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

Tue, Jul 21
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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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 Leeuwarden

Showing times and prices for Jul 21

Cheapest price

$73

Average price

$79

Fastest journey

3 h 55 m

Average duration

4 h 11 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

264 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Leeuwarden will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 124 · IC 3648 · IC 859
    2:49 PM3h55
    Cologne Hbf
    6:44 PMLeeuwarden station
    $731One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 124 · IC 661
    2:49 PM4h25
    Cologne Hbf
    7:14 PMLeeuwarden station
    $731One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 126 · IC 3640 · IC 851
    12:49 PM3h55
    Cologne Hbf
    4:44 PMLeeuwarden station
    $801One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 126 · IC 653
    12:49 PM4h25
    Cologne Hbf
    5:14 PMLeeuwarden station
    $801One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn28518 · ICE 146 · IC 657
    1:31 PM4h43
    Cologne Hbf
    6:14 PMLeeuwarden station
    $841One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Leeuwarden

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Leeuwarden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a train costs an average of $50.

Distance: 164 miles (264 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$86

Average price

$38

Average price

Cheapest

$73

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 40m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 28m

Average total duration

10h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 43m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Leeuwarden is a bus with an average price of $38 (€32).

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

A bus is $47 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Leeuwarden costing on average $86 (€71).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Leeuwarden is by train with an average journey time of 4h 10m.

Other travel options to Leeuwarden take longer:

Bus takes on average 10h 58m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Leeuwarden including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Leeuwarden 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 $86 (€71) compared to roughly $73 (€60) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.18 (€-10.83). The journey takes 4h 10m versus 3h 43m 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 Leeuwarden train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Leeuwarden trains for today, Monday, July 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:11 AM Cologne
5h16
12:27 PM Leeuwarden0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:49 PM Cologne
4h03
11:52 PM Leeuwarden0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Leeuwarden 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.

Tue
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27

Why should you book Cologne to Leeuwarden trains with Omio?

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

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 Leeuwarden.
  • 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 Leeuwarden.

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 Leeuwarden.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Leeuwarden

GermanyGermany
NetherlandsNetherlands
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Leeuwarden run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:50, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 164 miles (264 km) distance in 4h 3m.

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 $29 (€24)
Distance
164 miles (264 km)
Average train duration
4h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$50 (€41)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
4h 3m
First train
12:50 AM
Last train
11:46 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
14 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 $29 (€24)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Leeuwarden trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Leeuwarden from $29 (€24). 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
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 55m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€108)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
7 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$172 (€141)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Leeuwarden

Things to do in Leeuwarden

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

  • Must visit

Fries Museum

Leading Frisian museum on history, art, and culture. It is the city’s top museum and a must for understanding the region.

  • Recommended

Keramiekmuseum Princessehof

National ceramics museum in a former city palace. Famous for fine pottery, royal links, and its elegant historic setting.

  • Recommended

Museumhuis van Eysinga - Mata Hari

Interactive museum in Mata Hari’s birthplace, exploring her life, myth, and international fame through compact exhibits.

Euro (€)

Moderate for the Netherlands: hotels and dining are cheaper than Amsterdam, while local buses and trains remain fairly priced for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-15 for fast food or lunch specials.
Mid-range
€20-35 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 or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small change for cafés is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Leeuwarden

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Leeuwarden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $86 (€71).
The train from Cologne to Leeuwarden takes 4h 3m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Leeuwarden leaves at 12:50 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Leeuwarden is 164 miles (264 km).
The last train from Cologne to Leeuwarden leaves at 11:46 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Leeuwarden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Leeuwarden.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Leeuwarden is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Leeuwarden station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Leeuwarden is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The train journey from Cologne to Leeuwarden offers a mix of scenic views, including picturesque German countryside, charming Dutch landscapes, and glimpses of the Rhine River, enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Leeuwarden is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 3m. However, trains run 10 times per day for this 164 miles (264 km) trip.
In Leeuwarden, you can visit AquaZoo Friesland to enjoy a variety of aquatic and land animals, explore vibrant local markets for unique Dutch treats and crafts, and take a canal tour for a different perspective of the city. Discover the historic Waagplein, a lively square with cafes and shops, and enjoy a cycling tour through the scenic Frisian countryside. For cultural experiences, visit the Fries Museum, Oldehove tower, and Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics. Blokhuispoort offers a cultural hub with shops and cafes, while De Groene Ster provides a recreational area with lakes and walking trails for outdoor activities.
For a well-rounded experience in Leeuwarden, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days to explore its historic sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant local scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Leeuwarden.
Since both Cologne and Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden include Utrecht, Groningen, Arnhem, Heerenveen, Zwolle.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Leeuwarden 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leeuwarden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it is advisable to use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Additionally, travelers should watch out for counterfeit tickets or unauthorized sellers when purchasing transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and keeping valuables secure helps 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 Leeuwarden

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

Which Cologne station do trains to Leeuwarden leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Leeuwarden 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/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 · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

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.

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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