Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar train with Deutsche Bahn (IC)

Wed, Aug 05
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$69

Average price

$88

Fastest journey

2 h 17 m

Average duration

2 h 39 m

Trains per day

14

Distance

297 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar will cost around $88 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.

Fast trains

Of the 14 trains that leave Cologne for Esslingen am Neckar on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 297 km distance in an average of 2 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 17 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 2 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.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · S1
    8:53 AM3h49
    Cologne Hbf
    12:42 PMEsslingen (Neckar) station
    $691One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · S1
    8:53 AM3h46
    Cologne Hbf
    12:39 PMEsslingen-Mettingen
    $691One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · S1
    8:53 AM3h52
    Cologne Hbf
    12:45 PMOberesslingen
    $691One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 915
    9:31 AM2h17
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    11:48 AMEsslingen (Neckar) station
    $801One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 915 · S1
    9:31 AM2h44
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    12:15 PMOberesslingen
    $841One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar run on average 24 times per day, taking around 3h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 but you can travel from only $27 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 184 miles (297 km) distance in 2h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $27
Distance
184 miles (297 km)
Average train duration
3h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$36
Trains per day
24
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 40m
First train
12:20 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
4 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 $27

Live departures

Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · S1
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
3h49
12:42 PM Esslingen (Neckar) station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · S1
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
3h46
12:39 PM Esslingen-Mettingen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · S1
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
3h52
12:45 PM Oberesslingen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593 · S1
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h48
11:42 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593 · S1
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h51
11:45 AM Oberesslingen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593 · S1
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h45
11:39 AM Esslingen-Mettingen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · 19191 · S1
On time
9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h43
12:14 PM Oberesslingen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915
On time
9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h17
11:48 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · S1
On time
9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h44
12:15 PM Oberesslingen
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225
On time
9:53 AM Cologne Hbf
3h55
1:48 PM Esslingen (Neckar) station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · 19145 · S1
On time
9:53 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
2:14 PM Oberesslingen
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · S1
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h48
12:42 PM Esslingen (Neckar) station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · S1
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h51
12:45 PM Oberesslingen
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · S1
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h45
12:39 PM Esslingen-Mettingen
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Esslingen am Neckar from $27. 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
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$36
Deutsche Bahn frequency
21 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 14m
Cheapest Price
$79
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
15 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
$190
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Esslingen am Neckar

Things to do in Esslingen am Neckar

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

  • Recommended

Stadtmuseum im Gelben Haus

City museum in the former Yellow House presenting Esslingen’s history, civic culture, and changing urban life in a central old-town setting.

  • Recommended

Archäologisches Museum St. Dionys

Museum dedicated to the city’s archaeological finds, from early settlement traces to medieval remains, with strong local context and interpretation.

  • Recommended

Villa Merkel – Galerien der Stadt Esslingen

Villa Merkel hosts contemporary art exhibitions in a grand historic villa and park. It is Esslingen’s leading venue for modern visual culture.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-range, local transit is reasonable, and day-to-day tourist costs are lower than Munich or Frankfurt.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is included, but rounding up is standard. Add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36, while the average price is around $99.
The train from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar takes 2h 40m and runs 24 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar is 184 miles (297 km).
The first train from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar leaves at 12:20 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Esslingen am Neckar is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Esslingen (Neckar) station.
The train journey from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and charming German towns along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar.
Popular day trips by train from Esslingen am Neckar include Frankfurt am Main, Strasbourg, Memmingen, Heidelberg, Darmstadt.
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 Esslingen am Neckar, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. While the city is generally safe, common scams include overcharging in taxis or at tourist shops. Staying alert in busy spots and using official transportation services helps ensure a safe visit.
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 to Esslingen am Neckar

Most Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar trains use the Köln Hbf to Esslingen (Neckar) station pair, with some services arriving at Oberesslingen. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar

Which Cologne station do trains to Esslingen am Neckar leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Esslingen am Neckar leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
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.

Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre

Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min

Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services

Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

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