- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
World-class art museum in the Villa Hügel parkland, famous for 19th and 20th century masterpieces and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ghent to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 10
Cheapest price on Oct 10
$76
Average ticket price on Oct 10
$99
Fastest journey on Oct 10
3 h 37 m
Average journey duration on Oct 10
4 h 11 m
Trains on Oct 10
5
Distance
234 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ghent to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ghent to Essen will cost around $99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast trains
On Sat, Oct 10, we found 5 trains from Ghent to Essen, including 5 direct services.
On Sat, Oct 10 the direct trains cover the 234 km distance in an average of 4 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 37 m .
On Sat, Oct 10 the slowest trains will take 4 h 49 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.
7:41 AM3h37Ghent11:18 AMEssen$761One-way0 transfers- 10:41 AM3h38Ghent2:19 PMEssen$1001One-way0 transfers
- 8:13 AM4h05Ghent12:18 PMEssen$1011One-way0 transfers
- 10:27 AM4h47Ghent3:14 PMEssen$1031One-way0 transfers
- 10:25 AM4h49Ghent3:14 PMEssen$1161One-way0 transfers
- 7:41 AM3h37Ghent11:18 AMEssen$761One-way0 transfers
- 10:41 AM3h38Ghent2:19 PMEssen$1001One-way0 transfers
- 8:13 AM4h05Ghent12:18 PMEssen$1011One-way0 transfers
- 10:27 AM4h47Ghent3:14 PMEssen$1031One-way0 transfers
- 10:25 AM4h49Ghent3:14 PMEssen$1161One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Ghent to Essen
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Ghent to Essen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€45) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:46, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 145 miles (234 km) distance in 3h 6m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 145 miles (234 km) |
Average train duration 3h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€45) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 6m |
First train 12:46 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 6 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 $20 (€16)
Live departures
Ghent to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Ghent to Essen trains for today, Friday, October 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:41 AM Ghent | 3h37 | 12:18 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:41 AM Ghent | 3h37 | 1:18 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:41 AM Ghent | 3h37 | 2:18 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:41 PM Ghent | 3h56 | 9:37 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, October 10 | |||||
| 7:41 AM Ghent | 3h37 | 11:18 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:13 AM Ghent | 4h05 | 12:18 PM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Ghent to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Ghent to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ghent to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ghent to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Ghent to Essen.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Ghent to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Ghent and Essen from $20 (€16). 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 6m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$54 (€45)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
Ruhr Museum presents the region’s natural, cultural, and industrial history inside Zollverein’s iconic coal washery.
- Recommended
Deutsches Plakat Museum
Internationally important poster museum with graphic design, advertising, and visual culture collections in a central location.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large urban lake with promenades, sailing, and scenic paths; a favorite leisure area for locals and visitors alike.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
Lively central pedestrian street for shopping and city life, linking Essen’s station area with key downtown landmarks.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten Essen
Leafy city park with botanical features, sculptures, and open lawns near major museums and cultural institutions.
- Vegetarian
Reibekuchen
A hearty potato pancake from the Ruhr area, usually served with applesauce or beet syrup. It is a beloved regional comfort food eaten at fairs and homes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Traditional rye bread from Westphalia, baked dark and dense with a slightly sweet flavor. It is a staple across the region and often served with ham or cheese.
Sauerbraten
A classic Rhineland-Ruhr beef roast marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised. It is a festive dish found on Sunday and holiday menus.
Restaurant Hannappel
Refined two-star dining in Villa Hügel parkland, known for modern French-inspired cuisine, polished service, and one of Essen's most prestigious settings.
Hausbrauerei Im Fcxschen Essen
Traditional brewery restaurant in Werden serving hearty regional dishes and house beers in a historic, rustic atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Meisenburg
Casual local favorite for grilled meats, schnitzel, and classic pub plates, with a lively traditional atmosphere and dependable portions.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is typical.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf -> Essen Hbf
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, or onboard where offered. Tap validators if your ticket requires validation before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not reliably onboard all buses or trams. Keep a valid ticket ready for inspection.
FAQs: Trains from Ghent to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ghent to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Ghent to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€45), while the average price is around $111 (€93).
The train from Ghent to Essen takes 3h 6m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Ghent to Essen is 145 miles (234 km).
The first train from Ghent to Essen leaves at 12:46 AM.
The last train from Ghent to Essen leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Ghent to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ghent to Essen.
The train station in Ghent that goes to Essen is Ghent St Pieters, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The train journey from Ghent to Essen offers a pleasant experience with views of the Belgian countryside, charming small towns, and lush green landscapes, though it may not be considered overtly scenic compared to more renowned picturesque routes.
Yes, you can take the train from Ghent to Essen.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.
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 Ghent to Essen
Most Ghent to Essen trains use the Gent St Pieters to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Ghent and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Ghent
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Ghent station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Ghent to Essen leave from Gent St Pieters. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Ghent city centre at Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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 · $4 · every ~3 min
TramT1, Gf, T3, T4 · 14m · $4 · 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 · $4 · 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.
Gentbrugge9050 Ghent, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Gentbrugge from Ghent city centre
Gentbrugge is 3 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS51, L, Ic, S53 · 6m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus11 · 15m · $4 · every ~11 min
11 · 20m · $4 · every ~11 min
TramGf · 22m · $4 · every ~11 min
T1, Gf, T3, T4 · 37m · $5 · every ~32 min
Gentbrugge train station facilities and services
Gentbrugge has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Gentbrugge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Gentbrugge.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gentbrugge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gentbrugge: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gentbrugge.
Which Essen station do trains from Ghent arrive at?
Trains from Ghent to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
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.
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre
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Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.
More options for your journey from Ghent to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Ghent
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