- Must visit
Universeum
Large science center with rainforest, aquarium, space and hands-on exhibitions. A top family attraction in central Gothenburg.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Gothenburg
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$87
Average price
$87
Fastest journey
17 h 36 m
Average duration
17 h 36 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
820 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Gothenburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Gothenburg will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cologne for Gothenburg on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 820 km distance in an average of 17 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 17 h 36 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 17 h 36 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.
11:59 PM17h36Cologne5:35 PMGothenburg$871One-way0 transfers
- 11:59 PM17h36Cologne5:35 PMGothenburg$871One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Gothenburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Gothenburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $87. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $87, and a flight costs an average of $149.
Distance: 509 miles (820 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$98 Average price Cheapest | $474 Average price | $102 Average price | $326 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 38m Average total duration 14h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 51m Average total duration Fastest 2h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 19h 7m Average total duration 18h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.5 - 4.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Gothenburg is a train with an average price of $98 (€81).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Gothenburg:
A train is $3 (€3) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cologne to Gothenburg costing on average $102 (€83).
A train is $376 (€308) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Gothenburg costing on average $474 (€389).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Gothenburg is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 51m.
Other travel options to Gothenburg take longer:
Train takes on average 14h 8m.
Bus takes on average 18h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Gothenburg including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gothenburg 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 $98 (€81) compared to roughly $326 (€267) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $228 (€186). The journey takes 14h 8m versus 12h 33m 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 Gothenburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Gothenburg trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 618 · ECE 396 · R 1106 | Delayed 4:11 AM 6:11 AMCologne Hbf | 14h54 | 9:05 PM Gothenburg Centralstation | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 618 · 11164 · IC 5758 · ICL 50050 | Delayed 4:11 AM 6:11 AMCologne Hbf | 16h54 | 11:05 PM Gothenburg Centralstation | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Gothenburg by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
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Jun 19
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Jun 20
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Jun 21
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Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
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Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Why should you book Cologne to Gothenburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Gothenburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Gothenburg.
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) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Gothenburg.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Gothenburg.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Gothenburg.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Gothenburg?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Gothenburg is 5 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Gothenburg route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Gothenburg per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Gothenburg.
Trains
from $78Buses
from $56Flights
from $175Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Gothenburg
Germany
Sweden
Trains from Cologne to Gothenburg run on average 3 times per day, taking around 14h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $87 (€71) but you can travel from only $69 (€57) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:38, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 509 miles (820 km) distance in 13h 54m.
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 $69 (€57)
Distance 509 miles (820 km) |
Average train duration 14h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $87 (€71) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 13h 54m |
First train 12:38 AM |
Last train 10:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 21 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 $69 (€57)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Gothenburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Gothenburg from $69 (€57). 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
13h 54m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€90)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 44m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€138)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Gothenburg
Things to do in Gothenburg
Discover the best of Gothenburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gothenburg trip today.
- Must visit
Gothenburg Museum of Art
Major art museum at Götaplatsen, known for Nordic masters, European paintings and strong modern collections.
- Recommended
Volvo Museum
Museum on Volvo's history with classic cars, trucks and industrial heritage. Popular with transport and design enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Haga
Historic district with wooden houses, cobbled streets and a lively local atmosphere. One of the city's best walking areas.
- Must visit
Avenyn
Gothenburg's main boulevard, stretching from Kungsportsbron to Götaplatsen with shopping, culture and city buzz.
- Must visit
Slottsskogen
Large city park ideal for walks, picnics and viewpoints, with open green spaces and a popular local atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Fisk- Och Skaldjurssoppa
A rich West Coast fish and shellfish soup, often made with cream, white wine, shrimp, mussels, and local fish. It is a classic dish in Gothenburg because of the city’s strong maritime food culture.
Räksmörgås
An open-faced sandwich piled high with hand-peeled shrimp, mayonnaise, egg, lettuce, and dill on bread. It is one of the most iconic seafood dishes in Gothenburg cafés and harborside restaurants.
Stekt Strömming
Pan-fried herring, usually served with mashed potatoes, lingonberries, and melted butter. It is a traditional Swedish favorite commonly found in classic lunch restaurants.
Fiskekrogen
An established seafood restaurant famous for shellfish platters, fresh fish, and a polished but welcoming atmosphere in central Gothenburg.
Sjömagasinet
A well-known waterfront restaurant specializing in refined seafood and classic West Coast flavors in an elegant historic setting.
Kometen
A historic Gothenburg brasserie serving traditional Swedish dishes in a classic, old-school dining room loved by locals.
Swedish Krona
Prices are high by European standards, especially for restaurants and hotels, but transit and coffee are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- SEK 100-150 for fast food or lunch deals.
- Mid-range
- SEK 200-350 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- SEK 700+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- SEK 35-50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent restaurant service is appreciated. Taxis can be rounded up.
Västtrafik To Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 36 SEK
- Day pass
- 115 SEK
To the city center
Gothenburg Centralstation -> Brunnsparken, Gothenburg
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- You can buy tickets in the Västtrafik To Go app or tap a bank card onboard on many trams and buses. Cash is not accepted onboard.
- Validate that your ticket covers the correct zones before travel. Ticket inspections are common across trams, buses, and ferries.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Gothenburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Gothenburg 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 Gothenburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Gothenburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $87 (€71), while the average price is around $98 (€81).
The train from Cologne to Gothenburg takes 13h 54m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Gothenburg leaves at 12:38 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Gothenburg is 509 miles (820 km).
The last train from Cologne to Gothenburg leaves at 10:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Gothenburg.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Gothenburg.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Gothenburg is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Gothenburg Centralstation.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Gothenburg is by bus, with a cost of around $69 (€57).
The train journey from Cologne to Gothenburg offers scenic views, especially when passing through the rolling hills and dense forests of Germany, as well as the picturesque coastal landscapes of southern Sweden.
A day trip from Cologne to Gothenburg is not feasible, as the journey takes 13h 54m each way and the distance is 509 miles (820 km). The trip frequency for trains is 3 per day.
In Gothenburg, you can explore the stunning Gothenburg Archipelago, visit the unique Fish Market (Feskekôrka) for fresh seafood, and enjoy a relaxing day at Saltholmen for swimming. Discover the Botanical Garden's beautiful landscapes and take a boat tour along the scenic Göta Canal. Don't miss the exciting rides at Liseberg Amusement Park, interactive exhibits at Universeum, or the Nordic art collection at Gothenburg Museum of Art. Stroll through the charming historic district of Haga and enjoy the natural beauty of Slottsskogen Park.
To fully enjoy Gothenburg's attractions, culture, and dining experiences, spending 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Gothenburg.
Since both Cologne and Gothenburg 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 Gothenburg include Halmstad, Skövde, Varberg, Jönköping, Trollhättan.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gothenburg 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.
Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK) as its currency. It is generally better for travelers to use cards, as card payments are widely accepted across the country, including in most shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Cash is less commonly used but can be handy in smaller towns or for small purchases.
In Gothenburg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis can occur, so using licensed taxis and verifying fares beforehand is advised. Staying aware of surroundings and securing 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 Gothenburg
Cologne
Gothenburg
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Gothenburg.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Gothenburg is Göteborg Centralstation. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Göteborg Centralstation for your journey to Gothenburg from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 10:15 - 18:30
Wifi
- The station WiFi is called "All Station Guests" and is free to use
Lockers
- There are storage lockers at the station that are locked digitally and opened with a code
Dining
- Burger King
- Espresso House
- Frankfurter Cabanossy & Grill
- Franks gatukök
- Fruit & Berry
- Happy M Kitchen
- Le Croissant
- Lilla London
- Metropolitan
- Mr. Shou
- & many more
Accessibility
- All entrances to the station are accessible. Barrier-free toilets and handicapped parking spaces are available for a fee. Personalized special assistance can be requested
Hotel
- Hotel Royal
- Hotel Pigalle
- ProfilHotels | Opera
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 10:15 - 18:30
Information Desk
- Opposite the taxi station.
Public transit options for Göteborg Centralstation
- Tram lines: 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 11, 13
- Bus lines: 60327, 61327, Flygbussarna
- Train lines: 029, FLX, MTRX, SJ Regionaltåg, SJ SJ3000, SJ X2000, Tågab, Västtågen, Öresundståg
More options for your journey from Cologne to Gothenburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gothenburg and Cologne
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