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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Cheapest price
$12
Average price
$19
Fastest journey
59 m
Average duration
1 h 6 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
65 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $19 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.
Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Gelsenkirchen on Sat, Jun 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 1 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 59 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 11 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.
8:01 AM1h06Cologne9:07 AMGelsenkirchen$121One-way0 transfers- 1:01 PM1h06Cologne2:07 PMGelsenkirchen$151One-way0 transfers
7:44 AM0h59Cologne8:43 AMGelsenkirchen$221One-way0 transfers- 8:17 AM1h11Cologne9:28 AMGelsenkirchen$271One-way0 transfers
- 7:44 AM0h59Cologne8:43 AMGelsenkirchen$221One-way0 transfers
- 8:01 AM1h06Cologne9:07 AMGelsenkirchen$121One-way0 transfers
- 1:01 PM1h06Cologne2:07 PMGelsenkirchen$151One-way0 transfers
- 8:17 AM1h11Cologne9:28 AMGelsenkirchen$271One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen 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 bus which can get you there in 57m. 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 $9.
Distance: 40 miles (65 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$20 Average price | $5 Average price Cheapest | $14 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 35m Average total duration 1h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Cologne to Gelsenkirchen:
A bus is $15 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $20 (€16).
Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 5m.
You'll arrive about 7m sooner (1h 5m by train vs 1h 12m by car). Tickets start at around $20 (€16) compared to roughly $14 (€12) 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, FlixTrain, 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
Cologne to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 0h59 | 9:13 AM Bochum Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixTrain | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h00 | 1:14 PM Bochum Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixTrain | 4:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 0h59 | 5:13 PM Bochum Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Gelsenkirchen 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.
Jun 20
Jun 21
Jun 22
Jun 23
Jun 24
Jun 25
Jun 26
Why should you book Cologne to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
- 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 Gelsenkirchen.
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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 40 miles (65 km) distance in 57m.
Distance 40 miles (65 km) |
Average train duration 1h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 57m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 5 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurostar from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Gelsenkirchen from $5 (€4). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Most Cologne to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Köln Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen 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: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen 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: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.
Getting to Wanne-Eickel Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Wanne-Eickel Hbf is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
Wanne-Eickel Hbf train station facilities and services
Wanne-Eickel Hbf 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: Dschingis Khan, Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel, Nikolaus Grill, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. ATMs are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Information desks are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Getting to Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen is 2 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen 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: Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas, Viva Sevilla, Nudelland
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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