Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Sun, Sep 20
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$22

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$40

Fastest journey on Sep 20

1 h 6 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

1 h 6 m

Trains on Sep 20

44

Distance

57 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 845 · S6
    7:26 AM1h16
    Cologne Hbf
    8:42 AMEssen Hbf
    $221One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 545 · S6
    8:25 AM1h17
    Cologne Hbf
    9:42 AMEssen Hbf
    $271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 847 · S6
    9:26 AM1h16
    Cologne Hbf
    10:42 AMEssen Hbf
    $271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2204 · 63625
    9:46 AM1h09
    Cologne Hbf
    10:55 AMEssen Hbf
    $271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2441 · S9
    9:11 AM1h29
    Cologne Hbf
    10:40 AMEssen Hbf
    $271One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $8 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 25m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, while a train costs an average of $28.

Distance: 35 miles (57 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$28

Average price

$8

Average price

Cheapest

$18

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 24m

Average total duration

1h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf is a bus with an average price of $8.

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf:

A bus is $20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf costing on average $28.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf is by train with an average journey time of 55m.

Other travel options to Essen Hbf take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne Hbf and Essen Hbf including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 2m sooner (55m by train vs 57m by car). Tickets start at around $28 compared to roughly $18 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 60402 · 63621
Delayed
4:27 AM 5:47 AMCologne Hbf
1h08
6:55 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26805 · S65:49 AM Cologne Hbf
1h23
7:12 AM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn17308 · S95:52 AM Cologne Hbf
1h48
7:40 AM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 543 · S6
On time
6:25 AM Cologne Hbf
1h17
7:42 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 222 · 63603
On time
6:49 AM Cologne Hbf
1h06
7:55 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 206 · 10206
On time
7:11 AM Cologne Hbf
1h10
8:21 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 845 · S6
On time
7:26 AM Cologne Hbf
1h16
8:42 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2206 · 63623
On time
7:46 AM Cologne Hbf
1h09
8:55 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26809 · S67:49 AM Cologne Hbf
1h23
9:12 AM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 616 · S9
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
1h29
9:40 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 545 · S6
On time
8:25 AM Cologne Hbf
1h17
9:42 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 220 · 63605
On time
8:49 AM Cologne Hbf
1h06
9:55 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2441 · S9
On time
9:11 AM Cologne Hbf
1h29
10:40 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 847 · S6
On time
9:26 AM Cologne Hbf
1h16
10:42 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2204 · 63625
On time
9:46 AM Cologne Hbf
1h09
10:55 AM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2049 · S9
On time
11:11 AM Cologne Hbf
1h29
12:40 PM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2202 · 63627
On time
11:46 AM Cologne Hbf
1h09
12:55 PM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1020 · 10216
On time
12:09 PM Cologne Hbf
1h12
1:21 PM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · S9
On time
12:11 PM Cologne Hbf
1h29
1:40 PM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 2516 · 10226
On time
5:11 PM Cologne Hbf
1h10
6:21 PM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 2012 · S6
On time
5:14 PM Cologne Hbf
1h28
6:42 PM Essen Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn28526 · 636335:31 PM Cologne Hbf
1h24
6:55 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn28534 · 636379:31 PM Cologne Hbf
1h24
10:55 PM Essen Hbf1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf 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.

Sun
Sep 20
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Sep 24
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Sep 26

Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf.

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 to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf.
  • 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 Hbf to Essen Hbf.

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 Hbf to Essen Hbf.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconFlexible
IconCheap
Disadvantages
IconSlow
IconUtilised
The ticket price is quite reasonable if you have several passengers. As there are many trains between Cologne and Essen, you don't have to wait long for the next train. It is also possible to travel from Essen to Cologne at night. However, the train does not run as frequently then.
Advantages
IconPunctual
We arrived at our destination station Essen Hauptbahnhof on time. The seats were comfortable and the train staff were nice to us. The train was clean and the toilet was also very well cleaned. Power sockets were available, as was wifi. All in all, there is nothing to complain about.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf 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 bus.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 35 miles (57 km) distance in 44m.

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 $4
Distance
35 miles (57 km)
Average train duration
55m
Cheapest ticket price
$5
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
44m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
10:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
21 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $4

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Essen Hbf from $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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
44m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$8
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixTrain Duration
47m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$5
FlixTrain frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $5, while the average price is around $28.
The train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf takes 44m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf is 35 miles (57 km).
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf leaves at 10:50 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $4.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Essen Hbf is moderately scenic, featuring views of the urban landscapes of the Ruhr region and the Rhine River, though much of the route passes through industrial and residential areas.
Yes, a day trip from Köln Hbf to Essen Hbf is feasible with a travel time of 47 each way and a distance of 57. Trains run 8 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf.
Since both Cologne Hbf and Essen Hbf 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 Hbf include Düsseldorf, Cologne, Dortmund, Münster, Venlo.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf 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.
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 Hbf to Essen Hbf

Most Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf trains use the Köln Hbf to Essen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne Hbf and Essen Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Essen
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · 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.

More about Köln Hbf

More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Essen Hbf

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for trains from Essen Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Tickets and more information for trains to Cologne Hbf

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HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyCologne Hbf to Essen Hbf train

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