- Must visit
Kalmar County Museum
County museum with strong exhibitions on regional history, maritime life, and the regalskeppet Kronan. One of Kalmar’s best cultural visits.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cologne to Kalmar
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kalmar among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $181 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 13h 53m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.3 - 0.8kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $181, while a bus costs an average of $190.
Distance: 550 miles (886 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$181 Average price Cheapest | $190 Average price | $249 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 53m Average total duration Fastest 13h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 11m Average total duration 29h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  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 Kalmar is a train with an average price of $181 (€148).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Kalmar:
A train is $9 (€8) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cologne to Kalmar costing on average $190 (€155).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Kalmar is by train with an average journey time of 13h 23m.
Other travel options to Kalmar take longer:
Bus takes on average 29h 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Kalmar including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Kalmar 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 $181 (€148) compared to roughly $249 (€204) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $68 (€56). The journey takes 13h 23m versus 12h 36m 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 Kalmar train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kalmar trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 514 · 11290 · 11190 · IC 5750 | On time 8:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 18h48 | 2:59 PM Kalmar Centralstation | 5 transfers | |
| ICE 514 · 11290 · 11190 · IC 5750 | On time 8:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 18h48 | 2:59 PM Kalmar Centralstation | 5 transfers | |
| ICE 657 · 11152 · IC 5752 · ICL 50026 | On time 8:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 20h14 | 4:59 PM Kalmar Centralstation | 5 transfers | |
| IC 2349 · 82848 · 11152 · IC 5752 | On time 9:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 19h48 | 4:59 PM Kalmar Centralstation | 6 transfers | |
| IC 2349 · 82848 · 11152 · IC 5752 | On time 9:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 19h48 | 4:59 PM Kalmar Centralstation | 6 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Kalmar by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Why should you book Cologne to Kalmar trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Kalmar.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Kalmar.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Kalmar.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Kalmar.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Kalmar
Germany
Sweden
Trains from Cologne to Kalmar run on average 3 times per day, taking around 13h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 (€45) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 01:37, the last at 14:00. The fastest train covers the 550 miles (886 km) distance in 12h 31m.
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 550 miles (886 km) |
Average train duration 13h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 (€45) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 12h 31m |
First train 1:37 AM |
Last train 2:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 56 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Kalmar trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Kalmar from $55 (€45). 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
12h 31m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$55 (€45)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
Complete guide to Kalmar
Things to do in Kalmar
Discover the best of Kalmar — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kalmar trip today.
- Recommended
Kalmar Art Museum
Art museum in City Park with modern and contemporary exhibitions. Its architecture and changing program make it a leading art stop in Kalmar.
- Recommended
Kalmar Castle Exhibitions
Exhibition spaces inside Kalmar Castle interpret royal life, warfare, and court culture. A museum-style experience in a major historic setting.
- Must visit
Kvarnholmen
Historic island district that forms central Kalmar. Its planned streets, squares, shops, and heritage buildings make it ideal for walking.
- Recommended
Stortorget
Main square framed by the cathedral and elegant buildings. A natural base for sightseeing, events, and understanding the city’s baroque plan.
- Recommended
Stadsparken
Large seaside park beside the art museum, popular for strolling, picnics, and seasonal flowers. A relaxing green break near the center.
Isterband
Body, wheat flour, pork and allspice. Served with lingonberries and cream sauce. A classic Småland comfort food found across the Kalmar region.
Kroppkakor Med Lingon
Thin fermented pancakes from Småland, often served with fried pork and lingonberries. A regional specialty with a tangy flavor and old farmhouse roots.
Öländska Kroppkakor
Potato dumplings filled with pork or bacon, boiled and served with melted butter, cream and lingonberries. Strongly associated with nearby Öland and Kalmar County.
Kallskänken
Popular waterfront restaurant known for seafood, Swedish classics and harbor views. Relaxed but polished atmosphere in central Kalmar.
Ernesto Ristorante
Well-known dining room in Kalmar guest harbor area serving seasonal Nordic dishes, fish and meat in an elegant setting.
Lilla Puben
Established casual venue for hearty Swedish lunches and classic dishes. Central location and reliable local reputation.
Swedish krona (kr)
Moderate for Sweden: hotels and dining cost more than much of Europe, but local transit is manageable and budget meals are available.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 90-140 kr for fast food or lunch specials.
- Mid-range
- 180-320 kr per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 600+ kr per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 35-50 kr for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated, not expected. Taxis can be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.
Kalmar länstrafik
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 39 kr
- Day pass
- /
To the city center
Kalmar Centralstation -> Stortorget, Kalmar
- Distance
- 700 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the Kalmar länstrafik app before boarding; onboard cash payment is not available.
- Contactless bank card payment availability onboard is not reliably documented; use the official app or other pre-purchase channels.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Kalmar
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Kalmar 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 Kalmar, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kalmar can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55 (€45), while the average price is around $181 (€148).
The train from Cologne to Kalmar takes 12h 31m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Kalmar leaves at 1:37 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Kalmar is 550 miles (886 km).
The last train from Cologne to Kalmar leaves at 2:00 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Kalmar.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Kalmar.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kalmar is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Kalmar Centralstation.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kalmar is by train, with a cost of around $55 (€45).
The train journey from Cologne to Kalmar offers scenic views, especially as you pass through the picturesque landscapes of Germany and southern Sweden, featuring charming villages, lush forests, and stretches of coastline.
A day trip from Cologne to Kalmar is not feasible, as the journey takes 12h 31m and covers a distance of 550 miles (886 km). There are 3 train trips available per day.
To explore the main attractions in Kalmar, such as Kalmar Castle, the Old Town, and the Kalmar County Museum, two to three days would be sufficient. This allows for a relaxed pace to enjoy the historical sites and scenic coastal views.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kalmar.
Since both Cologne and Kalmar 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 Kalmar include Växjö, Nybro, Karlskrona, Värnamo, Alvesta.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Kalmar 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.
Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK) as its currency. It is generally better for travelers to use cards, as card payments are widely accepted across the country, including in most shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Cash is less commonly used but can be handy in smaller towns or for small purchases.
In Kalmar, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial guides offering overpriced tours. It's advisable to use licensed services and stay alert when handling personal belongings.
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 Kalmar
Most Cologne to Kalmar trains use the Köln Hbf to Kalmar Centralstation station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Kalmar 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 Kalmar
Which Cologne station do trains to Kalmar leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Kalmar 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.
Which Kalmar station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Kalmar arrive at Kalmar Centralstation. Kalmar Centralstation is from Kalmar city centre.
Kalmar CentralstationStationsgatan 5, 392 32 Kalmar, Sweden
City-centre transport
Getting to Kalmar Centralstation from Kalmar city centre
BusSeveral lines available
TrainRegional and long-distance connections
Kalmar Centralstation train station facilities and services
Kalmar Centralstation has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Kallskänken, Restaurang Byttan
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kalmar Centralstation. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kalmar Centralstation. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kalmar Centralstation: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kalmar Centralstation: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kalmar Centralstation: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clarion Collection Hotel Packhuset, First Hotel Witt, Calmar Stadshotell.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Kalmar
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kalmar and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Kalmar
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