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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen
Cheapest price
$121
Average price
$147
Fastest journey
4 h 31 m
Average duration
4 h 55 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
408 km
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 $147 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $121.
Of the 7 trains that leave Cologne for Friedrichshafen on Mon, Jun 22, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 408 km distance in an average of 4 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 31 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 5 h 18 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.
IC 1940 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · 42178:53 AM5h59Cologne Hbf2:52 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1211One-way3 transfers- ICE 2179:58 AM5h18Cologne Messe/Deutz3:16 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1301One-way0 transfers
- ICE 515 · 42179:54 AM4h58Cologne Hbf2:52 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1451One-way1 transfer
- ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · 42179:58 AM4h54Cologne Messe/Deutz2:52 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1451One-way3 transfers
- ICE 915 · ICE 119 · 48079:31 AM4h53Cologne Messe/Deutz2:24 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1621One-way2 transfers
- ICE 103 · ICE 2583 · 326878:54 AM4h31Cologne Hbf1:25 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1621One-way2 transfers
- ICE 915 · ICE 119 · 48079:31 AM4h53Cologne Messe/Deutz2:24 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1621One-way2 transfers
- ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · 42179:58 AM4h54Cologne Messe/Deutz2:52 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1451One-way3 transfers
- ICE 515 · 42179:54 AM4h58Cologne Hbf2:52 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1451One-way1 transfer
- ICE 2179:58 AM5h18Cologne Messe/Deutz3:16 PMFriedrichshafen Stadt$1301One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train 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 prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a train costs an average of $59.
Distance: 253 miles (408 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$156 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $92 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 38m Average total duration Fastest 5h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 34m Average total duration 9h 4m 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 |
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 Friedrichshafen:
A bus is $101 (€83) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen costing on average $156 (€128).
Other travel options to Friedrichshafen take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 4m.
You'll arrive about 56m sooner (5h 8m by train vs 6h 4m by car). Tickets start at around $156 (€128) compared to roughly $92 (€75) 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:54 AM Cologne | 7h19 | 2:13 PM Friedrichshafen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:54 AM Cologne | 7h19 | 3:13 PM Friedrichshafen | 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 Friedrichshafen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 22
Jun 23
Jun 24
Jun 25
Jun 26
Jun 27
Jun 28
Why should you book Cologne to Friedrichshafen 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) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
- 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 bus and train 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 bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Friedrichshafen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Friedrichshafen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Friedrichshafen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 (€48) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) 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 4h 21m.
Distance 253 miles (408 km) |
Average train duration 5h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 (€48) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 21m |
First train 3:21 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Friedrichshafen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Friedrichshafen from $37 (€30). 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)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
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.
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.
Which Cologne station do trains to Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Friedrichshafen Stadt from Friedrichshafen city centre
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.
Getting to Friedrichshafen Flughafen from Friedrichshafen city centre
Friedrichshafen Flughafen is 3 km from Friedrichshafen city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Friedrichshafen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Friedrichshafen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Friedrichshafen
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