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How to get from Essen to Cologne

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What is the best way to travel from Essen to Cologne?

Looking for a trip? Compare all the available Trains, Carpool and Buses for the journey to Cologne from Essen. Check between different modes of transportation, look for the cheapest tickets, fastest rides and most popular stations, and see all 2 available companies to find your perfect trip!
Train is the cheapest, while Car is the fastest way on this route
Transport type
Travel time
Cheapest price
Average price
Daily departures
Train
0h 26m
$4
$18
398
Car
0h 20m
$4
$8
16

What is the cheapest way to reach Cologne from Essen?

You can get to Cologne with just $4 by taking a Train from FlixTrain, but you can find many more cheap offers: we have selected the best ones for next few days here for you.

today
from $19
tomorrow
from $19
Friday
from $4
Saturday
from $19
Sunday
from $4
Monday
from $19
Tuesday

    Cheapest Trains today

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    6:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    6:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 48m
    0
    6:15 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    7:03 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    7:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    7:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    7:13 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    8:02 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Cheapest Trains tomorrow

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 54m
    0
    12:02 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    12:56 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 55m
    0
    4:20 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    5:15 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    5:01 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    5:50 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 50m
    0
    5:22 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    6:12 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Cheapest Trains Friday

  • FlixTrain
    0h 26m
    0
    12:32 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    12:58 PM
    Cologne
    0
    FlixTrain
    Economy
    from $4
  • FlixTrain
    0h 27m
    0
    1:18 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    1:45 PM
    Cologne
    0
    FlixTrain
    Economy
    from $4
  • FlixTrain
    0h 28m
    0
    5:18 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    5:46 PM
    Cologne
    0
    FlixTrain
    Economy
    from $4
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 54m
    0
    12:02 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    12:56 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Cheapest Carpool Friday

  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 20m
    0
    5:50 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    6:10 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 40m
    0
    8:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    8:40 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $9
  • BlaBlaCar
    1h 10m
    0
    7:30 PM
    Essen
    8:40 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $11
  • BlaBlaCar
    1h 30m
    0
    8:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    9:30 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $16

    Cheapest Trains Saturday

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 54m
    0
    12:02 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    12:56 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    5:01 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    5:50 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    6:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    6:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    7:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    7:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Cheapest Carpool Sunday

  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 30m
    0
    3:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    3:30 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $4
  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 30m
    0
    8:00 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    8:30 AM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 20m
    0
    10:50 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    11:10 AM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • BlaBlaCar
    1h 50m
    0
    5:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    6:50 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • Cheapest Trains Sunday

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 30m
    0
    12:26 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    12:56 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 30m
    0
    2:32 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    3:02 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 33m
    0
    7:03 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    7:36 PM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 33m
    0
    9:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    9:33 PM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Cheapest Trains Monday

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 31m
    0
    12:26 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    12:57 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 33m
    0
    2:09 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    2:42 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 30m
    0
    2:32 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    3:02 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 53m
    0
    4:56 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    5:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

What are the fastest trips from Essen to Cologne?

You can get to Cologne from Essen in just 0h 20m with a Car from BlaBlaCar. This is not the only option, and you can click on any of the offers below to compare it with the other modes of transportations.

today
from 0h 48m
tomorrow
from 0h 49m
Friday
from 0h 20m
Saturday
from 0h 49m
Sunday
from 0h 20m
Monday
from 0h 30m
Tuesday

    Fastest Trains today

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 48m
    0
    6:15 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    7:03 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    6:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    6:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    7:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    7:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    7:13 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    8:02 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Fastest Trains tomorrow

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    5:01 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    5:50 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    6:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    6:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 50m
    0
    5:22 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    6:12 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 54m
    0
    12:02 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    12:56 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Fastest Carpool Friday

  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 20m
    0
    5:50 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    6:10 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 40m
    0
    8:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    8:40 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $9
  • BlaBlaCar
    1h 10m
    0
    7:30 PM
    Essen
    8:40 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $11
  • BlaBlaCar
    1h 30m
    0
    8:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    9:30 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $16
  • Fastest Trains Friday

  • FlixTrain
    0h 26m
    0
    12:32 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    12:58 PM
    Cologne
    0
    FlixTrain
    Economy
    from $4
  • FlixTrain
    0h 27m
    0
    1:18 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    1:45 PM
    Cologne
    0
    FlixTrain
    Economy
    from $4
  • FlixTrain
    0h 28m
    0
    5:18 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    5:46 PM
    Cologne
    0
    FlixTrain
    Economy
    from $4
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 53m
    0
    2:16 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    3:09 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Fastest Trains Saturday

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    5:01 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    5:50 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    6:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    6:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    7:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    7:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 49m
    0
    8:00 AM
    Essen
    Central Station
    8:49 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Fastest Carpool Sunday

  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 20m
    0
    10:50 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    11:10 AM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 30m
    0
    3:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    3:30 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $4
  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 30m
    0
    8:00 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    8:30 AM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • BlaBlaCar
    0h 40m
    0
    8:40 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    9:20 PM
    Cologne
    0
    BlaBlaCar
    Economy
    from $7
  • Fastest Trains Sunday

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 30m
    0
    12:26 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    12:56 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 30m
    0
    2:32 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    3:02 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 32m
    0
    10:01 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    10:33 PM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 33m
    0
    7:03 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    7:36 PM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19

    Fastest Trains Monday

  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 30m
    0
    2:32 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    3:02 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 31m
    0
    12:26 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    12:57 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 32m
    0
    6:00 PM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    6:32 PM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
  • Deutsche Bahn
    0h 33m
    0
    2:09 AM
    Dusseldorf Airport
    Dusseldorf Airport
    2:42 AM
    Cologne
    Central Station
    0
    Deutsche Bahn
    Economy
    from $19
Here you will find all operators and timetables for a Bus from Essen to Cologne

What are the most popular stations in Essen and Cologne?

In Essen, you will usually depart from Central Station, Freiheit Bus Stop or Hafenstr. Bus Stop, while in Cologne you will be arriving at Central Station, Central Bus Station or Messe/Deutz Train Station, but there are many more stops to explore in both locations.

How do I decide? Some tips and tricks from our experience

Are you having trouble deciding on how to get to Cologne from Essen? With 6 connections between 2 Train, Car and Bus operators, it can be difficult to find the one ride that will make you happy. But we have some tips that can help you make the best informed decision. First of all, the best trip is always the one that meets all your needs, so make a list of all the things that you want from this journey and look for something that will satisfy all of them. Here we will go through some of the factors mostly commonly taken into consideration.

Look for the lowest price

Ticket price is usually the main concern: even if you can afford to pay more, why do it if there are cheaper options? Saving on the trip means that you can spend more on the vacation itself! Between Essen and Cologne, you can pay as low as $4 with a Train from FlixTrain.

Travel duration

Time is also an important factor. An earlier departure may allow you to see a beautiful sunset or relax before an important event. And remember, time is money, so paying more for a shorter trip may be well worth it. For longer distances, flights are without doubt the best options, but be mindful of airport times and possible delays: a high-speed train may end up cheaper and faster! Here the quicker option is definitely the Car from BlaBlaCar: you will get to Cologne in just 0h 20m.

Comfort makes all the difference

You should always take into account what your personal travelling preferences are. Is one hand luggage enough, or are you trasporting more? Would you like to have a snack during the journey? Can you relax in a busy compartment, or do you need space for yourself? Even among the same mode of transportation, different companies will offer you varying levels of comfort and amenities. The main operators connecting Essen and Cologne are Deutsche Bahn, BlaBlaCar and FlixTrain, but be sure to check what they have to offer!

Save money with deals, and always compare

One last tip? Even if you live in Essen and Cologne is your only destination, it may be wise to check the offers from and to nearby cities or, if you are flyng, nearby airports. Check the trips from Gelsenkirchen or to Huerth, and look at flights from Dusseldorf Airport, and landing at Dusseldorf Airport. Comparing different routes may allow you to find deals or promotions you were not aware of. Consider also signing up to CheckMyBus to see even more exclusive promotions!

Which companies offer a trip from Essen to Cologne?

The most popular companies between Essen and Cologne, are Deutsche Bahn, BlaBlaCar and FlixTrain. Be sure to check their seat class offers and the amenities that they provide.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain

All you need to know when you travel from Essen to Cologne

Check all information on comfort and services on all modes of transports from Essen to Cologne. See which seat classes are available, and what amenities are other advantages offered by the operators on your journey.

FAQs about the trip from Essen to Cologne

How can I reach Cologne from Essen?

Every day, there are on average 6 connections between Train, Car and Bus, with which you can get to Cologne from Essen.

How far is Cologne from Essen?

The distance between Essen and Cologne is 35.9 miles.

What is the most ecofriendly mode of transport between Essen and Cologne?

Trains and buses are by far the greenest options, with trains surpassing buses on longer routes. Planes will always be the worst polluters, especially in shorter flights, were the emissions from the takeoff and landing are less offset by the distance. On this particular route, a bus will emit, per person, a total of 2 kgs of CO2, a train 2 kgs, a car 10 kgs, and a flight 14 kgs.

What is the cheapest mode of transport from Essen to Cologne?

You can get to Cologne with just $4 by taking a Train from FlixTrain.

What is the fastest way to get from Essen to Cologne?

While a plane is travelling fastest boarding and transfer to airport consumes a lot of time. Usually, high speed trains are better than flights if pure train travel time is below 4 hours. For this particular route, you can get to Cologne in just 0h 20m with a Car from BlaBlaCar.

More routes to Essen and to Cologne

Looking for more options? Here you can see the most popular routes to Essen and to Cologne. Simply click on a connection, and you’ll find all the details about the route!

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