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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Brussels
Showing times and prices for 10 Jun
Cheapest price
£8
Average price
£12
Fastest journey
1 h 24 m
Average duration
1 h 30 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
68 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Brussels is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Brussels will cost around £12 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £8.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Essen for Brussels every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 24 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 37 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.
8:471h24Essen10:11Brussels£81One-way0 changes
6:041h37Essen7:41Brussels£131One-way0 changes- 19:471h24Essen21:11Brussels£131One-way0 changes
- 7:051h35Essen8:40Brussels£141One-way0 changes
- 8:471h24Essen10:11Brussels£81One-way0 changes
- 19:471h24Essen21:11Brussels£131One-way0 changes
- 7:051h35Essen8:40Brussels£141One-way0 changes
- 6:041h37Essen7:41Brussels£131One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Essen to Brussels
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Brussels among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £8. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £8, and a coach costs an average of £22.
Distance: 68 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£16 Average Price Cheapest | £22 Average Price |
2h 8m Average total duration 1h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 5m Average total duration Fastest 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Essen to Brussels train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Brussels trains for today, Tuesday 9 June. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2379+4530 | 8:04 Essen station | 1h32 | 9:36 Brussels-Central | 1 change | |
| 2379+4530 | 8:04 Essen station | 1h26 | 9:30 Brussels-North | 1 change | |
| 2379+4530 | 8:04 Essen station | 1h37 | 9:41 Brussels-Midi | 1 change | |
| 2031 | 8:47 Essen station | 1h13 | 10:00 Brussels-North | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2031 | 8:47 Essen station | 1h19 | 10:06 Brussels-Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2031 | 8:47 Essen station | 1h24 | 10:11 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2380+4531 | 9:05 Essen station | 1h24 | 10:29 Brussels-North | 1 change | |
| 2380+4531 | 9:05 Essen station | 1h31 | 10:36 Brussels-Central | 1 change | |
| 2380+4531 | 9:05 Essen station | 1h36 | 10:41 Brussels-Midi | 1 change | |
| 2032 | 9:47 Essen station | 1h24 | 11:11 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2032 | 9:47 Essen station | 1h13 | 11:00 Brussels-North | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2032 | 9:47 Essen station | 1h19 | 11:06 Brussels-Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2381+4532 | 10:05 Essen station | 1h36 | 11:41 Brussels-Midi | 1 change | |
| 2381+4532 | 10:05 Essen station | 1h31 | 11:36 Brussels-Central | 1 change | |
| 2381+4532 | 10:05 Essen station | 1h24 | 11:29 Brussels-North | 1 change | |
| 2033 | 10:47 Essen station | 1h19 | 12:06 Brussels-Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2033 | 10:47 Essen station | 1h24 | 12:11 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2033 | 10:47 Essen station | 1h13 | 12:00 Brussels-North | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2382+4533 | 11:05 Essen station | 1h36 | 12:41 Brussels-Midi | 1 change | |
| 2382+4533 | 11:05 Essen station | 1h31 | 12:36 Brussels-Central | 1 change | |
| 2382+4533 | 11:05 Essen station | 1h24 | 12:29 Brussels-North | 1 change | |
| 2034 | 11:47 Essen station | 1h13 | 13:00 Brussels-North | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2034 | 11:47 Essen station | 1h19 | 13:06 Brussels-Central | 0 changesdirect | |
| 2034 | 11:47 Essen station | 1h24 | 13:11 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Brussels by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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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10 Jun
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11 Jun
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12 Jun
12 Jun
Sat
13 Jun
13 Jun
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16 Jun
Why should you book Essen to Brussels trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Essen to Brussels.
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 Essen to Brussels.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Brussels.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Brussels
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Essen to Brussels run on average 16 times per day, taking around 1h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 68 km distance in 1h 24m.
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 38m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 24m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:56 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 28 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
Train companies: Intercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar from Essen to Brussels trainsIntercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar trains will get you between Essen and Brussels from £8. 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 Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Price
£8
Intercity frequency
14 a day
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
EuroCity frequency
8 a day
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 Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
£100
Eurostar frequency
3 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
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
£8
Regional frequency
6 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
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
£9
SNCB | BUS frequency
9 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
£65
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day
FAQs: Essen to Brussels train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Brussels 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 Brussels, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Brussels can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £16.
The train journey from Essen to Brussels covers a distance of 68 km and takes approximately 1h 24m. Trains run 16 per day.
The train distance from Essen to Brussels is 68 km.
The first train from Essen to Brussels leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Essen to Brussels departs at 23:56.
Trains from Essen to Brussels run approximately 16 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Essen to Brussels.
Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Brussels. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Intercity, Eurostar.
To get from Essen to Brussels, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Essen to Brussels.
The train station in Essen that goes to Brussels is Essen station, and it arrives at Brussels-Midi.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Brussels is by train, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Essen to Brussels in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Essen to Brussels offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Passengers can enjoy views of the German countryside, including fields and small towns, before crossing into Belgium, where the scenery includes rolling hills and quaint villages. While not as dramatic as some European routes, it provides a pleasant and varied backdrop.
Yes, a day trip from Essen to Brussels is feasible. The journey takes 1h 24m and there are 8 trains per day covering a distance of 68 km.
Explore the vibrant Marolles district, known for its eclectic mix of antique shops and street art. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire, home to impressive arches and museums. Sample Belgian chocolates at renowned chocolatiers, and discover the lively atmosphere of the Saint-Géry district with trendy bars and cafes. Attend a performance at the historic La Monnaie opera house. Visit Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Atomium for panoramic city views, the famous Manneken Pis statue, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and the Magritte Museum for surrealist art.
To explore Brussels' main attractions, including the Grand Place, Atomium, and various museums, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Brussels.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Brussels
Essen
Brussels
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen for your trip from Essen to Brussels.
Essen
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
Wildert
Amenities at train station
DiningATMAccessibilityBike ParkingThe major train station for arrivals in Brussels is Bruxelles-Midi. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bruxelles-Midi for your journey to Brussels from Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket OfficeBike 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
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Brussels
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brussels and Essen
Most popular train connections to Brussels
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