- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- €106
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- €106
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 5 h 34 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 5 h 34 m
- Trains on Nov 03
- 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 €106 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €106.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Cottbus without transferring at least once.
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5:19 AM 5h36 Essen 10:55 AM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer6:21 AM 5h34 Essen 11:55 AM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer7:19 AM 5h36 Essen 12:55 PM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer8:21 AM 5h34 Essen 1:55 PM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer9:19 AM 5h36 Essen 2:55 PM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer
6:21 AM 5h34 Essen 11:55 AM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer8:21 AM 5h34 Essen 1:55 PM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer10:21 AM 5h34 Essen 3:55 PM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer12:21 PM 5h34 Essen 5:55 PM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer2:21 PM 5h34 Essen 7:55 PM Cottbus €106 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Cottbus
GermanyGermany
Trains from Essen to Cottbus run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €68 but you can travel from only €36 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 18m.
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 €36
Distance 314 miles (506 km) |
Average train duration 5h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price €68 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 18m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 €36
Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Cottbus trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Cottbus.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Cottbus can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €68, while the average price is around €121.
The train from Essen to Cottbus takes 5h 18m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Essen to Cottbus leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Cottbus is 314 miles (506 km).
The last train from Essen to Cottbus leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Cottbus.
Live departures
Essen to Cottbus train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Cottbus trains for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:19 PM Essen | 6h21 | 1:40 AM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| 8:21 PM Essen | 6h19 | 2:40 AM Cottbus | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, November 3 | |||||
| 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 | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Cottbus trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Essen to Cottbus trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and Cottbus from €36. 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
5h 18m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€68
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Cottbus
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Essen to Cottbus.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Cottbus
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cottbus.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Cottbus include Dresden, Leipzig, Berlin, Weißwasser / Oberlausitz, Bautzen.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Cottbus.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Essen to Cottbus
Most Essen to Cottbus trains use the Essen Hbf to Cottbus Hauptbahnhof station pair. 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 arrive at Cottbus Hauptbahnhof. Cottbus Hauptbahnhof is 0 miles (1 km) from Cottbus city centre.
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.
Train stations for Essen to Cottbus
Check train stations information for Essen and Cottbus, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Essen that goes to Cottbus is Essen Hbf, which connects to Cottbus Hauptbahnhof.
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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