4h50 | 12:35 PM Ghent St Pieters | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2013 · ICE 16 · IC 2835 | On time 9:14 AM Essen Hbf | 4h05 | 1:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 2 transfers | |
| RB 10323 · ICE 225 · RE 28513 · ICE 16 | On time 9:16 AM Essen Hbf | 4h03 | 1:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 4 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Ghent by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13
Nov 13
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Ghent
Germany
Belgium
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 $10 (€8)
Distance 145 miles (234 km) |
Average train duration 3h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 (€56) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 39m |
First train 05:24 |
Last train 23:48 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Essen to Ghent start from as low as $69 (€56) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $103 (€84) depending on the train type and class.
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 $10 (€8)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, National Express from Essen to Ghent trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, National Express trains will get you between Essen and Ghent from $10 (€8). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
Average Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 a day
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 39m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€80)
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
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 2m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€66)
National Express frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Ghent
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Ghent 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 Ghent, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Spending 2 to 3 days in Ghent is ideal to explore its historic sites, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local cuisine.
In Ghent, explore the charming Patershol neighborhood with its narrow streets and diverse dining options, and discover the vibrant street art scene with murals throughout the city. Visit the Design Museum Ghent for contemporary and historical design, and take a boat tour along the canals for a unique city view. Don't miss the medieval Gravensteen castle, Saint Bavo's Cathedral with the Ghent Altarpiece, and the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei streets. The Belfry of Ghent offers panoramic views, and the Museum of Fine Arts showcases Flemish art. Enjoy a bike ride through Ghent's extensive cycling paths.
The distance by train from Essen to Ghent is 145 miles (234 km).
Train ticket prices from Essen to Ghent can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69 (€56), while the average price is around $103 (€84).
The train station in Essen that goes to Ghent is Essen Hbf, which connects to Ghent St Pieters.
The train from Essen to Ghent takes 3h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Ghent is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The first train from Essen to Ghent leaves at 5:24 AM.
The last train from Essen to Ghent leaves at 11:48 PM.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Ghent.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Ghent.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Ghent.
A day trip from Essen to Ghent is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 39m and the distance is 145 miles (234 km). However, there are 8 train trips per day available.
The train journey from Essen to Ghent offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through industrial landscapes, charming Belgian towns, and picturesque countryside, making it a moderately scenic route.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Essen to Ghent
Essen
Ghent
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Ghent.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Burger King
- Werner
- Bückmannsmühle
- Muckel-Eis
Essen-Kupferdreh
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
8 kmDining
- Lukas
- Im Fass
- Pizzeria Spuntino Dario
- Contilla EisCafe
The major train station for arrivals in Ghent is Gent St Pieters. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gent St Pieters for your journey to Ghent from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Restaurant Patrick Foley's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- NH Gent Sint Pieters
- Hotel Carlton
- Astoria Hotel Gent
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
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 7-12 for regional and local trains
Public transit options for Gent St Pieters
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 4
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Kasteellaan.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Amadeus Ghent 1
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
- Hotel Cathedral
- Ibis Gent Centrum St-Baafs Kathedraal
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 1-4 for trains to Antwerp, Brussels, and local destinations
Public transit options for Gent-Dampoort
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 4
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Ghent
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ghent and Essen
Most popular train connections to Ghent
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