Essen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC)

Thu, 25 Dec
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
National Express
Eurostar
Great Northern
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 25 Dec

Cheapest price

$11

Average price

$28

Fastest journey

48 m

Average duration

51 m

Trains per day

10

Distance

58 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Cologne will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $11.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Essen for Cologne every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 58 km distance in an average of 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 48 m .

The slowest trains will take 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.

FlixTrainFlixTrain
04:50PM0h53
Essen Hbf
05:43PMCologne Hbf
$111One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
08:50PM0h53
Essen Hbf
09:43PMCologne Hbf
$111One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
06:03PM0h53
Essen Hbf
06:56PMCologne Hbf
$141One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 103
08:00AM0h48
Essen Hbf
08:48AMCologne Hbf
$251One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 119 · 17321
08:03AM1h02
Essen Hbf
09:05AMCologne Hbf
$301One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Essen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $5, and a train costs an average of $7.

Distance: 58 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

$12

Average Price

$8

Average Price

Cheapest

1h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 50m

Average total duration

1h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Essen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday, 24 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:32 pm
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:50 pm Essen Hbf
0h53
4:43 pm Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
Thursday, 25 December
deutsche_bahnICE 103
On time
7:00 am Essen Hbf
0h48
7:48 am Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 119 · 17321
On time
7:03 am Essen Hbf
1h02
8:05 am Cologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahn268087:09 am Essen Hbf
1h03
8:12 am Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn10206 · ICE 121
On time
7:20 am Essen Hbf
0h58
8:18 am Cologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 915 · 10525
On time
7:36 am Essen Hbf
1h00
8:36 am Cologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 27
On time
7:59 am Essen Hbf
0h50
8:49 am Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 219 · 17325
On time
8:03 am Essen Hbf
1h02
9:05 am Cologne Hbf		1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Cologne 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.

Thu
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec
Sat
27 Dec
Sun
28 Dec
Mon
29 Dec
Tue
30 Dec
Wed
31 Dec

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Essen to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Essen to Cologne is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Essen to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Essen to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Essen to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Cologne run on average 15 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 but you can travel from only $5 by coach.

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 58 km distance in 49m.

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 $5
Distance
58 km
Average train duration
57m
Cheapest ticket price
$7
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
8
Fastest train
49m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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 $5

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express from Essen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express trains will get you between Essen and Cologne from $5. 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
49m
Cheapest Price
$9
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 a day
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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
51m
Cheapest Price
$6
FlixTrain frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 1m
Cheapest Price
$19
National Express frequency
21 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

FAQs: Essen to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Essen to Cologne can start from as little as $6 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Essen to Cologne is $15; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Essen to Cologne train travel time is 49 min   for the 58 km long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Essen to Cologne leaves at 12: 01am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Essen to Cologne leaves at 11: 58pm.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Essen to Cologne without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain or National Express. There are 7 direct trains from Essen to Cologne each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
Take the Essen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain or National Express. However, it's always good to check out all possible train providers for the trip to Cologne from Essen as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.

When departing from Essen, you have various train station options to start your trip from including Essen Hbf, Essen-Altenessen station, Essen-Werden station and Essen Süd station. When arriving in Cologne, you can end your route in train stations like Cologne Hbf, Cologne Messe/Deutz, Cologne/Bonn Flughafen and Cologne-Ehrenfeld.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Essen Hbf, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located away from the city centre.

A day trip to Cologne from Essen is worth doing with a journey time of 49 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Essen to Cologne is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Cologne including taking a coach or train.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Cologne

Essen
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Cologne.
Essen HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
ticketOfficeHours
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
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Essen SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Essen Süd, Rellinghauser Str.175, 45136 Essen
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Haus Wilmes
  • Mana Mana
  • Karawane
Hotel
Hotel
  • Webers
Essen-AltenessenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Essen-Altenessen, Hövelstraße 8, 45326 Essen
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Werner
  • Bückmannsmühle
  • Muckel-Eis

More options for your journey from Essen to Cologne

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Return trains from Cologne to Essen
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