- Must visit
Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory
Flagship museum in Oskar Schindler’s former factory, presenting Kraków under Nazi occupation through immersive historical displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kraków
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 28
Cheapest price on Sep 28
€81
Average ticket price on Sep 28
€111
Fastest journey on Sep 28
12 h 27 m
Average journey duration on Sep 28
12 h 36 m
Trains on Sep 28
5
Distance
923 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Kraków is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Kraków will cost around €111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €81.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Kraków without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 855 · 3348 · EC 577:38 AM12h31Cologne Hbf8:09 PMKraków Główny€811One-way2 transfers- ICE 551 · 3306 · EC 45 · IC 83104:45 AM12h43Cologne Hbf5:28 PMKraków Główny€911One-way3 transfers
- ICE 511 · ICE 1555 · EC 1355:48 AM12h27Cologne Hbf6:15 PMKraków Główny€1201One-way2 transfers
- ICE 553 · 3308 · EC 47 · IC 83066:45 AM12h42Cologne Hbf7:27 PMKraków Główny€1311One-way3 transfers
- ICE 853 · 21857 · IC 2175 · EC 1355:38 AM12h37Cologne Hbf6:15 PMKraków Główny€1311One-way3 transfers
- ICE 511 · ICE 1555 · EC 1355:48 AM12h27Cologne Hbf6:15 PMKraków Główny€1201One-way2 transfers
- ICE 855 · 3348 · EC 577:38 AM12h31Cologne Hbf8:09 PMKraków Główny€811One-way2 transfers
- ICE 853 · 21857 · IC 2175 · EC 1355:38 AM12h37Cologne Hbf6:15 PMKraków Główny€1311One-way3 transfers
- ICE 553 · 3308 · EC 47 · IC 83066:45 AM12h42Cologne Hbf7:27 PMKraków Główny€1311One-way3 transfers
- ICE 551 · 3306 · EC 45 · IC 83104:45 AM12h43Cologne Hbf5:28 PMKraków Główny€911One-way3 transfers
Live departures
Cologne to Kraków train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kraków trains for today, Sunday, September 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 921 · 4251 · ICE 934 · ICE 602 | Delayed 1:49 AM 3:49 AMCologne Hbf | 14h26 | 6:15 PM Kraków Główny | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 653 · 3318 · EC 431 | On time 4:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 13h49 | 6:33 AM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 653 · ICE 1002 · EC 431 | On time 4:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 13h49 | 6:33 AM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 957 · S7 · 3140 · 68803 | On time 7:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 16h12 | 11:58 AM Kraków Główny | 6 transfers | |
| ICE 19 · ICE 590 · 16501 · IC 8318 | On time 8:18 PM Cologne Hbf | 15h40 | 11:58 AM Kraków Główny | 5 transfers | |
| ICE 823 · ICE 590 · 16501 · IC 8318 | On time 8:34 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 15h24 | 11:58 AM Kraków Główny | 5 transfers | |
| ICE 657 · 4350 · EC 41 · IC 7316 | 8:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 16h34 | 1:19 PM Kraków Główny | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 617 · IC 60409 · 16503 · IC 7316 | 9:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 15h25 | 1:19 PM Kraków Główny | 5 transfers | |
| IC 60403 · ICE 698 · IC 2449 · IC 8312 | On time 11:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 15h21 | 3:14 PM Kraków Główny | 5 transfers | |
| ICE 619 · ICE 698 · EC 59 | On time 11:55 PM Cologne Hbf | 16h12 | 4:07 PM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 619 · ICE 698 · IC 2449 · IC 8312 | 11:55 PM Cologne Hbf | 15h19 | 3:14 PM Kraków Główny | 5 transfers | |
| Monday, September 28 | |||||
| ICE 551 · 3306 · EC 45 · IC 8310 | On time 4:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h43 | 5:28 PM Kraków Główny | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 853 · 21857 · IC 2175 · EC 135 | On time 5:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h37 | 6:15 PM Kraków Główny | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 511 · ICE 1555 · EC 135 | On time 5:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h27 | 6:15 PM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 553 · 3308 · EC 47 · IC 8306 | On time 6:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h42 | 7:27 PM Kraków Główny | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 855 · 3348 · EC 57 | On time 7:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h31 | 8:09 PM Kraków Główny | 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 Kraków by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Why should you book Cologne to Kraków trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Kraków.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Kraków.
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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Kraków.
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 Kraków.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Kraków
Germany
Poland
Trains from Cologne to Kraków run on average 5 times per day, taking around 12h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €40 but you can travel from only €39 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 573 miles (923 km) distance in 10h 50m.
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 €39
Distance 573 miles (923 km) |
Average train duration 12h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price €40 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 10h 50m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
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 €39
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Kraków trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Kraków from €39. 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
10h 50m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€40
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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 Kraków
Things to do in Kraków
Discover the best of Kraków — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kraków trip today.
- Must visit
The Czartoryski Museum
Branch of the Czartoryski Museum famed for Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine and important European decorative arts.
- Recommended
Rynek Underground Museum
Underground archaeological museum beneath the Main Square, revealing medieval streets, artifacts, and the city’s early trade history.
- Must visit
Kazimierz
Historic district south of the Old Town, known for synagogues, courtyards, layered history, and one of Kraków’s best walking atmospheres.
- Must visit
Old Town
Medieval core of Kraków packed with churches, squares, lanes, and landmarks; the city’s essential area for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Planty Park
Leafy park ring replacing the old city walls, ideal for a relaxed walk around the Old Town between major sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Obwarzanek Krakowski
Obwarzanek Krakowski is Kraków’s iconic ring-shaped bread, chewy and topped with salt, poppy or sesame. It has protected status and is sold from blue street stalls.
Maczanka Krakowska
Maczanka Krakowska is a traditional Kraków sandwich of slow-cooked pork in a soft roll, often called a local ancestor of pulled pork sandwiches.
- Vegetarian
Pierogi
Pierogi are dumplings common in Kraków, often filled with meat, potato and cheese, or seasonal fruit. They are a staple of Polish home cooking and milk bars.
Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa
Popular traditional venue near the center serving hearty Polish specialties in a rustic cellar atmosphere with strong local character.
Milkbar Tomasza
Well-known milk bar for budget-friendly Polish comfort food such as pierogi, soups, and pancakes in a simple local canteen setting.
Wierzynek
Historic restaurant on the Main Square known for classic Polish dishes, elegant interiors, and traditional service in a landmark setting.
Polish złoty (zł)
More affordable than many Western European city breaks. Dining and transit are low-cost, while central hotels can rise in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 25-40 zł for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- 50-90 zł per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 150 zł+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 12-18 zł for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated, not mandatory. In restaurants, round up or leave 10%. Tip taxis by rounding up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is common.
iMKA
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 6,00 zł
- Day pass
- 17,00 zł
To the city center
Kraków Główny -> Rynek Główny, Kraków
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Use contactless card payment in many MPK Kraków ticket machines on trams and buses, but not every vehicle has one. Validate or buy your ticket before inspection.
- A 24-hour ticket is usually better value than single rides if you make several trips. Keep your ticket until the end of the journey.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Kraków
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Kraków 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 Kraków, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kraków can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €40, while the average price is around €107.
The train from Cologne to Kraków takes 10h 50m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Kraków is 573 miles (923 km).
The first train from Cologne to Kraków leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Kraków leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Kraków.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Kraków.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kraków is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Kraków Główny.
The train journey from Cologne to Kraków offers scenic views, including the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills of the Eifel region, and the charming countryside of Germany and Poland.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kraków.
Popular day trips by train from Kraków include Oswiecim, Katowice, Rzeszów, Kielce, Gliwice.
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.
The currency used in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). For travelers, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, but using cards is often more convenient and secure, especially in cities. However, carrying some cash is recommended for small purchases or in rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Kraków, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Main Market Square and public transportation. Watch out for unofficial taxi drivers who may overcharge; always use licensed taxis or reputable ride apps. Be aware of scams involving fake ticket sellers for attractions and public transport. Travelers should also avoid unmarked currency exchange booths to prevent unfavorable rates or fraud.
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 Kraków
Most Cologne to Kraków trains use the Köln Hbf to Kraków Główny station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Kraków 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 Kraków
Which Cologne station do trains to Kraków leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Kraków 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 · €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 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 · €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 Köln
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.
Which Kraków station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Kraków arrive at Kraków Główny. Kraków Główny is 0 miles (1 km) from Kraków city centre.
Kraków GłównyPawia 5a, 31-154 Kraków, Poland+48 12 393 22 22
City-centre transport
Getting to Kraków Główny from Kraków city centre
Kraków Główny is 1 km from Kraków city centre. Public transport options include:
BusA1, A14, A40, A44, A56, A64 · 7m · €1 · every ~14 min
Tram3, 69 · 4m · every ~13 min
Kraków Główny train station facilities and services
Kraków Główny has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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: Restauracja Browar Lubicz, Bistro Bene by Tomasz Leśniak
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kraków Główny. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kraków Główny. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kraków Główny: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kraków Główny: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kraków Główny: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto, PURO Kraków Stare Miasto, Vienna House Andel's Cracow.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Kraków
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kraków and Cologne
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