- Must visit
Optisches Museum Jena
Major science center with hands-on exhibitions on light, optics, and perception, ideal for families and curious adults.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Jena
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 21
Cheapest price on Oct 21
$73
Average ticket price on Oct 21
$73
Fastest journey on Oct 21
5 h 56 m
Average journey duration on Oct 21
5 h 56 m
Trains on Oct 21
1
Distance
325 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Jena is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Jena will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
On Wed, Oct 21, we found 1 trains from Cologne to Jena, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Oct 21 the direct trains cover the 325 km distance in an average of 5 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 56 m .
On Wed, Oct 21 the slowest trains will take 5 h 56 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.
8:17 AM5h56Cologne2:13 PMJena$731One-way0 transfers
- 8:17 AM5h56Cologne2:13 PMJena$731One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Jena
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Jena run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 but you can travel from only $23 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:19, the last at 23:18. The fastest train covers the 201 miles (325 km) distance in 3h 39m.
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
Distance 201 miles (325 km) |
Average train duration 4h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 39m |
First train 12:19 AM |
Last train 11:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Live departures
Cologne to Jena train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Jena trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, October 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:17 AM Cologne | 5h56 | 2:13 PM Jena | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Jena trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Intercity offer trains services from Cologne to Jena.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Jena.
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 Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Jena.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Jena.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Jena.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Intercity from Cologne to Jena trainsDeutsche Bahn, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Jena from $23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 39m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$35
Deutsche Bahn frequency
36 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
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
5h 51m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$143
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Jena
Things to do in Jena
Discover the best of Jena — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Jena trip today.
- Recommended
Universitätsmuseum Jena
University museum presenting the city's academic history, student culture, and notable scholars in a compact setting.
- Recommended
Schillers Gartenhaus
Literary memorial house dedicated to Romantic writer Friedrich Schiller, who lived and worked in Jena.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central market square framed by historic buildings, a main gathering point and practical base for exploring old Jena.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten Jena
One of Germany's oldest botanical gardens, ideal for a peaceful walk among themed plant collections and greenhouses.
- Recommended
Jenzig
Popular limestone hill viewpoint above the city with rewarding hikes and classic vistas over Jena and the Saale valley.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringia’s famous grilled pork sausage, seasoned with marjoram and traditionally cooked over charcoal. It is one of the region’s best-known street foods.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Klöße
A hearty potato dumpling central to Thuringian cooking, usually served with roasts and gravy. It is a defining staple of Sunday and festive meals.
Rinderroulade
Slow-cooked beef roulade filled with bacon, onion, mustard, and pickles. It is a classic celebratory dish across Thuringia and often paired with dumplings.
Scala Restaurant
Refined fine dining with modern German cuisine and tasting menus in an elegant setting. A strong choice for a special meal in Jena.
Zur Noll
Historic traditional inn known for Thuringian specialties, local beer, and a warm rustic atmosphere. Good for classic regional dishes.
Brauhaus Papiermühle
Popular brewery restaurant serving hearty German fare and house-brewed beer in a lively, casual setting near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels, dining, and local transit are generally cheaper than in Berlin or Munich, but pricier than smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Jena
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Jena 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 Jena, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Jena can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35, while the average price is around $133.
The train from Cologne to Jena takes 3h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Jena leaves at 12:19 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Jena is 201 miles (325 km).
The last train from Cologne to Jena leaves at 11:18 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Jena.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Jena.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Jena is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Jena West station.
The train journey from Cologne to Jena offers scenic views of the German countryside, including picturesque towns, rolling hills, and stretches along the Rhine River, particularly in the early stages of the trip.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Jena.
Popular day trips by train from Jena include Leipzig, Saalfeld/Saale, Magdeburg, Weimar, Lichtenfels.
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 Jena, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded places like public transportation and popular tourist spots. It is advisable to stay alert when using ATMs and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Overall, Jena is considered a safe city, but standard precautions for urban areas 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 Jena
Most Cologne to Jena trains use the Köln Hbf to Jena West station pair, with some services arriving at Jena Paradies. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Jena 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 Jena
Which Cologne station do trains to Jena leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Jena 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, Germany
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 Köln
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.
Which Jena station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Jena most often arrive at Jena West. Some services arrive at Jena Paradies, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Jena arrival station.
Jena West07745 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena West from Jena city centre
Jena West is 1 km from Jena city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 12, 11 · 3m · every ~17 min
410 · 8m · every ~2 min
Jena West train station facilities and services
Jena West 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena West. ATMs are available at Jena West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena West. Information desks are available at Jena West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Jena Paradies07743 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena Paradies from Jena city centre
Bus431, 426, 422, 420, 410 · 3m · every ~3 min
Tram2 · 6m · every ~10 min
Jena Paradies train station facilities and services
Jena Paradies 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena Paradies. ATMs are available at Jena Paradies.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena Paradies. Information desks are available at Jena Paradies.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena Paradies. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena Paradies: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena Paradies: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena Paradies.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Jena SaalbahnhofJena Saalbf, Spitzweidenweg 28, 07743 Jena
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena Saalbahnhof from Jena city centre
TrainRb · 1m · $2 · every ~1 min
Bus15 · 4m · every ~6 min
Jena Saalbahnhof train station facilities and services
Jena Saalbahnhof 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: Trattoria Italia, Zur Wartburg, Wein-Tanne, Bauersfeld
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena Saalbahnhof. ATMs are available at Jena Saalbahnhof.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena Saalbahnhof. Information desks are available at Jena Saalbahnhof.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena Saalbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena Saalbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena Saalbahnhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena Saalbahnhof.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Jena
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Jena and Cologne
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