- 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 Zaventem to Essen
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$85
Fastest journey
3 h 45 m
Average duration
4 h 7 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
188 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zaventem to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zaventem to Essen will cost around $85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Zaventem for Essen on Thu, Aug 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 188 km distance in an average of 4 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 45 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 4 h 18 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.
6:56 AM4h18Zaventem11:14 AMEssen$761One-way0 transfers
4:05 PM3h45Zaventem7:50 PMEssen$841One-way0 transfers- 1:56 PM4h18Zaventem6:14 PMEssen$941One-way0 transfers
- 4:05 PM3h45Zaventem7:50 PMEssen$841One-way0 transfers
- 1:56 PM4h18Zaventem6:14 PMEssen$941One-way0 transfers
- 6:56 AM4h18Zaventem11:14 AMEssen$761One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zaventem to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Zaventem to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 55m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $26, and a flight costs an average of $183.
Distance: 116 miles (188 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$89 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $307 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 28m Average total duration 3h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 17m Average total duration 9h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Zaventem to Essen is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Zaventem to Essen:
A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zaventem to Essen costing on average $89 (€73).
A bus is $272 (€222) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zaventem to Essen costing on average $307 (€250).
The fastest way to travel from Zaventem to Essen is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 55m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 58m.
Flight takes on average 9h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zaventem and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Zaventem to Essen 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 $89 (€73) compared to roughly $44 (€36) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-44.59 (€-36.31). The journey takes 3h 58m versus 2h 39m 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
Zaventem to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Zaventem to Essen trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:56 AM Zaventem | 4h18 | 11:14 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zaventem to Essen by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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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Why should you book Zaventem to Essen trains with Omio?
SNCB operates all trains services from Zaventem to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zaventem to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs SNCB?
- 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 SNCB with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zaventem to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zaventem to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zaventem to Essen
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Zaventem to Essen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 (€57) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:46, the last at 22:42. The fastest train covers the 116 miles (188 km) distance in 3h 13m.
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 $26 (€21)
Distance 116 miles (188 km) |
Average train duration 3h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€57) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 13m |
First train 12:46 AM |
Last train 10:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 4 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 $26 (€21)
Train companies: SNCB from Zaventem to Essen trainsSNCB trains will get you between Zaventem and Essen from $26 (€21). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
3h 16m
Cheapest Price
$130 (€106)
SNCB frequency
3 a day
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 Zaventem to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zaventem 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 Zaventem to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70 (€57), while the average price is around $89 (€73).
The train from Zaventem to Essen takes 3h 13m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Zaventem to Essen leaves at 12:46 AM.
The distance by train from Zaventem to Essen is 116 miles (188 km).
The last train from Zaventem to Essen leaves at 10:42 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zaventem to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zaventem to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zaventem to Essen.
The train station in Zaventem that goes to Essen is Brussels National Airport, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Zaventem to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
The train journey from Zaventem to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of Belgian countryside, small towns, and occasional glimpses of industrial areas, providing a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Zaventem to Essen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 13m, and the distance is 116 miles (188 km). However, there are 4 train trips available per day.
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Zaventem to Essen.
Since both Zaventem and Essen 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 Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Zaventem to Essen 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.
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 Zaventem to Essen
Most Zaventem to Essen trains use the Brussels Airport-Zaventem to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen Süd. Use this guide to compare Zaventem and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zaventem
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Zaventem station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Zaventem to Essen leave from Brussels Airport-Zaventem. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zaventem city centre at Brussels National Airport, 1930 Zaventem, Belgium.
Zaventem1930 Zaventem, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Zaventem from Zaventem city centre
BusR26, 82, 530 · 3m · $4 · every ~11 min
Zaventem train station facilities and services
Zaventem has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Belair, Black Pearls
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zaventem. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zaventem. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zaventem: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zaventem: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zaventem: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel, Crowne Plaza Brussels Airport, NH Brussels Airport.
Which Essen station do trains from Zaventem arrive at?
Trains from Zaventem to Essen most often arrive at Essen Hbf. Some services arrive at Essen Süd, 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 SüdEssen Süd, Rellinghauser Str.175, 45136 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Süd from Essen city centre
Essen Süd is 1 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS6 · 2m · $1 · every ~6 min
BusS6 · 10m · $4
Tram105 · 9m · every ~10 min
Essen Süd train station facilities and services
Essen Süd 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, Haus Wilmes, Mana Mana, Karawane
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Süd. ATMs are available at Essen Süd.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Süd. Information desks are available at Essen Süd.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Süd.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Webers.
Essen WestEssen West, Am Westbahnhof 1, 45144 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen West from Essen city centre
Essen West is 2 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe14 · 2m · $1 · every ~1 min
BusRb33, S1, S9, S3 · 12m · $4
Tram101 · 24m · every ~10 min
Essen West train station facilities and services
Essen West 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: Pizzeria Don Camillo, Lindos, Zur Platte, Arman Döner
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen West. ATMs are available at Essen West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen West. Information desks are available at Essen West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include McDreams.
Most popular train connections from Zaventem
More options for your journey from Zaventem to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Zaventem
Most popular train connections to Essen
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