- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts Ghent
Major fine arts museum with Flemish masters, Belgian art, and rotating exhibitions. Essential for understanding Ghent's artistic heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Ghent
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€52
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€76
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 39 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 20
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 €76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €52.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 5 trains from Essen to Ghent, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 234 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 39 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 10 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.
9:40 AM4h06Essen1:46 PMGhent€521One-way0 transfers- 11:40 AM3h39Essen3:19 PMGhent€561One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM3h39Essen12:19 PMGhent€601One-way0 transfers
- 7:09 AM4h10Essen11:19 AMGhent€871One-way0 transfers
- 8:39 AM3h40Essen12:19 PMGhent€1261One-way0 transfers
- 11:40 AM3h39Essen3:19 PMGhent€561One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM3h39Essen12:19 PMGhent€601One-way0 transfers
- 8:39 AM3h40Essen12:19 PMGhent€1261One-way0 transfers
- 9:40 AM4h06Essen1:46 PMGhent€521One-way0 transfers
- 7:09 AM4h10Essen11:19 AMGhent€871One-way0 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 an average ticket price of €39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 16m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €39, while a flight costs an average of €525.
Distance: 145 miles (234 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€97 Average price | €39 Average price Cheapest | €525 Average price | €42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 12m Average total duration 5h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration 2h 24m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Essen to Ghent is a bus with an average price of €39.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Ghent:
A bus is €58 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Ghent costing on average €97.
A bus is €486 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Ghent costing on average €525.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Ghent is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 24m.
Other travel options to Ghent take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 46m.
Bus takes on average 5h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Ghent including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Ghent 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 €97 compared to roughly €42 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-54.98. The journey takes 3h 46m versus 3h 11m 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
Essen to Ghent train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Ghent trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 63604 · ICE 121 · ICE 316 · IC 2833 | 8:04 AM Essen Hbf | 4h15 | 12:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 3 transfers | |
| 63606 · ICE 225 · ICE 16 · IC 2835 | 10:04 AM Essen Hbf | 4h15 | 2:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 3 transfers | |
| 63608 · ICE 123 · ICE 314 · IC 2837 | 12:04 PM Essen Hbf | 4h15 | 4:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 3 transfers | |
| 63628 · IC 2201 · ICE 310 · IC 2838 | 1:04 PM Essen Hbf | 4h15 | 5:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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.
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Sep 20
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Sep 26
Why should you book Essen to Ghent trains with Omio?
VIAS Rail GmbH as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Essen to Ghent.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Ghent.
Why book with Omio vs VIAS Rail GmbH?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for VIAS Rail GmbH, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Ghent.
- 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 VIAS Rail GmbH with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Ghent.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Ghent.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Ghent.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Ghent
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Essen to Ghent run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €47 but you can travel from only €18 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:24, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 145 miles (234 km) distance in 3h 9m.
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 €18
Distance 145 miles (234 km) |
Average train duration 3h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price €47 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 9m |
First train 5:24 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 91 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €18
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Essen to Ghent trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Essen and Ghent from €18. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 9m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€47
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
VIAS Rail GmbH
About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
€80
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations 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
Complete guide to Ghent
Things to do in Ghent
Discover the best of Ghent — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ghent trip today.
- Must visit
S.M.A.K.
Bold contemporary art museum beside the fine arts museum, known for modern Belgian and international works and ambitious temporary shows.
- Recommended
STAM Ghent City Museum
Museum in the former Bijloke abbey and hospital complex exploring the city's history through objects, stories, and changing exhibitions.
- Must visit
Graslei
Historic quay lined with guild houses and river views. It is Ghent's signature postcard scene and one of the best places for a stroll.
- Must visit
Korenlei
Opposite the Graslei, this elegant quay offers classic canal panoramas, boat departures, and some of the city's finest evening views.
- Recommended
Korenmarkt
Lively square in the medieval core surrounded by major landmarks. A practical meeting point and excellent base for exploring central Ghent.
Waterzooi
A creamy Gentian stew of chicken or veal with mushrooms, meatballs and white wine, traditionally served with fries or bread.
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A rich mash of potatoes with carrots and onions, often served with sausage or bacon; a classic hearty Flemish comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tierenteyn Mustard
A smooth mustard from nearby East Flanders, known for its strong fresh heat and traditional stone-ground character.
Stadsbrouwerij Gruut
City brewery and taproom pouring house-brewed gruut beers with a relaxed atmosphere and good introduction to Ghent beer culture.
Brasserie Pakhuis
Historic brasserie in central Ghent known for refined Belgian classics, seafood and elegant Art Nouveau surroundings.
Du Progres
Traditional restaurant focused on East Flemish cuisine, especially waterzooi and other regional dishes, in a warm classic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while transit is reasonable. Cheaper than Brussels in some areas, but pricier than smaller Belgian cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up for taxis, and small change is enough at cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Gent Sint-Pieters -> Korenmarkt, Ghent
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on De Lijn trams and buses via onboard validators. The onboard fare is higher than some advance-purchase options.
- Use De Lijn for city trams and buses in Ghent. Buy and validate your ticket before travel if using a mobile or pre-purchased ticket.
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.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Ghent can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €47, while the average price is around €97.
The train from Essen to Ghent takes 3h 9m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Ghent is 145 miles (234 km).
The first train from Essen to Ghent leaves at 5:24 AM.
The last train from Essen to Ghent leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available 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.
The train station in Essen that goes to Ghent is Essen Hbf, which connects to Ghent St Pieters.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Ghent is by bus, with a cost of around €18.
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.
A day trip from Essen to Ghent is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 9m and the distance is 145 miles (234 km). However, there are 8 train trips per day available.
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.
Spending 2 to 3 days in Ghent is ideal to explore its historic sites, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Ghent.
Since both Essen and Ghent 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 Ghent include Brussels, Bruges, Lille, Antwerp, Rotterdam.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Ghent 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 Ghent, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and near major attractions. Common scams include distraction techniques where individuals create a commotion to divert attention while accomplices steal belongings. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Additionally, travelers should use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent fare scams.
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 Ghent
Most Essen to Ghent trains use the Essen Hbf to Gent St Pieters station pair. Use this guide to compare Essen and Ghent 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 Ghent
Which Essen station do trains to Ghent leave from?
Trains from Essen to Ghent leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Which Ghent station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Ghent arrive at Gent St Pieters. Gent St Pieters is 1 miles (2 km) from Ghent city centre.
Gent St PietersKoningin Maria Hendrikaplein, 9000 Ghent, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Gent St Pieters from Ghent city centre
Gent St Pieters is 1 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus60 · 8m · €3 · every ~3 min
TramT1, Gf, T3, T4 · 14m · €3 · every ~32 min
Gent St Pieters train station facilities and services
Gent St Pieters 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: De Graslei, Restaurant Patrick Foley's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gent St Pieters. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gent St Pieters. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gent St Pieters: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gent St Pieters: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gent St Pieters: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Gent Sint Pieters, Hotel Carlton, Astoria Hotel Gent.
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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