Brussels to Essen train with Intercity

Fri, Sep 18
+ Add return
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 Brussels to Essen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

€9

Average ticket price on Sep 18

€13

Fastest journey on Sep 18

1 h 23 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

1 h 23 m

Trains on Sep 18

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 traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Brussels to Essen will cost around €13 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €9.

Fast trains

On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Brussels to Essen, including 2 direct services.

On Fri, Sep 18 the 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 .

On Fri, Sep 18 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.

  • Intercity
    10:50 AM1h23
    Brussels
    12:13 PMEssen
    €91One-way
    0 transfers
  • Intercity
    9:50 AM1h23
    Brussels
    11:13 AMEssen
    €161One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus 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 €16 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 €16, while a train costs an average of €16.

Distance: 68 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

€16

Average price

Cheapest

€38

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 30m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Intercity

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is a train with an average price of €16.
The fastest way to travel from Brussels to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Brussels and Essen including taking a train and bus.

Live departures

Brussels to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Essen trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Intercity4508+Regional23599:20 AM Brussels-Midi
1h35
10:55 AM Essen station1 transfer
Intercity4508+Regional23599:25 AM Brussels-Central
1h30
10:55 AM Essen station1 transfer
Intercity4508+Regional23599:33 AM Brussels-North
1h22
10:55 AM Essen station1 transfer
Intercity20089:50 AM Brussels-Midi
1h23
11:13 AM Essen station0 transfersDirect
Intercity20089:55 AM Brussels-Central
1h18
11:13 AM Essen station0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brussels to Essen by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

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
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Brussels to Essen run on average 30 times per day, taking around 1h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €9 if you book in advance.

There are 12 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 8m.

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
30
Direct trains
12
Fastest train
1h 8m
First train
12:36 AM
Last train
11:32 PM
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 €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 23m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€15
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 44m
Cheapest EuroCity Price
€11
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
€110
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
€62
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
€43
SNCB frequency
1 a day
Learn more about SNCB

FAQs: Trains from Brussels to Essen

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.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Brussels to Essen can start from as little as €9 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Brussels to Essen is €14; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Brussels to Essen is 1h 8m to travel the 68 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Brussels to Essen leaves at 12:36 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Brussels to Essen leaves at 11:32 PM.
Yes,there are 12 direct trains a day from Brussels to Essen with Eurostar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
Yes, there are multiple high-speed train options for your journey from Brussels to Essen. You can choose between Eurostar. Eurostar trains take around 2h 50m
When taking a train from Brussels to Essen, you can count on Intercity, Regional, EuroCity, SNCB | BUS, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, SNCB for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Brussels and Essen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A day trip to Essen from Brussels is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 8m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Brussels to Essen is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Brussels and Essen including taking a train and bus.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Brussels to 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 25282828WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

More about Bruxelles-Central
Bruxelles-Midi47B Avenue Fonsny, 1060 Brussels, BelgiumWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bruxelles-Midi from Brussels city centre

TrainEuroCity · 4m · €1 · every ~2 min
Ice · 14m · €1
Bus48 · 16m · €3 · every ~9 min
Bus · 20m
FlixBus N1153 · 29m · €1
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.

More about Bruxelles-Midi
Brussels-NordRue du Progrès 76, Vooruitgangstraat 76, 1030 Schaerbeek, BelgiumWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · €1 · 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.

More options for your journey from Brussels to Essen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Tickets and more information for trains to Brussels
HomeTrainsTrains in BelgiumBrussels to Essen train

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