Cologne to Gera train with Deutsche Bahn

Tue, Jul 28
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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 Gera

Showing times and prices for Jul 28

Cheapest price

$50

Average price

$96

Fastest journey

5 h 25 m

Average duration

6 h 14 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

360 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Gera will cost around $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cologne for Gera on Tue, Jul 28, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Jul 28 the direct trains cover the 360 km distance in an average of 6 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 25 m .

On Tue, Jul 28 the slowest trains will take 6 h 38 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:17 AM6h38
    Cologne
    2:55 PMGera
    $501One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:53 AM6h38
    Cologne
    1:31 PMGera
    $1081One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:29 AM5h25
    Cologne
    12:54 PMGera
    $1291One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne to Gera

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Gera among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 5h 3m. 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 $23, and a flight costs an average of $408.

Distance: 223 miles (360 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$123

Average price

$38

Average price

Cheapest

$454

Average price

$66

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 38m

Average total duration

6h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 16m

Average total duration

5h 16m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

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 Gera is a bus with an average price of $38 (€38).

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

A bus is $85 (€85) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Gera costing on average $123 (€123).

A bus is $417 (€417) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Gera costing on average $454 (€454).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Gera is by bus with an average journey time of 5h 3m.

Other travel options to Gera take longer:

Flight takes on average 5h 16m.

Train takes on average 6h 8m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Gera including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gera among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $123 (€123) compared to roughly $66 (€66) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-56.68 (€-56.68). The journey takes 6h 8m versus 4h 51m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cologne to Gera train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Gera trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:53 AM Cologne
6h38
1:31 PM Gera0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:29 AM Cologne
5h25
12:54 PM Gera0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:17 AM Cologne
6h38
2:55 PM Gera0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Gera by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Tue
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03

Why should you book Cologne to Gera trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Cologne to Gera.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Gera.

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 Gera.
  • 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Gera.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Gera.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Gera

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Gera run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€50) but you can travel from only $23 (€23) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 223 miles (360 km) distance in 5h 25m.

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 $23 (€23)
Distance
223 miles (360 km)
Average train duration
6h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$50 (€50)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 25m
First train
3:45 AM
Last train
11:41 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $23 (€23)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Gera trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Gera from $23 (€23). 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 Duration
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€50)
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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 46m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€70)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 28m
Cheapest Price
$145 (€145)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Gera

Things to do in Gera

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

  • Must visit

Kunstsammlung Gera – Orangerie

Main art museum in a former princely orangery, best known for Otto Dix works and strong regional art exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Otto-Dix-Haus

Birthplace of Otto Dix with exhibitions on his life and art; essential for understanding Gera’s most famous cultural figure.

  • Recommended

Museum für Angewandte Kunst

Town museum in a historic merchant building, presenting Gera’s urban history, crafts, and changing daily life.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in major cities, while local transit and everyday costs stay reasonable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Round up small bills in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, tipping about 5-10% is common for good service, usually handed directly to the server.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Gera

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Gera can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€50), while the average price is around $123 (€123).
The train from Cologne to Gera takes 5h 25m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Gera is 223 miles (360 km).
The first train from Cologne to Gera leaves at 3:45 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Gera leaves at 11:41 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Gera. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Gera.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Gera is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Gera Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Gera is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€23).
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Gera offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, charming towns, and lush countryside, making it a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Gera is not feasible as the travel duration is 5h 25m. However, there are 9 train journeys available per day covering a distance of 223 miles (360 km).
To fully experience Gera, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient. This allows time to explore its cultural sites, such as the Otto-Dix-Haus, admire the architecture, and enjoy local dining options.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Gera.
Since both Cologne and Gera 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 Gera include Leipzig, Eisenach, Zeulenroda, Weißenfels, Plauen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gera 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 Gera, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and public transport. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging or scams. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings 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 Gera

Most Cologne to Gera trains use the Köln Hbf to Gera Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Gera-Zwötzen. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Gera 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 Gera

Which Cologne station do trains to Gera leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Gera 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 · $7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $5 · 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 · $3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · 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 · $4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $5

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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