Cologne to Heidelberg train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC)

Fri, Oct 30
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Heidelberg

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 30
Cheapest price on Oct 30
$18
Average ticket price on Oct 30
$61
Fastest journey on Oct 30
1 h 46 m
Average journey duration on Oct 30
1 h 50 m
Trains on Oct 30
22
Distance
210 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Heidelberg will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.

Fast trains

On Fri, Oct 30, we found 22 trains from Cologne to Heidelberg, including 4 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 30 the direct trains cover the 210 km distance in an average of 1 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 46 m .

On Fri, Oct 30 the slowest trains will take 1 h 54 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 BahnIC 60403 · ICE 699
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1648
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn33611 · ICE 921 · ICE 571 · S2
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 921 · 4251 · ICE 511 · 19259
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 911 · S3
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Heidelberg

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Heidelberg run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 130 miles (210 km) distance in 1h 33m.

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
Distance
130 miles (210 km)
Average train duration
2h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
$9
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
1h 33m
First train
12:04 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
35 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

Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Heidelberg trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Heidelberg.

Train ticket prices from Cologne to Heidelberg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9, while the average price is around $69.
The train from Cologne to Heidelberg takes 1h 33m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Heidelberg is 130 miles (210 km).
The first train from Cologne to Heidelberg leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Heidelberg leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Heidelberg. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.

Live departures

Cologne to Heidelberg train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Heidelberg trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 60403 · ICE 699
Delayed
10:34 PM 12:00 AMCologne Hbf
3h38
2:38 AM 2:38 AMHeidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 827 · ICE 1699
On time
3:21 AM Cologne Hbf
2h52
6:13 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn33611 · ICE 921 · ICE 571 · S23:56 AM Cologne Hbf
4h27
8:23 AM Heidelberg Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 911 · S3
On time
5:25 AM Cologne Hbf
1h58
7:23 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 511 · 19259
On time
5:48 AM Cologne Hbf
2h00
7:48 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 23 · ICE 711 · S3
On time
5:53 AM Cologne Hbf
2h51
8:44 AM Heidelberg Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 711 · S3
On time
6:01 AM Cologne Hbf
2h43
8:44 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 1648
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
2h41
9:34 AM Heidelberg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 101 · 19265
On time
6:54 AM Cologne Hbf
1h54
8:48 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 913 · S3
Delayed
6:35 AM 7:30 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
1h46
9:16 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 1093+Hessische Landesbahn24511
Delayed
7:04 AM 7:53 AMCologne Hbf
3h18
11:11 AM Heidelberg Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · S3
Delayed
7:01 AM 7:54 AMCologne Hbf
1h51
9:45 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · S3
Delayed
7:53 AM 8:43 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
2h02
10:45 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 1940
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
2h41
11:34 AM Heidelberg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 119 · S3
On time
8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h18
11:16 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · S2
On time
9:34 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1h49
11:23 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · S2
On time
9:53 AM Cologne Hbf
3h30
1:23 PM Heidelberg Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · S3
Delayed
9:02 AM 9:54 AMCologne Hbf
1h50
11:44 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 217
Delayed
9:06 AM 9:58 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
2h06
12:04 PM Heidelberg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 2013
On time
10:53 AM Cologne Hbf
2h41
1:34 PM Heidelberg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 105 · 1927310:54 AM Cologne Hbf
1h54
12:48 PM Heidelberg Hbf1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cologne to Heidelberg trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Cologne to Heidelberg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Heidelberg.

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 FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Heidelberg.
  • 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 Heidelberg.

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 Heidelberg.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Heidelberg

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
IconNo changes for my journey
IconElectricity
IconPeace and quiet
IconPunctual
IconBeautiful route in the Rhine Valley
Disadvantages
IconNoisy fellow travellers
IconOld wagons
IconNo service (catering)
I travelled from Cologne to Heidelberg in the late morning on Saturday, 16.8.25 on an Intercity train as part of my journey. The best thing was that there were no changes and the journey time of less than 3 hours was really great - electricity to charge my mobile phone was particularly handy! The wifi was a bit slow but I didn't use the sanitary facilities. The seats are comfortable for relaxing and have plenty of legroom. However, sleeping is rather difficult. The ticket cost a total of €65.49, although only this section would cost significantly less (approx. €50). This is acceptable, especially for my spontaneous booking 2 days earlier.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
IconModern
Disadvantages
IconWIFI
A solid train journey on a modern IC. I didn't have to change trains and relax. Wifi was stable, but not very fast. The on-board staff were very polite and actively helped with connections. Price is also very fair. I can recommend it.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Cologne to Heidelberg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne and Heidelberg from $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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$9
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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

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 FlixTrain Duration
10h 10m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$15
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Heidelberg

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Heidelberg.
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.

Complete guide to Heidelberg

Things to do in Heidelberg

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

  • Recommended

University Museum Heidelberg

Compact university museum presenting Heidelberg’s academic heritage, notable scholars, and historic collections in an important institutional setting.

  • Recommended

German Pharmacy Museum

Museum inside the castle displaying decorative arts, furnishings, and princely culture. It adds context to the ruins and enriches a castle visit.

  • Recommended

Kurpfälzisches Museum

Art museum known for modern and contemporary exhibitions, with a respected collection and strong temporary shows near the old town.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and local transit are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest: round up or add 5-10% in restaurants. Round up for taxis and leave small change in cafes.

Plan your visit to Heidelberg

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Heidelberg.

The train journey from Cologne to Heidelberg offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the Rhine River with its picturesque landscapes, vineyards, and historic castles, providing a visually appealing experience for travelers.
Popular day trips by train from Heidelberg include Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Strasbourg, Baden-Baden, Mainz.
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 Heidelberg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and near the train station. Common scams include distraction techniques in busy spots and overpriced taxi rides. Staying vigilant in popular tourist zones and using official transport services can help 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.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Heidelberg

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Heidelberg.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Heidelberg

Most Cologne to Heidelberg trains use the Köln Hbf to Heidelberg Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Heidelberg-Altstadt. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg

Which Cologne station do trains to Heidelberg leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Heidelberg 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 · $3 · 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.

Train stations for Cologne to Heidelberg

Check train stations information for Cologne and Heidelberg, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Cologne that goes to Heidelberg is Köln Hbf, which connects to Heidelberg Hbf.

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