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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$25
Average price
$32
Fastest journey
1 h 11 m
Average duration
1 h 16 m
Trains per day
3
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 $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Dortmund Hbf on Thu, May 07, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 73 km distance in an average of 1 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 11 m .
On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 1 h 21 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.
ICE 9202:16 AM1h11Cologne Hbf3:27 AMDortmund Hbf$251One-way0 transfers- ICE 5414:25 AM1h16Cologne Hbf5:41 AMDortmund Hbf$351One-way0 transfers
- ICE 10284:00 AM1h21Cologne Hbf5:21 AMDortmund Hbf$351One-way0 transfers
- ICE 9202:16 AM1h11Cologne Hbf3:27 AMDortmund Hbf$251One-way0 transfers
- ICE 5414:25 AM1h16Cologne Hbf5:41 AMDortmund Hbf$351One-way0 transfers
- ICE 10284:00 AM1h21Cologne Hbf5:21 AMDortmund Hbf$351One-way0 transfers
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 $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $9.
Distance: 45 miles (73 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price | $10 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 48m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 59m Average total duration 1h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is a bus with an average price of $10 (€8).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf:
A bus is $15 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf costing on average $24 (€20).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is by train with an average journey time of 1h 18m.
Other travel options to Dortmund Hbf take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne Hbf and Dortmund Hbf including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf 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 $24 (€20) compared to roughly $22 (€17) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-2.89 (€-2.31). The journey takes 1h 18m versus 1h 15m 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
Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 1028 | On time 4:00 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h21 | 5:21 AM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 541 | On time 4:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h16 | 5:41 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 as well as FlixTrain, Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, Süwex or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 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 or Wanderu?
- 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
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
Fast and punctualflexibleGood and modern equipmentDisadvantages
noneAt 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
Controller was niceDisadvantages
UnpunctualExpensiveI 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
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) but you can travel from only $7 (€5) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:47, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 45 miles (73 km) distance in 1h 7m.
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 $7 (€5)
Distance 45 miles (73 km) |
Average train duration 1h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 7m |
First train 4:47 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $7 (€5)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Dortmund Hbf from $7 (€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 7m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
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
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 13m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
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
Süwex
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€34)
Süwex frequency
1 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 37m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
4 a day
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9 (€7), while the average price is around $24 (€20).
The train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf takes 1h 7m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is 45 miles (73 km).
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf leaves at 4:47 AM.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€5).
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.
Yes, a day trip from Köln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf is feasible. The journey takes 1h 7m, covering a distance of 45 miles (73 km). There are 5 trains per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf.
Since both Cologne Hbf and Dortmund Hbf 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 Dortmund Hbf include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Bremen, Münster, Enschede.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf 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.
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 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
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
The major train station for arrivals in Dortmund is Dortmund Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dortmund Hbf for your journey to Dortmund from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Subway
- Caliente
- Ong Bui Asia Fusion
- Kleimann
Hotel
- Cityhotel Dortmund
- Esplanade
- Drei Kronen
- Hotel Unique Novum
More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Dortmund Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dortmund Hbf and Cologne Hbf
Most popular train connections to Dortmund Hbf
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