- Recommended
Heemkundig Museum
Local museum presenting the history of Essen and its border region through objects, archives and changing displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£8
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£11
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
1 h 23 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
1 h 23 m
Trains on 18 Sept
2
Distance
68 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Brussels to Essen will cost around £11 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £8.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from Brussels to Essen, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 23 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 23 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.
10:501h23Brussels12:13Essen£81One-way0 changes- 9:501h23Brussels11:13Essen£151One-way0 changes
- 10:501h23Brussels12:13Essen£81One-way0 changes
- 9:501h23Brussels11:13Essen£151One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Brussels to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £15 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 9m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £15, while a coach costs an average of £23.
Distance: 68 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£15 Average Price Cheapest | £23 Average Price | £34 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 7m Average total duration 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is a train with an average price of £12.
The fastest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Brussels and Essen including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 9m faster (1h 21m by train vs 1h 30m by car) and roughly £22 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£12 vs £34). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Eurostar.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Brussels to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Essen trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
4507+ 2358 | 8:25 Brussels-Central | 1h30 | 9:55 Essen station | 1 change | |
| 4507+2358 | 8:34 Brussels-North | 1h21 | 9:55 Essen station | 1 change | |
| 2007 | 8:50 Brussels-Midi | 1h23 | 10:13 Essen station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2007 | 8:55 Brussels-Central | 1h18 | 10:13 Essen station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2007 | 9:03 Brussels-North | 1h10 | 10:13 Essen station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 4508+2359 | 9:20 Brussels-Midi | 1h35 | 10:55 Essen station | 1 change | |
| 4508+2359 | 9:25 Brussels-Central | 1h30 | 10:55 Essen station | 1 change | |
| 4508+2359 | 9:33 Brussels-North | 1h22 | 10:55 Essen station | 1 change | |
| 2008 | 9:50 Brussels-Midi | 1h23 | 11:13 Essen station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2008 | 9:55 Brussels-Central | 1h18 | 11:13 Essen station | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Brussels to Essen by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Brussels to Essen trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Brussels to Essen.
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, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Brussels to Essen.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Brussels to Essen
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Brussels to Essen run on average 23 times per day, taking around 1h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £10 if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:36, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 68 km distance in 1h 23m.
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 68 km |
Average train duration 1h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price £10 |
Trains per day 23 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 1h 23m |
First train 0:36 |
Last train 23:32 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, SNCB from Brussels to Essen trainsIntercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, SNCB trains will get you between Brussels and Essen 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 23m
Cheapest Intercity Price
£14
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
EuroCity
About
EuroCity (EC) is an international train category and brand for inter-city trains that cross international borders within Europe. These trains are a collaboration between various European rail companies, including Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), and ÖBB (Austria). EuroCity trains connect major cities across Europe, offering both first and second-class coaches. They are known for meeting specific criteria for comfort, speed, cleanliness, and onboard food service, including air-conditioned cars and dining facilities. EuroCity services aim to provide convenient and comfortable cross-border travel, with stops typically lasting no more than 5 to 15 minutes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average EuroCity Duration
1h 44m
Cheapest EuroCity Price
£10
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro service available on most routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurostar Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
£99
Eurostar frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
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
Regional frequency
8 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
SNCB | BUS
Luggage & cancellation policy
SNCB | BUS frequency
14 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
£56
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 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 SNCB Duration
4h 34m
Cheapest SNCB Price
£39
SNCB frequency
1 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.
- Recommended
De Mertensmolen
Historic watermill site with interpretive displays about milling, rural life and the surrounding stream landscape.
Spoorwegmuseum
Small railway heritage museum near the station, with exhibits on local rail history and cross-border connections.
- Must visit
Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide
Large cross-border nature park with forests, heath and walking trails; one of the area’s best places for outdoor exploration.
- Recommended
Heuvelplein
Historic town square with civic buildings, terraces and regular local activity; a useful starting point for exploring Essen.
- Recommended
Horendonkbos
Woodland and heath landscape with marked trails and quiet scenery, popular with walkers and cyclists seeking a local favourite.
Stoofvlees
Hearty Flemish beef and onion stew simmered with dark beer and mustard. A beloved regional comfort dish across northern Belgium.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frieten
Crisp Belgian chips, traditionally double-fried and often served with mayonnaise. A classic everyday speciality found throughout Flanders.
Filet americain
Open-faced sandwich topped with minced raw beef, often seasoned with capers, onion and spices. A traditional brasserie favourite in Belgium.
De Zwaan
Refined dining spot in the wider Essen region offering seasonal plates and a quieter atmosphere suited to a longer meal.
De Heuvelhoeve
Traditional brasserie in the nearby Kalmthout area known for Belgian classics, seasonal dishes and a relaxed local atmosphere.
De Taverne
Established bistro-style address in Essen serving Belgian and French-inspired dishes in a friendly, informal setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are similar to nearby Flemish towns, while local buses and trains keep transport costs manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €55+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up small bills in cafés, leave 5-10% for very good restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.00
- Day pass
- >= €7.50
To the city centre
Brussels Airport-Zaventem railway station -> Bruxelles-Central, Brussels
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 18 min
- You can pay contactlessly on all De Lijn buses and trams with a bank card, phone or wearable.
- Buy tickets in the De Lijn app or in advance; on-vehicle contactless travel is valid, but driver cash payment is not available.
FAQs: Brussels to Essen train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Brussels to Essen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £10, while the average price tends to be around £15.
The train journey from Brussels to Essen covers a distance of 68 km and takes approximately 1h 23m. Trains run 23 per day.
The train distance from Brussels to Essen is 68 km.
The first train from Brussels to Essen leaves at 0:36.
The last train from Brussels to Essen departs at 23:32.
Trains from Brussels to Essen run approximately 23 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Brussels to Essen.
Yes, there is a direct train between Brussels and Essen. The service operates 9 times per day, provided by Eurostar.
To get from Brussels to Essen, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Brussels to Essen.
The train station in Brussels that goes to Essen is Brussels-Central, and it arrives at Essen station.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels to Essen is by train, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Brussels to Essen in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Brussels to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the Belgian countryside with views of fields and small towns. While not renowned as a particularly scenic route, passengers can enjoy the changing landscapes typical of the region.
Yes, a day trip from Brussels to Essen is feasible with a travel time of 1h 23m, a distance of 68 km, and a train frequency of 9 per day.
You typically need about two to three days in Essen to explore its main attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Zollverein Coal Mine, the Museum Folkwang, and the Grugapark botanical garden.
Yes, you can take the train from Brussels to Essen.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Brussels and Essen
Most Brussels to Essen trains use the Bruxelles-Central to Essen station pair. Use this guide to compare Brussels and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Brussels
Arrival train stations in Essen
Which Brussels station do trains to Essen leave from?
Trains from Brussels to Essen leave from Bruxelles-Central. The station is 1 km from Brussels city centre at Carr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.
Bruxelles-CentralCarr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium+32 25282828
City-centre transport
Getting to Bruxelles-Central from Brussels city centre
Bus29, 63, 65, 66, 87, 89 · 5m · £3 · every ~17 min
Subway1, 5 · 1m · £3 · every ~38 min
Bruxelles-Central train station facilities and services
Bruxelles-Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Starbucks, Brasserie 28 Brewery, Panos, Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks. ATMs are aTM machine is downstairs from the main entrance on the right side.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00. Information desks are travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Central: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton Brussels Grand Palace, Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe, Hôtel The Moon.
Bruxelles-Midi47B Avenue Fonsny, 1060 Brussels, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Bruxelles-Midi from Brussels city centre
TrainEuroCity · 4m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Ice · 14m · £0.90
Bus48 · 16m · £3 · every ~9 min
Bus · 20m
FlixBus N1153 · 29m · £0.90
Subway2, 6 · 18m · £3 · every ~38 min
Bruxelles-Midi train station facilities and services
Bruxelles-Midi has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pullman Hotel Bar, Quick Gare du Midi, Subway, EXKi Zuid, Starbucks, Häagen-Dazs, Sbarro, The Coffee Club, The Belgian Chocolate House, PAUL, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are available at Bruxelles-Midi.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bruxelles-Midi. Information desks are located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Midi: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Les Lofts De Styliste, Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi, Pullman Brussels Centre Midi.
Brussels-NordRue du Progrès 76, Vooruitgangstraat 76, 1030 Schaerbeek, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Brussels-Nord from Brussels city centre
Brussels-Nord is 1 km from Brussels city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainP, S3, Ec, T, Ic, Ext, L, S1, S10, S4, S2, S8 · 4m · £0.90 · every ~58 min
Bus88 · 6m · £3 · every ~10 min
R24, 728, R28 · 7m · £3 · every ~10 min
Tram4, 10 · 4m · £3 · every ~34 min
10, 4 · 5m · £3 · every ~34 min
Brussels-Nord train station facilities and services
Brussels-Nord 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: Chabrol Brasserie, Winok Café, Félix Wine Bar
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brussels-Nord. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Brussels-Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brussels-Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Brussels-Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brussels-Nord: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Progress, Hilton Brussels City, Hotel Siru.
Which Essen station do trains from Brussels arrive at?
Trains from Brussels to Essen arrive at Essen. Essen is from Essen city centre.
Essen2910 Essen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen from Essen city centre
TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · £40 · every ~4 min
Ice · 4h 58m · £47
Bus023 · 4h 5m · £20
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.
Most popular train connections from Brussels
More options for your journey from Brussels to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Brussels
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