Cologne to Heilbronn train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sun, Jul 19
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Heilbronn

Showing times and prices for Jul 19

Cheapest price

$40

Average price

$124

Fastest journey

2 h 55 m

Average duration

2 h 56 m

Trains per day

14

Distance

257 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Heilbronn will cost around $124 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Heilbronn without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 921 · S6 · 19265
    3:49 AM6h00
    Cologne Hbf
    9:49 AMHeilbronn Hbf
    $401One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2544 · 19279
    12:53 PM3h58
    Cologne Hbf
    4:51 PMHeilbronn Hbf
    $951One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · 19271
    8:53 AM3h58
    Cologne Hbf
    12:51 PMHeilbronn Hbf
    $951One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 511 · ICE 275 · 15837
    5:48 AM3h34
    Cologne Hbf
    9:22 AMHeilbronn Hbf
    $951One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 511 · 19308
    5:48 AM3h38
    Cologne Hbf
    9:26 AMHeilbronn Hbf
    $951One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Heilbronn

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Heilbronn among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 34m. 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 $23, and a flight costs an average of $186.

Distance: 159 miles (257 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$86

Average price

$36

Average price

Cheapest

$465

Average price

$57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 23m

Average total duration

4h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 39m

Average total duration

3h 39m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 26m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Heilbronn is a bus with an average price of $36 (€30).

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

A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Heilbronn costing on average $86 (€71).

A bus is $428 (€352) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Heilbronn costing on average $465 (€382).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Heilbronn is by train with an average journey time of 3h 34m.

Other travel options to Heilbronn take longer:

Flight takes on average 3h 39m.

Bus takes on average 4h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Heilbronn including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Heilbronn 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 $86 (€71) compared to roughly $57 (€47) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-29.04 (€-23.84). The journey takes 3h 34m versus 3h 26m 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 Heilbronn train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Heilbronn trains for tomorrow, Sunday, July 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 827 · ICE 273 · 19243
On time
3:21 AM Cologne Hbf
4h28
7:49 AM Heilbronn Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 521 · 19059
On time
4:28 AM Cologne Hbf
4h43
9:11 AM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 511 · ICE 275 · 15837
On time
5:48 AM Cologne Hbf
3h34
9:22 AM Heilbronn Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 511 · 19308
On time
5:48 AM Cologne Hbf
3h38
9:26 AM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · 19271
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
3h58
12:51 PM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · 19269
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h55
11:49 AM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · 19314
On time
9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h55
12:26 PM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · 19271
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h57
12:51 PM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2544 · 19279
On time
12:53 PM Cologne Hbf
3h58
4:51 PM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · 19277
On time
12:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h55
3:49 PM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 919 · 19322
On time
1:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h56
4:26 PM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 229 · ICE 1011 · 19328
On time
1:53 PM Cologne Hbf
4h34
6:27 PM Heilbronn Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 519 · 19279
On time
1:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h57
4:51 PM Heilbronn Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Heilbronn 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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Thu
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Jul 24
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Jul 25

Why should you book Cologne to Heilbronn trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Cologne to Heilbronn.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Heilbronn.

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) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Heilbronn.
  • 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 Heilbronn.

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 Heilbronn.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Heilbronn

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Heilbronn run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (257 km) distance in 2h 55m.

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 $23 (€19)
Distance
159 miles (257 km)
Average train duration
3h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
$50 (€41)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 55m
First train
12:10 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 $23 (€19)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Heilbronn trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Heilbronn from $23 (€19). 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
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€76)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Heilbronn

Things to do in Heilbronn

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

  • Must visit

experimenta

Leading science center on artificial intelligence and innovation with interactive exhibitions; one of Heilbronn’s most popular contemporary attractions.

  • Recommended

Haus der Stadtgeschichte

City history museum covering Heilbronn’s past, reconstruction, and local identity inside a notable historic complex.

  • Recommended

Kunsthalle Vogelmann

Art museum focused on 20th-century sculpture and painting, especially works by Wilhelm Lehmbruck and other modern artists.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually lower than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and everyday costs stay manageable for most travelers.

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
€2.80-4.20 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is standard. Round up for taxis and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Heilbronn

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Heilbronn can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $86 (€71).
The train from Cologne to Heilbronn takes 2h 55m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Heilbronn leaves at 12:10 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Heilbronn is 159 miles (257 km).
The last train from Cologne to Heilbronn leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Heilbronn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Heilbronn.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Heilbronn is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Heilbronn Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Heilbronn is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
The train journey from Cologne to Heilbronn offers scenic views of the Rhine River, picturesque vineyards, and charming German countryside, especially as the train passes through regions like the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, known for its natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
A day trip from Cologne to Heilbronn is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 55m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 159 miles (257 km).
You can explore the highlights of Heilbronn in about 1 to 2 days, including visits to places like the Experimenta Science Center, Heilbronn's historic Old Town, and the beautiful vineyards surrounding the city.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Heilbronn.
Since both Cologne and Heilbronn 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 Heilbronn include Stuttgart, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Darmstadt, Karlsruhe.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Heilbronn 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 Heilbronn, travelers should be aware of common urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transportation. It's advisable to stay vigilant around major transport hubs and popular tourist spots. Scams are relatively rare but can include overcharging or unofficial taxi services, so using licensed providers is recommended. Overall, Heilbronn is considered a safe city, but standard precautions apply.
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 Heilbronn

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

Which Cologne station do trains to Heilbronn leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Heilbronn 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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