- Must visit
Lippisches Landesmuseum
Major regional museum covering archaeology, art, natural history, and Lippe culture, ideal for a broad introduction to Detmold and its surroundings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Detmold
Showing times and prices for Aug 11
Cheapest price
$40
Average price
$40
Fastest journey
2 h 55 m
Average duration
2 h 55 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
174 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Detmold is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Detmold will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cologne for Detmold on Tue, Aug 11, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 11 the direct trains cover the 174 km distance in an average of 2 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .
On Tue, Aug 11 the slowest trains will take 2 h 55 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.
7:25 AM2h55Cologne10:20 AMDetmold$401One-way0 transfers
- 7:25 AM2h55Cologne10:20 AMDetmold$401One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Detmold
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Detmold among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 10m. 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 $11, and a train costs an average of $40.
Distance: 108 miles (174 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$60 Average price | $19 Average price Cheapest | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 15m Average total duration 2h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Detmold is a bus with an average price of $19.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Detmold:
A bus is $41 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Detmold costing on average $60.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Detmold is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 10m.
Other travel options to Detmold take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Detmold including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Detmold 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 $60 compared to roughly $38 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-22.07. The journey takes 2h 45m versus 2h 36m 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 Detmold train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Detmold trains for today, Monday, August 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:11 AM Cologne | 2h47 | 10:58 AM Detmold | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:17 AM Cologne | 3h22 | 11:39 AM Detmold | 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 Detmold 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.
Tue
Aug 11
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Aug 17
Why should you book Cologne to Detmold trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Detmold.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Detmold.
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) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Detmold.
- 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 Detmold.
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 Detmold.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Detmold
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Detmold run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 but you can travel from only $11 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:02. The fastest train covers the 108 miles (174 km) distance in 2h 47m.
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
Distance 108 miles (174 km) |
Average train duration 2h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 47m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:02 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 70 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 $11
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Detmold trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Detmold from $11. 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
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$40
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$66
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Detmold
Things to do in Detmold
Discover the best of Detmold — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Detmold trip today.
- Must visit
LWL-Freilichtmuseum Detmold
Open-air museum with historic farmhouses, workshops, and gardens, showing rural life in Westphalia across centuries in an expansive setting.
- Recommended
Schlossmuseum Detmold
Museum inside the princely residence presenting courtly interiors and Lippe history, combining architecture, decoration, and regional heritage.
- Must visit
Altstadt Detmold
The medieval old town offers half-timbered streets, independent shops, and architectural detail, making it Detmold's most atmospheric walking area.
- Must visit
Teutoburger Wald
Large urban forest and recreation area with trails and access to major sights, popular for nature walks and views near the city.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Historic market square framed by traditional buildings and civic landmarks, a natural starting point for exploring Detmold's old-town character.
- Gluten-free
Lippischer Pickert mit Heringsstipp
Pickled herring fillets in a creamy sauce with apples, onions and gherkins. A classic Lippe and Westphalian tavern dish, often served with potatoes.
- Vegetarian
Lippischer Pickert
A hearty potato pancake or griddle cake from Lippe, traditionally made with potatoes, flour, yeast and raisins, served sweet with jam or savory with sausage.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Coarse rye bread from Westphalia, slowly baked for a dense texture and mild sweetness. It is a regional staple often eaten with ham, cheese or butter.
Hirschsprung
Well-known historic restaurant near the Hermannsdenkmal area, focused on refined regional cuisine in an elegant countryside atmosphere.
Brauhaus Strate
Established brewery restaurant in central Detmold serving regional German dishes and house-brewed beer in a lively, traditional setting.
Varenholzer Stube
Traditional German inn style venue known for hearty local food, schnitzel and seasonal specials in a relaxed, classic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany; hotels, dining, and local transit are usually cheaper than in major cities like Munich or Frankfurt, but not notably low-cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes for good service.
mobil.nrw
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Detmold Bahnhof -> Detmold Marktplatz
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- On Buses In Detmold, buy tickets in the OWLmobil app or from the driver; exact fare helps if paying onboard.
- Check DB Navigator or mobil.nrw for real-time regional train and bus connections; Detmold Bahnhof is within walking distance of the center.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Detmold
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Detmold 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 Detmold, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Detmold can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40, while the average price is around $60.
The train from Cologne to Detmold takes 2h 47m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Detmold leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Detmold is 108 miles (174 km).
The last train from Cologne to Detmold leaves at 11:02 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Detmold.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Detmold.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Detmold is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Detmold station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Detmold is by bus, with a cost of around $11.
The train journey from Cologne to Detmold offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, with views of the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of North Rhine-Westphalia, especially as it passes through the Teutoburg Forest near Detmold.
A day trip from Cologne to Detmold is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 47m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day for this route.
To fully explore Detmold, including its historic Old Town, the Hermann Monument, and the Detmold Open-Air Museum, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Detmold.
Since both Cologne and Detmold 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 Detmold include Minden, Hanover, Dortmund, Bochum, Kassel.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Detmold 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 Detmold, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport hubs. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but it is advisable to remain cautious with unsolicited offers or street vendors. Standard travel precautions, like securing personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night, 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 Detmold
Most Cologne to Detmold trains use the Köln Hbf to Detmold station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Detmold 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 Detmold
Which Cologne station do trains to Detmold leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Detmold 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/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.
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 · $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 Detmold station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Detmold most often arrive at Detmold. Some services arrive at Bielefeld Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Detmold arrival station.
DetmoldDetmold, Bahnhofstr. 8, 32756 Detmold
City-centre transport
Getting to Detmold from Detmold city centre
Bus717, 713, 707, 706, 704, 703, 702, 701 · 2m · every ~23 min
Detmold train station facilities and services
Detmold 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: Cup, Vollkornbäckerei Meffert, Tilos Pizzabox, Wunderbar
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Detmold. ATMs are available at Detmold.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Detmold. Information desks are available at Detmold.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Detmold. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Detmold: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Detmold: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Detmold.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Residenz Hotel, Hotel Brechmann, StadtHotel, Hotel Lippischer Hof.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Detmold
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Detmold and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Detmold
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