- Must visit
Train World
Belgium’s national railway museum in nearby Schaerbeek, known for restored locomotives, immersive displays, and strong family appeal.
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$11
Fastest journey
1 h 53 m
Average duration
2 h 2 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
64 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Zaventem is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Zaventem will cost around $11 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Of the 3 trains that leave Essen for Zaventem on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 2 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 53 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 19 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.






Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Zaventem among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $9, and a bus costs an average of $33.
Distance: 39 miles (64 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$14 Average price Cheapest | $33 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 51m Average total duration Fastest 1h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 45m Average total duration 5h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Zaventem:
A train is $19 (€15) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Essen to Zaventem costing on average $33 (€27).
Other travel options to Zaventem take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 15m.
Tickets start at around $14 (€12) compared to roughly $44 (€36) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $30 (€24). The journey takes 1h 21m versus 1h 16m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Zaventem trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 7:32 AM Essen | 2h19 | 9:51 AM Zaventem | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:32 AM Essen | 1h53 | 10:25 AM Zaventem | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 9:32 AM Essen | 1h53 | 11:25 AM Zaventem | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Essen to Zaventem run on average 15 times per day, taking around 1h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€8) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 1h 31m.
Distance 39 miles (64 km) |
Average train duration 1h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€8) |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 1h 31m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 days |
Discover the best of Zaventem — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zaventem trip today.
Belgium’s national railway museum in nearby Schaerbeek, known for restored locomotives, immersive displays, and strong family appeal.
A local museum near Brussels Airport focused on military history and aviation, with aircraft-related exhibits and memorabilia that appeal to plane enthusiasts.
A major automobile museum in nearby Brussels with historic cars, temporary exhibitions, and broad appeal for transport and design fans.
A landmark urban park in Brussels combining monumental architecture, lawns, and major museums in one setting.
Brussels’ famous central square, celebrated for its guildhalls and atmosphere, and a must for first-time visitors.
A spacious landscaped park in the eastern Brussels area, popular for walking, jogging, and relaxed time outdoors.
Mussels steamed with white wine, celery, and onion, served with fries. A Belgian classic widely loved in and around Brussels.
Traditional Flemish beef stew slow-cooked with Belgian beer, often slightly sweet and richly savory. A staple of Belgian home cooking.
A rustic mashed potato dish mixed with seasonal vegetables such as carrot or leek, commonly served with sausage in Belgian brasseries.
Well-known restaurant in Zaventem appreciated for refined cuisine and a more upscale dining experience in an elegant setting.
Established Italian restaurant in Zaventem known for reliable quality, generous portions, and a polished yet relaxed atmosphere.
Popular brasserie-style venue in Zaventem offering classic Belgian and French-influenced dishes in a comfortable, established setting.
Prices are above average due to airport demand. Nearby local spots can be cheaper than terminal dining and hotels.
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
Official public transport app
Brussels Airport-Zaventem, Zaventem -> Brussels-Central Station, Brussels
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Zaventem 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 Zaventem, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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