Gelsenkirchen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,RE,ICE,RB)

Fri, Nov 07
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
VIAS Rail GmbH
Eurobahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
VIAS Rail GmbH
Eurobahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Nov 12

Cheapest price

€6

Average price

€8

Fastest journey

1 h 8 m

Average duration

1 h 9 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

65 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne will cost around €8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €6.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Gelsenkirchen for Cologne on Wed, Nov 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Nov 12 the direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 1 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 8 m .

On Wed, Nov 12 the slowest trains will take 1 h 10 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.

FlixTrain
06:45PM1h10
Gelsenkirchen
07:55PMCologne
€61One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrain
03:48PM1h08
Gelsenkirchen
04:56PMCologne
€91One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne 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 59m. 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 €5.

Distance: 65 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€9

Average price

€6

Average price

Cheapest

1h 37m

Average total duration

1h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Gelsenkirchen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, November 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:38 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 115 · RB 10258
On time
6:15 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h11
7:26 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnRE 89870 · 90565
On time
6:29 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h15
7:44 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnRE 10110 · ICE 529 · RE 32866
On time
6:33 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h20
7:53 AM Cologne Hbf		2 transfers
viasVIA 52247+deutsche_bahnRE 26808
On time
6:39 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h33
8:12 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnRE 10206 · ICE 121
On time
7:09 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h09
8:18 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnRE 89872 · 90566
On time
7:29 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h16
8:45 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnRE 10114 · ICE 1031
Delayed
7:33 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h13
8:55 AM 8:55 AMCologne Hbf		1 transfer
viasVIA 52249+deutsche_bahnICE 27
On time
7:39 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h10
8:49 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 2005
On time
8:14 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h01
9:15 AM Cologne Hbf		0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen to Cologne 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.

Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13
Fri
Nov 14
Sat
Nov 15
Sun
Nov 16
Mon
Nov 17
Tue
Nov 18

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €5 but you can travel from only €4 by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 65 km distance in 59m.

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 7m
Cheapest ticket price
€5
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
59m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:57
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, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurobahn from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurobahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Cologne 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.
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
€24
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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.
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.
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.
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
€4
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

VIAS Rail GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Price
€11
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
8 a day

Eurobahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest Price
€36
Eurobahn frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne can start from as little as €5 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is €10; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Gelsenkirchen to Cologne train travel time is 59 min   for the 64 km long journey, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne leaves at 00: 01. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne leaves at 23: 57.
Yes, there are 3 direct trains a day from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne with FlixTrain. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
For the best Gelsenkirchen to Cologne train to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. However, it's always good to check all possible train companies with services from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne to compare what amenities they may offer.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 57.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which is located around 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre.

A day trip to Cologne from Gelsenkirchen is worth doing with a journey time of 59 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne by train is November.
You have options as you can travel to Cologne from Gelsenkirchen 2 different ways: train or coach.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Gelsenkirchen
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Gelsenkirchen is Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gelsenkirchen Hbf for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.
Gelsenkirchen HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Gelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Subway
  • Café Madrid
  • Shere Punjab
  • Café del Sol
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel St. Petrus
Wanne-Eickel HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Wanne-Eickel Hbf, Heinz-Rühmann-Platz 1, 44649 Herne
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Dschingis Khan
  • Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel
  • Nikolaus Grill
  • McDonald's
Gelsenkirchen ZooWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Gelsenkirchen Zoo, Münsterstr.1, 45889 Gelsenkirchen
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Zum Bürgerplatz
  • Pangung
  • Pizzeria Avanti
  • Star Chief Diner
Gelsenkirchen-RotthausenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen, Karl-Mayer-Straße 58, 45884 Gelsenkirchen
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas
  • Viva Sevilla
  • Nudelland

More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for trains from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen
Tickets and more information for trains to Cologne
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to CologneGelsenkirchen to Cologne train

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