- Must visit
Rijksmuseum
The Netherlands’ national museum, famed for Dutch Golden Age masterpieces including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. A top priority for art and history lovers.
Cheapest price
$41
Average price
$86
Fastest journey
2 h 40 m
Average duration
2 h 40 m
Trains per day
28
Distance
214 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Amsterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Amsterdam will cost around $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.
Of the 28 trains that leave Cologne for Amsterdam on Wed, Jul 08, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 08 the direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 2 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 40 m .
On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest trains will take 2 h 40 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.
IC 60402
ICE 222
IC 2202 · IC 3248+
20020
10612 · 20074 · IC 3548
10608 · 20070 · IC 3540
ICE 128
ICE 220
ICE 120
ICE 126
ICE 124Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Amsterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a flight costs an average of $182.
Distance: 132 miles (214 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$80 Average price | $34 Average price Cheapest | $546 Average price | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 3h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration 5h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 1m Average total duration 12h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Amsterdam:
A bus is $47 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Amsterdam costing on average $80 (€66).
A bus is $513 (€421) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Amsterdam costing on average $546 (€449).
Other travel options to Amsterdam take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 45m.
Flight takes on average 12h 1m.
Tickets start at around $80 (€66) compared to roughly $60 (€49) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-20.88 (€-17.16). The journey takes 3h 40m versus 3h 19m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Amsterdam trains for today, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 60402 | Delayed 3:56 AM 5:47 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 3h12 | 6:58 AM 6:58 AMAmsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 8 | |||||
26803 · IC 3220+ 20006 | 4:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h35 | 8:24 AM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
26803 · IC 3020+ 20006 | 4:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h46 | 8:35 AM Amsterdam Centraal | 2 transfers | |
26805 · IC 3224+ 20008 | 5:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h35 | 9:24 AM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 222 | On time 6:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 9:32 AM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
10604 · 20066 · IC 3532 | 7:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h39 | 11:04 AM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
26809 · IC 3232+ 20012 | 7:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h35 | 11:24 AM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 220 | On time 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h40 | 11:29 AM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
10608 · 20070 · IC 3540 | 9:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h39 | 1:04 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
26813 · IC 3240+ 20016 | 9:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h35 | 1:24 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 128 | On time 10:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h40 | 1:29 PM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
10612 · 20074 · IC 3548 | 11:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h39 | 3:04 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
26817 · IC 3248+ 20020 | 11:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h35 | 3:24 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
IC 2202 · IC 3248+ 20020 | On time 11:56 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h28 | 3:24 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 126 | On time 12:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h40 | 3:29 PM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
10616 · 20078 · IC 3556 | 1:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h39 | 5:04 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
26821 · IC 3256+ 20024 | 1:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h34 | 5:24 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 124 | On time 2:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h40 | 5:29 PM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
10620 · 20082 · IC 3564 | 3:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h39 | 7:04 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
26825 · IC 3264+ 20028 | 3:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h35 | 7:24 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 122 | On time 4:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h40 | 7:29 PM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
10624 · 20086 · IC 3572 | 5:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h39 | 9:04 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
26829 · IC 3172+ 20032 | 5:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h30 | 9:19 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 224 | On time 6:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h40 | 9:29 PM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
10628 · 20090 · IC 3580 | 7:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h39 | 11:04 PM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
ICE 120 | On time 8:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h40 | 11:29 PM Amsterdam Centraal | 0 transfersDirect | |
26837 · IC 3014+ 20040 | 9:51 PM Cologne Hbf | 9h14 | 7:05 AM Amsterdam Centraal | 2 transfers | |
26837 · IC 3114+ 20040 | 9:51 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h58 | 6:49 AM Amsterdam Zuid | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.

Trains from Cologne to Amsterdam run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $19 (€16) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 2h 39m.
Distance 132 miles (214 km) |
Average train duration 3h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 (€26) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 39m |
First train 12:10 AM |
Last train 11:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Amsterdam — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Amsterdam trip today.
The Netherlands’ national museum, famed for Dutch Golden Age masterpieces including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. A top priority for art and history lovers.
The world’s leading Van Gogh collection, with paintings, drawings, and letters that trace the artist’s life and influence. One of Amsterdam’s most sought-after museums.
A deeply significant museum in the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary during World War II. Powerful, moving, and one of the city’s most visited sites.
Amsterdam’s most beloved central neighborhood, known for canals, narrow streets, boutique shops, and a classic village-like atmosphere.
A picturesque canal-side shopping and strolling area of nine small streets, very popular for photos, local boutiques, and café-lined scenery.
The city’s best-known urban park, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing. A classic local favorite with lively green space in central Amsterdam.
Two thin baked waffles filled with a warm caramel syrup center. Originally a Dutch market treat, it is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic sweet snacks.
Deep-fried crispy balls with a soft ragout filling, usually beef, served with mustard. A classic Dutch bar snack commonly eaten with beer.
Small fluffy mini pancakes made with yeast and buckwheat flour, typically served with butter and powdered sugar. A beloved Dutch fairground and café treat.
A highly regarded modern Dutch fine dining restaurant in the center, known for refined seasonal tasting menus and elegant service.
An established casual restaurant specializing in classic Dutch cuisine such as bitterballen, stamppot, and hachee, popular with visitors seeking traditional food.
A well-known traditional Dutch restaurant with a cozy, home-style atmosphere, famous for stamppot, stews, and classic comfort dishes.
Amsterdam is pricey for hotels and dining. Groceries and transit are moderate, but central areas cost more.
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxi fares; small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
Official public transport app
Amsterdam Centraal, Amsterdam -> Dam Square, Amsterdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Amsterdam trains use the Köln Hbf to Amsterdam Centraal station pair, with some services arriving at Amsterdam Zuid. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Amsterdam train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Amsterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: De Broodzaak, Kyoto Sushi & Grill, Starbucks, The Doner Company, Wagamama, Wurst & Schnitzelhaus, Smullers, Burger King, Grand Café First Class, Burgerij, & many more
Free WiFi in all station areas. ATMs are available at Amsterdam Centraal.
Ticket office support is available at Amsterdam Centraal. Information desks are located in a small white building in front of the station's main entrance and at various points in the main passenger hall.
Luggage storage is located on the ground floor near the front entrance in the eastern walkway, near the stairs to platform 2. Open daily from 07:00 to 01:00. .
Available at Amsterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Amsterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam Centraal: The station is fully accessible, including lifts to the platforms.
Nearby hotels include NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam, Art’otel Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Zuid is 4 km from Amsterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Amsterdam Zuid has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant As, Gustavino
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Amsterdam Zuid. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Amsterdam Zuid. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Amsterdam Zuid: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Amsterdam Zuid: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam Zuid: Elevators, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include NH Amsterdam Zuid, citizenM Amsterdam South, Crowne Plaza Amsterdam South.
Amsterdam Sloterdijk is 3 km from Amsterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Amsterdam Sloterdijk has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Helden, Grand Café Hermes
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Amsterdam Sloterdijk. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Amsterdam Sloterdijk. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Amsterdam Sloterdijk: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Amsterdam Sloterdijk: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam Sloterdijk: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam - Sloterdijk, Mercure Hotel Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station, MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need