- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $58
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $103
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 5 h 18 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 6 h 3 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 3
- 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 $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 3 trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen, including 3 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 408 km distance in an average of 6 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 18 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 7 h 19 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.
8:58 AM 5h18 Cologne 2:16 PM Friedrichshafen $58 1 One-way 0 transfers6:54 AM 7h19 Cologne 2:13 PM Friedrichshafen $111 1 One-way 0 transfers7:53 AM 5h32 Cologne 1:25 PM Friedrichshafen $140 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:58 AM 5h18 Cologne 2:16 PM Friedrichshafen $58 1 One-way 0 transfers7:53 AM 5h32 Cologne 1:25 PM Friedrichshafen $140 1 One-way 0 transfers6:54 AM 7h19 Cologne 2:13 PM Friedrichshafen $111 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 but you can travel from only $24 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:21, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 253 miles (408 km) distance in 3h 58m.
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 $24
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance253 miles (408 km)
- Average train duration4h 45m
- Cheapest ticket price$34
- Trains per day7
- Fastest train3h 58m
- First train3:21 AM
- Last train11:55 PM
- Cheapest MonthNov
- Cheapest DayWed
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DaySun
- Least Busy DaySun
- Best time to book14 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $24
Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Friedrichshafen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Friedrichshafen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34, while the average price is around $118.
The train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen takes 3h 58m and runs 7 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.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
Live departures
Cologne to Friedrichshafen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Friedrichshafen trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:54 AM Cologne | 7h19 | 2:13 PM Friedrichshafen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:53 AM Cologne | 5h32 | 1:25 PM Friedrichshafen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:58 AM Cologne | 5h18 | 2:16 PM Friedrichshafen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Train companies
Train companies from Cologne to Friedrichshafen
Trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen with Deutsche Bahn. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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 58m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$34
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Friedrichshafen
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
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.
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
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.
- Must visit
Uferpromenade
Long lakeside promenade for walking, views of the Alps, harbor activity, and sunset. It is the city’s classic public space.
- Recommended
Hafen Friedrichshafen
The main harbor area with ferries, excursion boats, and open lake views. A practical and scenic base for exploring the city.
- Recommended
Adenauerplatz
Central square near the waterfront used for markets, events, and everyday city life. A good orientation point in the center.
- Vegetarian
Maultaschen
Cheese-filled pasta pockets from Swabia, often topped with caramelized onions. A regional classic around Lake Constance and a staple in local inns.
- Vegetarian
Käsespätzle
Soft egg noodles, usually served with cheese and fried onions or with gravy. One of the most beloved traditional Swabian comfort foods.
Flädlesuppe
Thin pancakes sliced into strips and served in clear beef broth. Common across Swabia and southern Germany as a traditional starter.
Restaurant Maier
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in Hotel Maier, known for refined regional cuisine, polished service, and a calm upscale setting in Fischbach.
Kommodore
Historic brewery tavern serving hearty Swabian dishes and beer in a traditional atmosphere. A reliable choice for regional comfort food.
Zum Klosterwirt
Popular traditional venue for Swabian classics, local beer, and generous portions in an informal setting suited to both locals and visitors.
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.
DB Navigator
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.80
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Friedrichshafen Stadt -> Friedrichshafen Stadtbahnhof, Friedrichshafen
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Use the bodo tariff for Friedrichshafen city buses. Buy tickets in the app or from vending machines before boarding when available.
- Card payment availability varies by bus and sales channel. The DB Navigator and bodo apps support cashless payment for many local tickets.
Plan your visit to Friedrichshafen
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Friedrichshafen.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Friedrichshafen include Bregenz, Memmingen, Sankt Gallen, Ulm, Schaffhausen.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
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, Germany
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 · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · 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 Köln
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 · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $3 · 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 Köln
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 · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
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 Friedrichshafen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen most often arrive at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Some services arrive at Friedrichshafen Flughafen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Friedrichshafen arrival station.
Friedrichshafen StadtFriedrichshafen Stadt, Stadtbahnhof 1, 88045 Friedrichshafen
City-centre transport
Getting to Friedrichshafen Stadt from Friedrichshafen city centre
Bus7395 · 5m · $3
Friedrichshafen Stadt train station facilities and services
Friedrichshafen Stadt 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: Kochlöffel, Ailinger Hof, Cafe Vinebar Al Porto, Felders
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. ATMs are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Information desks are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Friedrichshafen Stadt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Friedrichshafen Stadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Friedrichshafen Stadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Stadthotel Kleiner Berg, Select Hotel Goldenes Rad Friedrichshafen, Schwanen, Villa Von Soden.
Friedrichshafen FlughafenFriedrichshafen Flughafen, Am Flugplatz 64, 88046 Meckenbeuren
City-centre transport
Getting to Friedrichshafen Flughafen from Friedrichshafen city centre
Friedrichshafen Flughafen is 3 km from Friedrichshafen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb91 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusR45 · 9m · $4 · every ~2 min
Friedrichshafen Flughafen train station facilities and services
Friedrichshafen 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: Do-X, Imbiss auf Besucherterrasse, LSC Restaurant, Volare
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. ATMs are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. Information desks are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Friedrichshafen Flughafen.
Train stations for Cologne to Friedrichshafen
Check train stations information for Cologne and Friedrichshafen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Friedrichshafen is Köln Hbf, which connects to Friedrichshafen Stadt.
Most popular trains to and from Friedrichshafen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Friedrichshafen
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