Exploring Germany: Train Ride From Cologne To Gelsenkirchen

The train ride from Cologne to Gelsenchurkland, Germany, is approximately 63 km long and takes around 57 minutes to 1 hour and 18 minutes. The earliest train leaves at 00:30, and the latest train leaves at 23:07. The train operators for this route are ICE, DB, and Flixtrain, and there are 7 direct trains per day.

How much does a train ticket cost?

The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen in Germany varies depending on the type of train and the class of travel. The average price of a one-way train ticket is €15, with the price going as low as €13.

Deutsche Bahn offers saver fare tickets on many travel routes. For example, you can travel from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne at the super-saver price of €17.50. This ticket price applies to journeys on long-distance trains (ICE, Intercity, Eurocity) and local trains (RE, RB, IRE, S-Bahn).

Deutsche Bahn's high-speed train, with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), connects major cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. This train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment, and power sockets. Passengers can also enjoy a free WiFi connection throughout the duration of the trip.

FlixTrain provides cheap intercity connections using 100% green energy. The main routes served by FlixTrain include Cologne-Hamburg, Aachen-Cologne-Berlin, and Berlin-Stuttgart. FlixTrain carriages are fitted with free WiFi and power outlets or USB charge points. Plus, every ticket comes with a seat reservation.

First Class tickets offer additional amenities such as extra legroom, quiet areas, complimentary food and drinks, and access to DB lounges.

How long is the train journey?

The train journey from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen in Germany takes around 1 hour and 18 minutes. However, the duration of the journey can vary depending on the day and time of travel. The fastest route is 57 minutes, while the average journey time is 1 hour and 18 minutes, with approximately 51 trains running daily. The route is approximately 39 miles (63 km) long, and direct trains are available.

What are the different train operators?

The train journey from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen in Germany is a relatively short one, taking just over an hour on average. Now, let's take a look at the different train operators that serve this route:

Deutsche Bahn, also known as German Rail, is the primary train operator in Germany and offers a comprehensive network of train services throughout the country. They provide regular intercity and regional trains on the Cologne to Gelsenkirchen route. Deutsche Bahn's intercity trains are usually the fastest option, with modern and comfortable ICE (Intercity-Express) trains connecting larger cities and offering a smooth ride. Their regional trains, identified as DB Regio, operate on shorter routes and make more frequent stops, serving smaller towns and providing connections to more remote areas. These trains are generally older and vary in comfort and speed.

FlixTrain is a private train operator that has been gaining popularity in Germany. FlixTrain is known for offering affordable fares and a no-frills travel experience. They operate a limited number of routes, and on the Cologne to Gelsenkirchen journey, they provide a basic but economical option for travelers. FlixTrain's fleet consists of refurbished trains that provide adequate comfort for short to medium-length journeys.

National Express is another private train company that operates specific regional routes in Germany. They provide a small number of train services between Cologne and Gelsenkirchen, usually at competitive prices. National Express trains typically offer standard amenities and a straightforward travel experience. Their trains might not be as new as some of the other operators, but they maintain a decent level of comfort and reliability.

The above-mentioned train operators are the primary ones serving the Cologne to Gelsenkirchen route. However, it's worth noting that on certain legs of the journey, or during peak travel times, other regional or local train companies might step in to provide additional services. These could include smaller, regional operators that focus on specific areas of Germany. These operators usually have agreements with the larger train companies to ensure seamless connections and a comprehensive travel network across the country.

When planning your trip, it's always a good idea to check the official websites of these train operators or use a reliable journey planner app to get the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. Each operator might offer different classes of service and amenities, so choosing the right one for your needs can enhance your overall travel experience.

What are the different train classes?

When travelling from Cologne, Germany to Gelsenkirchen, you'll likely be travelling with ICE, DB or FlixTrain as these are the main train operators on this route.

ICE (Intercity Express)

The Intercity Express is a high-speed train with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), connecting major cities in Germany and also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. The train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers can also enjoy free WiFi throughout the duration of the trip.

Deutsche Bahn (DB)

DB offers new and improved regional trains, boasting comfortable seats, spacious multi-purpose compartments and entry at platform level. The Regional-Express (RE) connects cities and offers travel in comfortable modern trains, leaving at regular intervals and linking local to long-distance trains.

FlixTrain

FlixTrain provides cheap intercity connections using 100% green energy. The main routes served by FlixTrain include Cologne-Hamburg, Aachen-Cologne-Berlin, and Berlin-Stuttgart. FlixTrain carriages are fitted with free WiFi and power outlets or USB charge points. Plus, every ticket comes with a seat reservation.

What are the onboard services?

The onboard services for the train journey from Cologne to Gelsenkirchen vary depending on the type of train you choose. The ICE, DB, and FlixTrain are the main train operators on this route.

ICE (Intercity Express)

The high-speed ICE train connects major German cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries. The train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment, and power sockets. Passengers can enjoy free WiFi throughout the journey. The ICE portal offers a wide range of entertainment, including films, television shows, audiobooks, games, newspapers, and magazines.

DB (Deutsche Bahn)

Deutsche Bahn is the German state-owned railway company, controlling the majority of rail traffic within Germany and in many border regions. They offer a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their menu changes every three months.

FlixTrain

FlixTrain provides cheap intercity connections using 100% green energy. Their carriages are fitted with free WiFi, power outlets, and USB charging points. They also have a bar car supplying snacks and drinks.

Intercity (IC)

The Intercity train is an express train that covers long distances within Germany. It is slightly slower than the ICE train. Some IC trains are double-decker and offer extra legroom and space for toddlers. They are equipped with air conditioning, a food carriage, and wheelchair parking spaces. Children under 5 travel for free, and kids up to 14 travel for free when accompanied by someone over 15.

Frequently asked questions