Cologne to Friedrichshafen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sun, Sep 20
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

CHF73

Average ticket price on Sep 20

CHF84

Fastest journey on Sep 20

4 h 23 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

4 h 59 m

Trains on Sep 20

5

Distance

408 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Friedrichshafen will cost around CHF84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF73.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Friedrichshafen without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 2517 · ICE 597 · 4825
    12:54 PM4h31
    Cologne Hbf
    5:25 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt
    CHF731One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 919 · 4223
    1:30 PM4h23
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    5:53 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt
    CHF831One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 519 · 4811
    12:53 PM5h31
    Cologne Hbf
    6:24 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt
    CHF851One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 229 · ICE 1011 · 4227
    1:53 PM5h59
    Cologne Hbf
    7:52 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt
    CHF851One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 519 · 4811
    1:54 PM4h30
    Cologne Hbf
    6:24 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt
    CHF941One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Friedrichshafen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Friedrichshafen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF54 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 11m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF54, while a train costs an average of CHF104.

Distance: 253 miles (408 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

CHF104

Average price

CHF54

Average price

Cheapest

CHF76

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 4m

Average total duration

10h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 4m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Friedrichshafen is a bus with an average price of CHF54.

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Friedrichshafen:

A bus is CHF51 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen costing on average CHF104.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Friedrichshafen is by train with an average journey time of 4h 41m.

Other travel options to Friedrichshafen take longer:

Bus takes on average 10h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Friedrichshafen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Friedrichshafen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 1h 23m sooner (4h 41m by train vs 6h 4m by car). Tickets start at around CHF104 compared to roughly CHF76 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 Friedrichshafen train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Friedrichshafen trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn1:54 PM Cologne
7h19
9:13 PM Friedrichshafen0 transfersDirect
Sunday, September 20
Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 519 · 4811
On time
12:53 PM Cologne Hbf
5h31
6:24 PM Friedrichshafen Stadt
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2517 · ICE 597 · 4825
On time
12:54 PM Cologne Hbf
4h31
5:25 PM Friedrichshafen Stadt
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 919 · 4223
Delayed
11:31 AM 1:30 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
4h23
5:53 PM Friedrichshafen Stadt
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Friedrichshafen 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Cologne to Friedrichshafen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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 Friedrichshafen.

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 Friedrichshafen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF29 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:21, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 253 miles (408 km) distance in 3h 59m.

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
Distance
253 miles (408 km)
Average train duration
4h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF29
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
3h 59m
First train
3:21 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Friedrichshafen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Friedrichshafen from CHF29. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 59m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
CHF29
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

Complete guide to Friedrichshafen

Things to do in Friedrichshafen

Discover the best of Friedrichshafen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Friedrichshafen trip today.

  • Must visit

Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen

The city’s signature museum on airship history, design, and technology. Original artifacts and a partial Hindenburg reconstruction make it essential.

  • Must visit

Dornier Museum

Major aviation museum at the airport with aircraft, simulators, and Dornier engineering history. Ideal for technology and transport enthusiasts.

  • Recommended

Schulmuseum Friedrichshafen

Compact school museum showing classrooms, teaching tools, and daily education history from past centuries in the region.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels can rise in summer trade fair and lake season; dining is mid-priced, while local buses and regional trains are fairly reasonable.

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
€3-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Friedrichshafen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF29, while the average price is around CHF104.
The train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen takes 3h 59m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen leaves at 3:21 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen is 253 miles (408 km).
The last train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Friedrichshafen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Friedrichshafen Stadt.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Friedrichshafen is by train, with a cost of around CHF29.
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Friedrichshafen is scenic, offering views of the Rhine River, rolling vineyards, and picturesque villages, particularly as it passes through the Black Forest region.
A day trip from Cologne to Friedrichshafen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 59m. Trains run 8 times per day.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Friedrichshafen's key attractions, such as the Zeppelin Museum, Lake Constance, and local vineyards.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
Since both Cologne and Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen include Bregenz, Memmingen, Sankt Gallen, Ulm, Schaffhausen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and train station. Scams are rare but can include overpriced taxi rides or unofficial ticket sellers. Staying vigilant and using official transportation and ticket vendors helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Friedrichshafen

Most Cologne to Friedrichshafen trains use the Köln Hbf to Friedrichshafen Stadt station pair, with some services arriving at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen

Which Cologne station do trains to Friedrichshafen leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen 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, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · CHF7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · CHF5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · CHF5 · 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 Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · CHF3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · CHF2 · 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.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · CHF4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · CHF4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · CHF5

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.

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