Cologne to Gotha train with Deutsche Bahn

Sat, Sep 19
+ Add return
VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Gotha

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$117

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$117

Fastest journey on Sep 19

6 h 3 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

6 h 3 m

Trains on Sep 19

1

Distance

263 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Gotha will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $117.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Cologne to Gotha, including 1 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 263 km distance in an average of 6 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 3 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 6 h 3 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
    7:32 AM6h03
    Cologne
    1:35 PMGotha
    $1171One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Gotha

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Gotha among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 32m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, while a train costs an average of $117.

Distance: 163 miles (263 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$117

Average price

$38

Average price

Cheapest

$61

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 43m

Average total duration

5h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 54m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Gotha is a bus with an average price of $38.

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

A bus is $78 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Gotha costing on average $117.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Gotha is by train with an average journey time of 4h 2m.

Other travel options to Gotha take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 13m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Gotha including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gotha 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 $117 compared to roughly $61 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-55.30. The journey takes 4h 2m versus 3h 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 Gotha train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Gotha trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:54 AM Cologne
4h20
12:14 PM Gotha0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Gotha 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
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Cologne to Gotha trains with Omio?

VIAS Rail GmbH as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Cologne to Gotha.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Gotha.

Why book with Omio vs VIAS Rail GmbH?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for VIAS Rail GmbH, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gotha.
  • 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 VIAS Rail GmbH with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Gotha.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gotha.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Gotha.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Gotha

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Gotha run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 but you can travel from only $24 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 163 miles (263 km) distance in 3h 6m.

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 $24
Distance
163 miles (263 km)
Average train duration
4h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$37
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 6m
First train
12:10 AM
Last train
11:32 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 $24

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Cologne to Gotha trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Cologne and Gotha from $24. 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
3h 6m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$37
Deutsche Bahn frequency
13 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

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
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
5h 12m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
$157
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
1 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 Gotha

Things to do in Gotha

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

  • Must visit

Herzogliches Museum Gotha

Main ducal museum complex with art, history, and palace interiors. Essential for understanding Gotha’s courtly past.

  • Recommended

Ekhof-Theater

Historic baroque theater museum experience inside Friedenstein. Celebrated for stage machinery and theater history.

  • Recommended

Naturmuseum Gotha

Natural history museum with regional specimens and engaging displays. Good choice for families and curious visitors.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Gotha is usually cheaper than Berlin or Munich for hotels and dining, while local transit and everyday cafes stay fairly affordable.

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 or leaving about 5-10% is common. Round up for cafes and taxis, especially for good service.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Gotha

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Gotha can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37, while the average price is around $117.
The train from Cologne to Gotha takes 3h 6m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Gotha is 163 miles (263 km).
The first train from Cologne to Gotha leaves at 12:10 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Gotha leaves at 11:32 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Gotha.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Gotha.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Gotha.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Gotha is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Gotha station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Gotha is by bus, with a cost of around $24.
The train journey from Cologne to Gotha offers scenic views, including stretches of picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and charming German towns, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Gotha is not feasible since the journey duration is 3h 6m. However, there are 13 train trips available per day for this route.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the historical sites, museums, and parks in Gotha.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Gotha.
Since both Cologne and Gotha 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 Gotha include Leipzig, Erfurt, Nuremberg, Eisenach, Mühlhausen (Thür).
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gotha 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 Gotha, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as markets and public transport. It is advisable to stay alert when using ATMs and to avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Travelers should also be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Overall, practicing standard safety precautions ensures a secure 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 Gotha

Most Cologne to Gotha trains use the Köln Hbf to Gotha station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Gotha 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 Gotha

Which Cologne station do trains to Gotha leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Gotha 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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