Cologne to Kaiserslautern train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Sun, Jul 26
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kaiserslautern

Showing times and prices for Jul 26

Cheapest price

$37

Average price

$122

Fastest journey

2 h 30 m

Average duration

2 h 30 m

Trains per day

15

Distance

176 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Kaiserslautern will cost around $122 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 929 · 4267 · 12756
    5:53 PM3h37
    Cologne Hbf
    9:30 PMKaiserslautern Hbf
    $371One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 127 · ICE 9550
    5:18 PM3h03
    Cologne Hbf
    8:21 PMKaiserslautern Hbf
    $601One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1013 · ICE 9550
    5:32 PM2h49
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    8:21 PMKaiserslautern Hbf
    $741One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 613 · 12329
    5:54 PM2h46
    Cologne Hbf
    8:40 PMKaiserslautern Hbf
    $791One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2544 · 29657
    12:53 PM3h01
    Cologne Hbf
    3:54 PMKaiserslautern Hbf
    $851One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Kaiserslautern

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kaiserslautern among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 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 $19, and a train costs an average of $22.

Distance: 109 miles (176 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$54

Average price

$28

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 19m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 6m

Average total duration

3h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 47m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Kaiserslautern is a bus with an average price of $28 (€28).

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

A bus is $26 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Kaiserslautern costing on average $54 (€54).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Kaiserslautern is by train with an average journey time of 2h 49m.

Other travel options to Kaiserslautern take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Kaiserslautern including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Kaiserslautern 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 $54 (€54) compared to roughly $35 (€35) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-18.85 (€-18.85). The journey takes 2h 49m versus 2h 47m 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 Kaiserslautern train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kaiserslautern trains for today, Saturday, July 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 921 · 12714
Delayed
1:49 AM 3:49 AMCologne Hbf
4h38
8:27 AM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 109 · 4131
Delayed
2:21 PM 2:54 PMCologne Hbf
2h30
5:24 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Sunday, July 26
Deutsche BahnIC 2544 · 29657
On time
12:53 PM Cologne Hbf
3h01
3:54 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · 4127
On time
12:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h30
3:24 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 229 · 4263 · 12736
On time
1:53 PM Cologne Hbf
3h33
5:26 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 519 · 4129
On time
1:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h30
4:24 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2546 · 29659
On time
2:53 PM Cologne Hbf
3h01
5:54 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 109 · 4131
On time
2:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h30
5:24 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 927 · 4265 · 12750
On time
3:53 PM Cologne Hbf
3h33
7:26 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 611 · 4133
On time
3:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h30
6:24 PM Kaiserslautern Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 611 · ICE 562
On time
3:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h39
6:33 PM Kaiserslautern 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 Kaiserslautern 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.

Sun
Jul 26
Mon
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Tue
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Wed
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01

Why should you book Cologne to Kaiserslautern trains with Omio?

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

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Kaiserslautern.
  • 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 Kaiserslautern.

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 Kaiserslautern.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Kaiserslautern

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Kaiserslautern run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€22) but you can travel from only $19 (€19) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (176 km) distance in 3h 1m.

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 $19 (€19)
Distance
109 miles (176 km)
Average train duration
2h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€22)
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
3h 1m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
7 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 $19 (€19)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Kaiserslautern trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Kaiserslautern from $19 (€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
3h 1m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€22)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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 27m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€62)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Kaiserslautern

Things to do in Kaiserslautern

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

  • Must visit

Theodor-Zink-Museum

One of southwest Germany’s leading museums, known for changing art, cultural history, and city history exhibitions in a landmark 19th-century building.

  • Must visit

Museum Pfalzgalerie Kaiserslautern

Contemporary art museum with rotating exhibitions of modern and regional artists, valued for its accessible downtown setting and thoughtful programming.

  • Recommended

Dynamikum Science Center

Science center with many hands-on stations on physics and technology; ideal for families and visitors seeking interactive learning.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Frankfurt or Munich, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.

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. Round up in cafes and taxis, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Kaiserslautern

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kaiserslautern can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€22), while the average price is around $54 (€54).
The train from Cologne to Kaiserslautern takes 3h 1m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Kaiserslautern leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Kaiserslautern is 109 miles (176 km).
The last train from Cologne to Kaiserslautern leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Kaiserslautern.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Kaiserslautern.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kaiserslautern is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Kaiserslautern Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kaiserslautern is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€19).
The train journey from Cologne to Kaiserslautern offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque Rhine Valley, featuring charming vineyards, historic castles, and the winding Rhine River.
A day trip from Cologne to Kaiserslautern is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 1m. However, there are 10 trains per day available for travel between these cities.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore Kaiserslautern, allowing time to visit attractions like the Palatinate Forest, the Japanese Garden, and the Kaiserslautern Zoo.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kaiserslautern.
Since both Cologne and Kaiserslautern 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 Kaiserslautern include Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Saarbrücken, Mannheim, Trier.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Kaiserslautern 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 Kaiserslautern, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure. Be aware of occasional scams involving overcharging in taxis or unfamiliar currency exchange offers. Staying vigilant in nightlife districts and using official transportation services enhances safety.
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 Kaiserslautern

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

Which Cologne station do trains to Kaiserslautern leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Kaiserslautern 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 · $7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $5 · 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 · $3 · 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 · $4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $5

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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