- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$48
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$67
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 30 m
Trains on Sep 19
30
Distance
297 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne will cost around $67 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 30 trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 297 km distance in an average of 2 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 18 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 39 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.
ICE 1012 · ICE 1020
S1 · ICE 616
S1 · ICE 616
S1 · ICE 616
S1 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926
ICE 1012
19112 · ICE 1014
S1 · ICE 1012
S1 · ICE 1010
S1 · ICE 1014Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $50 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 15m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, while a flight costs an average of $569.
Distance: 184 miles (297 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$132 Average price | $569 Average price | $50 Average price Cheapest | $66 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 15m Average total duration Fastest 2h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 55m Average total duration 1h 55m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 21m Average total duration 6h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne:
A bus is $83 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne costing on average $132.
A bus is $519 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne costing on average $569.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 45m.
Bus takes on average 6h 51m.
You'll arrive about 1h 25m sooner (2h 45m by train vs 4h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $132 compared to roughly $66 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 Deutsche Bahn.
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.
The table below shows live departures for Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
S1 · ICE 618 | On time 1:45 AM Oberesslingen | 4h19 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 618 | On time 1:50 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 4h14 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
19252 · ICE 618 | On time 1:53 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 4h11 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 616 | On time 5:15 AM Oberesslingen | 2h50 | 8:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 616 | On time 5:18 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 2h47 | 8:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 616 | On time 5:20 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 2h45 | 8:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 1014 | On time 5:45 AM Oberesslingen | 2h44 | 8:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022 | On time 5:45 AM Oberesslingen | 4h21 | 10:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 1014 | On time 5:50 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 2h39 | 8:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022 | On time 5:50 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 4h16 | 10:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
19112 · ICE 1014 | On time 6:02 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 2h27 | 8:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
19112 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022 | On time 6:02 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 4h04 | 10:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 694 · ICE 204 | On time 6:15 AM Oberesslingen | 2h50 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 694 · ICE 204 | On time 6:20 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 2h45 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
19214 · ICE 694 · ICE 204 | On time 6:24 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 2h41 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 1012 | On time 8:00 AM Oberesslingen | 2h29 | 10:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | On time 8:00 AM Oberesslingen | 4h05 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | On time 8:11 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 3h54 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1012 | On time 8:11 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 2h18 | 10:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
S1 · ICE 692 · ICE 202 | On time 8:15 AM Oberesslingen | 2h50 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 692 · ICE 202 | On time 8:20 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 2h45 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
19308 · ICE 692 · ICE 202 | On time 8:20 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 2h45 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 612 | On time 9:15 AM Oberesslingen | 2h50 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 612 · IC 2047 | On time 9:15 AM Oberesslingen | 3h51 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 612 | On time 9:20 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 2h45 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 612 · IC 2047 | On time 9:20 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 3h46 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
19310 · ICE 612 | On time 9:26 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 2h39 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
19310 · ICE 612 · IC 2047 | On time 9:26 AM Esslingen (Neckar) station | 3h40 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S1 · ICE 1010 | On time 9:54 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 2h35 | 12:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
S1 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 | On time 9:54 AM Esslingen-Mettingen | 4h12 | 2:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne run on average 32 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 but you can travel from only $33 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 184 miles (297 km) distance in 2h 20m.
Distance 184 miles (297 km) |
Average train duration 2h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 |
Trains per day 32 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 20m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 2 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne trains use the Esslingen (Neckar) to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Esslingen am Neckar and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Esslingen (Neckar) 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 options include: Weiler Hof, Posthörnle, Multi Pizza Service, Brauhaus Schwanen
Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen (Neckar). ATMs are available at Esslingen (Neckar).
Ticket office support is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Information desks are available at Esslingen (Neckar).
Luggage storage is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen (Neckar).
Oberesslingen is 1 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:
Oberesslingen 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 options include: Zum Froschkönig, Iglu, Ziegelhof, Kohinoor
Wi-Fi is available at Oberesslingen. ATMs are available at Oberesslingen.
Ticket office support is available at Oberesslingen. Information desks are available at Oberesslingen.
Luggage storage is available at Oberesslingen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Oberesslingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Oberesslingen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Oberesslingen.
Esslingen-Mettingen is 2 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:
Esslingen-Mettingen 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 options include: Kaiserpalast, Cafe Mocca, La Conchiglia, Betriebsrestaurant
Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. ATMs are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.
Ticket office support is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Information desks are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.
Luggage storage is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need