Cologne to Essen by train

Cologne to Essen train travel explained

Want to know how to get from Cologne to Essen by train? We have gathered for you all the useful information about this trip!

The fastest trains from Cologne to Essen take around 2 hours and 59 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 185 kilometres.

On weekdays, the first train leaving Cologne is scheduled to depart at around  00:25. The last departure is usually at around 23:15 . On Saturdays and Sundays, trains leave Cologne at around 02:09, with the last train leaving at around 22:15. There are frequent services on this particular rail route. On average, there are about 21 trains per day travelling between the two cities. They leave approximately every 9 minutes.

Prices for a single ticket between the two cities start from €101.28.

We think any time is a great time to visit Essen, as each season has its own unique charm. Nevertheless, please make sure you check the local weather and average seasonal temperatures at destination before deciding on your holiday.

For more tips to help you plan your journey, check out our help articles, or read our guide to Essen.

Is there a direct train from Cologne to Essen?

The journey between Cologne and Essen usually involves one change of train.

We usually find at least one departure on the route from Cologne to Essen every weekday that leave enough time to change trains without waiting around for longer than necessary.

There are typically fewer trains leaving at weekends, when we found at least one departure.

How long does it take to travel from Cologne to Essen?

The Cologne to Essen train travel takes about 2 hours and 59 minutes, no matter when you leave.

What are the Cologne to Essen train times and schedule?

If you're travelling on a weekday, you'll find the earliest train to Essen leaving Cologne at around 00:25 and the last train leaving at around 23:15 . At weekends, the first train of the day leaves Cologne at around 02:09, with the final departure at 22:15.