Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (IC)

Sun, Sep 20
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Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

€11

Average ticket price on Sep 20

€11

Fastest journey on Sep 20

1 h 6 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

1 h 11 m

Trains on Sep 20

2

Distance

64 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf will cost around €11 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €11.

Fast trains

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf, including 2 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 1 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 6 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 15 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.

  • FlixTrain
    9:52 AM1h15
    Cologne
    11:07 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf
    111One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    9:01 AM1h06
    Cologne
    10:07 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf
    111One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €7 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 32m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €7, while a train costs an average of €26.

Distance: 39 miles (64 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

€26

Average price

€7

Average price

Cheapest

€12

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 31m

Average total duration

2h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 10m

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 to Gelsenkirchen Hbf is a bus with an average price of €7.

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

A bus is €19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf costing on average €26.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf is by train with an average journey time of 1h 2m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen Hbf take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 1m.

Yes, you can take a train between Cologne and Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen 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 8m sooner (1h 2m by train vs 1h 10m by car). Tickets start at around €26 compared to roughly €12 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 Intercity, 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 to Gelsenkirchen Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixTrain9:01 AM Cologne
1h06
10:07 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain9:52 AM Cologne
1h15
11:07 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

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

Intercity as well as Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Regional and more offer trains services from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Intercity?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain or Regional to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf run on average 15 times per day, taking around 1h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 but you can travel from only €4 by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 14:14, the last at 14:14. The fastest train covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 57m.

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
39 miles (64 km)
Average train duration
1h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
€7
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
57m
First train
2:14 PM
Last train
2:14 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 €4

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Regional, FlixTrain, Intercity from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Regional, FlixTrain, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Gelsenkirchen 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
57m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
20 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
€7
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

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
57m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€18
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

Regional

About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional Duration
1h 8m
Cheapest Regional Price
€26
Regional frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €7, while the average price is around €26.
The train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf takes 57m and runs 15 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf leaves at 2:14 PM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 39 miles (64 km).
The last train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf leaves at 2:14 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around €4.
The train journey from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf primarily travels through urban and industrial areas, offering views of cityscapes, industrial structures, and some green spaces, but it is not typically considered a scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf is feasible. The journey takes 57m, with a distance of 39 miles (64 km). There are 11 trains per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Since both Cologne and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen Hbf include Düsseldorf, Euskirchen, Enschede, Osnabrück, Eindhoven.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen 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 to Gelsenkirchen Hbf

Most Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf trains use the Köln Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Gelsenkirchen 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 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 · €7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · €5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · €5 · 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/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 · €4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · €4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · €5

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.

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 · €3 · 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.

More options for your journey from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen Hbf

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

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