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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Erlangen
Cheapest price
$82
Average price
$127
Fastest journey
3 h 32 m
Average duration
4 h 32 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
324 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Erlangen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Erlangen will cost around $127 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $82.
Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Erlangen on Fri, Jun 19, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 324 km distance in an average of 4 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 32 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 5 h 37 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.
8:45 AM3h32Cologne12:17 PMErlangen$821One-way0 transfers- 7:58 AM3h57Cologne11:55 AMErlangen$1211One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM5h02Cologne1:55 PMErlangen$1261One-way0 transfers
- 9:18 AM5h37Cologne2:55 PMErlangen$1801One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 AM3h32Cologne12:17 PMErlangen$821One-way0 transfers
- 7:58 AM3h57Cologne11:55 AMErlangen$1211One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM5h02Cologne1:55 PMErlangen$1261One-way0 transfers
- 9:18 AM5h37Cologne2:55 PMErlangen$1801One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Erlangen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Erlangen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a train costs an average of $33.
Distance: 201 miles (324 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$103 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $71 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 26m Average total duration Fastest 3h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration 5h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Erlangen:
A bus is $75 (€61) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Erlangen costing on average $103 (€84).
Other travel options to Erlangen take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 45m.
You'll arrive about 8m sooner (3h 56m by train vs 4h 4m by car). Tickets start at around $103 (€84) compared to roughly $71 (€58) 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 Erlangen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Erlangen trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:58 AM Cologne | 3h57 | 11:55 AM Erlangen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:45 AM Cologne | 3h32 | 12:17 PM Erlangen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:53 AM Cologne | 5h02 | 1:55 PM Erlangen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:18 AM Cologne | 5h37 | 2:55 PM Erlangen | 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 Erlangen 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.
Jun 19
Jun 20
Jun 21
Jun 22
Jun 23
Jun 24
Jun 25
Why should you book Cologne to Erlangen trains with Omio?
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 Erlangen.
- 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 Erlangen.
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 Erlangen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Erlangen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Erlangen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:14, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 201 miles (324 km) distance in 3h 32m.
Distance 201 miles (324 km) |
Average train duration 3h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€27) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 32m |
First train 1:14 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 4 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Erlangen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Erlangen from $24 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Erlangen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Erlangen 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 Erlangen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Erlangen
Most Cologne to Erlangen trains use the Köln Hbf to Erlangen station pair, with some services arriving at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Erlangen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Erlangen leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Which Erlangen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Erlangen from Erlangen city centre
Erlangen train station facilities and services
Erlangen 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: Basilikum, Ilias, Ristorante Carpaccio, Goldene Sonne
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen. ATMs are available at Erlangen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen. Information desks are available at Erlangen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Hotel, A. B. Hotel, Zeitwohnhaus, Hotel Villa Soy.
Getting to Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße from Erlangen city centre
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße is 1 km from Erlangen city centre. Public transport options include:
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße train station facilities and services
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße 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: Bistro bareva, Zum Angerwirt, Turandot, Hoang Kim Imbiss
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. ATMs are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Information desks are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Art Hotel, The niu Cure.
Getting to Erlangen-Bruck from Erlangen city centre
Erlangen-Bruck is 2 km from Erlangen city centre. Public transport options include:
Erlangen-Bruck train station facilities and services
Erlangen-Bruck 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: Kaffee- und Snackbar Oase, Gaststätte TV 1861 Bruck, Der Beck, Hoang Kim Imbiss
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen-Bruck. ATMs are available at Erlangen-Bruck.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen-Bruck. Information desks are available at Erlangen-Bruck.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen-Bruck. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen-Bruck: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen-Bruck: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen-Bruck.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Weißes Lamm, Hotel Smart-Inn, The niu Cure.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Erlangen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erlangen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Erlangen
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