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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Essen
Cheapest price
£6
Average price
£26
Fastest journey
47 m
Average duration
48 m
Trains per day
32
Distance
58 km
The best way to find a cheap train 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 £26 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £6.
Of the 32 trains that leave Cologne for Essen every day 22 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 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 47 m .
The slowest trains will take 48 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.
FlixTrain17:010h52Cologne Hbf17:53Essen Hbf£61One-way0 changes- FlixTrain16:140h48Cologne Hbf17:02Essen Hbf£61One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain11:010h52Cologne Hbf11:53Essen Hbf£61One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain8:140h48Cologne Hbf9:02Essen Hbf£61One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain12:140h49Cologne Hbf13:03Essen Hbf£61One-way0 changes
ICE 2067:110h47Cologne Hbf7:58Essen Hbf£121One-way0 changes- ICE 152016:070h47Cologne Hbf16:54Essen Hbf£271One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain16:140h48Cologne Hbf17:02Essen Hbf£61One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain8:140h48Cologne Hbf9:02Essen Hbf£61One-way0 changes
- ICE 10368:450h48Cologne Hbf9:33Essen Hbf£171One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cologne to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £4. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 55m. 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 £4, and a train costs an average of £5.
Distance: 58 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£11 Average Price | £5 Average Price Cheapest |
1h 25m Average total duration Fastest 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 0m Average total duration 1h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Essen trains for tomorrow, Sunday 12 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26843 | 0:49 Cologne Hbf | 1h01 | 1:50 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17384 · S9 | 0:52 Cologne Hbf | 1h48 | 2:40 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| 26845 | 1:49 Cologne Hbf | 1h01 | 2:50 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| S12 · ICE 618 | On time 6:01 Cologne Hbf | 0h57 | 6:58 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 543 | On time 6:25 Cologne Hbf | 0h53 | 7:18 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 26807 | 6:49 Cologne Hbf | 1h01 | 7:50 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 206 | On time 7:11 Cologne Hbf | 0h47 | 7:58 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 845 | On time 7:26 Cologne Hbf | 0h54 | 8:20 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| IC 2306 | On time 8:01 Cologne Hbf | 0h54 | 8:55 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 8:14 Cologne Hbf | 0h48 | 9:02 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 545 | On time 8:25 Cologne Hbf | 0h53 | 9:18 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 1036 | On time 8:45 Cologne Hbf | 0h48 | 9:33 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 26811 | 8:49 Cologne Hbf | 1h01 | 9:50 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17320 · ICE 204 | On time 8:52 Cologne Hbf | 1h06 | 9:58 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| IC 2155 | On time 9:17 Cologne Hbf | 0h57 | 10:14 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 847 | On time 9:25 Cologne Hbf | 0h54 | 10:19 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 28510 · 10213 | 9:31 Cologne Hbf | 1h06 | 10:37 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixTrain | 11:01 Cologne Hbf | 0h52 | 11:53 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 12:14 Cologne Hbf | 0h49 | 13:03 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 1520 | On time 16:07 Cologne Hbf | 0h47 | 16:54 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 0h48 | 17:02 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17424 · ICE 916 | On time 16:21 Cologne Hbf | 1h01 | 17:22 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| 28524 · 10227 | 16:31 Cologne Hbf | 1h06 | 17:37 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| 26827 | 16:49 Cologne Hbf | 1h01 | 17:50 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 17:01 Cologne Hbf | 0h52 | 17:53 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 26829 | 17:49 Cologne Hbf | 1h01 | 18:50 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| S6 · ICE 624 | On time 18:07 Cologne Hbf | 0h56 | 19:03 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| 89733 | 18:07 Cologne Hbf | 1h20 | 19:27 Essen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 28 · ICE 645 | On time 18:11 Cologne Hbf | 1h07 | 19:18 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| 28528 · 10231 | 18:31 Cologne Hbf | 1h06 | 19:37 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Essen by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
12 Jul
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25 Jul
Why should you book Cologne to Essen trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) 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 Deutsche Bahn 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 Trainline or Wanderu?
- 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.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Essen?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Essen
CleanOffers catering facilitiesSeats comfortable with full equipment
95 minutes lateLoud atmosphere on the trainStaff overstrainedComfortNoneSpeedNoneCleanliness in the toilets and on the trainInternet connection and power sockets availableSeats were comfortable and had large tableswithout changing15 minutes lateNo ticket inspectionNice train crewPricePunctualTravelling speedSanitary facilitiesJourney information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Essen run on average 12 times per day, taking around 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 but you can travel from only £4 by coach.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 58 km distance in 47m.
Distance 58 km |
Average train duration 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 47m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:57 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 77 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Cologne to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Cologne and Essen from £4. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
FAQs: Cologne to Essen train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Essen
Most Cologne to Essen trains use the Köln Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Essen leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Essen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Getting to Essen West from Essen city centre
Essen West is 2 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen West train station facilities and services
Essen West has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pizzeria Don Camillo, Lindos, Zur Platte, Arman Döner
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen West. ATMs are available at Essen West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen West. Information desks are available at Essen West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include McDreams.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Essen
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