AMSTERDAM AIRPORT SCHIPHOL to COLOGNE train from $18 (€15) with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE,RB)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$30

Average price

$68

Fastest journey

2 h 55 m

Average duration

2 h 55 m

Trains per day

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 $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast trains

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

IC 3577 · IC 60403
8:46 PM2h59
Schiphol Airport
11:45 PMCologne Hbf
$301One-way
1 transfer
IC 3555 · ICE 241 · ICE 203
3:16 PM3h32
Schiphol Airport
6:48 PMCologne Hbf
$341One-way
2 transfers
IC 3555 · ICE 241 · 89890 · ICE 729
3:16 PM3h26
Schiphol Airport
6:42 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$401One-way
3 transfers
IC 3123 · ICE 143 · 89874 · IC 2013
7:03 AM3h37
Schiphol Airport
10:40 AMCologne Hbf
$411One-way
3 transfers
IC 3563 · ICE 243 · ICE 205
5:16 PM3h32
Schiphol Airport
8:48 PMCologne Hbf
$431One-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 prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $215.

Distance: 133 miles (215 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$72 Average price	$27 Average price Cheapest	$512 Average price	$59 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 31m Average total duration 6h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	11h 25m Average total duration 8h 25m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	3h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door)
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 $27 (€22).

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

A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne costing on average $72 (€59).

A bus is $485 (€398) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne costing on average $512 (€420).

The fastest way to travel from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 1m.

Flight takes on average 8h 25m.

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 $72 (€59) compared to roughly $59 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.56 (€-11.11). The journey takes 3h 14m 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 today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
IC 3527 · ICE 225	On time 8:16 AM Schiphol Airport	2h55	11:11 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621	8:46 AM Schiphol Airport	3h49	12:35 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
IC 3531 · ICE 145 · ICE 107	On time 9:16 AM Schiphol Airport	3h32	12:48 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
IC 3535 · ICE 123	On time 10:16 AM Schiphol Airport	2h55	1:11 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
Saturday, June 20
RE 8186 · IC 1402 · 26852+20009	12:39 AM Schiphol Airport	7h32	8:11 AM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers

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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Jun 20

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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

Netherlands

Germany

Trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:03, the last at 19:16. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 3h 1m.

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 $18 (€15)

Distance

133 miles (215 km)

Average train duration

3h 14m

Cheapest ticket price

$26 (€21)

Trains per day

Fastest train

3h 1m

First train

6:03 AM

Last train

7:16 PM

Cheapest Month

Jul

Cheapest Day

Mon

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Fri

Least Busy Day

Thu

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $18 (€15)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Cologne from $18 (€15). 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

3h 1m

Cheapest Price

$26 (€21)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

6 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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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

VIAS Rail GmbH frequency

4 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

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

3h 2m

Cheapest Price

$101 (€83)

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency

8 a day

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

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Cologne’s key archaeology museum for Roman heritage, especially famous for the Dionysus mosaic and Roman artifacts from the city.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century painting, including one of Germany’s leading Impressionist collections.

View on map Visit website

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget: EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or currywurst.
Mid-range: EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining: EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee: EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Add EUR 1-2 for taxis, and round up in cafés if table service is provided.

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.

Train ticket prices from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $72 (€59).

The train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Cologne takes 3h 1m 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 7:16 PM.

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 $18 (€15).

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 3h 1m. 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

Amsterdam CentraalStationsplein, 1012 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Amsterdam Centraal from Amsterdam city centre

BusN87, N85, N88 · 6m · $1 · every ~2 min

Tram17, 2, 24 · 4m · $1 · every ~48 min

Subway52 · 1m · $1 · every ~28 min

Amsterdam Centraal train station facilities and services

Amsterdam 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: De Broodzaak, Kyoto Sushi & Grill, Starbucks, The Doner Company, Wagamama, Wurst & Schnitzelhaus, Smullers, Burger King, Grand Café First Class, Burgerij, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi in all station areas. ATMs are available at Amsterdam Centraal.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Amsterdam Centraal. Information desks are located in a small white building in front of the station's main entrance and at various points in the main passenger hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is located on the ground floor near the front entrance in the eastern walkway, near the stairs to platform 2. Open daily from 07:00 to 01:00. .

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Amsterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam Centraal: The station is fully accessible, including lifts to the platforms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam, Art’otel Amsterdam.

More about Amsterdam Centraal

Amsterdam ZuidParnassusweg 819, 1082 LZ Amsterdam, Netherlands+31 20 624 1111 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Amsterdam Zuid from Amsterdam city centre

Amsterdam Zuid is 4 km from Amsterdam city centre. Public transport options include:

Tram5 · 18m · $2 · every ~12 min

Subway52 · 8m · $2 · every ~28 min

Amsterdam Zuid train station facilities and services

Amsterdam Zuid 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.