- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Cottbus
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$130
Average price
$130
Fastest journey
5 h 34 m
Average duration
5 h 34 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
506 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Cottbus is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Cottbus will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $130.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Cottbus without transferring at least once.
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5:19 AM5h36Essen10:55 AMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer- 6:21 AM5h34Essen11:55 AMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 7:19 AM5h36Essen12:55 PMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 8:21 AM5h34Essen1:55 PMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 9:19 AM5h36Essen2:55 PMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 6:21 AM5h34Essen11:55 AMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 8:21 AM5h34Essen1:55 PMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 10:21 AM5h34Essen3:55 PMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 12:21 PM5h34Essen5:55 PMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
- 2:21 PM5h34Essen7:55 PMCottbus$1301One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Essen to Cottbus
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Cottbus among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, and a flight costs an average of $89.
Distance: 314 miles (506 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$117 Average price | $59 Average price Cheapest | $158 Average price | $113 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 53m Average total duration 5h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 52m Average total duration 13h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 Essen to Cottbus is a bus with an average price of $59.
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Cottbus:
A bus is $59 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Cottbus costing on average $117.
A bus is $99 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Cottbus costing on average $158.
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Cottbus is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.
Other travel options to Cottbus take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 23m.
Bus takes on average 13h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Cottbus including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen 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 1h 5m sooner (5h 23m by train vs 6h 28m by car). Tickets start at around $117 compared to roughly $113 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
Essen to Cottbus train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Cottbus trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:19 AM Essen | 5h36 | 10:55 AM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 6:21 AM Essen | 5h34 | 11:55 AM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 7:19 AM Essen | 5h36 | 12:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 8:21 AM Essen | 5h34 | 1:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 9:19 AM Essen | 5h36 | 2:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 10:21 AM Essen | 5h34 | 3:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 11:19 AM Essen | 5h36 | 4:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 12:21 PM Essen | 5h34 | 5:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 1:19 PM Essen | 5h36 | 6:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 2:21 PM Essen | 5h34 | 7:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 3:19 PM Essen | 5h36 | 8:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 4:21 PM Essen | 5h34 | 9:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 5:19 PM Essen | 5h36 | 10:55 PM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 6:21 PM Essen | 6h19 | 12:40 AM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 7:19 PM Essen | 6h21 | 1:40 AM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 8:21 PM Essen | 6h19 | 2:40 AM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Cottbus by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, 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.
Tue
Aug 04
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Thu
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Fri
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Aug 10
Why should you book Essen to Cottbus trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Essen to Cottbus.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Essen 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Cottbus.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Cottbus.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Cottbus
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Cottbus run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 but you can travel from only $48 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 314 miles (506 km) distance in 5h 34m.
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 $48
Distance 314 miles (506 km) |
Average train duration 5h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $60 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 34m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $48
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Essen to Cottbus trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Essen and Cottbus from $48. 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
5h 34m
Cheapest Price
$72
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 34m
Cheapest Price
$130
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 Essen to Cottbus
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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 Essen to Cottbus can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60, while the average price is around $117.
The train from Essen to Cottbus takes 5h 34m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Cottbus is 314 miles (506 km).
The first train from Essen to Cottbus leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Essen to Cottbus leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Cottbus.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Cottbus.
The train station in Essen that goes to Cottbus is Essen Hbf, which connects to Cottbus Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Cottbus is by bus, with a cost of around $48.
The train journey from Essen to Cottbus offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, passing through the industrial Ruhr area, picturesque landscapes of North Rhine-Westphalia, and the serene Spreewald region known for its lush forests and waterways.
A day trip from Essen to Cottbus is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 34m and covers 314 miles (506 km). Trains run 8 times per day.
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 Essen to Cottbus.
Since both Essen 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 Essen 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 Essen to Cottbus
Most Essen to Cottbus trains use the Essen Hbf to Cottbus Hauptbahnhof station pair, with some services arriving at Cottbus, Busbahnhof. Use this guide to compare Essen and Cottbus train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Cottbus
Which Essen station do trains to Cottbus leave from?
Trains from Essen to Cottbus leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Which Cottbus station do trains from Essen arrive at?
Trains from Essen 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, Spreewaldbahnhof03048 Cottbus, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Cottbus, Spreewaldbahnhof from Cottbus city centre
Bus35, 12 · 3m · $1 · every ~3 min
Cottbus, Spreewaldbahnhof train station facilities and services
Cottbus, Spreewaldbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cottbus, Spreewaldbahnhof.
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Cottbus
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cottbus and Essen
Most popular train connections to Cottbus
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