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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Groningen
Showing times and prices for Nov 28
Cheapest price
$47
Average price
$61
Fastest journey
4 h 47 m
Average duration
5 h 6 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
256 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Groningen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Groningen will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Groningen on Fri, Nov 28, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 28 the direct trains cover the 256 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 47 m .
On Fri, Nov 28 the slowest trains will take 5 h 33 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.
07:38AM4h47
Cologne12:25PMGroningen
$471One-way
0 transfers
06:39AM5h33
Cologne12:12PMGroningen
$491One-way
0 transfers
06:25AM5h17
Cologne11:42AMGroningen
$741One-way
0 transfers
07:25AM4h47
Cologne12:12PMGroningen
$741One-way
0 transfers
07:38AM4h47
Cologne12:25PMGroningen
$471One-way
0 transfers
07:25AM4h47
Cologne12:12PMGroningen
$741One-way
0 transfers
06:25AM5h17
Cologne11:42AMGroningen
$741One-way
0 transfers
06:39AM5h33
Cologne12:12PMGroningen
$491One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Groningen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Groningen 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 train which can get you there in 4h 49m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €11, and a train costs an average of €22.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€52 Average price | €25 Average price Cheapest |
5h 19m Average total duration Fastest 4h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 50m Average total duration 7h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Groningen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Groningen trains for today, Thursday, November 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 4:46 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 220 · IC 3630 · IC 535 · 37639 | On time 7:41 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h10 | 11:51 AM Groningen Noord | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 220 · IC 3630 · IC 535 | On time 7:41 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h01 | 11:42 AM Groningen station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 220 · IC 539 · 37643 | On time 7:41 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h10 | 12:51 PM Groningen Noord | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 220 · IC 539 | On time 7:41 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h01 | 12:42 PM Groningen station | 1 transfer | |
RE 26811+ VIA 20014 · VIA 21208+IC 3634 | On time 7:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h02 | 12:51 PM Groningen Noord | 5 transfers | |
| RE 26811+VIA 20014 · VIA 21208+IC 3634 | On time 7:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h53 | 12:42 PM Groningen station | 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 Groningen 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.
Fri
Nov 28
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04
Dec 04
Why should you book Cologne to Groningen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE) as well as VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain and WestfalenBahn offer trains services from Cologne to Groningen. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Groningen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE), but also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain and WestfalenBahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Groningen.
- 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 (IC,ICE,RE) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Groningen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain and WestfalenBahn to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cologne to Groningen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Groningen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Groningen
Germany
Netherlands
Trains from Cologne to Groningen run on average 18 times per day, taking around 4h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) but you can travel from only $14 (€11) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 4h 24m.
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 $14 (€11)
Distance 159 miles (256 km) |
Average train duration 4h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Trains per day 18 |
Fastest train 4h 24m |
First train 00:11 |
Last train 23:49 |
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 $14 (€11)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn from Cologne to Groningen trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn trains will get you between Cologne and Groningen from $14 (€11). 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
4h 24m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
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
5 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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 29m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€29)
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
WestfalenBahn
About
WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.
Luggage & cancellation policy
WestfalenBahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Groningen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Groningen 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 Groningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.
A day trip from Cologne to Groningen is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 24m and trains run 18 times per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Groningen is 159 miles (256 km).
In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.
The first train from Cologne to Groningen leaves at 12:11 AM.
The train journey from Cologne to Groningen offers a scenic view of the German countryside, with stretches of lush green landscapes, charming villages, and the picturesque Rhine River valley, making it a pleasant visual experience.
The last train from Cologne to Groningen leaves at 11:49 PM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Groningen.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€22), while the average price is around $65 (€52).
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Groningen.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€11).
The train from Cologne to Groningen takes 4h 24m and runs 18 per day.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Groningen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Groningen Noord.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Groningen.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Groningen
Cologne
Groningen
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 Groningen.
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.
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
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
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
10 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Hotel
- Haus Wester
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, Porz Bf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskPorz-Wahn
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
12 kmDining
- Brauhaus Eltzhof
- Cafe Wanda
- East Time
- Olymp
The major train station for arrivals in Groningen is Groningen Europapark. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Groningen Europapark for your journey to Groningen from Cologne.
Groningen Europapark
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike ParkingBike RentalAmenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Stationsweg.
Dining
- De Drie Gezusters
- Mr. Mofongo
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- NH Groningen Hotel
- The Student Hotel Groningen
- City Hotel Groningen
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 6500 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: regional train platforms
- Hall 3: bus connections
Public transit options for Groningen
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: NS services to various destinations
Groningen Noord
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- Free of charge
Bike Parking
- 80 places, covered
Station Plan
- The station is a small regional station with two platforms and a simple layout.
Public transit options for Groningen Noord
- Bus: Line 3, Line 4
- Train: Arriva services to Groningen Central and Delfzijl
Groningen, Hoofdstation
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
More options for your journey from Cologne to Groningen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Groningen and Cologne
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