- 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
€12
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€16
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 18 m
Trains on Sep 20
3
Distance
69 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 €16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €12.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 3 trains from Essen to Ghent, including 3 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 69 km distance in an average of 2 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 55 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.
8:32 AM2h00Essen10:32 AMGhent€121One-way0 transfers
10:37 AM2h55Essen1:32 PMGhent€131One-way0 transfers- 6:32 AM2h00Essen8:32 AMGhent€211One-way0 transfers
- 8:32 AM2h00Essen10:32 AMGhent€121One-way0 transfers
- 6:32 AM2h00Essen8:32 AMGhent€211One-way0 transfers
- 10:37 AM2h55Essen1:32 PMGhent€131One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Essen to Ghent
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Ghent among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 5m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €14, while a train costs an average of €14.
Distance: 42 miles (69 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€14 Average price Cheapest | €48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Ghent is a train with an average price of €14.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Ghent is by train with an average journey time of 1h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Ghent including taking a bus and train.
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 €14 compared to roughly €48 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €34. The journey takes 1h 35m versus 1h 28m 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2379+1830 | 8:05 AM Essen station | 2h03 | 10:08 AM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
| 2579+709 | 8:32 AM Essen station | 2h00 | 10:32 AM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
| 2380+1831 | 9:05 AM Essen station | 2h03 | 11:08 AM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
| 2580+710 | 9:32 AM Essen station | 2h00 | 11:32 AM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
| 2381+1832 | 10:05 AM Essen station | 2h03 | 12:08 PM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
| 2581+711 | 10:32 AM Essen station | 2h00 | 12:32 PM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
| 2382+1833 | 11:05 AM Essen station | 2h03 | 1:08 PM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
| 2582+712 | 11:32 AM Essen station | 2h00 | 1:32 PM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
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 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Why should you book Essen to Ghent trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional offer trains services from Essen to Ghent.
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 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 Intercity with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Ghent.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Ghent
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Essen to Ghent run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €10 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:27, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (69 km) distance in 1h 32m.
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 (69 km) |
Average train duration 1h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price €10 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 1h 32m |
First train 4:27 AM |
Last train 11:32 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 from Essen to Ghent trainsIntercity, Regional trains will get you between Essen and Ghent from €10. 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 Intercity Duration
1h 32m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€10
Intercity frequency
8 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
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 Regional Duration
1h 38m
Cheapest Regional Price
€12
Regional frequency
1 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
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 €10, while the average price is around €14.
The train from Essen to Ghent takes 1h 32m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Ghent is 42 miles (69 km).
The first train from Essen to Ghent leaves at 4:27 AM.
The last train from Essen to Ghent leaves at 11:32 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 station, which connects to Ghent St Pieters.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Ghent is by train, with a cost of around €10.
The train journey from Essen to Ghent offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque Belgian countryside, charming small towns, and industrial areas, providing a varied visual experience.
A day trip from Essen to Ghent is feasible, as the journey takes 1h 32m and trains run 7 times per day, with a distance of 42 miles (69 km).
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 train 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 to Gent St Pieters station pair, with some services arriving at Gent-Dampoort. 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. 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 · €45 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · €52
Bus023 · 4h 5m · €22
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.
Which Ghent station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen to Ghent most often arrive at Gent St Pieters. Some services arrive at Gent-Dampoort, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Ghent arrival station.
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.
Gent-DampoortKasteellaan 447, 9000 Ghent, Belgium+32 9 241 22 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Gent-Dampoort from Ghent city centre
Gent-Dampoort is 1 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 11, 12a, 12b · 9m · €3 · every ~20 min
Gent-Dampoort train station facilities and services
Gent-Dampoort has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: De Graslei, Amadeus Ghent 1
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gent-Dampoort. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gent-Dampoort. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gent-Dampoort: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gent-Dampoort: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gent-Dampoort: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort, Hotel Cathedral, Ibis Gent Centrum St-Baafs Kathedraal.
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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