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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Salzburg
Showing times and prices for 30 Jun
Cheapest price
120S$
Average price
132S$
Fastest journey
6 h 28 m
Average duration
7 h 13 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
562 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Salzburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Salzburg will cost around 132S$ if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only 120S$.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Salzburg every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 562 km distance in an average of 7 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 28 m .
The slowest trains will take 8 h 53 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.
ICE 1198:58 AM7h01Cologne Messe/Deutz3:59 PMSalzburg Hbf120 S$1One-way0 changes- ICE 103 · ICE 2583+
790238:54 AM6h52Cologne Hbf3:46 PMSalzburg Hbf133 S$1One-way2 changes - ICE 515+790259:54 AM6h52Cologne Hbf4:46 PMSalzburg Hbf133 S$1One-way1 change
- ICE 915 · ICE 1199:31 AM6h28Cologne Messe/Deutz3:59 PMSalzburg Hbf136 S$1One-way1 change
- ICE 27 · ICE 517+790339:53 AM8h53Cologne Hbf6:46 PMSalzburg Hbf138 S$1One-way2 changes
- ICE 915 · ICE 1199:31 AM6h28Cologne Messe/Deutz3:59 PMSalzburg Hbf136 S$1One-way1 change
- ICE 103 · ICE 2583+790238:54 AM6h52Cologne Hbf3:46 PMSalzburg Hbf133 S$1One-way2 changes
- ICE 515+790259:54 AM6h52Cologne Hbf4:46 PMSalzburg Hbf133 S$1One-way1 change
- ICE 1198:58 AM7h01Cologne Messe/Deutz3:59 PMSalzburg Hbf120 S$1One-way0 changes
- ICE 27 · ICE 517+790339:53 AM8h53Cologne Hbf6:46 PMSalzburg Hbf138 S$1One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Cologne to Salzburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Salzburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from 28S$. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of 28S$, and a flight costs an average of 142S$.
Distance: 562 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
118S$ Average Price | 46S$ Average Price Cheapest | 409S$ Average Price |
8h 49m Average total duration 8h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 59m Average total duration 8h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Salzburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Salzburg trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, 30 June. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 103 · ICE 2583+79023 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h52 | 3:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 119 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h01 | 3:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 119 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h28 | 3:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 517+79033 | On time 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h53 | 6:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 515+79025 | On time 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h52 | 4:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Salzburg by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train and flight 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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Salzburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE or ÖBB | Nightjet offer trains services from Cologne to Salzburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Salzburg.
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 ÖBB | ICE or ÖBB | Nightjet to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Salzburg.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Salzburg.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Salzburg.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Salzburg?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Salzburg is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Salzburg route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Salzburg per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Salzburg.
Trains
from 47S$Coaches
from 33S$Flights
from 100S$Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Salzburg
Germany
Austria
Trains from Cologne to Salzburg run on average 8 times per day, taking around 8h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at 39S$ but you can travel from only 28S$ by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 562 km distance in 6h 13m.
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
Coach from 28S$
Distance 562 km |
Average train duration 8h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price 39S$ |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 13m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 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
Coach from 28S$
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet from Cologne to Salzburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet trains will get you between Cologne and Salzburg from 28S$. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 13m
Cheapest Price
39S$
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
ÖBB | ICE
About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 27m
Cheapest Price
54S$
ÖBB | ICE frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
ÖBB | Nightjet
About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 34m
Cheapest Price
92S$
ÖBB | Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
FAQs: Cologne to Salzburg train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Salzburg 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 Salzburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Salzburg can start from as little as 39S$ when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne to Salzburg is 118S$; 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 Salzburg is 6h 13m to travel the 562 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 Salzburg leaves at 12:04 am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Cologne to Salzburg leaves at 11:57 pm.
Yes, there are 1 direct trains a day from Cologne to Salzburg with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Cologne to Salzburg, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet for the best way to get you to Salzburg. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Cologne and Salzburg and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
Yes, you can take a night train from Cologne to Salzburg with ÖBB | Nightjet. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.
A trip to Salzburg from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 13m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cologne to Salzburg is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Salzburg including taking a coach, train and flight.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Salzburg
Cologne
Salzburg
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 Salzburg.
Köln Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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 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
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
The major train station for arrivals in Salzburg is Salzburg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Salzburg Hbf for your journey to Salzburg from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
11Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible from Südtiroler Platz
Dining
- Restaurant Imlauer
- Stieglitz
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Hotel Europa Salzburg
- Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre
- H+ Hotel Salzburg
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for ÖBB and Westbahn trains
- Hall 2: platforms 6-11 for regional and international trains
Public transport options for Salzburg Hbf
- Bus: Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 25
- S-Bahn: Line S3
- Trolleybus: Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6
Salzburg Taxham Europark
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike ParkingSalzburg Aiglhof
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingMost popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Salzburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Salzburg and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Salzburg
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