Train from Essen to Cologne: Tickets & Timetables

Previously seen journeys

Next departures from Essen to Cologne on 12 December
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
FlixTrainTrain
    HBF
    HbfNo tags
    FlixTrainTrain
      HBF
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      FlixTrainTrain
        HBF
        HbfNo tags
        FlixTrainTrain
          HBF
          HbfNo tags
          FlixTrainTrain
            HBF
            HbfNo tags

            Compare 3 ways to travel from Essen to Cologne

            We recommend carpooling

            Among the sustainable travel choices, the carpool stands out as a good way to reach Cologne. The journey takes about 50 minutes and with fares starting at just £3, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

            6carpool per day
            50mAverage duration
            37 milesDistance
            2kgCO₂ emissions
            Average price£5 - £12Average duration1h 45m
            2kg CO₂e
            Average price£8 - £36Average duration56m
            1kg CO₂e
            Carpool
            Average price£3 - £7Average duration50m
            2kg CO₂e

            Frequently asked questions about travelling from Essen to Cologne by train

            Please note that timetables, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your journey.

            1. How much does a train ticket cost from Essen to Cologne?

              The cheapest train tickets from Essen to Cologne start from £8. The average price for this train route is around £18. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for the best chance of getting the lowest possible price.

            2. How long is the train journey from Essen to Cologne?

              The average train journey time from Essen to Cologne is 56m, covering a distance of 36 miles. The fastest train gets you there in 45m and is operated by Deutsche Bahn ICE.

            3. Which train operators serve the Essen to Cologne route?

              Several major train operators run on this route with 24 trains available per day, including services from Deutsche Bahn ICE, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn EuroCity, FlixBus.

            4. What are the earliest and latest departure times for the train from Essen to Cologne?

              The earliest train from Essen to Cologne departs at 06:00. And the latest train departs at 20:50.

            5. Which is the best train operator from Essen to Cologne?

              According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated train operator on this route is Deutsche Bahn EuroCity, with an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 1 reviews.

            6. Which train operator has the best Wi-Fi from Essen to Cologne?

              According to reviews on Busbud, the train operator Deutsche Bahn EuroCity has the highest Wi-Fi rating with a score of 5.0.

            7. Which train operator has the most punctual service from Essen to Cologne?

              According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most punctual train operator on this route is Deutsche Bahn EuroCity, with a punctuality rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars.

            8. Which train operator has the cleanest trains from Essen to Cologne?

              According to Busbud traveller reviews, the train operator with the cleanest trains on this route is Deutsche Bahn EuroCity, with a cleanliness rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars.

            Find cheapest prices for trains

            Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

            Best price found
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            £7
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            £7
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            busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Essen to Cologne was searched and found on 10 Dec 2025 with a price of £7

            To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Essen to Cologne as early as possible.

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