1st Class
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Quiet zone
- WC
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Recklinghausen to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£23
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£37
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
1 h 15 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
1 h 29 m
Trains on 18 Sept
4
Distance
78 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Recklinghausen to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Recklinghausen to Cologne will cost around £37 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £23.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 4 trains from Recklinghausen to Cologne, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 78 km distance in an average of 1 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 15 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 38 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.
IC 20078:591h15Recklinghausen Hbf10:14Cologne Hbf£231One-way0 changes- 10114 · ICE 278:201h32Recklinghausen Hbf9:52Cologne Hbf£391One-way1 change
- 10118 · ICE 1059:201h30Recklinghausen Hbf10:50Cologne Hbf£391One-way1 change
- S2 · 268129:331h38Recklinghausen Hbf11:11Cologne Hbf£461One-way1 change
- IC 20078:591h15Recklinghausen Hbf10:14Cologne Hbf£231One-way0 changes
- 10118 · ICE 1059:201h30Recklinghausen Hbf10:50Cologne Hbf£391One-way1 change
- 10114 · ICE 278:201h32Recklinghausen Hbf9:52Cologne Hbf£391One-way1 change
- S2 · 268129:331h38Recklinghausen Hbf11:11Cologne Hbf£461One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train for Recklinghausen to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Recklinghausen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £26 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 52m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £26, while a train costs an average of £26.
Distance: 78 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£26 Average Price Cheapest | £13 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 52m Average total duration Fastest 1h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Recklinghausen to Cologne is a train with an average price of £19.
The fastest way to travel from Recklinghausen to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 1h 17m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Coach takes on average 1h 22m.
Yes, you can take a train between Recklinghausen and Cologne.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £19 compared to roughly £13 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-5.48. The journey takes 1h 17m versus 1h 15m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Recklinghausen to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Recklinghausen to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10114 · ICE 27 | On time 8:20 Recklinghausen Hbf | 1h32 | 9:52 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| IC 2007 | On time 8:59 Recklinghausen Hbf | 1h15 | 10:14 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10118 · ICE 105 | On time 9:20 Recklinghausen Hbf | 1h30 | 10:50 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| S2 · 26812 | 9:33 Recklinghausen Hbf | 1h38 | 11:11 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 Recklinghausen to Cologne by train
Compare 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Recklinghausen to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Recklinghausen to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Recklinghausen to Cologne.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Recklinghausen 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Recklinghausen to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Recklinghausen to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 78 km distance in 1h 15m.
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 78 km |
Average train duration 1h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price £19 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 15m |
First train 0:07 |
Last train 23:49 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 49 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Recklinghausen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Recklinghausen and Cologne from £19. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£16
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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.
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.
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.
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
What's included in each class
Compare Deutsche Bahn classes and the amenities included in each one.
2nd Class
- Power plugs
- WC
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
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.
- 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
- €3.70
- Day pass
- €9.60
To the city centre
Cologne Hbf -> Neumarkt, Cologne
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Ticket machines are available at many central stops and on vehicles; the KVB-App also sells tickets and shows live departures.
- For Cologne city travel, use fare level 1b for a 24-hour ticket. Card or contactless payment may be available at machines, but check before boarding.
FAQs: Recklinghausen to Cologne train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Recklinghausen 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Recklinghausen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £26.
The train journey from Recklinghausen to Cologne covers a distance of 78 km and takes approximately 1h 9m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Recklinghausen to Cologne is 78 km.
The first train from Recklinghausen to Cologne leaves at 0:07.
The last train from Recklinghausen to Cologne departs at 23:49.
Trains from Recklinghausen to Cologne run approximately 7 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Recklinghausen and Cologne. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To travel from Recklinghausen to Cologne, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Recklinghausen to Cologne.
The train station in Recklinghausen that goes to Cologne is Recklinghausen Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Recklinghausen to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Recklinghausen to Cologne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Recklinghausen to Cologne offers a blend of urban and rural landscapes. While it may not be considered exceptionally scenic compared to more renowned routes, travellers can enjoy views of the Ruhr area's industrial heritage and the transition into the rolling hills and greenery as they approach Cologne, a city known for its impressive cathedral and vibrant atmosphere.
Yes, a day trip from Recklinghausen to Cologne is feasible. The journey takes 1h 9m with a distance of 78 km. The frequency is 9 per day for trains.
In Cologne, visitors can explore the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Gothic architecture, and visit the Museum Ludwig for modern art by artists like Picasso and Warhol. A Rhine River Cruise offers scenic views of the city's skyline and landmarks, while the Hohenzollern Bridge is known for love locks and panoramic river views. The Old Town (Altstadt) charms with historic streets and traditional beer halls. Families might enjoy the Cologne Zoo, which is rich in diverse animal species. For culture and entertainment, attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, or discover the Belgian Quarter’s trendy boutiques and cafes. The Cologne Chocolate Museum provides an interactive experience about chocolate history, and the Botanical Gardens Flora showcases beautiful plant species and floral displays.
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Recklinghausen to Cologne.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Recklinghausen and Cologne
Most Recklinghausen to Cologne trains use the Recklinghausen Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Recklinghausen and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Recklinghausen
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Which Recklinghausen station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Trains from Recklinghausen to Cologne leave from Recklinghausen Hbf. The station is from Recklinghausen city centre at Recklinghausen Hbf, Große Perdekamp Str. 2, 45657 Recklinghausen.
Recklinghausen HbfRecklinghausen Hbf, Große Perdekamp Str. 2, 45657 Recklinghausen
City-centre transport
Getting to Recklinghausen Hbf from Recklinghausen city centre
Bus249E, 239E, Sb20e, 215, Ne5, Ne2, Ne1, 249, 239, 235, 224, Sb49, Sb20 · 3m · every ~35 min
Recklinghausen Hbf train station facilities and services
Recklinghausen 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: San Remo, Drübbelken, Cafe Extrablatt (noch geschlossen), Topkapi
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Recklinghausen Hbf. ATMs are available at Recklinghausen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Recklinghausen Hbf. Information desks are available at Recklinghausen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Recklinghausen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Recklinghausen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Recklinghausen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Recklinghausen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Albers, Parkhotel Engelsburg, Hotel Garni, Holiday Inn Express.
Which Cologne station do trains from Recklinghausen arrive at?
Trains from Recklinghausen to Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf. Some services arrive at Köln/Bonn Flughafen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · £6 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £5 · every ~14 min
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.
Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · £4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · £5
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.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · £3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · £2 · every ~52 min
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.
More options for your journey from Recklinghausen to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Recklinghausen
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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