Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Wed, Aug 05
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$107

Average price

$107

Fastest journey

3 h 41 m

Average duration

3 h 41 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

297 km

Cheap tickets

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 $107 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $107.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Esslingen am Neckar for Cologne on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 297 km distance in an average of 3 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 41 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 41 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:24 AM3h41
    Esslingen am Neckar
    10:05 AMCologne
    $1071One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train 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 prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a flight costs an average of $385.

Distance: 184 miles (297 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$109

Average price

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$496

Average price

$66

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 55m

Average total duration

5h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 35m

Average total duration

3h 35m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 1.8kg

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 Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $32.

This is compared to other travel options from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne:

A bus is $78 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne costing on average $109.

A bus is $465 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne costing on average $496.

The fastest way to travel from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 2h 54m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Flight takes on average 3h 35m.

Bus takes on average 5h 25m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Esslingen am Neckar and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne 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 16m sooner (2h 54m by train vs 4h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $109 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 Intercity (DB IC).

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

Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:24 AM Esslingen am Neckar
3h41
10:05 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne by train, bus, or flight

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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne.

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 Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne run on average 21 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 but you can travel from only $28 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 184 miles (297 km) distance in 3h 39m.

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 $28
Distance
184 miles (297 km)
Average train duration
2h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$65
Trains per day
21
Fastest train
3h 39m
First train
12:03 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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 $28

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Esslingen am Neckar and Cologne from $28. 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 39m
Cheapest Price
$65
Deutsche Bahn frequency
21 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
$74
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
2 a day

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.

  • 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.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

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.

FAQs: Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65, while the average price is around $109.
The train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne takes 3h 39m and runs 21 per day.
The distance by train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne is 184 miles (297 km).
The first train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne leaves at 12:03 AM.
The last train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne.
The train station in Esslingen am Neckar that goes to Cologne is Esslingen (Neckar) station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $28.
The train journey from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Swabian Jura and along the Rhine Valley, showcasing rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns.
A day trip from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 39m. There are 19 train trips available per day for this route.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne.
Since both Esslingen am Neckar and Cologne 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 Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne 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 Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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 Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne

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.

Departure train stations in Esslingen am Neckar
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Esslingen am Neckar station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Cologne leave from Esslingen (Neckar). The station is from Esslingen am Neckar city centre at Esslingen (Neckar), Bahnhofsplatz 1, 73728 Esslingen am Neckar.
Esslingen (Neckar)Esslingen (Neckar), Bahnhofsplatz 1, 73728 Esslingen am NeckarWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk

Esslingen (Neckar) 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 and drink

Food options include: Weiler Hof, Posthörnle, Multi Pizza Service, Brauhaus Schwanen

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen (Neckar). ATMs are available at Esslingen (Neckar).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Information desks are available at Esslingen (Neckar).

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen (Neckar).

OberesslingenOberesslingen, Ulmer Strasse 75, 73730 Esslingen am NeckarWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Oberesslingen from Esslingen am Neckar city centre

Oberesslingen is 1 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS1 · 2m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusN16, 140, 115, 114, 106, 104, 101 · 7m · $4 · every ~20 min

Oberesslingen train station facilities and services

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 and drink

Food options include: Zum Froschkönig, Iglu, Ziegelhof, Kohinoor

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Oberesslingen. ATMs are available at Oberesslingen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Oberesslingen. Information desks are available at Oberesslingen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Oberesslingen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Oberesslingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Oberesslingen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Oberesslingen.

Esslingen-MettingenEsslingen-Mettingen, Cannstatterstraße 61, 73733 Esslingen am NeckarWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Esslingen-Mettingen from Esslingen am Neckar city centre

Esslingen-Mettingen is 2 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS1 · 2m · $1 · every ~9 min
Bus101 · 4m · $4 · every ~7 min

Esslingen-Mettingen train station facilities and services

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 and drink

Food options include: Kaiserpalast, Cafe Mocca, La Conchiglia, Betriebsrestaurant

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. ATMs are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Information desks are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to CologneEsslingen am Neckar to Cologne train

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