Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC)

Fri, Dec 19
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Deutsche Bahn
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National Express
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Showing times and prices for Dec 23

Cheapest price

$15

Average price

$28

Fastest journey

1 h 7 m

Average duration

1 h 12 m

Trains per day

7

Distance

73 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.

Fast trains

Of the 7 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Dortmund Hbf on Tue, Dec 23, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Dec 23 the direct trains cover the 73 km distance in an average of 1 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 7 m .

On Tue, Dec 23 the slowest trains will take 1 h 15 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.

FlixTrainFlixTrain
04:14PM1h15
Cologne Hbf
05:29PMDortmund Hbf
$151One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain
12:14PM1h13
Cologne Hbf
01:27PMDortmund Hbf
$161One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain
08:14AM1h13
Cologne Hbf
09:27AMDortmund Hbf
$161One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 545
08:25AM1h18
Cologne Hbf
09:43AMDortmund Hbf
$321One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 616
08:11AM1h07
Cologne Hbf
09:18AMDortmund Hbf
$371One-way
0 transfers

Cologne Hbf - Dortmund HbfCompare Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express

deutsche_bahn
$9
1h 10m
5 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
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.
flixbus_flixtrain
$18
1h 19m
2 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Seat reservation included in ticket price
national_express
$40
2h 10m
11 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Seat reservation

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €5, and a train costs an average of €7.

Distance: 45 miles (73 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€21

Average price

€7

Average price

Cheapest

1h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 53m

Average total duration

1h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf trains for today, Monday, December 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 10:52 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain11:14 AM Cologne Hbf
1h13
12:27 PM Dortmund Hbf0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:14 PM Cologne Hbf
1h15
4:29 PM Dortmund Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 24
On time
9:11 PM Cologne Hbf
1h10
10:21 PM Dortmund Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn17436 · 264379:22 PM Cologne Hbf
1h28
10:50 PM Dortmund Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahn268399:49 PM Cologne Hbf
1h25
11:14 PM Dortmund Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 100
On time
10:16 PM Cologne Hbf
1h17
11:33 PM Dortmund Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1541
On time
10:27 PM Cologne Hbf
1h16
11:43 PM Dortmund Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, December 23
deutsche_bahnICE 616
On time
7:11 AM Cologne Hbf
1h07
8:18 AM Dortmund Hbf
0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain7:14 AM Cologne Hbf
1h13
8:27 AM Dortmund Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 545
On time
7:25 AM Cologne Hbf
1h18
8:43 AM Dortmund Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn268117:49 AM Cologne Hbf
1h25
9:14 AM Dortmund Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 204
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
1h10
9:21 AM Dortmund Hbf
0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf 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 Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC) as well as FlixTrain and National Express offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC)?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC), but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain and National Express to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.
  • 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 (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB,EC)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of FlixTrain and National Express to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconFast and punctual
Iconflexible
IconGood and modern equipment
Disadvantages
Iconnone
At the beginning of 2023, we took the DB ICE from Cologne main station to Dortmund to visit our family. The departure went smoothly, the train arrived on time and also left quickly. The ICE was very full that day and we knew in advance via the app why we had reserved seats. This was very helpful and I would recommend it to anyone. The seats were very comfortable and had enough storage space for our luggage. The internet was good and the staff on board very helpful and nice. The train looked very modern and hygienic. The toilet was also in good condition. Overall, the journey was very pleasant for us and I would recommend it!
Advantages
IconController was nice
Disadvantages
IconUnpunctual
IconExpensive
I travelled by ICE from Cologne to Dortmund on business. Unfortunately, the journey was very expensive. Unfortunately, the train started late in Cologne. So I didn't reach my connecting train and arrived even later for the meeting. At least the ticket inspector was very nice and thanked me for my patience. Thanks to my seat reservation, I also had a good seat. So I could also charge my iPhone during the journey and work a little. The train itself looked very clean. Even though the train is delayed more often, it is the best alternative to the car for me. Even though it was expensive this time, the journey was still worth it because you don't have to stress on the motorway or look for a parking space.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) but you can travel from only $6 (€5) by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 21:52. The fastest train covers the 45 miles (73 km) distance in 1h 10m.

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 $6 (€5)
Distance
45 miles (73 km)
Average train duration
1h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
$9 (€7)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 10m
First train
00:09
Last train
21:52
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 $6 (€5)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Dortmund Hbf from $6 (€5). 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
1h 10m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 19m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
National Express frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf 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 Dortmund Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, a day trip from Köln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is feasible. The journey takes 1h 10m, covering a distance of 45 miles (73 km). There are 5 trains per day.
The train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf takes 1h 10m and runs 5 per day.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf leaves at 9:52 PM.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is more urban than scenic, passing through industrial areas and cities such as Düsseldorf and Essen, with occasional glimpses of the Rhine River and countryside.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is 45 miles (73 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9 (€7), while the average price is around $27 (€21).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $6 (€5).
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf leaves at 12:09 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Cologne
Dortmund
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 Dortmund.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

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Most popular trains to and from Dortmund Hbf and Cologne Hbf

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