Gelsenkirchen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,ICE,RB)

Mon, Dec 15
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
VIAS Rail GmbH
Eurobahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
VIAS Rail GmbH
Eurobahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Dec 16

Cheapest price

$11

Average price

$11

Fastest journey

1 h 8 m

Average duration

1 h 8 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

65 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne will cost around $11 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Gelsenkirchen for Cologne on Tue, Dec 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Dec 16 the direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 1 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 8 m .

On Tue, Dec 16 the slowest trains will take 1 h 8 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.

FlixTrain
03:48PM1h08
Gelsenkirchen
04:56PMCologne
$111One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €4. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €4, and a train costs an average of €5.

Distance: 40 miles (65 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€9

Average price

€6

Average price

Cheapest

1h 37m

Average total duration

1h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Gelsenkirchen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, December 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 8:37 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrain3:48 PM Gelsenkirchen
1h08
4:56 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen to Cologne 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.

Tue
Dec 16
Wed
Dec 17
Thu
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22

Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,ICE,RB) as well as FlixTrain, VIAS Rail GmbH and Eurobahn offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,ICE,RB)?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,ICE,RB), but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, VIAS Rail GmbH and Eurobahn to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen 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 (IC,RE,ICE,RB) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,ICE,RB) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,ICE,RB)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of FlixTrain, VIAS Rail GmbH and Eurobahn to help you choose the right option for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€5) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 40 miles (65 km) distance in 59m.

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 $5 (€4)
Distance
40 miles (65 km)
Average train duration
1h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$7 (€5)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
59m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:57
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 $5 (€4)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurobahn from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurobahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Cologne from $5 (€4). 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
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
59m
Cheapest Price
$6 (€4)
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

VIAS Rail GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
8 a day

Eurobahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Eurobahn frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen 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
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne takes 59m and runs 8 per day.
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.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, a day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is feasible. The journey takes 59m and covers 40 miles (65 km). Trains run 8 times per day.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is 40 miles (65 km).
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne primarily travels through urban and industrial areas, with limited scenic views, focusing more on efficient transit rather than picturesque landscapes.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7 (€5), while the average price is around $11 (€9).
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Cologne is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $5 (€4).
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.
Yes, there is a direct train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Gelsenkirchen
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Gelsenkirchen is Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gelsenkirchen Hbf for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.
Gelsenkirchen HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Gelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Tuesday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Wednesday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Thursday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Friday: 09:00 - 18:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Subway
  • Café Madrid
  • Shere Punjab
  • Café del Sol
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel St. Petrus
Wanne-Eickel HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Wanne-Eickel Hbf, Heinz-Rühmann-Platz 1, 44649 Herne
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Dschingis Khan
  • Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel
  • Nikolaus Grill
  • McDonald's
Gelsenkirchen-RotthausenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen, Karl-Mayer-Straße 58, 45884 Gelsenkirchen
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas
  • Viva Sevilla
  • Nudelland

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