- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$678
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$733
Fastest journey on Sep 19
9 h 27 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
13 h 40 m
Trains on Sep 19
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 $733 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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9:42 PM19h29Köln Hbf5:11 PMEdinburgh$6781One-way3 transfers- 5:43 PM20h24Köln Hbf2:07 PMEdinburgh$7211One-way3 transfers
6:39 AM9h28Köln Hbf4:07 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers- 10:39 AM9h27Köln Hbf8:06 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 12:39 PM9h34Köln Hbf10:13 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 10:39 AM9h27Köln Hbf8:06 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 6:39 AM9h28Köln Hbf4:07 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 12:39 PM9h34Köln Hbf10:13 PMEdinburgh$7491One-way3 transfers
- 9:42 PM19h29Köln Hbf5:11 PMEdinburgh$6781One-way3 transfers
- 5:43 PM20h24Köln Hbf2:07 PMEdinburgh$7211One-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 bus, with an average ticket price of $238 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 20m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $238, while a flight costs an average of $875.
Distance: 915 miles (1473 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$875 Average price | $238 Average price Cheapest | |
7h 20m Average total duration Fastest 5h 20m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 34h 28m Average total duration 33h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $238 (€195).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Edinburgh:
A bus is $637 (€521) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Edinburgh costing on average $875 (€716).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 20m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Bus takes on average 33h 58m.
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 tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:39 AM Köln Hbf | 9h28 | 4:07 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| 10:39 AM Köln Hbf | 9h27 | 8:06 PM Edinburgh | 3 transfers | |
| 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 | |
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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Sep 19
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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
Take a train from Cologne to Edinburgh and enjoy the approximately 915 miles (1473 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 21:42.
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 $29 (€24)
Distance 915 miles (1473 km) |
First train 6:39 AM |
Last train 9:42 PM |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $29 (€24)
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
National Gallery of Scotland
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
- Recommended
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
British pound sterling (£)
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
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.
The first train from Cologne to Edinburgh leaves at 6:39 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Edinburgh is 915 miles (1473 km).
The last train from Cologne to Edinburgh leaves at 9:42 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train 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 $29 (€24).
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.
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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