Cologne to Dresden train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE)

Mon, Feb 02
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Dresden

Showing times and prices for Feb 02

Cheapest price

$67

Average price

$177

Fastest journey

5 h 34 m

Average duration

5 h 49 m

Trains per day

34

Distance

475 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Dresden will cost around $177 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Dresden without transferring at least 2 times.

FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
12:14PM9h26
Cologne Hbf
09:40PMDresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
$671One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1640+VIAS Rail GmbH25033+Deutsche BahnICE 590 · 16501
06:53PM10h41
Cologne Hbf
05:34AMDresden Hbf
$971One-way
3 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
08:14AM10h06
Cologne Hbf
06:20PMDresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
$1211One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 123 · ICE 893
01:28PM6h17
Cologne Hbf
07:45PMDresden Hbf
$1321One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 518 · ICE 643 · IC 2435 · ICE 1657
04:11PM7h34
Cologne Hbf
11:45PMDresden Hbf
$1321One-way
3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Dresden

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Dresden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €23, and a flight costs an average of €406.

Distance: 295 miles (475 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€84

Average price

€38

Average price

Cheapest

€433

Average price

7h 39m

Average total duration

7h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 37m

Average total duration

8h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 0m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Air Dolomiti

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cologne to Dresden train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Dresden trains for today, Sunday, February 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:32 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:14 PM Cologne Hbf
6h46
10:00 PM Dresden-Neustadt station0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:14 PM Cologne Hbf
6h54
10:08 PM Dresden Hbf0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus3:14 PM Cologne Hbf
9h21
12:35 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)1 transfer
Monday, February 2
deutsche_bahnICE 616 · ICE 545 · RJ 383
On time
7:11 AM Cologne Hbf
6h56
2:07 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus7:14 AM Cologne Hbf
10h06
5:20 PM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1513 · ICE 692 · IC 2443
On time
7:29 AM Cologne Hbf
6h10
1:39 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 529 · ICE 692 · IC 2443
On time
7:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h54
1:39 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 121 · ICE 1559
Delayed
8:43 AM 8:28 AMCologne Hbf
6h15
2:43 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 621 · ICE 1559
On time
8:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h58
2:43 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 614 · ICE 547 · RJ 1779:11 AM Cologne Hbf
6h56
4:07 PM Dresden Hbf2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 1515 · ICE 1651
On time
9:29 AM Cologne Hbf
7h14
4:43 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1515 · ICE 690 · IC 2441
On time
9:29 AM Cologne Hbf
6h10
3:39 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 623 · ICE 690 · IC 2441
On time
9:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h54
3:39 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 202 · IC 2049
On time
10:11 AM Cologne Hbf
7h26
5:37 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 625 · ICE 1651
On time
10:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h58
4:43 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus11:14 AM Cologne Hbf
9h26
8:40 PM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1157 · RJ 385
On time
11:18 AM Cologne Hbf
6h49
6:07 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1517 · ICE 598 · IC 2049
On time
11:29 AM Cologne Hbf
6h08
5:37 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 627 · ICE 598 · IC 2049
On time
11:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h52
5:37 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 123 · ICE 893
Delayed
12:43 PM 12:28 PMCologne Hbf
6h17
6:45 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 123 · ICE 9591 · ICE 1747
Delayed
12:43 PM 12:28 PMCologne Hbf
5h51
6:19 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 1549 · RJ 17912:34 PM Cologne Hbf
7h33
8:07 PM Dresden Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 629 · ICE 893
On time
12:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
6h00
6:45 PM Dresden Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 629 · ICE 9591 · ICE 1747
On time
12:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h34
6:19 PM Dresden Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 610 · ICE 641 · RJ 1791:11 PM Cologne Hbf
6h56
8:07 PM Dresden Hbf2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 1519 · ICE 596 · IC 20471:29 PM Cologne Hbf
6h08
7:37 PM Dresden Hbf2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 721 · ICE 596 · IC 20471:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h52
7:37 PM Dresden Hbf2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Dresden by train, bus, or flight

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.

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Why should you book Cologne to Dresden trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Österreichische Bundesbahnen offer trains services from Cologne to Dresden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Dresden.

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 FlixTrain or Österreichische Bundesbahnen to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Dresden.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Dresden.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Dresden.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Dresden?

The best time to book your train from Cologne to Dresden is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Dresden route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Dresden per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Dresden.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Dresden

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
IconSpeed
IconComfortable
Disadvantages
IconPrice
My wife and I often go on city trips, this time it was Dresden. I can only mention one negative thing, and that is the price. The train made a clean and well-kept impression, the seats, the sanitary facilities, the corridors, everything was clean. The staff were very friendly, the wifi was good for normal use with a mobile phone. The train arrived on time and there were no delays during the journey.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Dresden

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Dresden run on average 13 times per day, taking around 7h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€30) but you can travel from only $30 (€23) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 295 miles (475 km) distance in 5h 44m.

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 $30 (€23)
Distance
295 miles (475 km)
Average train duration
7h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
$38 (€30)
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
5h 44m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:55
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 $30 (€23)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen from Cologne to Dresden trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen trains will get you between Cologne and Dresden from $30 (€23). 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
6h 13m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€54)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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.
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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 15m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€30)
FlixTrain frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Österreichische Bundesbahnen

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 1m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Dresden

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Dresden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€30), while the average price is around $106 (€84).
The train from Cologne to Dresden takes 5h 44m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Dresden is 295 miles (475 km).
The first train from Cologne to Dresden leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Dresden leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Dresden. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Dresden.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Dresden is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Dresden Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Dresden is by bus, with a cost of around $30 (€23).
The train journey from Cologne to Dresden offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, with its vineyards and historic castles, and continues through the rolling hills and charming towns of Saxony.
A day trip from Cologne to Dresden is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 44m. However, there are 13 trains available per day for this 295 miles (475 km) route.
In Dresden, you can explore the Zwinger Palace, an iconic Baroque complex with museums and art collections, and visit the Frauenkirche, a reconstructed Lutheran church offering panoramic city views from its dome. Experience performances at the Semper Opera House, renowned for its stunning architecture. Discover history at Dresden Castle, which houses museums and the famous Green Vault. Enjoy a walk along Brühl's Terrace, a scenic promenade along the Elbe River known as the Balcony of Europe.
A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal for exploring Dresden, allowing time to visit key attractions such as the Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche, and the Semper Opera House, as well as enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Elbe River.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Dresden.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Dresden

Cologne
Dresden
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 Dresden.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps

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