Cologne to Darmstadt train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sun, Aug 30
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Darmstadt

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30

Cheapest price on Aug 30

$56

Average ticket price on Aug 30

$69

Fastest journey on Aug 30

1 h 40 m

Average journey duration on Aug 30

2 h 57 m

Trains on Aug 30

6

Distance

169 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Darmstadt will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.

Fast trains

On Sun, Aug 30, we found 6 trains from Cologne to Darmstadt, including 6 direct services.

On Sun, Aug 30 the direct trains cover the 169 km distance in an average of 2 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .

On Sun, Aug 30 the slowest trains will take 3 h 50 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
    7:53 AM2h28
    Cologne
    10:21 AMDarmstadt
    $561One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:53 AM2h58
    Cologne
    9:51 AMDarmstadt
    $661One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:45 AM1h40
    Cologne
    8:25 AMDarmstadt
    $721One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:32 AM3h48
    Cologne
    11:20 AMDarmstadt
    $721One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:32 AM3h50
    Cologne
    10:22 AMDarmstadt
    $721One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Darmstadt

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Darmstadt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 32m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, while a train costs an average of $43.

Distance: 105 miles (169 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$43

Average price

$14

Average price

Cheapest

$37

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 43m

Average total duration

2h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 13m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

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 Darmstadt is a bus with an average price of $14 (€11).

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

A bus is $29 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Darmstadt costing on average $43 (€35).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Darmstadt is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.

Other travel options to Darmstadt take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 13m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Darmstadt including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Darmstadt among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 11m sooner (2h 2m by train vs 2h 13m by car). Tickets start at around $43 (€35) compared to roughly $37 (€30) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Darmstadt train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Darmstadt trains for tomorrow, Sunday, August 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:32 AM Cologne
3h50
10:22 AM Darmstadt0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn6:45 AM Cologne
1h40
8:25 AM Darmstadt0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn6:53 AM Cologne
2h58
9:51 AM Darmstadt0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:27 AM Cologne
3h59
11:26 AM Darmstadt0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:32 AM Cologne
3h48
11:20 AM Darmstadt0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:53 AM Cologne
2h28
10:21 AM Darmstadt0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Darmstadt 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
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05

Why should you book Cologne to Darmstadt trains with Omio?

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

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) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Darmstadt.
  • 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 Darmstadt.

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 Darmstadt.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Darmstadt

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconVery fast and reliable
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train connection from Cologne to Darmstadt was very pleasant and satisfactory. The punctuality of the train was excellent, the train arrived and departed on time. The cleanliness of the train was average, the floors and seats were very well maintained and clean, but the windows could do with some extra cleaning. The toilets were well equipped and well maintained. I reached my destination on time and was very happy with this train service, so I am happy to recommend it.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconComfortable
Disadvantages
IconSanitary facilities
I travelled from Cologne to Darmstadt by train. I had to change trains twice on my journey. All trains arrived on time, so there were no connection problems. There were also no delays or disruptions during the rest of the journey. The trains were in good general condition. The wifi provided worked very well and reliably, as did the power sockets, which were very handy for charging smartphones. Unfortunately, the sanitary facilities were not particularly clean.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Darmstadt

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Darmstadt run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:13, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 105 miles (169 km) distance in 1h 40m.

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 $11 (€9)
Distance
105 miles (169 km)
Average train duration
2h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
1h 40m
First train
12:13 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 $11 (€9)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Cologne to Darmstadt trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Cologne and Darmstadt from $11 (€9). 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
1h 40m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$22 (€18)
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
1h 32m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
$64 (€52)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
24 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) Price
$74 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Darmstadt

Things to do in Darmstadt

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

  • Must visit

Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt

Leading Hessian museum for art, natural history, and cultural collections. A top stop for seeing Joseph Beuys, Old Masters, and science displays.

  • Must visit

Museum Künstlerkolonie Darmstadt

Museum in the artists’ colony building presenting Art Nouveau, design, and Mathildenhöhe history. Essential for understanding Darmstadt’s UNESCO site.

  • Recommended

Schlossmuseum Darmstadt

Small palace museum with court interiors and objects from Darmstadt’s ruling house. A compact way to explore local royal history.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-range, local transit is reasonable, and budget food options are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Darmstadt

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Darmstadt can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Cologne to Darmstadt takes 1h 40m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Darmstadt leaves at 12:13 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Darmstadt is 105 miles (169 km).
The last train from Cologne to Darmstadt leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Darmstadt.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Darmstadt.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Darmstadt is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Darmstadt Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Darmstadt is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Cologne to Darmstadt offers passengers views of the Rhine River, picturesque vineyards, and charming villages, making it a scenic route, especially near the Rhine Valley.
A day trip from Cologne to Darmstadt is not feasible with a travel time of 1h 40m. Trains run 3 times per day over a distance of 105 miles (169 km).
For a well-rounded experience in Darmstadt, spending 2 to 3 days allows you to explore its key attractions, such as the Mathildenhöhe artists' colony, the Hessian State Museum, and the beautiful parks and gardens.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Darmstadt.
Since both Cologne and Darmstadt 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 Darmstadt include Stuttgart, Frankfurt am Main, Heidelberg, Mannheim, Karlsruhe.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Darmstadt 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 Darmstadt, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors or street vendors offering overpriced goods can also occur. It's advisable to stay alert in busy places and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Overall, Darmstadt is considered safe, but standard urban safety precautions are recommended.
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 Darmstadt

Most Cologne to Darmstadt trains use the Köln Hbf to Darmstadt Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Darmstadt Süd. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Darmstadt 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 Darmstadt

Which Cologne station do trains to Darmstadt leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Darmstadt 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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