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

Sun, Oct 04
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 04

Cheapest price on Oct 04

€6

Average ticket price on Oct 04

€16

Fastest journey on Oct 04

55 m

Average journey duration on Oct 04

59 m

Trains on Oct 04

10

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 €16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €6.

Fast trains

On Sun, Oct 04, we found 10 trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne, including 9 direct services.

On Sun, Oct 04 the direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 55 m .

On Sun, Oct 04 the slowest trains will take 1 h 3 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.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    7:51 PM1h07
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    8:58 PMCologne Hbf
    €61One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    1:51 PM1h07
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    2:58 PMCologne Hbf
    €61One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    8:51 PM1h04
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    9:55 PMCologne Hbf
    €71One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    12:46 PM0h55
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    1:41 PMCologne Hbf
    €71One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    4:46 PM0h55
    Gelsenkirchen Hbf
    5:41 PMCologne Hbf
    €71One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

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

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 65 km distance in 53m.

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 8m
Cheapest ticket price
€4
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
53m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
28 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

Live departures

Gelsenkirchen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trains for today, Saturday, October 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 921
Delayed
12:09 AM 2:09 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf
1h06
1:15 AM 1:15 AMCologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1011 · 10920
On time
2:23 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h13
3:36 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1011 · 10551
On time
2:23 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h13
3:36 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn897222:29 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h23
3:52 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 640 · ICE 723 · 10824
Delayed
12:38 PM 2:33 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf
1h20
3:53 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 927
Delayed
1:17 PM 2:49 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf
0h59
2:16 PM 2:16 PMCologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn268223:08 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h03
4:11 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain4:46 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
0h55
5:41 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain5:51 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h07
6:58 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain8:51 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h04
9:55 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn268088:08 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h03
9:11 AM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · 10525
On time
8:23 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h13
9:36 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27
On time
8:49 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h01
9:50 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn268109:08 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h03
10:11 AM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 2515
On time
9:44 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h04
10:48 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain12:46 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
0h55
1:41 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain1:51 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf
1h07
2:58 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.

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 to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.
  • 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 Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain 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.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Duration
53m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€7
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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 FlixTrain Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest FlixTrain 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

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 €4 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is €29; 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 Gelsenkirchen to Cologne is 53m 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 Gelsenkirchen to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes,there are 2 direct trains a day from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Gelsenkirchen and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A day trip to Cologne from Gelsenkirchen is worth doing with a journey time of 53m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Cologne including taking a train and bus.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

Most Gelsenkirchen to Cologne trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne leave from Gelsenkirchen Hbf. The station is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 GelsenkirchenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre

Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:

BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min

Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services

Gelsenkirchen Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.

Wanne-Eickel HbfWanne-Eickel Hbf, Heinz-Rühmann-Platz 1, 44649 HerneWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Wanne-Eickel Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre

Wanne-Eickel Hbf is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb, Re · 4m · €2 · every ~4 min
BusRe42x, Re42, S2, Rb32 · 18m · €4
E40, 340 · 21m · every ~5 min

Wanne-Eickel Hbf train station facilities and services

Wanne-Eickel Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Dschingis Khan, Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel, Nikolaus Grill, McDonald's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. ATMs are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Information desks are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

Gelsenkirchen-RotthausenGelsenkirchen-Rotthausen, Karl-Mayer-Straße 58, 45884 GelsenkirchenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen from Gelsenkirchen city centre

Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen is 2 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS2 · 3m · €1 · every ~3 min
BusNe14, 381 · 6m · every ~6 min

Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen train station facilities and services

Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas, Viva Sevilla, Nudelland

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.

More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne

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

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