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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Bayreuth
Showing times and prices for Dec 21
Cheapest price
$240
Average price
$242
Fastest journey
5 h 10 m
Average duration
5 h 23 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
346 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Bayreuth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bayreuth will cost around $242 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $240.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Bayreuth without transferring at least once.
ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 4609 · 300708:58AM5h15
Cologne Messe/Deutz02:13PMBayreuth Hbf
$2401One-way
4 transfers
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 4609 · 300708:54AM5h19
Cologne Hbf02:13PMBayreuth Hbf
$2401One-way
4 transfers
ICE 119 · ICE 25 · Bus EV · 302908:58AM5h33
Cologne Messe/Deutz02:31PMBayreuth Hbf
$2441One-way
3 transfers
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · Bus EV · 302908:54AM5h37
Cologne Hbf02:31PMBayreuth Hbf
$2441One-way
3 transfers
ICE 529 · Bus EV08:45AM5h10
Cologne Messe/Deutz01:55PMBayreuth Hbf
$2441One-way
1 transfer
ICE 529 · Bus EV08:45AM5h10
Cologne Messe/Deutz01:55PMBayreuth Hbf
$2441One-way
1 transfer
ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 4609 · 300708:58AM5h15
Cologne Messe/Deutz02:13PMBayreuth Hbf
$2401One-way
4 transfers
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 4609 · 300708:54AM5h19
Cologne Hbf02:13PMBayreuth Hbf
$2401One-way
4 transfers
ICE 119 · ICE 25 · Bus EV · 302908:58AM5h33
Cologne Messe/Deutz02:31PMBayreuth Hbf
$2441One-way
3 transfers
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · Bus EV · 302908:54AM5h37
Cologne Hbf02:31PMBayreuth Hbf
$2441One-way
3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Bayreuth
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bayreuth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €15, and a train costs an average of €27.
Distance: 214 miles (346 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€83 Average price | €25 Average price Cheapest |
5h 3m Average total duration Fastest 4h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 39m Average total duration 7h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Bayreuth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bayreuth trains for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 3:45 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 529 · Bus EV | On time 7:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h10 | 12:55 PM Bayreuth Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 25 · Bus EV · 3029 | Delayed 7:55 AM 7:54 AMCologne Hbf | 5h37 | 1:31 PM Bayreuth Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 4609 · 3007 | Delayed 7:55 AM 7:54 AMCologne Hbf | 5h19 | 1:13 PM Bayreuth Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 4609 · 3007 | On time 7:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h15 | 1:13 PM Bayreuth Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 119 · ICE 25 · Bus EV · 3029 | On time 7:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h33 | 1:31 PM Bayreuth Hbf | 3 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bayreuth 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
Dec 21
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27
Dec 27
Why should you book Cologne to Bayreuth trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE) as well as National Express and Intercity offer trains services from Cologne to Bayreuth. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Bayreuth.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE), but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express and Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bayreuth.
- 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 (ICE,RE) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Bayreuth.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of National Express and Intercity to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cologne to Bayreuth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Bayreuth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Bayreuth
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Bayreuth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 (€27) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 214 miles (346 km) distance in 4h 13m.
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 $19 (€15)
Distance 214 miles (346 km) |
Average train duration 4h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€27) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 13m |
First train 04:20 |
Last train 23:40 |
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 $19 (€15)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, National Express, Intercity from Cologne to Bayreuth trainsDeutsche Bahn, National Express, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Bayreuth from $19 (€15). 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
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€48)
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
Intercity
About
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "Intercity" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use "InterCity" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 41m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€102)
Intercity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€85)
National Express frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Bayreuth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Bayreuth 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 Bayreuth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
A day trip from Cologne to Bayreuth is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 13m. There are 7 trains available per day for this trip.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Bayreuth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34 (€27), while the average price is around $104 (€83).
For a fulfilling experience in Bayreuth, 2 to 3 days are generally sufficient to explore its cultural landmarks, such as the Margravial Opera House, Richard Wagner Museum, and the Hermitage Palace.
The train journey from Cologne to Bayreuth offers scenic views, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhineland, Franconian Switzerland, and the rolling hills of Bavaria.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Bayreuth is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
The distance by train from Cologne to Bayreuth is 214 miles (346 km).
The train from Cologne to Bayreuth takes 4h 13m and runs 7 per day.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Bayreuth is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Bayreuth Hbf.
The first train from Cologne to Bayreuth leaves at 4:20 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Bayreuth leaves at 11:40 PM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Bayreuth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Bayreuth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Bayreuth.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Bayreuth
Cologne
Bayreuth
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 Bayreuth.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Bayreuth is Bayreuth Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bayreuth Hbf for your journey to Bayreuth from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Thursday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 13:30
- Sunday: 09:30 - 14:00
Dining
- Ponte Central
- Inges Café
- Poseidon
- Cô Chính
Hotel
- Poseidon
- Bayerischer Hof
- B&B Hotel
- Hotel Weihenstephan
More options for your journey from Cologne to Bayreuth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bayreuth and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Bayreuth
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