- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$678
Average price
$726
Fastest journey
9 h 31 m
Average duration
11 h 28 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
1473 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Edinburgh will cost around $726 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $678.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Edinburgh without transferring at least 3 times.
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9:43 AM10h27Köln Hbf8:10 PMEdinburgh$6781One-way3 transfers- 9:42 PM17h28Köln Hbf3:10 PMEdinburgh$6781One-way3 transfers
8:39 AM10h29Köln Hbf7:08 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers- 10:39 AM10h30Köln Hbf9:09 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 12:39 PM9h31Köln Hbf10:10 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 12:39 PM9h31Köln Hbf10:10 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 9:43 AM10h27Köln Hbf8:10 PMEdinburgh$6781One-way3 transfers
- 8:39 AM10h29Köln Hbf7:08 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 10:39 AM10h30Köln Hbf9:09 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 6:44 PM16h24Köln Hbf11:08 AMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 40m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $55, and a train costs an average of $678.
Distance: 915 miles (1473 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$728 Average price | $170 Average price Cheapest | $175 Average price |
12h 44m Average total duration 12h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 41h 13m Average total duration 40h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Edinburgh is a flight with an average price of $170 (€139).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Edinburgh:
A flight is $6 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cologne to Edinburgh costing on average $175 (€144).
A flight is $559 (€457) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Edinburgh costing on average $728 (€596).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 40m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 14m.
Bus takes on average 40h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Live departures
Cologne to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Edinburgh trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:39 PM Köln Hbf | 9h34 | 10:13 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| 4:43 PM Köln Hbf | 20h27 | 1:10 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| 5:43 PM Köln Hbf | 20h24 | 2:07 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| 9:42 PM Köln Hbf | 19h29 | 5:11 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 8:39 AM Köln Hbf | 10h29 | 7:08 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| 9:43 AM Köln Hbf | 10h27 | 8:10 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| 10:39 AM Köln Hbf | 10h30 | 9:09 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Edinburgh 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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Jun 21
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Why should you book Cologne to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) as well as Eurostar offer trains services from Cologne to Edinburgh.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Edinburgh.
- 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 Intercity (DB IC) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Edinburgh
Italy
United Kingdom
Trains from Cologne to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 12h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $678 (€555) but you can travel from only $55 (€45) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 21:42. The fastest train covers the 915 miles (1473 km) distance in 9h 25m.
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
Flight from $55 (€45)
Distance 915 miles (1473 km) |
Average train duration 12h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $678 (€555) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 9h 25m |
First train 6:39 AM |
Last train 9:42 PM |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Flight from $55 (€45)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar from Cologne to Edinburgh trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Edinburgh from $55 (€45). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 26m
Cheapest Price
$749 (€613)
Eurostar frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 25m
Cheapest Price
$678 (€555)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
Scottish National Gallery
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
- Recommended
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
- Must visit
Calton Hill
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park with the city’s most famous hike and outstanding panoramic views. A classic outdoor Edinburgh experience.
- Gluten-free
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a peppery savoury pudding traditionally made with oats and offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns supps
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Though from Cullen, it is a classic on Edinburgh menus and a comforting local staple
Scotch Broth
A traditional hearty soup of barley, root vegetables and usually lamb or mutton. It is a long-standing Scottish comfort food commonly found in pubs and cafes
The Scran & Scallie
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
Mussel Inn Seafood Restaurant
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
Ondine
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Pound sterling
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Transport for Edinburgh
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- TapTapCap lets you pay by contactless card on Lothian buses and trams, with daily caps applied automatically.
- Single bus and tram fares are flat within the city, so exact change is not needed if you pay contactless or in the official app.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $678 (€555), while the average price is around $728 (€596).
The train from Cologne to Edinburgh takes 9h 25m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Edinburgh is 915 miles (1473 km).
The first train from Cologne to Edinburgh leaves at 6:39 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Edinburgh leaves at 9:42 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cologne to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Edinburgh is by flight, with a cost of around $55 (€45).
The train journey from Cologne to Edinburgh offers varied scenery, starting with the picturesque landscapes along the Rhine River, featuring castles and vineyards, then transitioning through the rolling hills and quaint villages of Belgium and the Netherlands. As you continue through England and into Scotland, the views include lush countryside, historic cities, and the scenic Scottish Lowlands, providing a diverse and visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey duration is 9h 25m. There are 6 trips per day by train covering a distance of 915 miles (1473 km).
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Cologne will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Edinburgh 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.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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