Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE,RB)

Tue, Sep 08
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Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$46

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$63

Fastest journey on Sep 08

2 h 53 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

3 h 21 m

Trains on Sep 08

4

Distance

215 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne will cost around $63 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICD 2421 · IC 3527 · ICE 225
    8:18 AM2h53
    Schiphol Airport
    11:11 AMCologne Hbf
    $461One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3527 · ICE 225
    8:15 AM2h56
    Schiphol Airport
    11:11 AMCologne Hbf
    $461One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3529 · 20077 · 10621
    8:45 AM3h50
    Schiphol Airport
    12:35 PMCologne Hbf
    $751One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3227 · 26814+VIAS Rail GmbH20017
    8:26 AM3h45
    Schiphol Airport
    12:11 PMCologne Hbf
    $851One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $43 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 47m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, while a flight costs an average of $675.

Distance: 133 miles (215 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$74

Average price

$43

Average price

Cheapest

$675

Average price

$60

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 3m

Average total duration

6h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 46m

Average total duration

2h 46m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 5m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $43.

This is compared to other travel options from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne:

A bus is $31 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne costing on average $74.

A bus is $632 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne costing on average $675.

The fastest way to travel from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 46m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 17m.

Bus takes on average 6h 33m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $74 compared to roughly $60 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.32. The journey takes 3h 17m versus 3h 5m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 3527 · ICE 225
Delayed
8:15 AM Schiphol Airport
2h56
9:14 AM 9:14 AMCologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICD 2421 · IC 3527 · ICE 225
Delayed
8:18 AM Schiphol Airport
2h53
9:14 AM 9:14 AMCologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3227 · 26814+VIAS Rail GmbH200178:26 AM Schiphol Airport
3h45
12:11 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3529 · 20077 · 106218:45 AM Schiphol Airport
3h50
12:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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 Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 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 or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 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 or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 but you can travel from only $19 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:03, the last at 08:46. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 2h 35m.

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 $19
Distance
133 miles (215 km)
Average train duration
3h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
$25
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 35m
First train
6:03 AM
Last train
8:46 AM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
14 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 $19

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Cologne from $19. 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
2h 35m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$25
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 11m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
$25
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 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

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 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
Train ticket prices from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25, while the average price is around $74.
The train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne takes 2h 35m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne leaves at 6:03 AM.
The distance by train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne is 133 miles (215 km).
The last train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne leaves at 8:46 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $19.
The train journey from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne offers diverse scenery, including views of the Dutch countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of the Rhine River as you approach Cologne.
A day trip from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 35m. However, trains operate 9 times per day, covering the 133 miles (215 km).
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne.
Since both Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Cologne are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Amsterdam
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

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

TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min

Köln Hbf train station facilities and services

Köln 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: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.

Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre

Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min

Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services

Köln Messe/Deutz 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: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

Köln/Bonn Flughafen 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: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to CologneAmsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne train

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