- Must visit
Groninger Museum
Leading museum in a bold postmodern building, known for modern art, design, and changing exhibitions beside the station.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Ghent to Groningen
Showing times and prices for Aug 17
Cheapest price
$58
Average price
$71
Fastest journey
4 h 45 m
Average duration
4 h 59 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
310 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ghent to Groningen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ghent to Groningen will cost around $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Ghent for Groningen on Mon, Aug 17, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 17 the direct trains cover the 310 km distance in an average of 4 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 45 m .
On Mon, Aug 17 the slowest trains will take 5 h 15 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.
8:27 AM4h45Ghent1:12 PMGroningen$581One-way0 transfers- 11:00 AM5h12Ghent4:12 PMGroningen$621One-way0 transfers
4:27 AM5h15Ghent9:42 AMGroningen$771One-way0 transfers- 9:27 AM4h45Ghent2:12 PMGroningen$861One-way0 transfers
- 8:27 AM4h45Ghent1:12 PMGroningen$581One-way0 transfers
- 9:27 AM4h45Ghent2:12 PMGroningen$861One-way0 transfers
- 11:00 AM5h12Ghent4:12 PMGroningen$621One-way0 transfers
- 4:27 AM5h15Ghent9:42 AMGroningen$771One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Ghent to Groningen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ghent to Groningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $32, and a train costs an average of $43.
Distance: 192 miles (310 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$61 Average price | $57 Average price Cheapest | $86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 4h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 57m Average total duration 6h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Ghent to Groningen is a bus with an average price of $53 (€43).
This is compared to other travel options from Ghent to Groningen:
A bus is $8 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ghent to Groningen costing on average $61 (€50).
The fastest way to travel from Ghent to Groningen is by train with an average journey time of 4h 21m.
Other travel options to Groningen take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ghent and Groningen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ghent to Groningen 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 $61 (€50) compared to roughly $86 (€70) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $25 (€20). The journey takes 4h 21m versus 4h 18m 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
Ghent to Groningen train times
The table below shows live departures for Ghent to Groningen trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:27 AM Ghent | 5h15 | 9:42 AM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:27 AM Ghent | 4h45 | 1:12 PM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:27 AM Ghent | 4h45 | 2:12 PM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:00 AM Ghent | 5h12 | 4:12 PM Groningen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Ghent to Groningen by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Mon
Aug 17
Aug 17
Tue
Aug 18
Aug 18
Wed
Aug 19
Aug 19
Thu
Aug 20
Aug 20
Fri
Aug 21
Aug 21
Sat
Aug 22
Aug 22
Sun
Aug 23
Aug 23
Why should you book Ghent to Groningen trains with Omio?
NS International | IC Brussel as well as Eurocity Direct, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCB and more offer trains services from Ghent to Groningen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for NS International | IC Brussel tickets.
Why book with Omio vs NS International | IC Brussel?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for NS International | IC Brussel, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurocity Direct, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Ghent to Groningen.
- 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 NS International | IC Brussel with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ghent to Groningen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Ghent to Groningen
Belgium
Netherlands
Trains from Ghent to Groningen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:08, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 192 miles (310 km) distance in 4h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $32 (€26)
Distance 192 miles (310 km) |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 32m |
First train 1:08 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $32 (€26)
Train companies: NS International | IC Brussel, Eurocity Direct, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCB from Ghent to Groningen trainsNS International | IC Brussel, Eurocity Direct, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCB trains will get you between Ghent and Groningen from $32 (€26). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
NS International | IC Brussel
About
NS International, a subsidiary of the Dutch state-owned railway Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), operates international intercity and high-speed connections to various European cities, including Brussels. The "IC Brussel" refers to their Intercity service connecting the Netherlands and Belgium. These trains offer a direct and comfortable way to travel between major cities like Amsterdam and Brussels. As of late 2024, NS International, in collaboration with the Belgian railway company SNCB, is introducing new Intercity New Generation (ICNG) trains on the Brussels-Amsterdam route. These new trains are faster, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h, and offer amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and power sockets. They aim to significantly reduce travel times and increase the frequency of services between the two countries.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
NS International | IC Brussel frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car available with hot and cold meals, drinks. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in first class, optional for second class at additional cost
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance for boarding/alighting available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Eurocity Direct
Luggage & cancellation policy
Eurocity Direct frequency
5 a day
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 23m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€78)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
9 a day
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 6m
Cheapest Price
$184 (€149)
SNCB frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Groningen
Things to do in Groningen
Discover the best of Groningen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Groningen trip today.
- Recommended
Universiteitsmuseum Groningen
University museum with interactive science and medical exhibits, ideal for learning about research and discovery in Groningen.
- Recommended
Noorderlicht
Photography gallery presenting contemporary visual culture, documentary work, and thought-provoking exhibitions in the city center.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
Grand central square framed by key landmarks, markets, events, and historic architecture; the natural starting point for exploring Groningen.
- Must visit
Noorderplantsoen
Green park with ponds, paths, and open lawns, popular for walks, relaxing, and open-air events near the center.
- Must visit
Hoge der A
Scenic canal-side route ideal for walking, with houseboats, bridges, and classic Groningen waterside views.
- Vegetarian
Groninger Koek
A rich spiced cake from Groningen made with rye flour and syrup. It is a classic regional treat, often enjoyed sliced with butter.
- Vegetarian
Nieuwolda Koek
A small round biscuit from nearby Nieuwolda, known across Groningen. Its crisp texture and caramelized sugar flavor make it a beloved local sweet.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Roggebrood
A local rye bread specialty, dark and dense, traditionally baked in the northern provinces and commonly served with cheese or cured meats.
Voilà
Popular modern venue with creative seasonal plates, good wines, and a relaxed stylish atmosphere in the city center.
Restaurant Nassau
Well-known Groningen restaurant serving refined French and Dutch cuisine in an elegant, classic atmosphere.
Eetcafe de Scholier
Casual, reputable dining spot with quality Dutch and international dishes, known for consistent food and warm service.
Euro (€)
Moderate for the Netherlands: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transport is manageable, and student-focused spots help keep daily costs reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small tips in cafes are optional.
9292
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.59
- Day pass
- €6.50
To the city center
Groningen Airport Eelde -> Grote Markt, Groningen
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Check in and out with your OV-chipkaart or contactless bank card on Qbuzz buses.
- Buy regional bus tickets in the Qbuzz app or use 9292 to plan journeys and fares.
FAQs: Trains from Ghent to Groningen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ghent to Groningen 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 Groningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Ghent to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43 (€35), while the average price is around $61 (€50).
The train from Ghent to Groningen takes 4h 32m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Ghent to Groningen is 192 miles (310 km).
The first train from Ghent to Groningen leaves at 1:08 AM.
The last train from Ghent to Groningen leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Ghent to Groningen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Ghent to Groningen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ghent to Groningen.
The train station in Ghent that goes to Groningen is Ghent St Pieters, which connects to Groningen station.
The cheapest way to get from Ghent to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $32 (€26).
The train journey from Ghent to Groningen offers a pleasant mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque Belgian countryside and Dutch farmlands, with views of charming towns and waterways along the route.
A day trip from Ghent to Groningen is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 32m and the distance is 192 miles (310 km). There are 6 trains available per day.
In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.
Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.
Yes, you can take the train from Ghent to Groningen.
Since both Ghent and Groningen 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 Groningen include Leer, Oldenburg, Zwolle, Emden, Arnhem.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ghent to Groningen 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Groningen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Bicycle theft is common, so securing bikes with strong locks is essential. Be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis. Always use official taxi services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
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 Groningen
Most Ghent to Groningen trains use the Gent St Pieters to Groningen station pair, with some services arriving at Groningen Europapark. Use this guide to compare Ghent and Groningen 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 Groningen
Which Ghent station do trains to Groningen leave from?
Trains from Ghent to Groningen 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.
Which Groningen station do trains from Ghent arrive at?
Trains from Ghent to Groningen most often arrive at Groningen. Some services arrive at Groningen Noord, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Groningen arrival station.
GroningenStationsweg 3, 9726 AC Groningen, Netherlands+31 50 316 1111
City-centre transport
Getting to Groningen from Groningen city centre
Bus1, 3, 4, 10 · 6m · $5 · every ~21 min
Groningen train station facilities and services
Groningen 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, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: De Drie Gezusters, Mr. Mofongo
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Groningen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Groningen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Groningen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Groningen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Groningen Hotel, The Student Hotel Groningen, City Hotel Groningen.
Groningen NoordGroningen Noord, Groningen, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Groningen Noord from Groningen city centre
Groningen Noord is 1 km from Groningen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainStoptrein RS4, Stoptrein RS5, Stoptrein RS7, Stoptrein RS6 · 4m · $2 · every ~8 min
Bus171, 2 · 5m · $4 · every ~3 min
1, 10, 11 · 7m · $4 · every ~14 min
Stopbus ipv trein · 9m · $2
Groningen Noord train station facilities and services
Groningen Noord has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Groningen Noord.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Groningen Noord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Groningen Noord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen Noord: Ramps.
Groningen Europapark9723 ZR Groningen, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Groningen Europapark from Groningen city centre
Groningen Europapark is 1 km from Groningen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSprinter, Intercity · 2m · $2
Stoptrein RS4, Stoptrein RS5, Stoptrein RS6 · 10m · $2 · every ~7 min
Bus2 · 10m · $4 · every ~2 min
Groningen Europapark train station facilities and services
Groningen Europapark has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Groningen Europapark.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Groningen Europapark.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Groningen Europapark: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Groningen Europapark: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen Europapark.
Most popular train connections from Ghent
More options for your journey from Ghent to Groningen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Groningen and Ghent
Most popular train connections to Groningen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
