- Must visit
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
One of Northern Europe's leading art museums, famous for its rooftop rainbow panorama and strong Danish and international collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Aarhus
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $125
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $154
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 9 h 28 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 9 h 45 m
- Trains on Nov 03
- 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 $154 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $125.
Fast trains
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 4 trains from Cologne to Aarhus, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct trains cover the 619 km distance in an average of 9 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 28 m .
On Tue, Nov 03 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.
5:11 AM 9h28 Cologne 2:39 PM Aarhus $125 1 One-way 0 transfers6:11 AM 9h28 Cologne 3:39 PM Aarhus $150 1 One-way 0 transfers7:11 AM 10h32 Cologne 5:43 PM Aarhus $168 1 One-way 0 transfers8:11 AM 9h32 Cologne 5:43 PM Aarhus $174 1 One-way 0 transfers
5:11 AM 9h28 Cologne 2:39 PM Aarhus $125 1 One-way 0 transfers6:11 AM 9h28 Cologne 3:39 PM Aarhus $150 1 One-way 0 transfers8:11 AM 9h32 Cologne 5:43 PM Aarhus $174 1 One-way 0 transfers7:11 AM 10h32 Cologne 5:43 PM Aarhus $168 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Aarhus
Germany
Denmark
Trains from Cologne to Aarhus run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 but you can travel from only $44 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 7h 41m.
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 $44
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance384 miles (619 km)
- Average train duration8h 40m
- Cheapest ticket price$62
- Trains per day6
- Fastest train7h 41m
- First train12:15 AM
- Last train11:50 PM
- Cheapest MonthNov
- Cheapest DaySat
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DayWed
- Least Busy DayMon
- Best time to book14 days
Understand & plan this route
- Operators on this routeDeutsche Bahn
- Departure & arrivalCologne Hbf → Aarhus Hovedbanegård
- High-speed trainsAvailable on this route
- Cross-border trainsGermany–Denmark services
- Night trainsAvailable on this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $44
Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Aarhus trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Aarhus.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Aarhus can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $62, while the average price is around $128.
The train from Cologne to Aarhus takes 7h 41m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Aarhus is 384 miles (619 km).
The first train from Cologne to Aarhus leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Aarhus leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Aarhus.
Live departures
Cologne to Aarhus train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Aarhus trains for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:11 AM Cologne | 10h28 | 4:39 PM Aarhus | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:11 AM Cologne | 10h32 | 6:43 PM Aarhus | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:11 AM Cologne | 10h32 | 7:43 PM Aarhus | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:11 PM Cologne | 13h43 | 6:54 AM Aarhus | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:11 PM Cologne | 14h32 | 9:43 AM Aarhus | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Aarhus trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Train companies
Train companies from Cologne to Aarhus
Trains from Cologne to Aarhus with Deutsche Bahn. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
7h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$62
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Aarhus
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Aarhus.
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.
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
Den Gamle By
A major open-air history museum presenting Danish town life across centuries with historic houses, gardens, and costumed interpretation.
- Must visit
Moesgaard Museum
An acclaimed archaeology and ethnography museum south of Aarhus, known for prehistory exhibitions and the famous Grauballe Man.
- Must visit
Møllestien
A picturesque cobbled lane in the Latin Quarter lined with colorful historic houses. It is one of Aarhus's most charming walking streets.
- Must visit
Latin Quarter
The city's oldest neighborhood mixes medieval streets, boutiques, and historic houses. It is one of the best areas for a relaxed walk.
- Must visit
Marselisborg Forests
A large public forest stretching south of the city with beaches, trails, and viewpoints. It is a favorite place for nature walks near downtown.
Smørrebrød
Open-faced rye bread topped with pickled herring, shrimp, roast beef, or egg. A classic Danish lunch tradition found across Aarhus.
Stegt Flæsk Med Persillesovs
Crisp fried pork belly served with parsley sauce and potatoes. Often called Denmark’s national dish and a beloved comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Frikadeller
Pork meatballs with potatoes, gravy, and red cabbage. A traditional home-style Danish dish common in Jutland and local inns.
Restaurant Frederikshøj
Refined fine dining with seasonal local ingredients and elegant tasting menus. One of Aarhus’s most acclaimed restaurants.
Restaurant Hærværk
Well-regarded seafood restaurant by the harbor, specializing in fresh fish, shellfish, and polished Nordic cooking.
MellemRum
Historic restaurant in an old merchant’s house, known for classic Danish cuisine, smørrebrød, and a warm traditional atmosphere.
Danish krone (kr)
Very costly versus most European cities. Hotels, dining, and drinks are pricey; public transport is good but not cheap for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- kr80-130 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- kr180-300 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- kr500+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- kr35-50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up is enough in restaurants and taxis for great service; tipping in cafes is optional and uncommon.
Midttrafik
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 24 kr.
- Day pass
- null
To the city center
Aarhus Hovedbanegård -> DOKK1, Aarhus
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use the Midttrafik app to buy mobile tickets for buses and Letbanen in Aarhus.
- Card or contactless payment is not accepted on city buses; buy in the app, at ticket machines, or with cash where available.
Plan your visit to Aarhus
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Aarhus.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Aarhus include Silkeborg, Viborg, Randers, Aalborg, Vejle.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Aarhus.
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, 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 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 · $3 · 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 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.
Which Aarhus station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Aarhus most often arrive at Aarhus Hovedbanegård. Some services arrive at Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Aarhus arrival station.
Aarhus HovedbanegårdBanegårdspladsen 1, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark+45 70 13 14 15
City-centre transport
Getting to Aarhus Hovedbanegård from Aarhus city centre
Bus4A, 46, 45, 43, 3A, 2A, 1A, 18, 17, 16, 13, 11 · 3m · $17 · every ~48 min
TramL1, L2 · 2m · every ~16 min
Aarhus Hovedbanegård train station facilities and services
Aarhus Hovedbanegård has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's, Sunset Boulevard
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aarhus Hovedbanegård. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Aarhus Hovedbanegård. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aarhus Hovedbanegård: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Aarhus Hovedbanegård: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aarhus Hovedbanegård: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Ritz Aarhus City, Scandic Aarhus City, Comwell Aarhus.
Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus)Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen 1, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
City-centre transport
Getting to Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus) from Aarhus city centre
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Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus) train station facilities and services
Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several cafes and fast food outlets inside the station
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available across the station. ATMs are aTMs located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aarhus, Banegårdspladsen (togbus): Elevators and ramps for wheelchair access.
Train stations for Cologne to Aarhus
Check train stations information for Cologne and Aarhus, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Aarhus is Köln Hbf, which connects to Aarhus Hovedbanegård.
Most popular trains to and from Aarhus and Cologne
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