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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times and prices for May 14
Cheapest price
€10
Average price
€16
Fastest journey
58 m
Average duration
1 h 4 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
65 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen will cost around €16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €10.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Gelsenkirchen on Thu, May 14, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 14 the direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 1 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 58 m .
On Thu, May 14 the slowest trains will take 1 h 6 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:01 AM1h06Cologne9:07 AMGelsenkirchen€101One-way0 transfers- 2:01 PM1h06Cologne3:07 PMGelsenkirchen€121One-way0 transfers
- 7:01 AM1h06Cologne8:07 AMGelsenkirchen€121One-way0 transfers
4:46 PM0h58Cologne5:44 PMGelsenkirchen€291One-way0 transfers
- 4:46 PM0h58Cologne5:44 PMGelsenkirchen€291One-way0 transfers
- 2:01 PM1h06Cologne3:07 PMGelsenkirchen€121One-way0 transfers
- 8:01 AM1h06Cologne9:07 AMGelsenkirchen€101One-way0 transfers
- 7:01 AM1h06Cologne8:07 AMGelsenkirchen€121One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €4. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €4, and a train costs an average of €7.
Distance: 65 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€16 Average price | €4 Average price Cheapest |
1h 35m Average total duration 1h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Wednesday, May 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 9:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h06 | 10:07 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 204 · 10123 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h13 | 10:24 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2155 · 89875 | On time 9:17 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h11 | 10:28 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2204 | On time 9:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 0h57 | 10:43 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 5107+ 20016 · 52248 | 9:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h30 | 11:19 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1022 · 10127 | On time 10:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h10 | 11:24 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 28512 · 10215 | 10:31 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h18 | 11:49 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixTrain | 3:01 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h06 | 4:07 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Gelsenkirchen by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Thu
May 14
May 14
Fri
May 15
May 15
Sat
May 16
May 16
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May 17
May 17
Mon
May 18
May 18
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May 19
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May 20
May 20
Why should you book Cologne to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurostar and more offer trains services from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 but you can travel from only €4 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 65 km distance in 57m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €4
Distance 65 km |
Average train duration 1h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price €7 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 57m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 5 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €4
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurostar from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Gelsenkirchen from €4. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
57m
Cheapest Price
€18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
59m
Cheapest Price
€7
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest Price
€70
Eurostar frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
57m
Cheapest Price
€28
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
24 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 47m
Cheapest Price
€26
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen can start from as little as €7 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne to Gelsenkirchen is €16; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen is 57m to travel the 65 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:04 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:53 PM.
Yes,there are 3 direct trains a day from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurostar for the best way to get you to Gelsenkirchen. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Cologne and Gelsenkirchen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A day trip to Gelsenkirchen from Cologne is worth doing with a journey time of 57m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train and bus.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Cologne
Gelsenkirchen
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
The major train station for arrivals in Gelsenkirchen is Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gelsenkirchen Hbf for your journey to Gelsenkirchen from Cologne.
Gelsenkirchen Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Subway
- Café Madrid
- Shere Punjab
- Café del Sol
Hotel
- Hotel St. Petrus
Wanne-Eickel Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Dschingis Khan
- Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel
- Nikolaus Grill
- McDonald's
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas
- Viva Sevilla
- Nudelland
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Cologne
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