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Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $2.7: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Essen, Germany
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Essen to Cologne: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$2.7 RideshareBest price
72 kmDistance
47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Essen to Cologne with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$5.4-67
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  6m
Estimated price
$2.7-7.1
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 72 km
Duration: 47m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$9.8-15
Company
Ecolines
Bus
Average Duration
2h 
Estimated price
$20-2.75
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$152-188

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 03/03Tu 04/03We 05/03Th 06/03Fr 07/03Sa 08/03Su 09/03
Bus $7 $7 $7 $7 $8 $7 $8
Train $6 $6 $6 $7 $8 $7 $8

Traveling From Essen to Cologne

Essen offers a blend of industrial heritage and modern attractions, while Cologne showcases its vibrant arts scene and iconic cathedral, providing travelers with two distinct experiences just a short journey apart.

Best Neighborhoods in Cologne

Cologne's neighborhoods each offer a unique atmosphere and experiences.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Home to the stunning Cologne Cathedral.
• Charming streets packed with cafes and shops.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Hipster vibe with trendy boutiques and bars.
• Excellent choice for vibrant nightlife and dining.
Ehrenfeld
• Known for its street art and cultural scene.
• Features eclectic shops and vibrant markets.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Cologne.

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds.
Museum Ludwig
Weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday, see lower visitor numbers.
Old Town (Altstadt)
Explore during weekday afternoons for a quieter stroll through its charm.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it welcoming for visitors year-round. Spring and early fall offer the best weather for exploring, while summer can bring tourists for festivals and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

When in Cologne, try the famous Himmel un Ääd, a dish featuring heavenly mashed potatoes paired with earthy apple sauce and flavorful black pudding, reflecting the region's hearty flavors. The vibrant beer halls and traditional Kölsch serve a lively atmosphere that highlights local culture, standing in contrast to the more industrial dining scene you might find in Essen.

Essen - Cologne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Essen and Cologne, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Essen Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
€2.7-2.74
Contact phone
0221 13 999 444
Website
https://nationalexpress.de

Train from Essen Hbf to Koeln-Ehrenfeld

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
€5.4-5.41
Contact phone
+49 30 2970
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Essen Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
€5.4-5.42
Contact phone
+49 1807 123 99 123
Website
https://www.flixtrain.com/

Train from Essen Central Station to Cologne Central Station

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
€5.4-5.43
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Essen Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
€5.44-20
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Essen Hbf to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
€2.7-67
Bus
Contact phone
+371 67214512
Website
https://ecolines.net

Bus from Essen to Köln

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
€2.75-20
Contact phone
+38139423824
Website
https://try-tours.com

Bus from Essen Hbf to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
€0-0
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://blablacar.com

Rideshare from Essen to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
€2.7-7.1
Taxi
Contact phone
+49 201 8 66 55
Website
https://taxiessen.de

Taxi from Essen to Cologne

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
€152-188
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+49 1590 6426696
Website
https://taxi-arnu.de

Other from Essen to Cologne

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
€152-188
Contact phone
+49 201 706090
Website
https://trans-port-essen.de

Other from Essen to Cologne

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
€152-188

Essen to Cologne: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Essen and Cologne offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Traveling from Essen to Cologne by bus is a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination. The direct bus service operated by Ecolines runs four times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours. The buses depart from Essen station and arrive at Köln station, providing a hassle-free travel experience. The bus ticket prices for the Essen to Cologne route range from €20 to €27, offering affordable transportation. Alternatively, travelers can consider taking a train from Essen to Cologne. With multiple routes available, such as the high-speed train operated by DB Fernverkehr AG and the National Express, travelers can choose the option that best suits their preferences and schedule. With the various transportation options and reasonable travel times, the journey from Essen to Cologne offers flexibility and ease for travelers exploring Germany.
Departure Point
Essen station
Arrival Point
Köln station