Cologne to Leipzig train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Sat, Nov 08
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Leipzig

Showing times and prices for Nov 09

Cheapest price

$150

Average price

$174

Fastest journey

4 h 21 m

Average duration

4 h 49 m

Trains per day

7

Distance

381 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Leipzig will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $150.

Fast trains

Of the 7 trains that leave Cologne for Leipzig on Sun, Nov 09, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Nov 09 the direct trains cover the 381 km distance in an average of 4 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 21 m .

On Sun, Nov 09 the slowest trains will take 5 h 31 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Deutsche BahnICE 555 · IC 2037
08:45AM5h31
Cologne Hbf
02:16PMLeipzig Hbf
$1501One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 1959
10:44AM6h38
Cologne Hbf
05:22PMLeipzig Hbf
$1651One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 798
09:53AM5h23
Cologne Hbf
03:16PMLeipzig Hbf
$1651One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 105 · ICE 798
10:55AM4h21
Cologne Hbf
03:16PMLeipzig Hbf
$1701One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 992
08:55AM4h21
Cologne Hbf
01:16PMLeipzig Hbf
$1701One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Leipzig

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Leipzig among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €20, and a flight costs an average of €462.

Distance: 236 miles (381 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€82

Average price

€32

Average price

Cheapest

€569

Average price

6h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 13m

Average total duration

6h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 33m

Average total duration

6h 33m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cologne to Leipzig train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Leipzig trains for today, Saturday, November 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 10:26 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn3:44 PM Cologne
4h40
8:24 PM Leipzig0 transfersDirect
Sunday, November 9
deutsche_bahnICE 555 · IC 2037
On time
7:45 AM Cologne Hbf
5h31
1:16 PM Leipzig Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 103 · ICE 992
Delayed
8:05 AM 7:55 AMCologne Hbf
4h21
12:16 PM Leipzig Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 27 · ICE 798
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
5h23
2:16 PM Leipzig Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 515 · ICE 1559
Delayed
9:05 AM 8:55 AMCologne Hbf
4h29
1:24 PM Leipzig Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 19599:44 AM Cologne Hbf
6h38
4:22 PM Leipzig Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 557 · IC 2039
On time
9:45 AM Cologne Hbf
5h31
3:16 PM Leipzig Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 105 · ICE 798
On time
9:55 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
2:16 PM Leipzig Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Leipzig 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.

Sun
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Leipzig?

The best time to book your train from Cologne to Leipzig is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Leipzig route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Leipzig 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 Leipzig.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Leipzig

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconFast ride
IconPrice
IconNice staff
Disadvantages
IconWIFI
IconDelays
IconToilets
The station from Cologne to Leipzig was the first stop on my trip to Germany. Above all, I like the mostly fast train ride. The staff were very nice and helpful. What bothered me was the poor wifi connection on board. The hygiene in the toilets was not good enough in my opinion. In addition, the train is always quite late, which bothers me a bit. However, in terms of price and performance, I think train travel is good.
Advantages
IconGood organisation in case of delay
IconPower sockets on the square
Disadvantages
IconHardly any reception on the route
Iconsomewhat unhygienic toilets
Last year, I travelled by IC from Cologne central station to Leipzig central station and found the journey to be OK. Unfortunately, the toilets were a bit unhygienic and the wifi was very poor. However, the train gets a plus point from me because the IC was quite late, but it was still possible to arrange for my connection to be waiting in Leipzig. I was rather dissatisfied with the very poor reception on the route, so that I was unable to inform my family of my late arrival. On the positive side, there were power sockets at all seats. All in all, I can only recommend it.
Advantages
IconComfort
IconCleanliness
IconHygiene
That was my return journey in second class. I can heartily recommend this journey and rate it five stars. The wifi was good the whole time. My seat was comfortable and my seat was clean. Then I went to the toilet, where I found a clean and hygienic environment. The train staff were very polite and nice. The atmosphere was good throughout.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Leipzig

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Leipzig run on average 13 times per day, taking around 6h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 236 miles (381 km) distance in 4h 21m.

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
236 miles (381 km)
Average train duration
6h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
4h 21m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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, FlixTrain from Cologne to Leipzig trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne and Leipzig from $22 (€18). 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 40m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€54)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 1m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Leipzig

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

FAQs
The train journey from Cologne to Leipzig is moderately scenic, offering views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and charming German towns, although it transitions into more industrial and urban landscapes as it approaches Leipzig.
To fully experience Leipzig's cultural, historical, and modern attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows you to explore key sites such as the Leipzig Zoo, St. Thomas Church, and the Bach Museum, as well as enjoy the vibrant local arts and music scene.
A day trip from Cologne to Leipzig is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 21m. Trains run 13 times per day over a distance of 236 miles (381 km).
The train from Cologne to Leipzig takes 4h 21m and runs 13 per day.
In Leipzig, you can explore Karl-Heine-Straße for its eclectic shops and street art, attend a world-class performance at the Leipzig Opera House, and visit the serene Leipzig Botanical Garden. Discover contemporary German history at the Zeitgeschichtliches Forum and enjoy a boat tour along Leipzig's canals. Don't miss the historic St. Thomas Church linked to Bach, the modern Leipzig Zoo, the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, the Leipzig Panometer with its panoramic art, and the Museum of Fine Arts with its extensive European collection.
The distance by train from Cologne to Leipzig is 236 miles (381 km).
The last train from Cologne to Leipzig leaves at 11:58 PM.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Leipzig is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Leipzig Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Leipzig.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Leipzig can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $101 (€82).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Leipzig is by train, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The first train from Cologne to Leipzig leaves at 12:01 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Leipzig.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Leipzig. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Leipzig

Cologne
Leipzig
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 Leipzig.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln-EhrenfeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
  • Burger King
  • Café Franck
  • Eichendorf
Hotel
Hotel
  • Kölnotel
  • Black Hotels
Köln TrimbornstrWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Blauer König
  • DAG Döner
  • Sahra-Pizza
  • Casablanca
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Arcaden
  • Maugeri Ital. Hotel
  • Hotel Rahmani
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps
Köln SüdWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Subway
  • Ganesha
  • Magnus
  • Borsalino
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Chelsea
  • Hotel Mado
  • Elite Hotel
  • Blacksheep Hostel
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
10 km
Dining
Dining
  • Weiler Kebap
  • Başak Grill
  • Le'zzet
  • Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Hotel
Hotel
  • Haus Wester
Köln-DellbrückWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
9 km
Dining
Dining
  • Zur alten Post
  • Piccolo Capriccio
  • Brauhaus Dellbrück
  • Al Capriccio
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ihr Hotel Garni Köln
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
Köln, Breslauer Platz/HbfAccessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km

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