Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$55

Average price

$66

Fastest journey

2 h 13 m

Average duration

2 h 55 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

154 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station 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 Frankfurt South station will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    6:14 AM2h13
    Cologne Hbf
    8:27 AMFrankfurt South station
    $551One-way
    1 transfer
  • Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
    5:33 AM2h34
    Cologne Hbf
    8:07 AMFrankfurt South station
    $681One-way
    2 transfers
  • Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
    6:33 AM2h34
    Cologne Hbf
    9:07 AMFrankfurt South station
    $681One-way
    2 transfers
  • National Express
    12:54 AM4h18
    Cologne Hbf
    5:12 AMFrankfurt South station
    $711One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station 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 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $23.

Distance: 95 miles (154 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$43

Average price

$12

Average price

Cheapest

$30

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 59m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 4m

Average total duration

1h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 56m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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 Frankfurt South station is a bus with an average price of $12 (€10).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station:

A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station costing on average $43 (€35).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station is by train with an average journey time of 1h 29m.

Other travel options to Frankfurt South station take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne Hbf and Frankfurt South station including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station 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 27m sooner (1h 29m by train vs 1h 56m by car). Tickets start at around $43 (€35) compared to roughly $30 (€24) 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.

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express12:54 AM Cologne Hbf
4h18
5:12 AM Frankfurt South station2 transfers
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH5:33 AM Cologne Hbf
2h34
8:07 AM Frankfurt South station2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)6:14 AM Cologne Hbf
2h13
8:27 AM Frankfurt South station1 transfer
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH6:33 AM Cologne Hbf
2h34
9:07 AM Frankfurt South station2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station.

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 Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station.
  • 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 Frankfurt South station.

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 Frankfurt South station.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station run on average 25 times per day, taking around 1h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:49, the last at 22:55. The fastest train covers the 95 miles (154 km) distance in 1h 24m.

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
95 miles (154 km)
Average train duration
1h 29m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€19)
Trains per day
25
Fastest train
1h 24m
First train
1:49 AM
Last train
10:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
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, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Frankfurt South station 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
1h 32m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
24 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

Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 9m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€56)
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
5 a day

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 54m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
4 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station takes 1h 24m and runs 25 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station is 95 miles (154 km).
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station leaves at 1:49 AM.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station leaves at 10:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Frankfurt (Main) Süd offers scenic views of the Rhine River, charming villages, and lush vineyards, particularly between Cologne and Koblenz.
Yes, a day trip from Köln Hbf to Frankfurt (Main) Süd is feasible. The journey takes 1h 24m, covers a distance of 95 miles (154 km), and there are 10 trains per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station.
Since both Cologne Hbf and Frankfurt South station 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 Frankfurt South station include Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Karlsruhe, Göttingen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station 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 Frankfurt South station

Cologne
Frankfurt am Main
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 Frankfurt am Main.
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 Frankfurt South station

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Frankfurt South station and Cologne Hbf

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyCologne Hbf to Frankfurt South station train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone