- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Essen to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
kr32
Average price
kr55
Fastest journey
1 h 40 m
Average duration
1 h 43 m
Buses per day
11
Distance
58 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Essen to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Cologne will cost around kr55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr32.
Fast buses
Of the 11 buses that leave Essen for Cologne on Tue, Aug 04, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct buses cover the 58 km distance in an average of 1 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest buses will take 1 h 45 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.
504299:55 AM1h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)11:40 AMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)kr321One-way0 transfers- 504499:00 PM1h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)10:45 PMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)kr321One-way0 transfers
FlixBus5:45 AM1h55Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)7:40 AMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)kr601One-way0 transfers- FlixBus6:15 AM1h50Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)8:05 AMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)kr601One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus4:00 PM1h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)5:45 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)kr601One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus10:10 PM1h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)11:50 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)kr601One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus8:30 PM1h40Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)10:10 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)kr601One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus4:00 PM1h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)5:45 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)kr601One-way0 transfers
- 504299:55 AM1h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)11:40 AMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)kr321One-way0 transfers
- 504499:00 PM1h45Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)10:45 PMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)kr321One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus 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 bus with prices starting from kr32. 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 bus costs an average of kr32, and a train costs an average of kr48.
Distance: 36 miles (58 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr39 Average price Cheapest | kr79 Average price | kr86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 58m Average total duration 1h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Cologne is a bus with an average price of kr39.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Cologne:
A bus is kr40 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Cologne costing on average kr79.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 57m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around kr39 compared to roughly kr86 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr48. The journey takes 1h 28m versus 1h 3m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Essen to Cologne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:10AM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 05:10AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price kr25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price kr24 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 05:55AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price kr24 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr60 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 09:40AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr46 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr56 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr32 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price kr17 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price kr17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr56 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr56 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price kr34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price kr16 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr54 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price kr52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price kr24 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr46 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr40 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price kr26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr32 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price kr17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr52 |
Live departures
Essen to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Cologne buses for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 8:30 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h40 | 10:10 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 50449 | 9:00 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h45 | 10:45 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 10:10 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h40 | 11:50 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, August 4 | |||||
| FlixBus | 5:45 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h55 | 7:40 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:10 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h55 | 8:05 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:15 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h50 | 8:05 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:20 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 2h05 | 8:25 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:45 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h50 | 10:35 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 50429 | 9:55 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h45 | 11:40 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 1:15 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 2h25 | 3:40 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 4:00 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1h45 | 5:45 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Cologne by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
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Aug 10
Aug 10
Why should you book Essen to Cologne buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses 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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Essen to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Buses from Essen to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr32 if you book in advance.
There are 12 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 36 miles (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 36 miles (58 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price kr32 |
Buses per day 12 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 1h 40m |
First bus 3:45 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 6 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
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, BlaBlaCar Bus from Essen to CologneYou can travel by bus between Essen to Cologne with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as kr32. 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 Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest Price
kr42
FlixBus frequency
8 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 Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
kr32
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.
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
5 a day
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
Kolumba
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
FAQs: Bus from Essen to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Cologne by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Essen to Cologne can start from as little as kr32 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Essen to Cologne is kr39 ; 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 bus from Essen to Cologne is 1h 40m to travel the 36 miles (58 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Essen to Cologne leaves at 3:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Essen to Cologne leaves at 11:35 PM.
Yes, there are 12 direct buses a day from Essen to Cologne with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, BlaBlaCar Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Essen to Cologne, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Essen and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Cologne from Essen is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Essen to Cologne is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus 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 bus from Essen to Cologne for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cologne are:
- Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic Gothic masterpiece with twin spires
- Museum Ludwig, renowned for its extensive collection of modern art including works by Picasso and Warhol
- Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its thousands of love locks and panoramic views of the Rhine River
- Old Town (Altstadt), a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional beer halls
- Cologne Zoo, one of the oldest and most diverse zoos in Germany, home to a wide variety of animal species.
The best things to do in Cologne include:
- Cologne Chocolate Museum, an interactive museum dedicated to the history and production of chocolate
- Rhine River Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Cologne's skyline and iconic landmarks
- Visit the Botanical Gardens Flora, a beautiful park with diverse plant species and stunning floral displays
- Explore the Belgian Quarter, known for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and vibrant street art
- Attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and diverse musical performances.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Essen to Cologne depends on the bus 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 bus with bus 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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Essen to Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus 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 bus 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 bus 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 bus from Essen to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Essen to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Essen to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Since both Essen and Cologne are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Cologne among Omio's users.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Essen to 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
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)
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
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 · kr32 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · kr32
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 · kr32 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · kr32
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · kr40
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
Most popular bus connections to Cologne
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