The average train between Cologne and Essen takes 1h 10m and the fastest train takes 46 min. The train runs at least 3 times per hour from Cologne to Essen. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
Trains run every 20 minutes between Cologne and Essen. The earliest departure is at 11:37 AM in the morning, and the last departure from Cologne is at 8:49 PM which arrives into Essen at 9:50 PM. All services run direct with no transfers required, and take on average 1h 10m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.
Want to know about travelling from Cologne to Essen? We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions from our users such as: What is the cheapest mode of transport? What is the quickest option? How much do tickets usually cost? and many more.
Yes, there is a direct train departing from Cologne station and arriving at Essen station. Services depart every 20 minutes, and operate 4 times a day. The journey takes approximately 1h 10m.
Cologne to Essen train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), depart from Köln Hbf station.
Cologne to Essen train services, operated by Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), arrive at Essen Hbf station.
Book your Cologne to Essen train tickets online with Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), National Express and Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
The distance between Cologne and Essen is 58.3 km. The road distance is 83 km.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) operates a train from Köln Hbf to Essen Hbf hourly. Tickets cost €15–65 and the journey takes 52 min. Three other operators also service this route.