- Must visit
GlockenStadtMuseum Apolda
Main local museum on Apolda’s bell founding, knitting, and town history, housed in a restored historic building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Apolda
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
€160
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€160
Fastest journey on Sep 18
5 h 44 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
5 h 44 m
Trains on Sep 18
1
Distance
320 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Apolda is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Apolda will cost around €160 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €160.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 1 trains from Cologne to Apolda, including 1 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 320 km distance in an average of 5 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 44 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 5 h 44 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.
7:17 AM5h44Cologne1:01 PMApolda€1601One-way0 transfers
- 7:17 AM5h44Cologne1:01 PMApolda€1601One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cologne to Apolda
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Apolda among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €24 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 8m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €24, while a train costs an average of €64.
Distance: 198 miles (320 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€64 Average price | €24 Average price Cheapest | €60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 8m Average total duration Fastest 4h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 38m Average total duration 6h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Apolda is a bus with an average price of €24.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Apolda:
A bus is €40 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Apolda costing on average €64.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Apolda is by train with an average journey time of 4h 38m.
Other travel options to Apolda take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Apolda including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Apolda 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 €64 compared to roughly €60 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-3.55. The journey takes 4h 38m versus 4h 31m 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 Apolda train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Apolda trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:17 AM Cologne | 5h44 | 1:01 PM Apolda | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Apolda by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Cologne to Apolda trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Apolda.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Apolda.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Apolda.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Apolda.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Apolda
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Apolda run on average 12 times per day, taking around 4h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €47 but you can travel from only €20 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:29, the last at 14:57. The fastest train covers the 198 miles (320 km) distance in 3h 37m.
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 €20
Distance 198 miles (320 km) |
Average train duration 4h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price €47 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 3h 37m |
First train 12:29 AM |
Last train 2:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 63 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 €20
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Apolda trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Apolda from €20. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 37m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€47
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.
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
Complete guide to Apolda
Things to do in Apolda
Discover the best of Apolda — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Apolda trip today.
- Recommended
Kunsthaus Apolda Avantgarde
Exhibition venue for changing contemporary art shows in a landmark industrial building known for architecture and culture.
- Recommended
Dobermann-Museum Apolda
Small permanent display focused on the town’s famous Dobermann heritage, of interest to breed and local history enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Paulinenpark
Large landscaped public park with ponds, walking paths, and event spaces, popular for relaxed strolls and seasonal flower displays.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central market square framed by historic buildings, events, and everyday town life; the best starting point for exploring Apolda.
- Recommended
Promenade Apolda
Historic promenade and green walking area offering a pleasant route near the center with mature trees and local charm.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringian Rostbratwurst is a seasoned pork sausage grilled over charcoal. It is one of Thuringia’s best-known foods and a classic street and beer garden staple.
- Vegetarian
Thüringer Klöße
Thuringian potato dumplings are large potato balls served with roasts and gravy. They are a defining side dish of regional Sunday and festive meals.
Rinderroulade
Rinderroulade is beef rolled with bacon, onion, mustard, and pickles, then braised. It is a traditional hearty dish often served with dumplings and red cabbage.
Restaurant Poseidon
Established Greek restaurant offering grilled meats, mixed platters, and a friendly casual setting popular with locals.
Eiscafe San Marco
Casual Italian venue serving pizza, pasta, and simple classics. A dependable town-center option for relaxed dining.
Hotel am Schloss
Traditional German restaurant in Apolda known for hearty regional dishes in a relaxed, classic inn atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels, dining, and local transit are usually cheaper than in major cities, but costs are higher than in many smaller Eastern European towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, round up or add about 5-10%. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is common.
VMT Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.10
- Day pass
- /
To the city center
Apolda station -> Apolda Markt, Apolda
- Distance
- 700 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy regional bus tickets in the VMT app or from the driver; have cash ready because card or contactless acceptance on buses may be limited.
- Apolda is compact: the town center is walkable from Apolda station in about 10 minutes.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Apolda
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Apolda 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 Apolda, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Apolda can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €47, while the average price is around €64.
The train from Cologne to Apolda takes 3h 37m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Apolda leaves at 12:29 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Apolda is 198 miles (320 km).
The last train from Cologne to Apolda leaves at 2:57 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Apolda.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Apolda.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Apolda is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Apolda station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Apolda is by bus, with a cost of around €20.
The train journey from Cologne to Apolda offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, quaint villages, and picturesque landscapes, especially as you travel through the Thuringian countryside.
A day trip from Cologne to Apolda is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 37m. However, with a frequency of 20 trains per day, there are multiple travel options available. The distance between the two cities is 198 miles (320 km).
To fully enjoy Apolda's key attractions, including its historic town center, local museums, and the bell museum, a stay of one to two days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Apolda.
Since both Cologne and Apolda 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 Apolda include Leipzig, Jena, Suhl, Halle.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Apolda 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.
In Apolda, travelers should remain vigilant against petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Scams are rare, but it’s advisable to be cautious with unofficial taxi services and to confirm ticket prices in advance. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings ensures 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 Apolda
Most Cologne to Apolda trains use the Köln Hbf to Apolda station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Apolda 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 Apolda
Which Cologne station do trains to Apolda leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Apolda 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 · €7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · €5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · €5 · 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 · €3 · 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.
Which Apolda station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Apolda arrive at Apolda. Apolda is 0 miles (1 km) from Apolda city centre.
ApoldaApolda, Bahnhofstr. 69, 99510 Apolda
City-centre transport
Getting to Apolda from Apolda city centre
Bus3, 2, 287, 285, 280 · 3m · every ~6 min
Apolda train station facilities and services
Apolda 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 Ella, Restaurant "Zum Schlachthof"
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Apolda. ATMs are available at Apolda.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Apolda. Information desks are available at Apolda.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Apolda. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Apolda: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Apolda: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Apolda.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Apolda
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Apolda and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Apolda
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.
