- Must visit
Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus
Museum on Giethoorn’s peat-cutting past, village life, and historic homes. Essential for understanding how the canal landscape was formed.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Giethoorn
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$54
Fastest journey
3 h 15 m
Average duration
3 h 32 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
210 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Giethoorn is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Giethoorn will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Giethoorn without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 204 · 20212 · IC 17946 · RE 61419:11 AM4h27Cologne Hbf1:38 PMMeppel$491One-way3 transfers- ICE 220 · IC 3624 · IC 8358:49 AM3h15Cologne Hbf12:04 PMMeppel$491One-way2 transfers
- ICE 220 · IC 6378:49 AM3h45Cologne Hbf12:34 PMMeppel$491One-way1 transfer
- ICE 204 · 20212 · IC 17946 · RE 90439:11 AM4h40Cologne Hbf1:51 PMSteenwijk station$521One-way3 transfers
- ICE 220 · IC 6378:49 AM3h55Cologne Hbf12:44 PMSteenwijk station$531One-way1 transfer
- ICE 220 · IC 3624 · IC 8358:49 AM3h15Cologne Hbf12:04 PMMeppel$491One-way2 transfers
- ICE 220 · IC 3624 · IC 8358:49 AM3h25Cologne Hbf12:14 PMSteenwijk station$531One-way2 transfers
- ICE 128 · IC 3632 · RE 904510:49 AM3h40Cologne Hbf2:29 PMWolvega$661One-way2 transfers
- ICE 126 · IC 3640 · RE 905312:49 PM3h40Cologne Hbf4:29 PMWolvega$661One-way2 transfers
- ICE 220 · IC 3624 · RE 90378:49 AM3h40Cologne Hbf12:29 PMWolvega$531One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Giethoorn
Germany
Netherlands
Trains from Cologne to Giethoorn run on average 17 times per day, taking around 3h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 but you can travel from only $25 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:16, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 130 miles (210 km) distance in 3h 15m.
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 $25
Distance 130 miles (210 km) |
Average train duration 3h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 |
Trains per day 17 |
Fastest train 3h 15m |
First train 6:16 AM |
Last train 11:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 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 $25
Live departures
Cologne to Giethoorn train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Giethoorn trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 220 · IC 637 | On time 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h55 | 12:44 PM Steenwijk station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 220 · IC 3624 · IC 835 | On time 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h25 | 12:14 PM Steenwijk station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 220 · IC 3624 · RE 9037 | On time 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h40 | 12:29 PM Wolvega | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 220 · IC 3624 · IC 835 | On time 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h15 | 12:04 PM Meppel | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 220 · IC 637 | On time 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h45 | 12:34 PM Meppel | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 204 · 20212 · IC 17946 · RE 6141 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h27 | 1:38 PM Meppel | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 204 · 20212 · IC 17946 · RE 9043 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h40 | 1:51 PM Steenwijk station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 204 · 20212 · IC 17946 · RE 9043 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h48 | 1:59 PM Wolvega | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 128 · IC 3632 · RE 9045 | On time 10:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h40 | 2:29 PM Wolvega | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 202 · 20216 · IC 17954 · RE 9051 | On time 11:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h48 | 3:59 PM Wolvega | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 126 · IC 3640 · RE 9053 | On time 12:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h40 | 4:29 PM Wolvega | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Giethoorn trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Cologne to Giethoorn.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Giethoorn.
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 VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Giethoorn.
- 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 Giethoorn.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Giethoorn.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Giethoorn.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Cologne to Giethoorn trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Cologne and Giethoorn from $25. 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
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$27
Deutsche Bahn frequency
15 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
VIAS Rail GmbH
About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Giethoorn
Things to do in Giethoorn
Discover the best of Giethoorn — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Giethoorn trip today.
- Recommended
De Oude Aarde
Exhibition venue dedicated to old shells, minerals, fossils, and regional curiosities. A quirky stop that appeals to families and collectors.
- Recommended
Villa Rams Woerthe
Nearby regional museum with art and historical displays connected to the wider Steenwijkerland area, useful for deeper local context.
- Must visit
Dorpsgracht
Giethoorn’s signature canal lined with bridges, boats, and thatched farmhouses. The essential area for first-time visitors and photos.
- Must visit
Binnenpad
Main footpath along the old village canal, ideal for strolling past bridges, gardens, museums, and classic waterside homes.
- Recommended
Bovenwijde
Large nearby lake popular for boating, sailing, and wide-open views. It adds a natural counterpoint to the narrow village canals.
Erwtensoep
A warm Dutch split pea soup with pork and sausage. A winter staple across the Netherlands, often eaten thick enough to stand a spoon in.
- Gluten-free
Gerookte Paling
Smoked freshwater eel from Dutch waters. It is a classic regional delicacy in watery areas like Overijssel and suits Giethoorn’s canal setting.
- Vegetarian
Poffertjes
Small Dutch pancakes served sweet or savory. They are a beloved traditional treat found across the country and popular for casual meals.
De Lindenhof
Well-known waterfront restaurant in central Giethoorn with Dutch and international dishes, ideal for a scenic lunch or relaxed dinner.
Restaurant De Rietstulp
Popular canal-side venue known for pancakes and approachable Dutch meals in a casual setting suited to families and day visitors.
Grand Cafe Fanfare
Established restaurant with waterside seating, serving classic Dutch and European fare in a traditional Giethoorn atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for the Netherlands: lodging can be pricey in peak season, but dining is manageable and the village is walkable, so local transport costs stay low.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50-80 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Giethoorn
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Giethoorn 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 Giethoorn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Giethoorn can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27, while the average price is around $75.
The train from Cologne to Giethoorn takes 3h 15m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Giethoorn is 130 miles (210 km).
The first train from Cologne to Giethoorn leaves at 6:16 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Giethoorn leaves at 11:26 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Giethoorn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Giethoorn.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Giethoorn is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Wolvega.
The train journey from Cologne to Giethoorn offers scenic views of the Rhineland's rolling landscapes, charming Dutch villages, and picturesque canals, particularly as you approach Giethoorn, known for its natural beauty and waterways.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Giethoorn.
Popular day trips by train from Giethoorn include Amsterdam, Utrecht, Schiphol, Groningen, Amstelveen.
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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Giethoorn, the main safety concerns for travelers include navigating the waterways carefully, as boat collisions can occur due to narrow canals and crowded conditions, especially in peak seasons. Travelers should also watch out for slippery surfaces near docks and bridges. While there are no widespread scams reported, it’s advisable to book boat rentals and tours through reputable providers to avoid overcharging or hidden fees.
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 Giethoorn
Most Cologne to Giethoorn trains use the Köln Hbf to Steenwijk station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Giethoorn 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 Giethoorn
Which Cologne station do trains to Giethoorn leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Giethoorn 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 · $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-EhrenfeldKöln-Ehrenfeld, Stammstr. 1, 50968 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln-Ehrenfeld from Cologne city centre
Köln-Ehrenfeld is 3 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 5m · every ~3 min
Re8, Rb27, Re9, Rb38, S19, S12 · 6m · $1 · every ~21 min
BusRb38, Re8, Rb27, S19 · 18m · $5
142 · 18m · every ~7 min
Subway3, 4 · 9m · $2 · every ~25 min
Köln-Ehrenfeld train station facilities and services
Köln-Ehrenfeld 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: I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato, Burger King, Café Franck, Eichendorf
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. ATMs are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Information desks are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Kölnotel, Black Hotels.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Giethoorn
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Giethoorn and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Giethoorn
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