ROTTERDAM to COLOGNE train from CHF 9 with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE,RB)

Name: How far in advance should I book train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne?
Creator: Omio

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Nov

Cheapest price on 12 Nov: CHF 20
Average ticket price on 12 Nov: CHF 64
Fastest journey on 12 Nov: 3 h 19 m
Average journey duration on 12 Nov: 3 h 20 m
Trains on 12 Nov: 31
Distance: 204 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Cologne will cost around CHF 64 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only CHF 20.

Fast trains

To travel from Rotterdam to Cologne you need to make at least 3 changes.

IC 1175 · IC 60403
8:15 PM 3h27
Rotterdam Centraal
11:42 PM
Cologne-Ehrenfeld
CHF 20
1 One-way
1 change
ICD 1866 · IC 3670 · RE 6475 · IC 60403
8:23 PM 3h19
Rotterdam Centraal
11:42 PM
Cologne-Ehrenfeld
CHF 20
1 One-way
3 changes
IC 2049 · ICE 157
1:35 PM 3h30
Rotterdam Centraal
5:05 PM
Cologne Hbf
CHF 54
1 One-way
1 change
IC 1149 · IC 3547 · ICE 157
1:45 PM 3h20
Rotterdam Centraal
5:05 PM
Cologne Hbf
CHF 54
1 One-way
2 changes
IC 2025 · ICE 1255
7:35 AM 3h30
Rotterdam Centraal
11:05 AM
Cologne Hbf
CHF 54
1 One-way
1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Cologne

Netherlands

Germany

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF 20 but you can travel from only CHF 9 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:14. The fastest train covers the 204 km distance in 1h 54m.

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 CHF 9

Distance

204 km

Average train duration

3h 11m

Cheapest ticket price

CHF 20

Trains per day

Fastest train

1h 54m

First train

12:05 AM

Last train

11:14 PM

Cheapest Month

Apr

Cheapest Day

Thu

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

63 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Coach from CHF 9

Live departures

Rotterdam to Cologne train times

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

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
IC 1163 · IC 3561 · 20093 · 10637	5:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	8:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 2065 · ICE 1251	Delayed 5:35 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h31	8:10 PM 8:10 PMCologne Hbf	1 change
IC 1165 · IC 3563 · ICE 1251	Delayed 5:45 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h21	8:10 PM 8:10 PMCologne Hbf	2 changes
IC 1167 · IC 3565 · 20095 · 10639	6:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	9:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1171 · IC 3569 · 20097 · 10641	7:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	10:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1175 · IC 3573 · 20099 · 10643	8:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	11:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1175 · IC 60403	8:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h27	11:42 PM Cologne-Ehrenfeld	1 change
ICD 1866 · IC 3670 · RE 6475 · IC 60403	8:23 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h19	11:42 PM Cologne-Ehrenfeld	3 changes
IC 1177 · IC 2977 · 32585 · 18977	8:45 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h59	12:44 AM Cologne Hbf	4 changes
IC 1179 · IC 2979 · 18981 · S19	9:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	6h25	3:40 AM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1181 · IC 2981 · 32589 · 18981	9:45 PM Rotterdam Centraal	5h55	3:40 AM Cologne Hbf	4 changes
IC 3585 · 20065 · 10609	9:56 PM Rotterdam Centraal	8h38	6:34 AM Cologne Hbf	2 changes
IC 1187 · IC 3585 · 20065 · 10609	11:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	7h19	6:34 AM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
Thursday, 12 November
IC 1117 · IC 3515 · ICE 1253	On time 5:45 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	9:05 AM Cologne Hbf	2 changes
IC 1119 · IC 3517 · 20071 · 10615	6:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	9:35 AM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1123 · IC 3521 · 20073 · 10617	7:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	10:35 AM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 2025 · ICE 1255	On time 7:35 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h30	11:05 AM Cologne Hbf	1 change
IC 1125 · IC 3523 · ICE 1255	On time 7:45 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	11:05 AM Cologne Hbf	2 changes
IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 10619	8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	11:35 AM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621	9:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	12:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1135 · IC 3533 · 20079 · 10623	10:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	1:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
ECD 9528 · ICE 315	On time 10:42 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h33	2:15 PM Cologne Hbf	1 change
IC 1139 · IC 3537 · 20081 · 10625	11:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	2:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1143 · IC 3541 · 20083 · 10627	12:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	3:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
ECD 9536 · ICE 17	On time 12:42 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h33	4:15 PM Cologne Hbf	1 change
IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · 10629	1:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	4:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 2049 · ICE 157	On time 1:35 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h30	5:05 PM Cologne Hbf	1 change
IC 1149 · IC 3547 · ICE 157	On time 1:45 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	5:05 PM Cologne Hbf	2 changes
IC 1151 · IC 3549 · 20087 · 10631	2:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	5:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
ECD 9544 · ICE 317	On time 2:42 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h33	6:15 PM Cologne Hbf	1 change
IC 1155 · IC 3553 · 20089 · 10633	3:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	6:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
IC 1159 · IC 3557 · 20091 · 10635	4:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	7:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 changes
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Rotterdam to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Rotterdam to Cologne.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam 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 VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Cologne.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Rotterdam to Cologne is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Rotterdam to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Rotterdam to Cologne 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 Rotterdam to Cologne.

Trains

from CHF 25

Coaches

from CHF 15

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Rotterdam to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Rotterdam and Cologne from CHF 9. 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

1h 54m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

CHF 20

Deutsche Bahn frequency

4 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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About

VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration

3h 17m

Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price

CHF 20

VIAS Rail GmbH frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled services

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snack and beverage service available

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for additional fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Rotterdam and Cologne

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a train from Rotterdam to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Rotterdam and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

FAQs: Rotterdam to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam 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.

Cheap train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne can start from as little as CHF 20 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Rotterdam to Cologne is CHF 67; 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 Rotterdam to Cologne is 1h 54m to travel the 204 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 Rotterdam to Cologne leaves at 12:05 am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The latest train from Rotterdam to Cologne leaves at 11:14 pm.

There are 4 trains a day from Rotterdam to Cologne which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.

Yes, you can take a night train from Rotterdam to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.

A day trip to Cologne from Rotterdam is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 54m 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 Rotterdam and Cologne including taking a train and coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Rotterdam and Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Rotterdam

Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne leave from Rotterdam Centraal. The station is 1 km from Rotterdam city centre at Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre

BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m

4 · 10m · CHF 2

Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.

Rotterdam AlexanderKleine Beer 601, Rotterdam, 3067 ZW, Netherlands Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Alexander from Rotterdam city centre

Rotterdam Alexander is 6 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIntercity, Sprinter · 8m · CHF 1 · every ~12 min

BusStopbus ipv trein, Taxibus ipv trein · 17m · every ~2 min

5 · 36m · CHF 4

SubwayMetro ipv trein · 17m · CHF 2 · every ~4 min

Rotterdam Alexander train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Alexander has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.