- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
Major art museum with strong 19th- and 20th-century collections, posters and photography. A leading cultural stop in central Essen.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Cologne to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct
Cheapest price on 08 Oct
£4
Average ticket price on 08 Oct
£9
Fastest journey on 08 Oct
1 h 35 m
Average journey duration on 08 Oct
1 h 45 m
Buses on 08 Oct
11
Distance
58 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Cologne to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Essen will cost around £9 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £4.
Fast coaches
On Thu 08 Oct, we found 11 buses from Cologne to Essen, including 11 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 58 km distance in an average of 1 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 35 m .
The slowest buses will take 1 h 55 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.
5042818:001h45Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)19:45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£41One-way0 changes
FlixBus8:151h40Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)9:55Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£81One-way0 changes- FlixBus22:101h55Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)0:05Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£81One-way0 changes
- FlixBus5:102h00Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)7:10Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£91One-way0 changes
- FlixBus10:501h55Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)12:45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£91One-way0 changes
- FlixBus23:351h35Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)1:10Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£91One-way0 changes
- FlixBus8:151h40Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)9:55Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£81One-way0 changes
- 5042818:001h45Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)19:45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£41One-way0 changes
- FlixBus9:001h50Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)10:50Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£101One-way0 changes
- FlixBus10:501h55Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)12:45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)£91One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Essen
GermanyGermany
Buses from Cologne to Essen run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £4 if you book in advance.
There are 12 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 03:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest coach covers the 58 km distance in 1h 25m.
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 58 km |
Average bus duration 1h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £4 |
Buses per day 12 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 1h 25m |
First bus 3:45 |
Last bus 23:35 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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
Live departures
Cologne to Essen bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Essen coaches for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 17:30 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h20 | 19:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 17:45 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h15 | 20:00 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 50428 | 18:00 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1h45 | 19:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 19:50 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h00 | 21:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 21:40 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h00 | 23:40 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 22:10 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1h55 | 0:05 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 23:35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1h35 | 1:10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 8 October | |||||
| FlixBus | 5:10 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h00 | 7:10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:15 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1h40 | 9:55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 9:00 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1h50 | 10:50 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 10:50 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1h55 | 12:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Essen coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer coaches services from Cologne to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Cologne 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Essen.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Cologne to EssenYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Essen with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as £4. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
1h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£4
FlixBus frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
£4
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
Industrial history museum in the former boiler house at Zollverein. Engaging displays explain coal, steel and daily life across the Ruhr.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum inside the Zollverein complex, showing contemporary design, everyday objects and changing exhibitions in a dramatic industrial setting.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake south of the centre, popular for walks, boat trips and cycling. It combines water views, leisure activities and green surroundings.
- Must visit
Zeche Zollverein
Former industrial complex turned cultural district with open spaces, architecture, art and walking routes. It is one of Essen’s essential urban experiences.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten
Extensive park with lawns, sculptures and event spaces near Museum Folkwang. It is ideal for a central stroll and relaxed city views.
- Gluten-free
Potthucke
A hearty potato stew from the Ruhr area, traditionally cooked with beef, onions and vegetables. It is a classic working-class comfort dish in Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
Mashed potatoes mixed with apples and onions, often served with black pudding or sausage. It is a well-known Rhineland and Ruhr comfort meal.
- Gluten-free
Matjes mit Hausfrauensosse
Pickled herring fillets in a sour marinade, often served with potatoes. This classic northern and western German fish dish is common in the Ruhr.
Schote
Elegant fine dining in Essen known for creative modern cooking and polished service in a calm, contemporary setting.
Hannappel
Long-established local favourite for classic German and Ruhr-style fare, with a cosy pub feel and straightforward cooking.
Meisenburg
Traditional brewery restaurant serving hearty regional German dishes and fresh beer in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are often slightly cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transport and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually not included. In restaurants, round up or tip about 5-10%. For taxis, round up the fare. In cafés, small change or rounding up is customary.
ZÄPP
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €7.90
To the city centre
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) -> Essen Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
Best option: Tram/U-Bahn (Ruhrbahn, Price level A single ticket)
- Price
- €3.60
- Duration
- 5 min
- Use the Ruhrbahn app ZÄPP for journey planning and mobile tickets in Essen and Mülheim. It is the official local app.
- Ruhrbahn uses the VRR fare. For travel within Essen, use Price level A; ticket machines are available, but contactless acceptance on vehicles was not clearly confirmed from official sources.
Best day trips from Essen by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Essen are Düsseldorf, Cologne, Dortmund, Münster and Bonn. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Essen on Omio.
Day trip from Essen to Düsseldorf by bus
Why visit Düsseldorf for the day?
Düsseldorf is known for fashion, contemporary art and its lively Altstadt on the Rhine. Sleek shopping streets, traditional breweries and bold modern architecture give it a polished yet sociable character.
How to get from Essen to Düsseldorf by bus?
There are 2 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 06:55, the last at 21:00. The fastest coach covers the 31 km distance in 35m.
Day trip from Essen to Cologne by bus
Why visit Cologne for the day?
Cologne is known for its towering cathedral, Roman heritage and relaxed Rhineland spirit. Museums, riverfront views and a strong brewing culture give the city an open, sociable feel.
How to get from Essen to Cologne by bus?
There are 10 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 03:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest coach covers the 58 km distance in 1h 40m.
Day trip from Essen to Dortmund by bus
Why visit Dortmund for the day?
Dortmund is a Ruhr city known for football, brewing heritage and its industrial roots. Former worksites, parks and modern cultural venues give it a practical, lively character.
How to get from Essen to Dortmund by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 11:45, the last at 17:45.
Day trip from Essen to Münster by bus
Why visit Münster for the day?
Münster is a historic university city known for its cycling culture, rebuilt old town and links to the Peace of Westphalia. Gothic churches, Prinzipalmarkt and a strong student presence give it a lively but relaxed feel.
How to get from Essen to Münster by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 05:10, the last at 23:30. The fastest coach covers the 70 km distance in 1h 50m.
Day trip from Essen to Bonn by bus
Why visit Bonn for the day?
Bonn is best known as Beethoven’s birthplace and the former capital of West Germany. Set on the Rhine, it feels calm and cultured, with museums, leafy neighbourhoods and a strong university presence.
How to get from Essen to Bonn by bus?
There are 4 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 04:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest coach covers the 80 km distance in 2h 15m.
FAQs: Cologne to Essen coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Essen by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Cologne to Essen can start from as little as £4 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cologne to Essen is £6; 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 coach from Cologne to Essen is 1h 25m to travel the 58 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Cologne to Essen leaves at 3:45. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cologne to Essen leaves at 23:35.
Yes, there are 12 direct coaches a day from Cologne to Essen with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Cologne to Essen, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cologne and Essen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Cologne , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2), Leverkusen, Bf Mitte . When arriving in Essen , you can end your route in coach stations like Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), Bochum, Hbf.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), which is located around 13 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Essen including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cologne to Essen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Cologne to Essen for coach company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cologne to Essen depends on the coach companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cologne to Essen.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cologne to Essen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Cologne to Essen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Cologne to Essen. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cologne to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cologne to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cologne to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Essen
Most Cologne to Essen buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Essen bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cologne
Arrival bus stations in Essen
Which Cologne station do buses to Essen leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Essen leave from Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). The station is 13 km from Cologne city centre at Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany.
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 8m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · £4
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility and WC.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)Kennedystrasse, 51147 Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 16m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · £4
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · £4
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance and baggage claim area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
Which Essen station do buses from Cologne arrive at?
Buses from Cologne to Essen most often arrive at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). Some services arrive at Bochum, Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Essen arrival station.
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 7m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) bus station facilities and services
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and snack bars nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Essen and Cologne
Most popular bus connections
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