Train from Essen to Cologne: Tickets & Schedules

Next train departures

Next departures for Essen to Cologne on June 24
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
DB FernverkehrTrain
Essen Central Train Station
HbfCheapestFastest
DB Fernverkehr + DB Regio NRW
Train
Essen Central Train Station
Cologne Messe/DeutzNo tags
DB FernverkehrTrain
Essen Central Train Station
Cologne Messe/DeutzNo tags
DB Fernverkehr + National Express
Train
Essen Central Train Station
Cologne Messe/DeutzNo tags
DB Regio NRW + SÜWEX
Train
Essen Central Train Station
HbfNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Today at 7:56 AM CEST.

Compare 2 ways to go from Essen to Cologne

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Train stands out as a good way to reach Cologne. The journey takes about 53 minutes and with fares starting at just RUB 685, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

32train per day
53mAverage Duration
36 milesDistance
1kgCO₂ emissions
Average PriceRUB 449 - RUB 3,889Average Duration1h 50m
2kg CO₂e
Average PriceRUB 685 - RUB 6,601Average Duration53m
1kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about traveling from Essen to Cologne by train

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

  1. How much is the train ticket from Essen to Cologne?

    The cheapest train tickets from Essen to Cologne start from RUB 685. The average price for this train route is around RUB 1,929. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.

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

    The average train ride duration from Essen to Cologne is 53m, covering a distance of 36 miles (57 km). The quickest train can get you there in 48m and is operated by Deutsche Bahn.

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

    Several major train operators operate on this route with 32 trains available per day, including services from Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn ICE, Deutsche Bahn EuroCity.

  4. What is the earliest and latest departure time for the train from Essen to Cologne?

    The earliest train departs from Essen to Cologne at 6:00am. And the latest train departs at 8:50pm.

  5. What 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?

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

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

    According to Busbud traveler reviews, the most timely 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 traveler 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
06/21
RUB 1,610
06/22
RUB 669
Today
RUB 579
06/24
RUB 1,605
06/25
No data
06/26
RUB 535
06/27
No data
06/28
No data
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Essen to Cologne was searched and found on Jun 26, 2026 with a price of RUB 535

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.

You can expect to pay from RUB 535 to RUB 6,338 for a train ticket from Essen to Cologne based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at RUB 535 which is on 2026-06-26.

Usually Deutsche Bahn will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.

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