- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major 19th- to 21st-century collections and high-quality temporary exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 04
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
48 m
Average duration
1 h 6 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
65 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen will cost around $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cologne Bonn Airport for Essen on Thu, Jun 04, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 04 the direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 1 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 48 m .
On Thu, Jun 04 the slowest trains will take 1 h 17 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.
3:14 PM0h48Cologne Bonn Airport4:02 PMEssen$101One-way0 transfers
7:03 AM1h17Cologne Bonn Airport8:20 AMEssen$341One-way0 transfers- 6:09 AM1h13Cologne Bonn Airport7:22 AMEssen$381One-way0 transfers
- 3:14 PM0h48Cologne Bonn Airport4:02 PMEssen$101One-way0 transfers
- 6:09 AM1h13Cologne Bonn Airport7:22 AMEssen$381One-way0 transfers
- 7:03 AM1h17Cologne Bonn Airport8:20 AMEssen$341One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $5, and a train costs an average of $10.
Distance: 40 miles (65 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$28 Average price | $6 Average price Cheapest | $15 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 48m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration 1h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen is a bus with an average price of $6 (€5).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen:
A bus is $22 (€18) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen costing on average $28 (€22).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 18m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne Bonn Airport and Essen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen among Omio's users.
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 $28 (€22) compared to roughly $15 (€12) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.20 (€-10.67). The journey takes 1h 18m versus 58m 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
Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:09 AM Cologne Bonn Airport | 1h13 | 7:22 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:03 AM Cologne Bonn Airport | 1h17 | 8:20 AM Essen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen 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.
Thu
Jun 04
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Why should you book Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) and more offer trains services from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen.
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 Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Bonn Airport 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 Bonn Airport 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 Bonn Airport to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $10 (€8) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:09, the last at 19:53. The fastest train covers the 40 miles (65 km) distance in 48m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $5 (€4)
Distance 40 miles (65 km) |
Average train duration 1h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $10 (€8) |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 48m |
First train 6:09 AM |
Last train 7:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $5 (€4)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Cologne Bonn Airport and Essen from $5 (€4). 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 Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€12)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 12m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
2 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 6m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 27m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
11 a day
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
The main regional museum of the Ruhr, inside the Zollverein Coal Mine complex, covering industrial, cultural, and natural history.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
A design museum in the former boiler house of Zollverein, displaying award-winning product and industrial design in a dramatic setting.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake and recreation area popular for walking, cycling, sailing views, and relaxed Ruhr scenery.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
The main pedestrian shopping street in central Essen, lively and practical for first-time visitors exploring downtown on foot.
- Recommended
Grugapark
A major urban park with gardens, open lawns, themed areas, and seasonal appeal, popular with locals and families.
Currywurst
Sliced Bratwurst with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a Ruhrgebiet classic popular as quick comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with black pepper, long associated with nearby Westphalia and hearty regional cooking.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A Rhineland and Ruhr favorite combining mashed potatoes and applesauce, often served with fried onions and sausage.
Schote
Well-known fine dining restaurant in Essen, recognized for modern seasonal cuisine and an elegant, upscale atmosphere.
Südtiroler Stuben
Longstanding upscale restaurant with a strong reputation for classic European cuisine, polished service, and a formal setting.
Restaurant Hannappel
Established traditional-style venue in Essen-Horst, appreciated for regional German dishes and a warm, classic atmosphere.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-120 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service; round up in taxis; small tips are optional in cafés and bars.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.60
- Day pass
- EUR 8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf, Essen -> Essen Hbf, Essen
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- You can buy VRR tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, and at many stations; validate paper tickets if required before travel.
- Card payment is commonly accepted in ticket machines, but on-board payment on buses or trams may be limited, so buy your ticket in advance when possible.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Bonn Airport 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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $10 (€8), while the average price is around $28 (€22).
The train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen takes 48m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen leaves at 6:09 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen is 40 miles (65 km).
The last train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen leaves at 7:53 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $5 (€4).
The train journey from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen offers a mix of urban and industrial landscapes, with glimpses of the Rhine River and picturesque German countryside, making parts of it scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen is feasible. The journey takes 48m, covering 40 miles (65 km), with 16 trains per day.
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen.
Since both Cologne Bonn Airport and Essen 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.
Popular day trips by train from Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen
Cologne
Essen
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Most popular train connections from Cologne Bonn Airport
More options for your journey from Cologne Bonn Airport to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Cologne Bonn Airport
Most popular train connections to Essen
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