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  1. Home
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  3. Essen to Cologne Train

Essen to Cologne train times

Find complete train schedules from Essen to Cologne, highlighting the fastest travel time of 51m. With 8 daily departures, the first train departs at 11:03 and the last at 12:54. Get real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a seamless journey.

Average

£37.04

From 29 Sep to 05 Oct

Cheapest

£5.78󰄽

On Mon 29 Sep

  • Mon29 Sep
  • £5.78󰄽
    Tue30 Sep
  • £5.78󰄽
    Wed01 Oct
  • £5.78󰄽
    Thu02 Oct
  • £5.78󰄽
    Fri03 Oct
  • £5.78󰄽
    Sat04 Oct
  • £5.78󰄽
    Sun05 Oct

Essen to Cologne train times

Look up thorough train timetables from Essen to Cologne, where the fastest journey lasts 51m. 8 trains are operating daily, with the first train departing at 11:03 and the last at 12:54. Check DB train schedules and prices to get real-time updates on any delays and cancellations, ensuring a hassle-free trip.

Mon

29 Sep

Tue

30 Sep

Wed

01 Oct

Thu

02 Oct

Fri

03 Oct

Sat

04 Oct

Sun

05 Oct

DepartsArrivesStatusDurationOperator

11:03

Essen Central Station

11:58

Cologne Central Station
On time55mDeutsche Bahn
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11:09

Essen Central Station

12:11

Cologne Central Station
On time1h 2mDeutsche Bahn
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11:21

Essen Central Station

12:29

Cologne Central Station
On time1h 8mDeutsche Bahn
Find tickets

11:57

Essen Central Station

12:49

Cologne Central Station
On time52mDeutsche Bahn
Find tickets

12:03

Essen Central Station

12:58

Cologne Central Station
On time55mFlixTrain
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Essen to Cologne train journey information

Discover DB train schedules from Essen to Cologne, featuring first and last departure times, stop, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a seamless journey.

First train
11:03
Last train
12:54
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
36 miles (57km)
Journey time
51m
Price
From £5.78
Train operators
FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn

Essen to Cologne train travel guide

Discover the advantages of choosing Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains for your trip from Essen to Cologne. Experience an average journey time of 55m and enjoy the comfort and affordability of ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average travel time from Essen to Cologne by train is 55m. For those in search of the fastest route, the quickest journey takes 51m. For detailed train information, accurate timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip smoothly.

2. Are there direct trains from Essen to Cologne?

Yes, direct train services from Essen to Cologne are available. With TrainPal, you can access detailed information on stops, times, departure and arrival stations, and train types, such as high-speed ICE and regional trains. To secure the best fares, consider ticket options like Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis.

3. What is the cost of a train ticket from Essen to Cologne?

The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Essen to Cologne starts at £5.78, with the average price being around £37.04*. Ticket prices fluctuate based on when you book, the type of train service, and any discounts that may be available. Hence, check the latest prices to secure the best discounts. Enjoy economical and flexible travel choices.

4. Are there frequent trains from Essen to Cologne?

The route from Essen to Cologne has a daily frequency of 8 trains, ensuring frequent service. This allows you to enjoy convenient and efficient departures throughout the day, giving you flexibility in your travel plans. Refer to the most recent schedules for the most precise and current information on train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Essen to Cologne train?

Yes, you can carry your bike on the train from Essen to Cologne. Remember to book your bike ticket and reserve a space in advance to ensure an effortless journey.

Key Points:

  • Train Types: Bikes are allowed on local transport (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) as well as long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
  • Advance Booking: Book your bike ticket, reserve a space, and avoid peak times.
  • Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, while local transport bike day tickets range from €6 to €6.50.
  • Check Local Regulations:Specific regulations for bike transport vary by region.
  • Properly Park Bike:Place your bike in the designated area as required.
Travelling by train and bike is both green and convenient.

2. What amenities are available on trains from Essen to Cologne?

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 Good to know

Good to know

1. Do I need to book train tickets in advance for Essen to Cologne?

In Germany, last-minute train tickets from Essen to Cologne can be bought online, at ticket machines, and at station counters. Nonetheless, it is highly advisable to book your train tickets in advance for better availability and pricing. Although it is not necessary, booking early, especially during peak travel periods, can guarantee better seat availability and usually lower prices. By booking early and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and effortless journey.

2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Essen to Cologne

In Germany, the peak travel times for trains from Essen to Cologne typically occur during weekday rush hours, roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Furthermore, weekends, particularly Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, along with holidays and school breaks, often see higher demand. It is recommended to book tickets in advance during these times to secure a seat and possibly get lower prices.

3. How early should I arrive at the station for my train from Essen to Cologne

For a trouble-free travel experience, it is often recommended to reach the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. This provides you with enough time to locate your platform, pass through any crowds, and resolve last-minute tasks such as finding your seat or purchasing snacks. If you are not familiar with the station or if it is especially large, consider arriving even earlier to ensure a smooth beginning to your trip.

4. Can I use a regional day pass for the Essen to Cologne train?

Yes, regional day passes can be used on DB trains in Germany, but they are limited to regional trains within the specified region. Passes like the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket allow for unlimited travel on regional trains (such as RE, RB, and IRE) and some local public transportation, including buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains, for a day. However, they are not valid on long-distance trains such as ICE, IC, or EC. Always verify the specific terms and conditions of the regional day pass to ensure it covers your intended travel routes.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Essen to Cologne route?

Yes, a Eurail Pass can be used on DB trains in Germany. This pass is accepted on most DB services, including InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) trains. However, please note that for certain high-speed or overnight trains, seat reservations may be required and could involve extra charges. Be sure to verify the specific requirements for each train and make any necessary seat reservations to ensure a hassle-free journey.

6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Essen to Cologne by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: You don't need a passport to travel on DB trains within Germany. However, it is recommended to bring a valid ID, such as an ID card or driving licence, especially if your flight tickets require proof of identity.
  • Visa: If you have legal residency in Germany, you can travel on DB trains within Germany without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: If you are using DB trains for international journeys, like traveling to neighbouring countries, you will require a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents.
  • Visa:
    • 1) Schengen Area: Travelling to or from a Schengen Area country usually doesn't require separate visas for each Schengen Zone country if you hold a valid Schengen visa or come from a visa-exempt nation.
    • 2) Non-Schengen Countries: When travelling to or from a non-Schengen country, you might require a visa based on that country's specific entry requirements.

Check the specific entry and travel regulations for your nationality and intended destinations. Contact the embassies or consulates for the most precise and latest information.

Find cheap Essen to Cologne ticket prices

Sparpreis tickets

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Saver Fare

Super Sparpreis tickets

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Super Saver Fare

Flexpreis tickets

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Flexible Fare
 Find cheap Essen to Cologne ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

  • Super Saver Fare:No exchange or cancellation.
  • Saver Fare: No exchange. Cancel for a €10 fee and receive a voucher refund.
  • Flexible Fare:No exchange. Free cancellation before the start of validity; €19 fee on or after the start date.
  • Regional Day TicketsNo exchange or cancellation.
  • Train fare typesEXchangeCancellation
    Super saver fare󱕤󱕤
    Saver fare󱕤 €10 cancellation fee, refund as a voucher
    Flexible fare󱕤

    - Cancel for free before the first day of validity

    - Cancelling on or after the first day of validity costs €19

    Regional day ticket in Germany󱕤󱕤

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

    󰄶

    Use TrainPal

    Find affordable train tickets with TrainPal. We list second and first-class prices, and our journey planner secures the best deals. Use discount codes for extra savings.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Second-class Super Saver fares start at €17.99, first class at €23.99.

    Book early for ICE trains

    Book German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early for lower prices, as they increase closer to the departure date.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) offers unlimited regional travel in Germany for one day, from €46.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Discover destinations in Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares from €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.

    Group travel for 6+ people

    Groups of six+ enjoy super saver fares in Germany from €8.90, and in Europe from €13.90 per person.

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    * The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.