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

Mon, May 04
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Essen

Showing times and prices for May 04

Cheapest price

$10

Average price

$18

Fastest journey

47 m

Average duration

49 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

58 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Essen will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Cologne for Essen on Mon, May 04, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, May 04 the direct trains cover the 58 km distance in an average of 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 47 m .

On Mon, May 04 the slowest trains will take 52 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.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    12:14 PM0h49
    Cologne Hbf
    1:03 PMEssen Hbf
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    4:14 PM0h48
    Cologne Hbf
    5:02 PMEssen Hbf
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    8:14 AM0h48
    Cologne Hbf
    9:02 AMEssen Hbf
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    9:01 AM0h52
    Cologne Hbf
    9:53 AMEssen Hbf
    $101One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 545
    8:25 AM0h53
    Cologne Hbf
    9:18 AMEssen Hbf
    $331One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Essen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 56m. 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 $5, and a train costs an average of $7.

Distance: 36 miles (58 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$19

Average price

$6

Average price

Cheapest

1h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 0m

Average total duration

1h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Cologne to Essen train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Essen trains for tomorrow, Monday, May 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 616
Delayed
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
0h47
7:07 AM 7:07 AMEssen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain8:14 AM Cologne Hbf
0h48
9:02 AM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 545
On time
8:25 AM Cologne Hbf
0h53
9:18 AM Essen Hbf
0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain9:01 AM Cologne Hbf
0h52
9:53 AM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain12:14 PM Cologne Hbf
0h49
1:03 PM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain4:14 PM Cologne Hbf
0h48
5:02 PM Essen Hbf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Essen 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.

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May 04
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Why should you book Cologne to Essen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Eurostar offer trains services from Cologne to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Essen.

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 FlixTrain or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Essen.
  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Essen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Essen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Essen.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Essen?

The best time to book your train from Cologne to Essen is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Essen route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Essen per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Essen.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Essen

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconClean
IconOffers catering facilities
IconSeats comfortable with full equipment
Disadvantages
Icon95 minutes late
IconLoud atmosphere on the train
IconStaff overstrained
On this journey, the train had been very late, a total of 95 minutes, so that subsequent trains were also delayed. It had been very noisy on the train and the staff were very overwhelmed with the situation. Nevertheless, the train was very clean and the toilets were hygienic. There was still a food option on the train. The seats had been comfortable and had power sockets and an internet connection. As the train was full, I did not recommend the journey.
Advantages
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconNone
I travelled the route from Cologne to Essen on 24 May with the ICE 729. The journey takes about 1 hour, but is very bearable in the ICE. Despite commuter times, I got a seat without a seat reservation and the train was not too crowded. It was quite clean on the train, the conductor was very nice and the price for the ticket was reasonable, with about 18 € per trip I find the price performance very reasonable.
Advantages
IconSpeed
Disadvantages
IconNone
Yesterday, on my way back from Dortmund, I travelled from Essen to Cologne on the ICE 729. The journey between Cologne and Essen was very pleasant and took about 1 hour. The train was clean, the conductor was very polite and the price-performance ratio was also very fair. Basically, I can highly recommend the trip, as I even got a seat in the full train despite not having a seat reservation.
Advantages
IconCleanliness in the toilets and on the train
IconInternet connection and power sockets available
IconSeats were comfortable and had large tables
Iconwithout changing
Disadvantages
Icon15 minutes late
IconNo ticket inspection
This train was delayed by 15 minutes. But as I didn't have to change trains, I didn't find this too bad. There was plenty of space on the train and it was quiet. There was a power socket at my seat and I also had a good internet connection. The train was clean and the toilets smelled good. There was no ticket inspection, so I can't comment on the staff. Apart from that, I found the seats very comfortable and the tables were big enough to put a lot of things on. There was no need to change trains on my journey.
Advantages
IconNice train crew
We are very satisfied with the train journey. The train staff were extremely friendly to us and I can't think of anything to criticise. The train was also well cleaned. The seats were also comfortable, they are just normal train seats. Wifi and power sockets were available.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconPunctual
IconTravelling speed
Disadvantages
IconSanitary facilities
I travelled from Cologne to Essen by train. The train arrived on time and had no further disruptions or delays during the journey. The seating areas made a clean and well-kept impression. The wifi and power sockets worked perfectly. Unfortunately, I didn't find the sanitary facilities to be particularly clean. There is room for improvement here. Otherwise absolutely recommendable

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Essen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Essen run on average 13 times per day, taking around 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€6) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by bus.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 36 miles (58 km) distance in 45m.

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
36 miles (58 km)
Average train duration
56m
Cheapest ticket price
$7 (€6)
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
45m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
77 days
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, Eurostar from Cologne to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Essen 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
47m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
15 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

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
45m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€6)
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 7m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€54)
Eurostar frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Essen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7 (€6), while the average price is around $19 (€15).
The train from Cologne to Essen takes 45m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Essen is 36 miles (58 km).
The first train from Cologne to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Essen leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Essen. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Eurostar.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Essen.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Essen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Essen is by bus, with a cost of around $5 (€4).
The train journey from Cologne to Essen is not particularly known for its scenic views, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas in the Rhine-Ruhr region.
Yes, a day trip from Cologne to Essen is feasible. The journey takes 45m and covers 36 miles (58 km). Trains run 16 times per day.
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Essen.
Since both Cologne and Essen 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 Essen include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen, Eindhoven.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Essen 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 Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to ensure safety.
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 Cologne to Essen

Cologne
Essen
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Essen.
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin

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