Essen to Brussels train with Intercity

Sun 13 Sept
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Intercity
Regional
EuroCity
SNCB | BUS
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
2,000+ travel companies
Intercity
Regional
EuroCity
SNCB | BUS
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Brussels

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Sept

Cheapest price on 13 Sept

£10

Average ticket price on 13 Sept

£41

Fastest journey on 13 Sept

1 h 45 m

Average journey duration on 13 Sept

1 h 59 m

Trains on 13 Sept

3

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 £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £10.

Fast trains

On Sun 13 Sept, we found 3 trains from Essen to Brussels, including 3 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 45 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 28 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.

  • Regional
    9:321h45
    Essen
    11:17Brussels
    £101One-way
    0 changes
  • Regional
    8:321h45
    Essen
    10:17Brussels
    £101One-way
    0 changes
  • Regional
    8:382h28
    Essen
    11:06Brussels
    £1031One-way
    0 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 an average ticket price of £14 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 1h 5m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £14, while a coach costs an average of £22.

Distance: 68 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Driving

£14

Average Price

Cheapest

£22

Average Price

£35

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 7m

Average total duration

1h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Intercity

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Brussels is a train with an average price of £14.

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Brussels:

A train is £7 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Essen to Brussels costing on average £22.

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Brussels is by coach with an average journey time of 35m.

Other travel options to Brussels take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 37m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Brussels including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 3m faster (1h 37m by train vs 1h 40m by car) and roughly £20 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£14 vs £35). 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 Intercity, Eurostar.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Essen to Brussels train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Brussels trains for today, Saturday 12 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Regional10:39 Essen
2h27
13:06 Brussels0 changesdirect
Sunday 13 September
Regional8:32 Essen
1h45
10:17 Brussels0 changesdirect
Regional8:38 Essen
2h28
11:06 Brussels0 changesdirect
Regional9:32 Essen
1h45
11:17 Brussels0 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.

Sun
13 Sept
Mon
14 Sept
Tue
15 Sept
Wed
16 Sept
Thu
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept

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
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Brussels run on average 18 times per day, taking around 1h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.

There are 6 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 36m.

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 37m
Cheapest ticket price
£9
Trains per day
18
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
1h 36m
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
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 from Essen to Brussels trainsIntercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), 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 24m
Cheapest Intercity Price
£8
Intercity frequency
15 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

What's included in each class

Compare Intercity classes and the amenities included in each one.

1st Class
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Quiet zone
  • Lounge Access
2nd Class
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
FLEX PREMIÈRE
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Quiet zone
  • Lounge Access
Plus
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Food available
  • Extra legroom
  • Lounge Access
Premier
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Extra legroom
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
PRO SECONDE
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
Standard
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Food available

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

What's included in each class

Compare EuroCity classes and the amenities included in each one.

1st Class
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Quiet zone
  • Lounge Access
2nd Class
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs

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 54m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
£99
Eurostar frequency
1 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

What's included in each class

Compare Eurostar classes and the amenities included in each one.

Business Premier
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Free drinks
  • Wide seats
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Eurostar Plus
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Free drinks
  • Wide seats
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Free meal
Eurostar Premier
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Free drinks
  • Wide seats
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Eurostar Standard
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Snacks to buy
Standard
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Snacks to buy
Standard Premier
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Free drinks
  • Wide seats
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Free meal

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 36m
Cheapest Regional Price
£9
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

What's included in each class

Compare Regional classes and the amenities included in each one.

1st Class
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Quiet zone
2nd Class
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs

SNCB | BUS

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCB | BUS Duration
2h 23m
Cheapest SNCB | BUS Price
£17

What's included in each class

Compare SNCB | BUS classes and the amenities included in each one.

1st Class
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
2nd Class
  • Power plugs

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
£65
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day

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.

  • Recommended

Oldmasters Museum

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

  • Recommended

Horta Museum

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

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.

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.

FAQs
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 £14.
The train journey from Essen to Brussels covers a distance of 68 km and takes approximately 1h 36m. Trains run 18 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 18 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 6 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-Central.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Brussels is by train, costing approximately £9.
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 36m 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

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, BelgiumParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen from Essen city centre

TrainIntercity · 3h 54m · £41 · 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.

Wildert2910 Essen, BelgiumDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Wildert from Essen city centre

Wildert is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIntercity · 4h 0m · £41 · every ~4 min
Ice · 5h 5m · £48
Bus023 · 4h 11m · £21

Wildert train station facilities and services

Wildert has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Wildert.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Wildert.

Bike and car services

Available at Wildert: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Wildert.

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

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