ESSEN to BRUSSELS train from £9 with Intercity

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Brussels

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 28 Oct

Cheapest price on 28 Oct

£13

Average ticket price on 28 Oct

£13

Fastest journey on 28 Oct

1 h 12 m

Average journey duration on 28 Oct

1 h 13 m

Trains on 28 Oct

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 £13 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.

Fast trains

On Wed 28 Oct, we found 60 trains from Essen to Brussels, including 30 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 12 m .

The slowest trains will take 1 h 13 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.

2034
11:471h19
Essen station
13:06Brussels-Central
£131One-way
0 changes
2379+4530
8:051h31
Essen station
9:36Brussels-Central
£131One-way
1 change
2033
10:471h13
Essen station
12:00Brussels-North
£131One-way
0 changes
2382+4533
11:051h24
Essen station
12:29Brussels-North
£131One-way
1 change
2382+4533
11:051h36
Essen station
12:41Brussels-Midi
£131One-way
1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Brussels

Belgium

Trains from Essen to Brussels run on average 24 times per day, taking around 1h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.

There are 10 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 6m.

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 21m

Cheapest ticket price

£9

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

1h 6m

First train

0:01

Last train

23:56

Cheapest Month

Feb

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sept

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Thu

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Brussels trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Brussels.

The cost of a train ticket from Essen to Brussels can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £13.

The train journey from Essen to Brussels covers a distance of 68 km and takes approximately 1h 6m. Trains run 24 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 24 times per day.

Yes, there is a direct train between Essen and Brussels. The service operates 10 times per day, provided by Intercity.

Live departures

Essen to Brussels train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Brussels trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 28 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
2377+4528	6:05 Essen station	1h24	7:29 Brussels-North	1 change
2377+4528	6:05 Essen station	1h36	7:41 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2377+4528	6:05 Essen station	1h31	7:36 Brussels-Central	1 change
2029	6:47 Essen station	1h13	8:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2029	6:47 Essen station	1h19	8:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2029	6:47 Essen station	1h24	8:11 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect
2378+4529	7:05 Essen station	1h36	8:41 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2378+4529	7:05 Essen station	1h31	8:36 Brussels-Central	1 change
2378+4529	7:05 Essen station	1h24	8:29 Brussels-North	1 change
2030	7:47 Essen station	1h24	9:11 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect
2030	7:47 Essen station	1h13	9:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2030	7:47 Essen station	1h19	9:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2379+4530	8:05 Essen station	1h36	9:41 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2379+4530	8:05 Essen station	1h24	9:29 Brussels-North	1 change
2379+4530	8:05 Essen station	1h31	9:36 Brussels-Central	1 change
2031	8:47 Essen station	1h13	10:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2031	8:47 Essen station	1h24	10:11 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect
2031	8:47 Essen station	1h19	10:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2380+4531	9:04 Essen station	1h32	10:36 Brussels-Central	1 change
2380+4531	9:04 Essen station	1h26	10:30 Brussels-North	1 change
2380+4531	9:04 Essen station	1h37	10:41 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2032	9:47 Essen station	1h19	11:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2032	9:47 Essen station	1h13	11:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2032	9:47 Essen station	1h24	11:11 Brussels-Midi	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	1h13	12:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2033	10:47 Essen station	1h19	12:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2033	10:47 Essen station	1h24	12:11 Brussels-Midi	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	1h19	13:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2034	11:47 Essen station	1h24	13:11 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect
2034	11:47 Essen station	1h13	13:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2383+4534	12:05 Essen station	1h31	13:36 Brussels-Central	1 change
2383+4534	12:05 Essen station	1h36	13:41 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2383+4534	12:05 Essen station	1h24	13:29 Brussels-North	1 change
2035	12:47 Essen station	1h19	14:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2035	12:47 Essen station	1h24	14:11 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect
2035	12:47 Essen station	1h13	14:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2384+4535	13:05 Essen station	1h31	14:36 Brussels-Central	1 change
2384+4535	13:05 Essen station	1h24	14:29 Brussels-North	1 change
2384+4535	13:05 Essen station	1h36	14:41 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2036	13:47 Essen station	1h13	15:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2036	13:47 Essen station	1h24	15:11 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect
2036	13:47 Essen station	1h19	15:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2385+4536	14:05 Essen station	1h24	15:29 Brussels-North	1 change
2385+4536	14:05 Essen station	1h31	15:36 Brussels-Central	1 change
2385+4536	14:05 Essen station	1h36	15:41 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2037	14:47 Essen station	1h19	16:06 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2037	14:47 Essen station	1h13	16:00 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2037	14:47 Essen station	1h24	16:11 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect
2386+4537	15:05 Essen station	1h35	16:40 Brussels-Midi	1 change
2386+4537	15:05 Essen station	1h24	16:29 Brussels-North	1 change
2386+4537	15:05 Essen station	1h30	16:35 Brussels-Central	1 change
2038	15:47 Essen station	1h12	16:59 Brussels-North	0 changesdirect
2038	15:47 Essen station	1h18	17:05 Brussels-Central	0 changesdirect
2038	15:47 Essen station	1h23	17:10 Brussels-Midi	0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen to Brussels trains with Omio?

Intercity as well as Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Eurocity Direct 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 Eurocity Direct 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.

Train companies: Intercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Eurocity Direct, Eurostar from Essen to Brussels trainsIntercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Eurocity Direct, Eurostar trains will get you between Essen and Brussels from £9. 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 6m

Cheapest Intercity Price

£9

Intercity frequency

16 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

Learn more about Intercity

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 28m

Cheapest EuroCity Price

£9

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 Eurostar Duration

1h 52m

Cheapest Eurostar Price

£92

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 Regional Duration

1h 12m

Cheapest Regional Price

£9

Regional frequency

10 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 SNCB | BUS Duration

1h 53m

Cheapest SNCB | BUS Price

£9

SNCB | BUS frequency

8 a day

Eurocity Direct

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Eurocity Direct Duration

2h 18m

Cheapest Eurocity Direct Price

£44

Eurocity Direct frequency

4 a day

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Brussels

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Essen to Brussels.

There is no night train service from Essen to Brussels.

Complete guide to Brussels

Things to do in Brussels

Discover the best of Brussels — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brussels trip today.

Must visit

Magritte Museum

Compact museum dedicated to René Magritte, presenting paintings, archives and context for Belgium’s celebrated Surrealist artist.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Oldmasters Museum

Major fine arts museum with Flemish, Belgian and European works, ideal for tracing artistic developments across centuries.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Horta Museum

Art Nouveau house designed by Victor Horta, offering an intimate look at architecture, interiors and decorative detail.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and restaurants are not cheap, but public transport is reasonable and budget eats are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range: €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €3-5 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small change is appreciated in cafés, but not expected.

Plan your visit to Brussels

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Brussels.

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.

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.

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.

Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Brussels.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Brussels

Most Essen to Brussels trains use the Essen to Bruxelles-Central station pair, with some services arriving at Bruxelles-Midi. Use this guide to compare Essen and Brussels train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen

Arrival train stations in Brussels

Which Essen station do trains to Brussels leave from?

Trains from Essen to Brussels leave from Essen. The station is from Essen city centre at 2910 Essen, Belgium.

Essen2910 Essen, Belgium Parking

City-centre transport

Getting to Essen from Essen city centre

TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · £40 · every ~4 min

Ice · 4h 58m · £46

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.

Which Brussels station do trains from Essen arrive at?

Trains from Essen to Brussels most often arrive at Bruxelles-Central. Some services arrive at Bruxelles-Midi, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Brussels arrival station.

Bruxelles-CentralCarr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium+32 25282828 Wifi

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.