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

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$38

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$44

Fastest journey on Sep 19

1 h 20 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

1 h 27 m

Trains on Sep 19

17

Distance

64 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 17 trains from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen, including 3 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 20 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 39 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    7:21 AM1h22
    Cologne Hbf
    8:43 AMGelsenkirchen
    $381One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    12:04 PM1h45
    Cologne Hbf
    1:49 PMGelsenkirchen
    $381One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    12:17 PM1h26
    Cologne Hbf
    1:43 PMGelsenkirchen
    $381One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    3:23 PM1h20
    Cologne Hbf
    4:43 PMGelsenkirchen
    $381One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    10:04 AM1h45
    Cologne Hbf
    11:49 AMGelsenkirchen
    $391One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train for Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $11 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 31m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, while a train costs an average of $42.

Distance: 39 miles (64 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$42

Average price

$11

Average price

Cheapest

$20

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 49m

Average total duration

2h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 5m

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 Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of $11.

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

A bus is $31 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $42.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 1m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 19m.

Yes, you can take a train between Cologne Hbf and Gelsenkirchen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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 4m sooner (1h 1m by train vs 1h 5m by car). Tickets start at around $42 compared to roughly $20 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 Gelsenkirchen train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)7:21 AM Cologne Hbf
1h22
8:43 AM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
National Express8:04 AM Cologne Hbf
1h39
9:43 AM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
National Express9:04 AM Cologne Hbf
1h39
10:43 AM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)9:58 AM Cologne Hbf
1h30
11:28 AM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
National Express10:04 AM Cologne Hbf
1h45
11:49 AM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
National Express11:04 AM Cologne Hbf
1h39
12:43 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
National Express12:04 PM Cologne Hbf
1h45
1:49 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)12:17 PM Cologne Hbf
1h26
1:43 PM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
National Express1:04 PM Cologne Hbf
1h39
2:43 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
National Express2:04 PM Cologne Hbf
1h45
3:49 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)3:23 PM Cologne Hbf
1h20
4:43 PM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
National Express4:04 PM Cologne Hbf
1h45
5:49 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)5:04 PM Cologne Hbf
1h45
6:49 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
National Express6:04 PM Cologne Hbf
1h45
7:49 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer
National Express7:04 PM Cologne Hbf
1h45
8:49 PM Gelsenkirchen1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

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

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

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 Gelsenkirchen.
  • 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 Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 but you can travel from only $7 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:04, the last at 21:04. The fastest train covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 52m.

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 $7
Distance
39 miles (64 km)
Average train duration
1h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$14
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
52m
First train
6:04 AM
Last train
9:04 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 $7

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Gelsenkirchen from $7. 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
52m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$22
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

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
1h 4m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$14
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

Complete guide to Gelsenkirchen

Things to do in Gelsenkirchen

Discover the best of Gelsenkirchen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gelsenkirchen trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Schloss Horst

Renaissance castle museum with exhibitions on archaeology, local history, and changing art shows in one of the city's finest historic sites.

  • Must visit

Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen

Leading modern art museum in the Ruhr, noted for kinetic and contemporary works and ambitious temporary exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Apothekenmuseum Schloss Horst

Museum documenting pharmacy history inside Schloss Horst, with historic equipment and displays on medicine and daily life.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels are often cheaper than in major cities, while dining and local transit are fairly typical for the region.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $14, while the average price is around $42.
The train from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen takes 52m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 6:04 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is 39 miles (64 km).
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 9:04 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is by bus, with a cost of around $7.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is not typically considered scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas, offering limited views of natural landscapes.
Yes, a day trip from Köln Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is feasible. The journey takes 52m, covering 39 miles (64 km), with 12 trains per day.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions in Gelsenkirchen, including the Veltins-Arena, ZOOM Erlebniswelt, and the Nordsternpark.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Cologne Hbf and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Arnhem, Eindhoven, Osnabrück.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and major train stations. Common scams include fake charity collectors and distraction techniques in busy spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and stay alert in nightlife districts to avoid petty theft. Overall, standard urban safety precautions apply.
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 Gelsenkirchen

Most Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Köln Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Use this guide to compare Cologne Hbf and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen
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 options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

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

Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Cologne Hbf

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