- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, especially strong in Pop Art, Picasso, and postwar European art.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bad Homburg to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bad Homburg to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $57.
Distance: 88 miles (142 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $32 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 56m Average total duration Fastest 1h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 58m Average total duration 2h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bad Homburg to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $12 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Bad Homburg to Cologne:
A bus is $54 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bad Homburg to Cologne costing on average $66 (€54).
The fastest way to travel from Bad Homburg to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 1h 26m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bad Homburg and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bad Homburg to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 43m sooner (1h 26m by train vs 2h 9m by car). Tickets start at around $66 (€54) compared to roughly $32 (€26) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Bad Homburg to Cologne by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Bad Homburg to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Bad Homburg to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bad Homburg 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 Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Bad Homburg 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 Bad Homburg to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bad Homburg to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bad Homburg to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Bad Homburg to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 (€47) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 21:51. The fastest train covers the 88 miles (142 km) distance in 2h 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 $11 (€9)
Distance 88 miles (142 km) |
Average train duration 1h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $57 (€47) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 1m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 9:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 5 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 $11 (€9)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Bad Homburg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Bad Homburg and Cologne from $11 (€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 Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest Price
$57 (€47)
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
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
16 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.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
One of Germany’s key fine art museums, known for medieval painting, Gothic works, and major Impressionist holdings.
- Recommended
NS-Dokumentationszentrum
Cologne’s documentation center on National Socialism, housed in the former Gestapo headquarters with preserved prison cells.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic Old Town square surrounded by traditional facades and lively pedestrian streets, ideal as a base for central sightseeing.
- Recommended
Heumarkt
Large central square in the Altstadt known for events, open space, and easy access to the Rhine promenade.
- Recommended
Belgian Quarter
Trendy inner-city neighborhood popular for independent shops, street life, and photogenic urban corners beyond the main tourist core.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small Stangen glasses and central to the city’s brewing culture.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
A classic Cologne rye roll with aged Gouda, mustard, and onion. Despite the name, it contains no chicken and is a beloved beer-hall snack.
- Gluten-free
Himmel Un Ääd
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes with apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The name means ‘Heaven and Earth.’
Ox & Klee
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant offering modern tasting menus and polished service for a high-end culinary experience in Cologne.
Päffgen
Historic brewery and restaurant loved for house-brewed Kölsch and authentic local specialties in a rustic traditional atmosphere.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
Well-known casual restaurant famous for oversized schnitzels and hearty German comfort food with a friendly, classic atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Public transport is fair, while central hotels and dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 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 in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is common for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Hbf, Cologne -> Cologne City Center, Cologne
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets can be bought in the KVB-App, at ticket machines, and in many stations before travel.
- On most buses and trams, card payment is possible at ticket machines, but buying in the app is often easier.
FAQs: Trains from Bad Homburg to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bad Homburg 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 Bad Homburg to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57 (€47), while the average price is around $66 (€54).
The train from Bad Homburg to Cologne takes 2h 1m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Bad Homburg to Cologne is 88 miles (142 km).
The first train from Bad Homburg to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Bad Homburg to Cologne leaves at 9:51 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bad Homburg to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bad Homburg to Cologne.
The train station in Bad Homburg that goes to Cologne is Bad Homburg station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bad Homburg to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Bad Homburg to Cologne offers a mix of scenic views, including picturesque countryside, charming small towns, and glimpses of the Rhine River, enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Bad Homburg to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 1m. However, there are 10 trains per day. The distance is 88 miles (142 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 Bad Homburg to Cologne.
Since both Bad Homburg 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 Bad Homburg 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Bad Homburg to Cologne
Most Bad Homburg to Cologne trains use the Bad Homburg to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Bad Homburg and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bad Homburg
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Which Bad Homburg station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Trains from Bad Homburg to Cologne leave from Bad Homburg. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bad Homburg city centre at Bad Homburg, Bahnhofsplatz 4, 61352 Bad Homburg.
Bad HomburgBad Homburg, Bahnhofsplatz 4, 61352 Bad Homburg
City-centre transport
Getting to Bad Homburg from Bad Homburg city centre
Bus261, 260, X26 · 5m · every ~6 min
Bad Homburg train station facilities and services
Bad Homburg 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: Kronenhof, Pane e Vino, Golf Haus, Zur Traube
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bad Homburg. ATMs are available at Bad Homburg.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bad Homburg. Information desks are available at Bad Homburg.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Bad Homburg. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bad Homburg: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bad Homburg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bad Homburg.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Maritim Kurhaushotel Bad Homburg, Zur Traube, Steigenberger Bad Homburg, Johannisberg.
Which Cologne station do trains from Bad Homburg arrive at?
Trains from Bad Homburg to Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf. Some services arrive at Köln/Bonn Flughafen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
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/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
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.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
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.
Most popular train connections from Bad Homburg
More options for your journey from Bad Homburg to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Bad Homburg
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