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

Fri, Sep 18
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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 Kempten

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

$180

Average ticket price on Sep 18

$194

Fastest journey on Sep 18

4 h 29 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

4 h 40 m

Trains on Sep 18

17

Distance

432 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Kempten will cost around $194 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $180.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · 57418
    8:53 AM6h25
    Cologne Hbf
    3:18 PMKempten (Allgäu) Hbf
    $1801One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593 · 3699
    8:56 AM4h30
    Cologne Hbf
    1:26 PMKempten (Allgäu) Hbf
    $1821One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 101 · ICE 591 · 3695
    6:56 AM4h29
    Cologne Hbf
    11:25 AMKempten (Allgäu) Hbf
    $1821One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · 3985
    9:55 AM6h32
    Cologne Hbf
    4:27 PMKempten (Allgäu) Hbf
    $1831One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 29 · ICE 919 · 3989
    11:53 AM6h34
    Cologne Hbf
    6:27 PMKempten (Allgäu) Hbf
    $1831One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Kempten

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kempten among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $48 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 38m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, while a flight costs an average of $447.

Distance: 268 miles (432 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$144

Average price

$447

Average price

$48

Average price

Cheapest

$98

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 24m

Average total duration

4h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 38m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

11h 23m

Average total duration

10h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 41m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.3 - 2.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Kempten is a bus with an average price of $48.

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

A bus is $95 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Kempten costing on average $144.

A bus is $399 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Kempten costing on average $447.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Kempten is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 38m.

Other travel options to Kempten take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 54m.

Bus takes on average 10h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Kempten including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Kempten among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 47m sooner (4h 54m by train vs 5h 41m by car). Tickets start at around $144 compared to roughly $98 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Kempten train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kempten trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2348 · ICE 513 · 57414
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
6h25
1:18 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 101 · ICE 591 · 3695
On time
6:56 AM Cologne Hbf
4h29
11:25 AM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 913 · 3697
On time
7:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h56
12:27 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 915 · 3981
On time
7:53 AM Cologne Hbf
6h35
2:28 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · 57414
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h24
1:18 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · 57418
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
6h25
3:18 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593 · 3699
On time
8:56 AM Cologne Hbf
4h30
1:26 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · 3981
On time
9:32 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h56
2:28 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · 57418
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h24
3:18 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · 3985
On time
9:55 AM Cologne Hbf
6h32
4:27 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2013 · ICE 517 · 57422
On time
10:53 AM Cologne Hbf
6h25
5:18 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 105 · ICE 595 · 3983
On time
10:56 AM Cologne Hbf
4h30
3:26 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 225 · 3985
On time
11:20 AM Cologne Hbf
5h07
4:27 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 29 · ICE 919 · 3989
On time
11:53 AM Cologne Hbf
6h34
6:27 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 517 · 57422
On time
11:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h24
5:18 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 519 · 57426
On time
12:53 PM Cologne Hbf
6h25
7:18 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · ICE 597 · 57605
On time
12:56 PM Cologne Hbf
5h12
6:08 PM Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Kempten 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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
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Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

Why should you book Cologne to Kempten trains with Omio?

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

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 Kempten.
  • 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 Kempten.

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 Kempten.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Kempten

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Kempten run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 but you can travel from only $38 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:21, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 268 miles (432 km) distance in 3h 51m.

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 $38
Distance
268 miles (432 km)
Average train duration
4h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$43
Trains per day
10
Fastest train
3h 51m
First train
3:21 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
49 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 $38

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Kempten trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Kempten from $38. 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 51m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$43
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

Complete guide to Kempten

Things to do in Kempten

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

  • Must visit

Archaeological Park Cambodunum Museum

Main Roman archaeology site and museum area with excavated remains, reconstructions, and exhibitions on ancient Cambodunum.

  • Recommended

Kempten Museum im Zumsteinhaus

City museum in the Zumsteinhaus presenting Kempten’s history from Roman times to modern Allgäu life in a central historic setting.

  • Recommended

Alpin Museum

Interactive natural history museum focused on the Alps and Allgäu, with family-friendly displays on geology, wildlife, and landscapes.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, local transit is reasonable, and tourist costs are usually lower than Munich or major Alpine resorts.

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
€3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is customary but modest: round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Kempten

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kempten can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43, while the average price is around $144.
The train from Cologne to Kempten takes 3h 51m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Kempten is 268 miles (432 km).
The first train from Cologne to Kempten leaves at 3:21 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Kempten leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Kempten. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Kempten.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kempten is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Kempten (Allgäu) Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kempten is by bus, with a cost of around $38.
The train journey from Cologne to Kempten (Allgäu) is quite scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley's picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages as you travel deeper into the Bavarian region.
A day trip from Cologne to Kempten (Allgäu) is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 51m. However, there are 8 trips available per day. The distance is 268 miles (432 km).
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Kempten (Allgäu), allowing time to visit its historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the scenic beauty of the Allgäu region.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kempten.
Since both Cologne and Kempten 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 Kempten include Munich, Memmingen, Oberstdorf, Augsburg, Ulm.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Kempten 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 Kempten (Allgäu), travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. It is advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of surroundings. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting travelers, but standard precautions such as avoiding unofficial taxi services and verifying ticket authenticity 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Kempten

Most Cologne to Kempten trains use the Köln Hbf to Kempten(Allgäu) Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Kempten 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 Kempten

Which Cologne station do trains to Kempten leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Kempten 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.

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