- Must visit
Mathematikum
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages, especially popular with families and curious adults.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Giessen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- DKK 387
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- DKK 547
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 2 h 14 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 2 h 22 m
- Trains on Nov 03
- 4
- Distance
- 126 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Giessen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Giessen will cost around DKK 547 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only DKK 387.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Giessen without transferring at least once.
10903+
151056:22 AM 2h25 Cologne Hbf 8:47 AM Giessen station DKK 387 1 One-way 1 transfer- ICE 1511 · Bus LM-5 · 4281
6:27 AM 2h15 Cologne Hbf 8:42 AM Giessen station DKK 478 1 One-way 2 transfers - ICE 525+15108
6:45 AM 2h14 Cologne Messe/Deutz 8:59 AM Giessen station DKK 621 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 1511+15108
6:27 AM 2h32 Cologne Hbf 8:59 AM Giessen station DKK 701 1 One-way 1 transfer
- ICE 525+15108
6:45 AM 2h14 Cologne Messe/Deutz 8:59 AM Giessen station DKK 621 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 1511 · Bus LM-5 · 4281
6:27 AM 2h15 Cologne Hbf 8:42 AM Giessen station DKK 478 1 One-way 2 transfers - 10903+15105
6:22 AM 2h25 Cologne Hbf 8:47 AM Giessen station DKK 387 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 1511+15108
6:27 AM 2h32 Cologne Hbf 8:59 AM Giessen station DKK 701 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Giessen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Giessen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at DKK 136 but you can travel from only DKK 68 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 78 miles (126 km) distance in 1h 41m.
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 DKK 68
Distance 78 miles (126 km) |
Average train duration 2h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price DKK 136 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 1h 41m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 DKK 68
Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Giessen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Giessen.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Giessen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at DKK 136, while the average price is around DKK 542.
The train from Cologne to Giessen takes 1h 41m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Giessen is 78 miles (126 km).
The first train from Cologne to Giessen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Giessen leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Giessen.
Live departures
Cologne to Giessen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Giessen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10903+15105 | 6:22 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h25 | 8:47 AM Giessen station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1511 · Bus LM-5 · 4281 | On time 6:27 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h15 | 8:42 AM Giessen station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1511+15108 | On time 6:27 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h32 | 8:59 AM Giessen station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 525+15108 | On time 6:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2h14 | 8:59 AM Giessen station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Giessen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Hessische Landesbahn offer trains services from Cologne to Giessen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Giessen.
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 Hessische Landesbahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Giessen.
- 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 Giessen.
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 Giessen.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn from Cologne to Giessen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn trains will get you between Cologne and Giessen from DKK 68. 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
1h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
DKK 136
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
Hessische Landesbahn
About
Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hessische Landesbahn Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Hessische Landesbahn Price
DKK 343
Hessische Landesbahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Giessen
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 Giessen.
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 Giessen
Things to do in Giessen
Discover the best of Giessen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Giessen trip today.
- Recommended
Oberhessisches Museum Wallenfels-Haus
Giessen’s leading art museum with changing exhibitions, regional works, and modern presentation in a central location.
- Recommended
Röntgen-Gedenkstätte
Birthplace memorial museum for physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, highlighting his life, discoveries, and scientific impact.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten Giessen
Botanical garden founded in the university tradition, valued for plant diversity, calm atmosphere, and seasonal beauty.
- Must visit
Kloster Schiffenberg Grounds
Historic monastery hill on the city edge, popular for walks, views, and combining nature with heritage architecture.
- Recommended
Berliner Platz
Central square framed by major civic buildings, useful as an orientation point and hub for events and city walks.
Hessische Kartoffelsuppe
A Hessian potato soup often served with sausage. It is simple regional comfort food long linked to home cooking in central Hesse.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäse Mit Musik
A rustic sour milk cheese from Hesse, usually served with onions, vinegar and oil. It is one of the region's most iconic tavern dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Frankfurter Grüne Soße
Green sauce made with seven fresh herbs, traditionally eaten with eggs and potatoes. A classic Hessian spring and summer dish.
Bootshaus Giessen
Refined restaurant known for modern seasonal cuisine and an elegant atmosphere, suited for a higher-end dinner.
Knossos Giessen
Popular beer garden and casual dining spot with German dishes and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere by the Lahn.
Brauhaus Giessen
Traditional Hessian brewery restaurant serving regional classics and beer in a lively rustic setting near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are fairly priced, and local transit is reasonable. Costs are usually lower than Frankfurt or Munich.
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
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
RMVgo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.65
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Giessen Bahnhof -> Marktplatz Giessen
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in RMVgo or at ticket machines before boarding; bus drivers may not always offer the full ticket range.
- Contactless card payment is available in RMVgo and at many ticket machines, but onboard bus payment options can vary.
Plan your visit to Giessen
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 Giessen.
The train journey from Cologne to Giessen offers scenic views, with landscapes featuring rolling hills, rivers, and charming German countryside, especially as it passes through the picturesque Rhine Valley and the Lahn Valley region.
Popular day trips by train from Giessen include Frankfurt am Main, Kassel, Mannheim, Marburg, Heidelberg.
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 Giessen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and markets. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of surroundings. There are no widespread scams reported, but standard precautions against overcharging or misleading offers at local vendors are recommended. Overall, Giessen is considered a safe destination with typical urban safety concerns.
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 Giessen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Giessen 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 Giessen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Giessen.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Giessen
Most Cologne to Giessen trains use the Köln Hbf to Gießen station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Giessen 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 Giessen
Which Cologne station do trains to Giessen leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Giessen 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 · DKK 56 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · DKK 40 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · DKK 40 · 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/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 · DKK 32 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · DKK 32
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · DKK 40
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.
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 · DKK 24 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · DKK 16 · 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.
Which Giessen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Giessen arrive at Gießen. Gießen is 0 miles (1 km) from Giessen city centre.
GießenGießen, Bahnhofstr. 102, 35390 Gießen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gießen from Giessen city centre
Bus2 · 6m · every ~7 min
371 · 8m · every ~2 min
Gießen train station facilities and services
Gießen 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: Aydin Grill, Südwinde, Subway, Alt Giessen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gießen. ATMs are available at Gießen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gießen. Information desks are available at Gießen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gießen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gießen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gießen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gießen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Liebig-Hotel, Hotel Flamingo, Hotel Köhler, Hotel Adler.
Train stations for Cologne to Giessen
Check train stations information for Cologne and Giessen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Giessen is Köln Hbf, which connects to Gießen.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Giessen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Giessen and Cologne
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