Cologne to Giessen train with Deutsche Bahn (RE,IC,ICE)

Sat, Jun 20
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Giessen

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$24

Average price

$36

Fastest journey

2 h 8 m

Average duration

2 h 15 m

Trains per day

5

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 $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 119 · ICE 25 · ICE 1670
    8:58 AM2h08
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    11:06 AMGiessen station
    $241One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 25 · ICE 1670
    8:54 AM2h12
    Cologne Hbf
    11:06 AMGiessen station
    $241One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 529+Hessische Landesbahn15110
    8:45 AM2h14
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    10:59 AMGiessen station
    $371One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 11 · S3+Hessische Landesbahn24788
    8:19 AM2h15
    Cologne Hbf
    10:34 AMGiessen station
    $371One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn10907+Hessische Landesbahn15107
    8:22 AM2h25
    Cologne Hbf
    10:47 AMGiessen station
    $591One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Giessen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Giessen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 9m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $33.

Distance: 78 miles (126 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$60

Average price

$18

Average price

Cheapest

$30

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 50m

Average total duration

2h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 54m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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 Giessen is a bus with an average price of $18 (€15).

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

A bus is $42 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Giessen costing on average $60 (€50).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Giessen is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 9m.

Other travel options to Giessen take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Giessen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Giessen 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 $60 (€50) compared to roughly $30 (€24) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-30.62 (€-25.08). The journey takes 2h 20m versus 1h 54m 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 Giessen train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 317+Hessische Landesbahn24860
Delayed
5:04 PM 6:18 PMCologne Hbf
2h16
8:34 PM Giessen station
1 transfer
Saturday, June 20
Deutsche BahnICE 11 · S3+Hessische Landesbahn24788
On time
8:19 AM Cologne Hbf
2h15
10:34 AM Giessen station
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10907+Hessische Landesbahn151078:22 AM Cologne Hbf
2h25
10:47 AM Giessen station1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 529+Hessische Landesbahn15110
On time
8:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h14
10:59 AM Giessen station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 25 · ICE 1670
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h12
11:06 AM Giessen station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 119 · ICE 25 · ICE 1670
On time
8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h08
11:06 AM Giessen station
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Giessen 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.

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

Why should you book Cologne to Giessen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more 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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Giessen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Giessen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) 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 2h 14m.

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 $11 (€9)
Distance
78 miles (126 km)
Average train duration
2h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$33 (€27)
Trains per day
10
Fastest train
2h 14m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
2 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 $11 (€9)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Giessen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Giessen from $11 (€9). 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
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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

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
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 12m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€56)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
9 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€95)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Giessen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33 (€27), while the average price is around $60 (€50).
The train from Cologne to Giessen takes 2h 14m and runs 10 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.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Giessen.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Giessen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Giessen station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Giessen is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
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.
A day trip from Cologne to Giessen is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 14m. However, there are frequent trains with a frequency of 10 per day covering the distance of 78 miles (126 km).
To fully explore Giessen, including its key attractions such as the Mathematikum science museum, the Botanical Garden of the University of Giessen, and the Liebig Museum, a two-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Giessen.
Since both Cologne and Giessen 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 Giessen include Frankfurt am Main, Kassel, Mannheim, Marburg, Heidelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Giessen 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 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Giessen

Most Cologne to Giessen trains use the Köln Hbf to Gießen station pair, with some services arriving at Gießen Licher Str. 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, 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 · $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 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 · $4 · 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 · $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.

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