- Must visit
Old Synagogue Museum
Museum in the former synagogue with the famous Erfurt Treasure. It offers rare insight into medieval Jewish life and heritage.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cottbus to Erfurt
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€75
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€75
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 58 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 58 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cottbus to Erfurt is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cottbus to Erfurt will cost around €75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €75.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Cottbus to Erfurt, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 245 km distance in an average of 3 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 58 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 58 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.
12:14 PM3h58Cottbus4:12 PMErfurt€751One-way0 transfers
- 12:14 PM3h58Cottbus4:12 PMErfurt€751One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cottbus to Erfurt
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cottbus to Erfurt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €51 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €51, while a train costs an average of €74.
Distance: 152 miles (245 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€74 Average price | €51 Average price Cheapest | €47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 55m Average total duration 10h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cottbus to Erfurt is a bus with an average price of €51.
This is compared to other travel options from Cottbus to Erfurt:
A bus is €23 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cottbus to Erfurt costing on average €74.
The fastest way to travel from Cottbus to Erfurt is by train with an average journey time of 2h 37m.
Other travel options to Erfurt take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cottbus and Erfurt including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cottbus to Erfurt 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 1h 2m sooner (2h 37m by train vs 3h 39m by car). Tickets start at around €74 compared to roughly €47 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.
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.
Compare prices and tickets Cottbus to Erfurt 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
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cottbus to Erfurt trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Cottbus to Erfurt.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cottbus to Erfurt.
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 Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Cottbus to Erfurt.
- 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 Cottbus to Erfurt.
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 Cottbus to Erfurt.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cottbus to Erfurt
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cottbus to Erfurt run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €59 but you can travel from only €51 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:29, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 152 miles (245 km) distance in 2h 28m.
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 €51
Distance 152 miles (245 km) |
Average train duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price €59 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 28m |
First train 12:29 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 €51
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cottbus to Erfurt trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cottbus and Erfurt from €51. 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
2h 28m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€59
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
Complete guide to Erfurt
Things to do in Erfurt
Discover the best of Erfurt — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Erfurt trip today.
- Recommended
Kunsthalle Erfurt
Major art museum in a former packing warehouse. It presents modern and contemporary exhibitions in one of Erfurt’s most celebrated cultural venues.
- Recommended
Erfurt City Museum
City museum tracing Erfurt’s history from medieval trade to modern times. A strong introduction to the city before exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Fischmarkt
Historic main square with Gothic town hall, colorful houses, and frequent events. It is one of the best places to feel Erfurt’s civic heart.
- Must visit
Erfurt Old Town
Historic old-town area of lanes, bridges, and merchant houses. Best explored without a plan, it captures Erfurt’s preserved medieval charm.
- Recommended
Anger
Elegant shopping boulevard and tram hub with historic facades. It is ideal for people-watching and understanding the city’s commercial center.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringian grilled sausage, seasoned with marjoram and grilled over charcoal. It is Erfurt's signature street food and a protected regional specialty.
- Vegetarian
Zwiebelkuchen
A rustic onion tart with a savory filling of onions, eggs, and cream, often enjoyed in autumn with new wine in Thuringia.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Klöße
Small potato dumplings, often served with roast dishes and gravy. They are a classic Thuringian side and a staple of local home cooking.
Clara - Restaurant im Kaisersaal
Historic fine dining restaurant in the old town, known for refined Thuringian and German cuisine in an elegant, traditional setting.
Gasthaus Feuerkugel
Traditional inn near the cathedral, popular for Thuringian classics, local beer, and a warm tavern atmosphere.
Altstadtkneipe No. 1 Zum Güldenen Rade
Well-known brewery restaurant serving house beer and hearty regional dishes in a lively, historic brewpub setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: lodging, meals, and transit are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but pricier than many smaller towns.
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
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Tip cafes by rounding up and taxis by rounding up or about 10% for good service.
EVA mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- €6.20
To the city center
Erfurt Hbf -> Domplatz, Erfurt
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding if they are not pre-printed with the time.
- Contactless card payment is available in many ticket machines, but onboard payment options can vary by vehicle.
FAQs: Trains from Cottbus to Erfurt
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cottbus to Erfurt 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 Erfurt, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cottbus to Erfurt can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €59, while the average price is around €74.
The train from Cottbus to Erfurt takes 2h 28m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Cottbus to Erfurt leaves at 12:29 AM.
The distance by train from Cottbus to Erfurt is 152 miles (245 km).
The last train from Cottbus to Erfurt leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cottbus to Erfurt.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cottbus to Erfurt.
The train station in Cottbus that goes to Erfurt is Cottbus Hbf, which connects to Erfurt Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cottbus to Erfurt is by bus, with a cost of around €51.
The train journey from Cottbus to Erfurt offers scenic views, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Brandenburg and Thuringia, with glimpses of lush forests, rolling hills, and charming small towns along the way.
A day trip from Cottbus to Erfurt is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 28m. Trains operate 7 times per day over a distance of 152 miles (245 km).
To fully explore Erfurt's historical sites, vibrant culture, and local cuisine, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cottbus to Erfurt.
Since both Cottbus and Erfurt 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 Erfurt include Berlin, Leipzig, Nuremberg, Eisenach, Halle.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cottbus to Erfurt 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 Erfurt, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial guides may occur, so it’s advisable to use authorized services. Always keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid isolated streets at night for a safer experience.
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 Cottbus to Erfurt
Most Cottbus to Erfurt trains use the Cottbus Hauptbahnhof to Erfurt Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cottbus and Erfurt train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cottbus
Arrival train stations in Erfurt
Which Cottbus station do trains to Erfurt leave from?
Trains from Cottbus to Erfurt leave from Cottbus Hauptbahnhof. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cottbus city centre at Vetschauer Straße 70, 03048 Cottbus, Germany.
Cottbus HauptbahnhofVetschauer Straße 70, 03048 Cottbus, Germany+49 355 2840
City-centre transport
Getting to Cottbus Hauptbahnhof from Cottbus city centre
Bus4N, 47, 3N, 33, 29, 22, 21, 15, 10 · 9m · €1 · every ~11 min
Tram2 · 7m · €2 · every ~6 min
Cottbus Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Cottbus Hauptbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Esscobar, Ratskeller Cottbus
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cottbus Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cottbus Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cottbus Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cottbus Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cottbus Hauptbahnhof.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Radisson Blu Hotel Cottbus, Lindner Congress Hotel Cottbus, Sorat Hotel Cottbus.
Which Erfurt station do trains from Cottbus arrive at?
Trains from Cottbus to Erfurt arrive at Erfurt Hbf. Erfurt Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Erfurt city centre.
Erfurt HbfErfurt Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 12, 99084 Erfurt
City-centre transport
Getting to Erfurt Hbf from Erfurt city centre
Bus9 · 17m · every ~12 min
Tram6, 5, 1 · 5m · every ~20 min
Erfurt Hbf train station facilities and services
Erfurt 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: Istanbul Grill, McDonald's, Masala, Planet Comics
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erfurt Hbf. ATMs are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erfurt Hbf. Information desks are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erfurt Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Krämerbrücke, Intercity Hotel, Pension am Dom, Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior.
Most popular train connections from Cottbus
More options for your journey from Cottbus to Erfurt
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erfurt and Cottbus
Most popular train connections to Erfurt
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
