- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Essen to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct
Cheapest price on 08 Oct
£4
Average ticket price on 08 Oct
£6
Fastest journey on 08 Oct
1 h 40 m
Average journey duration on 08 Oct
1 h 44 m
Buses on 08 Oct
12
Distance
58 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach 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 £6 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 12 buses from Essen to Cologne, including 12 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 58 km distance in an average of 1 h 44 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .
The slowest buses will take 1 h 50 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.
5044921:001h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)22:45Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£41One-way0 changes
FlixBus22:101h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)23:50Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£61One-way0 changes- FlixBus6:101h55Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)8:05Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£61One-way0 changes
- FlixBus20:301h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)22:10Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£71One-way0 changes
- FlixBus16:001h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)17:45Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£71One-way0 changes
- FlixBus20:301h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)22:10Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£71One-way0 changes
- FlixBus22:101h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)23:50Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£61One-way0 changes
- FlixBus16:001h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)17:45Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£71One-way0 changes
- 5044921:001h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)22:45Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£41One-way0 changes
- FlixBus8:451h50Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)10:35Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)£71One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Essen to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Buses from Essen to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £3 if you book in advance.
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.
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 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £3 |
Buses per day 10 |
Direct buses 10 |
Fastest bus 1h 40m |
First bus 3:45 |
Last bus 23:35 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
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
Essen to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Cologne 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 | 20:30 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h40 | 22:10 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| 50449 | 21:00 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h45 | 22:45 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 22:10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h40 | 23:50 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 8 October | |||||
| FlixBus | 5:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h55 | 7:40 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h55 | 8:05 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:15 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h50 | 8:05 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:20 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 2h05 | 8:25 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h50 | 10:35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 13:15 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 2h25 | 15:40 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 13:25 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 2h00 | 15:25 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 16:00 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h45 | 17:45 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Cologne coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer coaches services from Essen to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Cologne.
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 Essen to Cologne.
- 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 Essen to Cologne.
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 Essen to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Cologne.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Essen to CologneYou can travel by bus between Essen to Cologne with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as £3. 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 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£4
FlixBus frequency
9 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
£3
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 Cologne
Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
- Must visit
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.
- Recommended
Museum Schnütgen
Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic old town lanes and squares by the Rhine, packed with colourful houses, churches and viewpoints. Ideal for a classic Cologne stroll.
- Recommended
Rheinpromenade
Long Rhine promenade with bridge, cathedral and river views. Popular for walking, photography and watching boats pass through the city centre.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Lively square in the old town framed by historic buildings and museums. A useful base for sightseeing and one of Cologne’s best-known public spaces.
Halver Hahn
Rye bread with butter, cheese, ham or sausage, traditionally served in Cologne breweries as a simple local snack with Kölsch.
Himmel un Ääd
Hearty dish of black pudding with fried onions and mashed potatoes, a Rhineland classic closely associated with Cologne home cooking.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Slow-cooked horsemeat in a sweet-sour raisin sauce, a historic Rhineland speciality still served in a few traditional Cologne restaurants.
Brauhaus Päffgen
Classic Brauhaus serving Päffgen Kölsch and Rhineland favourites in a bustling, wood-panelled setting popular with locals.
Brauerei zur Malzmühle
Traditional brewery venue by Heumarkt with house Kölsch and dependable regional cooking in a spacious historic hall.
Lommerzheim
Long-established restaurant for refined German and Rhineland cooking, with a more formal atmosphere than a typical Brauhaus.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.
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 coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €9.70
To the city centre
Köln ZOB -> Köln Hbf, Cologne
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- For Cologne city journeys, use fare level 1b; the official KVB-App sells VRS tickets and journey planning.
- Ticket machines and the official app support cashless purchase. Check your ticket before boarding and keep it valid for inspection.
Best day trips from Cologne by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Cologne are Bonn, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Leverkusen and Dortmund. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Cologne on Omio.
Day trip from Cologne 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 Cologne to Bonn by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 20:35, the last at 20:35.
Day trip from Cologne 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 Cologne to Düsseldorf by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:15. The fastest coach covers the 34 km distance in 1h 15m.
Day trip from Cologne to Aachen by bus
Why visit Aachen for the day?
Aachen is best known for its cathedral and its close ties to Charlemagne and imperial history. Near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, it feels compact, youthful and international, with thermal spa traditions and a busy university scene.
How to get from Cologne to Aachen by bus?
There are 9 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 63 km distance in 1h 5m.
Day trip from Cologne to Leverkusen by bus
Why visit Leverkusen for the day?
Leverkusen is best known as the home of Bayer and football club Bayer 04 Leverkusen. It feels modern and practical, with industrial roots, Rhine-side green spaces and a few cultural sights such as the Japanese Garden.
How to get from Cologne to Leverkusen by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45.
Day trip from Cologne 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 Cologne to Dortmund by bus?
There are 7 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 03:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 74 km distance in 1h 45m.
FAQs: Essen to Cologne coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Essen to Cologne can start from as little as £3 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Essen to Cologne 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 Essen to Cologne is 1h 40m 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 Essen to Cologne leaves at 3:45. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Essen to Cologne leaves at 23:35.
Yes, there are 10 direct coaches a day from Essen to Cologne with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Essen to Cologne, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Essen and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Essen , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), Bochum, Hbf . When arriving in Cologne , you can end your route in coach stations like Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2), Leverkusen, Bf Mitte.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), located 13 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Cologne including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Essen to Cologne:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Essen to Cologne for coach company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Essen to Cologne 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 Essen to Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Essen to Cologne:
- 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 Essen to Cologne:
- 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 Essen to Cologne. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Essen to Cologne with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Essen to Cologne with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Essen to Cologne with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Cologne
Most Essen to Cologne buses use the Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Essen and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Essen
Arrival bus stations in Cologne
Which Essen station do buses to Cologne leave from?
Buses from Essen to Cologne leave from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). The station is 1 km from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany.
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.
Which Cologne station do buses from Essen arrive at?
Buses from Essen to Cologne most often arrive at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). Some services arrive at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cologne and Essen
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