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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels to Essen
Showing times and prices for 11 Mar
Cheapest price
£53
Average price
£70
Fastest journey
2 h 50 m
Average duration
2 h 52 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
198 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 £70 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £53.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Brussels for Essen every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 198 km distance in an average of 2 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 50 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 53 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.
ICE 13 · ICE 54708:252h53
Brussels-Midi11:18Essen Hbf
£531One-way
1 change
945917:252h50
Brussels-Midi20:15Essen Hbf
£701One-way
0 changes
ICE 15 · ICE 54910:252h53
Brussels-Midi13:18Essen Hbf
£731One-way
1 change
ICE 315 · ICE 64112:252h53
Brussels-Midi15:18Essen Hbf
£731One-way
1 change
947119:252h50
Brussels-Midi22:15Essen Hbf
£801One-way
0 changes
945917:252h50
Brussels-Midi20:15Essen Hbf
£701One-way
0 changes
947119:252h50
Brussels-Midi22:15Essen Hbf
£801One-way
0 changes
ICE 13 · ICE 54708:252h53
Brussels-Midi11:18Essen Hbf
£531One-way
1 change
ICE 15 · ICE 54910:252h53
Brussels-Midi13:18Essen Hbf
£731One-way
1 change
ICE 315 · ICE 64112:252h53
Brussels-Midi15:18Essen Hbf
£731One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Brussels to Essen
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 7m. 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 coach costs an average of £13, and a flight costs an average of £96.
Distance: 198 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£73 Average Price | £19 Average Price Cheapest | £241 Average Price |
3h 37m Average total duration Fastest 3h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration 4h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 48m Average total duration 6h 48m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Brussels to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Essen trains for today, Tuesday 10 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 03:09
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 13 · ICE 547 | On time 07:25 Brussels-Midi | 2h53 | 10:18 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 15 · ICE 549 | On time 09:25 Brussels-Midi | 2h53 | 12:18 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 315 · ICE 641 | On time 11:25 Brussels-Midi | 2h53 | 14:18 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| 9459 | 16:25 Brussels-Midi | 2h50 | 19:15 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9471 | 18:25 Brussels-Midi | 2h50 | 21:15 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Brussels to Essen by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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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11 Mar
11 Mar
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Why should you book Brussels to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB and more offer trains services from Brussels to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or SNCB 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Brussels to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Brussels to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Brussels to Essen
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Brussels to Essen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 22:56. The fastest train covers the 198 km distance in 1h 37m.
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
Coach from £13
Distance 198 km |
Average train duration 3h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 37m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 22:56 |
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
Coach from £13
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB from Brussels to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB trains will get you between Brussels and Essen from £13. 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 Duration
1h 37m
Cheapest Price
£36
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
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 Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
£39
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest 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 Duration
4h 34m
Cheapest Price
£39
SNCB frequency
1 a day
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 £36, while the average price tends to be around £73.
The train journey from Brussels to Essen covers a distance of 198 km and takes approximately 1h 37m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Brussels to Essen is 198 km.
The first train from Brussels to Essen leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Brussels to Essen departs at 22:56.
Trains from Brussels to Essen run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Brussels and Essen. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Eurostar.
To get from Brussels to Essen, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Brussels to Essen.
The train station in Brussels that goes to Essen is Brussels-Midi, and it arrives at Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels to Essen is by coach, costing approximately £13.
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 is not typically considered scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas, offering limited picturesque views.
A day trip from Brussels to Essen is not feasible due to the journey duration of 1h 37m. However, there are 9 trains available per day for this route.
To fully experience Essen's cultural and historical highlights, plan for 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Brussels to Essen.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Brussels and Essen
Brussels
Essen
The major train station for departures in Brussels is Bruxelles-Midi. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bruxelles-Midi for your trip from Brussels to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 21:30
Wifi
- Wi-Fi is available for a fee.
Lockers
- Baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Dining
- Pullman Hotel Bar
- Quick Gare du Midi
- Subway
- EXKi Zuid
- Starbucks
- Häagen-Dazs
- Sbarro
- The Coffee Club
- The Belgian Chocolate House
- PAUL
- & many more
Accessibility
- 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.
Hotel
- Les Lofts De Styliste
- Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi
- Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
Information Desk
- Located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Dining
- Starbucks
- Brasserie 28 Brewery
- Panos
- Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Accessibility
- 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.
Hotel
- Hilton Brussels Grand Palace
- Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe
- Hôtel The Moon
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Public transport options for Bruxelles-Central
- Metro lines: 1, 5
- Train lines: IC, Intercity Direct 9200, RER (S1, S2, S3, S6, S8, S10)
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Rue du Progrès.
Dining
- Chabrol Brasserie
- Winok Café
- Félix Wine Bar
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Progress
- Hilton Brussels City
- Hotel Siru
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 7-12 for regional and local trains
Public transport options for Brussels-Nord
- Metro: Line 3, Line 4
- Tram: Line 25, Line 55
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from Brussels.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Essen West
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
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
Most popular train connections to Essen
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