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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kraków
Showing times and prices for Dec 31
Cheapest price
$127
Average price
$155
Fastest journey
12 h 6 m
Average duration
12 h 29 m
Trains per day
4
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 $155 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $127.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Kraków without transferring at least once.
ICE 121 · ICE 1559 · EC 13309:28AM12h53
Cologne Hbf10:21PMKraków Główny
$1271One-way
2 transfers
ICE 219 · ICE 1559 · EC 13309:58AM12h23
Cologne Messe/Deutz10:21PMKraków Główny
$1271One-way
2 transfers
ICE 2204 · ICE 1547 · EC 231 · IC 830209:46AM12h35
Cologne Hbf10:21PMKraków Główny
$1691One-way
3 transfers
ICE 1053 · EC 5511:38AM12h06
Cologne Hbf11:44PMKraków Główny
$1971One-way
1 transfer
ICE 1053 · EC 5511:38AM12h06
Cologne Hbf11:44PMKraków Główny
$1971One-way
1 transfer
ICE 219 · ICE 1559 · EC 13309:58AM12h23
Cologne Messe/Deutz10:21PMKraków Główny
$1271One-way
2 transfers
ICE 2204 · ICE 1547 · EC 231 · IC 830209:46AM12h35
Cologne Hbf10:21PMKraków Główny
$1691One-way
3 transfers
ICE 121 · ICE 1559 · EC 13309:28AM12h53
Cologne Hbf10:21PMKraków Główny
$1271One-way
2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne to Kraków
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kraków among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €39. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €39, and a flight costs an average of €125.
Distance: 573 miles (923 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€120 Average price | €64 Average price Cheapest | €416 Average price |
12h 58m Average total duration 12h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 12m Average total duration 17h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | 2.8 - 5.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Kraków train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kraków trains for today, Tuesday, December 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 5:37 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 121 · ICE 1559 · EC 133 | On time 8:28 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h53 | 9:21 PM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 2204 · ICE 1547 · EC 231 · IC 8302 | On time 8:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h35 | 9:21 PM Kraków Główny | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 219 · ICE 1559 · EC 133 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h23 | 9:21 PM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 726 · ICE 549 · EC 249 · TLK 53170 | On time 11:18 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 15h12 | 2:30 AM Kraków Główny | 3 transfers | |
| Wednesday, December 31 | |||||
| 4:26 AM Cologne | 13h08 | 5:34 PM Kraków | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE) operates all train services from Cologne to Kraków. Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE)?
- 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 (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE) 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 and Rail Europe?
- Official reseller: Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE) tickets can only be bought on Omio or Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE)'s website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE) tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RB,RE) tickets as they are not official sellers.
- 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.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Kraków?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Kraków is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Kraków route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Kraków per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Kraków.
Trains
from $61Buses
from $69Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Kraków
Germany
Poland
Trains from Cologne to Kraków run on average 8 times per day, taking around 12h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€40) but you can travel from only $49 (€39) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 573 miles (923 km) distance in 11h 27m.
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 $49 (€39)
Distance 573 miles (923 km) |
Average train duration 12h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€40) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 11h 27m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:55 |
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 $49 (€39)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Kraków trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Kraków from $49 (€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 Duration
11h 27m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€45)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
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.
Three to four days are generally sufficient to explore Kraków's main attractions, including the historic Old Town, Wawel Castle, and a trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
The train from Cologne to Kraków takes 11h 27m and runs 8 per day.
The last train from Cologne to Kraków leaves at 11:55 PM.
In Kraków, visitors can explore the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a poignant reminder of the Holocaust, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a fascinating underground maze with intricate salt sculptures. The city's vibrant street art scene is particularly lively in the Kazimierz district, which is also known for its rich Jewish history and nightlife. Stroll along the Vistula River for scenic views, or visit the historic Kraków Cloth Hall in the Main Market Square for local crafts. Key sights include the Wawel Castle, St. Mary's Basilica, and the Schindler's Factory museum, each offering a glimpse into Kraków's rich heritage and history.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Kraków.
A day trip from Cologne to Kraków is not feasible as the travel duration is 11h 27m. There are 8 trips per day available for this journey by train, covering a distance of 573 miles (923 km).
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kraków can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€40), while the average price is around $151 (€120).
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.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Kraków.
The distance by train from Cologne to Kraków is 573 miles (923 km).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kraków is by bus, with a cost of around $49 (€39).
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kraków is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Kraków Główny.
The first train from Cologne to Kraków leaves at 12:01 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kraków.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Kraków
Cologne
Kraków
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Kraków.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Kraków is Kraków Główny. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kraków Główny for your journey to Kraków from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Pawia Street.
Dining
- Restauracja Browar Lubicz
- Bistro Bene by Tomasz Leśniak
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- PLN 2
Hotel
- Hotel Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto
- PURO Kraków Stare Miasto
- Vienna House Andel's Cracow
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for regional trains
- Hall 2: platforms 6-10 for long-distance and international trains
Public transit options for Kraków Główny
- Tram: Lines 3, 5, 19, 50
- Bus: Several lines available
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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