Cologne to Aarhus train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Sat, Jun 20
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Aarhus

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$106

Average price

$140

Fastest journey

9 h 28 m

Average duration

10 h 1 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

619 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Aarhus will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $106.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Aarhus on Sat, Jun 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 619 km distance in an average of 10 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 28 m .

On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 10 h 32 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:11 AM9h28
    Cologne
    3:39 PMAarhus
    $1061One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:11 AM9h32
    Cologne
    5:43 PMAarhus
    $1331One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:11 AM10h32
    Cologne
    7:43 PMAarhus
    $1401One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:11 AM10h32
    Cologne
    5:43 PMAarhus
    $1801One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Aarhus

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Aarhus among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a train costs an average of $60.

Distance: 384 miles (619 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$123

Average price

$77

Average price

Cheapest

$171

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 6m

Average total duration

Fastest

8h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 6m

Average total duration

10h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 14m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Cologne to Aarhus is a bus with an average price of $77 (€63).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Aarhus:

A bus is $46 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Aarhus costing on average $123 (€101).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Aarhus is by train with an average journey time of 8h 36m.

Other travel options to Aarhus take longer:

Bus takes on average 10h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Aarhus including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Aarhus 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 $123 (€101) compared to roughly $171 (€140) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $49 (€40). The journey takes 8h 36m versus 8h 14m 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 to Aarhus train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Aarhus trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:11 AM Cologne
9h28
3:39 PM Aarhus0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:11 AM Cologne
10h32
5:43 PM Aarhus0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:11 AM Cologne
9h32
5:43 PM Aarhus0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:11 AM Cologne
10h32
7:43 PM Aarhus0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Aarhus 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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Cologne to Aarhus trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Aarhus.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Aarhus.

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 Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Aarhus.
  • 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 to Aarhus.

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 to Aarhus.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Aarhus

GermanyGermany
DenmarkDenmark
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Aarhus run on average 8 times per day, taking around 8h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€49) but you can travel from only $42 (€35) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 384 miles (619 km) distance in 9h 8m.

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 $42 (€35)
Distance
384 miles (619 km)
Average train duration
8h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$60 (€49)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
9h 8m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
77 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 $42 (€35)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Aarhus trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Aarhus from $42 (€35). 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
9h 8m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€49)
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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 26m
Cheapest Price
$179 (€147)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
4 a day

Complete guide to Aarhus

Things to do in Aarhus

Discover the best of Aarhus — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Aarhus trip today.

  • Must visit

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

One of Northern Europe’s largest art museums, known for major Danish and international exhibitions and the rooftop artwork Your Rainbow Panorama.

  • Must visit

Den Gamle By

Open-air museum recreating Danish urban life across centuries with historic houses, workshops, and costumed interpreters.

  • Must visit

Moesgaard Museum

Acclaimed archaeology and ethnography museum south of the city, famous for immersive exhibitions and the Grauballe Man.

Danish Krone

Prices are high by European standards, especially for dining and hotels, though public transport and coffee are manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
DKK 80-130 for street food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
DKK 180-300 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
DKK 500+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
DKK 35-50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated. No tip is needed for cafés, bars, or taxis.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Aarhus

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Aarhus can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€49), while the average price is around $123 (€101).
The train from Cologne to Aarhus takes 9h 8m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Aarhus leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Aarhus is 384 miles (619 km).
The last train from Cologne to Aarhus leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Aarhus.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Aarhus.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Aarhus is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Aarhus Hovedbanegård.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Aarhus is by bus, with a cost of around $42 (€35).
The train journey from Cologne to Aarhus offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with scenic views of the German countryside, picturesque towns, and glimpses of the North Sea as you travel through northern Germany and into Denmark.
A day trip from Cologne to Aarhus is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 8m and covers 384 miles (619 km). However, there are 8 train trips per day available for this route.
In Aarhus, you can stroll through the Aarhus Botanical Garden, explore the Latin Quarter with its charming streets and cafes, and savor international cuisines at the Aarhus Street Food market. Enjoy a bike ride along the Aarhus River or catch a performance at the Musikhuset Aarhus. Visit the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum for contemporary art and panoramic views, explore Danish history at Den Gamle By and Moesgaard Museum, admire the Gothic architecture of Aarhus Cathedral, or wander the gardens of Marselisborg Palace when the royals are not in residence.
Three days are ideal to explore Aarhus, allowing time to visit the ARoS Art Museum, Den Gamle By, and the Moesgaard Museum, along with enjoying the local cafes and vibrant city life.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Aarhus.
Since both Cologne and Aarhus 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 Aarhus include Silkeborg, Viborg, Randers, Aalborg, Vejle.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Aarhus 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.
Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments more convenient and widely accepted across Denmark, especially in cities, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Aarhus, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Bicycle theft is also common, so securing bikes properly is important. Scams are relatively rare but can occur around crowded places or events, so travelers should stay vigilant when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals. Standard safety precautions and awareness of surroundings help ensure a safe visit.
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 to Aarhus

Most Cologne to Aarhus trains use the Köln Hbf to Aarhus Hovedbanegård station pair, with some services arriving at Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus). Use this guide to compare Cologne and Aarhus train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Aarhus

Which Cologne station do trains to Aarhus leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Aarhus leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

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