- Must visit
Stiftung Fürst-Pückler-Museum Park und Schloss Branitz
Museum in Branitz Palace presenting Prince Pückler’s life, interiors, and landscape vision in one of Cottbus’s top cultural sites.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Erfurt to Cottbus
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Erfurt to Cottbus among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 22m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €26, and a bus costs an average of €76.
Distance: 152 miles (245 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€48 Average price Cheapest | €76 Average price | €47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 52m Average total duration Fastest 3h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 50m Average total duration 15h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Erfurt to Cottbus is a train with an average price of €48.
This is compared to other travel options from Erfurt to Cottbus:
A train is €29 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Erfurt to Cottbus costing on average €76.
The fastest way to travel from Erfurt to Cottbus is by train with an average journey time of 3h 22m.
Other travel options to Cottbus take longer:
Bus takes on average 15h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Erfurt and Cottbus including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Cottbus 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 16m sooner (3h 22m by train vs 3h 38m by car). Tickets start at around €48 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.
Live departures
Erfurt to Cottbus train times
The table below shows live departures for Erfurt to Cottbus trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:40 PM Erfurt | 7h16 | 6:56 AM Cottbus | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Erfurt to Cottbus 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.
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Why should you book Erfurt to Cottbus trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | Euro City (EC) or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Erfurt to Cottbus.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Erfurt to Cottbus.
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 ÖBB | Euro City (EC) or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Erfurt to Cottbus.
- 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 Erfurt to Cottbus.
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 Erfurt to Cottbus.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Erfurt to Cottbus
GermanyGermany
Trains from Erfurt to Cottbus run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €26 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:45, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 152 miles (245 km) distance in 3h 4m.
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
Distance 152 miles (245 km) |
Average train duration 3h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price €26 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 4m |
First train 12:45 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Erfurt to Cottbus trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Erfurt and Cottbus from €26. 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
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
€26
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.
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
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest Price
€64
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
€64
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Cottbus
Things to do in Cottbus
Discover the best of Cottbus — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cottbus trip today.
- Recommended
Stadtmuseum Cottbus
City museum covering Cottbus history, urban development, and regional culture inside a former gate-related historic complex.
- Recommended
Brandenburgisches Landesmuseum für moderne Kunst Dieselkraftwerk
Art museum known for modern and contemporary exhibitions, especially East German art, in a striking power-station building.
- Must visit
Branitzer Park
Famous landscaped park by Prince Pückler with lakes, pyramids, and scenic paths; the city’s signature green attraction.
- Recommended
Altmarkt
Cottbus’s main market square with historic facades, events, and a lively atmosphere; a natural starting point for exploring the center.
- Recommended
Spremberger Straße
Main pedestrian shopping street connecting the station side and old town, good for architecture, people-watching, and everyday city life.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Spreewälder Gurken
Spreewald gherkins are barrel-pickled cucumbers from nearby Spreewald, famous for their crisp texture and dill, mustard, or horseradish seasoning.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Quark Mit Leinöl Und Kartoffeln
Quark with linseed oil and potatoes is a Lusatian farmhouse staple. The creamy curd and nutty oil reflect Sorbian country cooking around Cottbus.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pellkartoffeln Mit Kräuterquark
Boiled potatoes with herb quark are a simple regional everyday meal, valued for local dairy and produce and common across Brandenburg and Lusatia.
Restaurant Kavalierhaus Branitz
Elegant restaurant in Branitz Park offering refined regional cuisine with a quieter upscale atmosphere near Fürst Pückler's park.
Brau & Bistro Am Altmarkt
Historic brewery restaurant known for hearty regional dishes and house beer in a traditional, atmospheric setting near the old town.
Stadtwächter
Traditional inn-style venue serving German and regional favorites in a rustic, casual atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Berlin, while local transit and everyday costs stay manageable for most visitors.
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
Tipping is customary but modest: round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Small rounding up is common for taxis and cafes.
VBB Bus & Bahn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.10
- Day pass
- €6.00
To the city center
Cottbus Hbf -> Altmarkt, Cottbus
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the VBB Bus & Bahn app or from ticket machines before boarding. Validate paper tickets if required.
- Contactless card payment availability can vary by vehicle and sales channel. The app or ticket machines are the most reliable cashless options.
FAQs: Trains from Erfurt to Cottbus
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erfurt to Cottbus 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 Cottbus, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Erfurt to Cottbus can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €26, while the average price is around €48.
The train from Erfurt to Cottbus takes 3h 4m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Erfurt to Cottbus leaves at 12:45 AM.
The distance by train from Erfurt to Cottbus is 152 miles (245 km).
The last train from Erfurt to Cottbus leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Erfurt to Cottbus.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erfurt to Cottbus.
The train station in Erfurt that goes to Cottbus is Erfurt Hbf, which connects to Cottbus Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Erfurt to Cottbus is by train, with a cost of around €26.
The train journey from Erfurt to Cottbus offers scenic views, particularly through the Thuringian Forest and along the river valleys, showcasing picturesque landscapes and traditional German villages.
A day trip from Erfurt to Cottbus is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 4m. However, trains run 7 times per day for this 152 miles (245 km) route.
For a fulfilling experience in Cottbus, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows time to explore the city's parks, museums, and local attractions comfortably.
Yes, you can take the train from Erfurt to Cottbus.
Since both Erfurt and Cottbus 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 Cottbus include Dresden, Leipzig, Berlin, Weißwasser / Oberlausitz, Bautzen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Cottbus 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 Cottbus, travelers should remain vigilant against pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated places at night. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that do not use meters or unlicensed drivers. Staying aware of surroundings 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 Erfurt to Cottbus
Most Erfurt to Cottbus trains use the Erfurt Hbf to Cottbus Hauptbahnhof station pair, with some services arriving at Cottbus, Busbahnhof. Use this guide to compare Erfurt and Cottbus train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Erfurt
Arrival train stations in Cottbus
Which Erfurt station do trains to Cottbus leave from?
Trains from Erfurt to Cottbus leave from Erfurt Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Erfurt city centre at Erfurt Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 12, 99084 Erfurt.
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.
Which Cottbus station do trains from Erfurt arrive at?
Trains from Erfurt to Cottbus most often arrive at Cottbus Hauptbahnhof. Some services arrive at Cottbus, Busbahnhof, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cottbus arrival station.
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.
Cottbus, Busbahnhof03048 Cottbus, Germany
Cottbus, Busbahnhof train station facilities and services
Cottbus, Busbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cottbus, Busbahnhof.
Cottbus-SandowCottbus-Sandow, Am Gleisdreieck1, 03042 Cottbus
City-centre transport
Getting to Cottbus-Sandow from Cottbus city centre
Cottbus-Sandow is 1 km from Cottbus city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb93, Rb43, Re10 · 3m · €1 · every ~3 min
Tram2 · 7m · €2 · every ~6 min
2 · 11m · €2 · every ~6 min
Cottbus-Sandow train station facilities and services
Cottbus-Sandow 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: Vasilis, Pizza Lucio, Lokomotive, Sandower SeniorenKantine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cottbus-Sandow. ATMs are available at Cottbus-Sandow.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cottbus-Sandow. Information desks are available at Cottbus-Sandow.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cottbus-Sandow. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cottbus-Sandow: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cottbus-Sandow: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cottbus-Sandow.
Most popular train connections from Erfurt
More options for your journey from Erfurt to Cottbus
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cottbus and Erfurt
Most popular train connections to Cottbus
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