Last refresh of the prices: Yesterday at 3:25 PM CET.
Compare 2 ways to go from Cologne to Essen
We recommend taking the bus
Among the sustainable travel choices, the Bus stands out as a good way to reach Essen. The journey takes about 1 hour 55 minutes, and with fares starting at just $9, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.
Based on 12372 reviews, the company was rated 3.5 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the temperature but often complained with the Wi‑Fi. FlixBus ticket prices on this trip start at $13
Based on 11551 reviews, the company was rated 3.7 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the ticket access and the staff but often complained with the Wi‑Fi. BlaBlaCar Bus ticket prices on this trip start at $9
Frequently asked questions about travelling from Cologne to Essen by bus
Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.
How much is the bus ticket from Cologne to Essen?
The cheapest bus tickets from Cologne to Essen start from $9. The average price for this route is around $13. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.
How long is the bus ride from Cologne to Essen?
The average bus travel time from Cologne to Essen is 1h 55m, covering a distance of 47 km. The quickest bus can get you there in 35m and is operated by FlixBus.
Which bus companies service the Cologne to Essen route?
Several major bus companies operate on this route with 3 buses available per day, including services from FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
What are the earliest and latest departure times for the bus from Cologne to Essen?
The earliest bus departs from Cologne to Essen at 4:45am. And the latest bus departs at 11:35pm.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Cologne to Essen?
A bus trip from Cologne to Essen generates an estimated 1 kg of CO₂, making it a highly eco-friendly travel option and a mode of travel recommended by Busbud.
What is the best bus company from Cologne to Essen?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is BlaBlaCar Bus, with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars based on 11525 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Cologne to Essen?
Based on Busbud reviews, the bus company FlixBus has the highest Wi-Fi rating with a score of 2.7.
Which bus company has the best on-time performance from Cologne to Essen?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most punctual bus company on this route is FlixBus, with a punctuality rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Cologne to Essen?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is BlaBlaCar Bus, with a cleanliness rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
03-27
$10
03-28
$10
Today
$7
03-30
$7
03-31
$7
04-01
$7
04-02
$7
04-03
$7
The cheapest trip from Cologne to Essen was searched and found on Mar 29, 2026 with a price of $7
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Cologne to Essen, as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from $7 to $16 for a bus ticket from Cologne to Essen based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $7 which is on 2026-03-30.
Usually FlixBus will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.
The cheapest trip from Cologne to Essen was searched and found on Mar 29, 2026 with a price of $7
