- Must visit
Ars Electronica Center
Futuristic museum for media art and digital culture on the Danube; Linz’s signature contemporary museum with interactive, internationally known exhibitions.
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$91
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$192
Fastest journey on Sep 01
7 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
7 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 01
28
Distance
603 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Linz is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Linz will cost around $192 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Linz without transferring at least once.
S12 · ICE 523+
967
S11 · ICE 911+
967
RB26+
ICE 711 · ICE 913 · ICE 1215
ICE 619 · ICE 1211
ICE 920 · 26701 · ICE 581 · RJX 65
ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 19915
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
RJX19915
RE7+
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
RJX19915
ICE 915 · EC 1217
ICE 915+
EC 1217Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Linz among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $62 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 10m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $62, while a flight costs an average of $562.
Distance: 374 miles (603 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$89 Average price | $62 Average price Cheapest | $562 Average price | $161 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 5m Average total duration 9h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 41m Average total duration 10h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Linz:
A bus is $26 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Linz costing on average $89.
A bus is $500 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Linz costing on average $562.
Other travel options to Linz take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 35m.
Bus takes on average 10h 11m.
Tickets start at around $89 compared to roughly $161 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $72. The journey takes 9h 35m versus 7h 34m 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.
Direct services run with ÖBB | Nightjet, Österreichische Bundesbahnen.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Linz trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 619 · ICE 1211 | 12:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h25 | 11:26 AM Linz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 619 · ICE 1211+ RJX19975 | 12:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h14 | 11:15 AM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 920 · 26701 · ICE 581 · RJX 65 | On time 2:09 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h06 | 2:15 PM Linz Hbf | 3 transfers | |
S19 · ICE 827+ 967 | 3:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 15h20 | 6:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S19 · ICE 827+ 965 | 3:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h20 | 2:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 827 · RJX 63 | On time 3:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h54 | 12:15 PM Linz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 827+ RJX 63 | On time 3:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h54 | 12:15 PM Linz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 711 · ICE 913 · ICE 1215+ RB26 | 3:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h30 | 3:26 PM Linz Hbf | 3 transfers | |
10005 · ICE 521+ 967 | 4:15 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 14h19 | 6:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
10005 · ICE 521+ 965 | 4:15 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 10h19 | 2:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S11 · ICE 911+ 967 | 5:11 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 13h23 | 6:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S11 · ICE 911+ 965 | 5:11 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 9h23 | 2:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S12 · ICE 523+ 967 | 5:13 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 13h21 | 6:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S12 · ICE 523+ 965 | 5:13 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 9h21 | 2:34 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h22 | 6:15 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2040+ ICE 211+ IC 747 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h37 | 7:30 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2040+ ICE 515+ RJX 69+ IC 745 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h37 | 6:30 PM Linz Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 103 · ICE 119+ RJX19915 | 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h21 | 5:15 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 119 · RJX 19915 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h17 | 5:15 PM Linz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 119+ RJX19915 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h17 | 5:15 PM Linz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119+ RE7 · RJX19915 | Delayed 7:30 AM 9:21 AMCologne Hbf | 7h54 | 5:15 PM Linz Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 915+ EC 1217+ RE7 | Delayed 7:30 AM 9:21 AMCologne Hbf | 8h05 | 5:26 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 915 · EC 1217 | On time 9:30 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h56 | 5:26 PM Linz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 19915 | On time 9:30 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h45 | 5:15 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 915+ EC 1217 | On time 9:30 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h56 | 5:26 PM Linz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119+ RJX19915 | On time 9:30 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h45 | 5:15 PM Linz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 621 · BUS 91105 · REX 1785+ 84109 | On time 9:34 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h36 | 6:10 PM Linz Hbf | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cologne to Linz run on average 15 times per day, taking around 9h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 but you can travel from only $41 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 374 miles (603 km) distance in 7h 30m.
Distance 374 miles (603 km) |
Average train duration 9h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 7h 30m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Linz — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Linz trip today.
Futuristic museum for media art and digital culture on the Danube; Linz’s signature contemporary museum with interactive, internationally known exhibitions.
Major art museum with strong modern and contemporary collections, temporary shows, and architecture that makes it a cultural anchor in central Linz.
Regional museum inside Linz Castle covering nature, culture, and history; combines historic architecture with excellent views over the Danube.
Linz’s grand central square on the Danube, framed by pastel townhouses; ideal for orientation, events, river access, and historic city atmosphere.
Popular hilltop viewpoint above Linz reached by tram or hike; combines broad city panoramas with a basilica and classic postcard scenery.
Historic old town lane with preserved facades, small shops, and local character; one of the best places for a slower walk through medieval Linz.
Linzertorte is Linz’s signature pastry: a nutty buttery tart with redcurrant jam and lattice top, widely regarded as one of Austria’s oldest cake recipes.
Linzer Augen are traditional sandwich cookies filled with redcurrant jam and dusted with sugar, a classic local bakery treat linked to Linz confectionery.
Knödel are beloved Austrian dumplings served in savory or sweet forms; in Upper Austria they are a staple of home cooking and tavern menus.
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in the city center, known for refined modern Austrian cuisine, tasting menus and polished service.
Traditional Upper Austrian brewery restaurant serving roast pork, dumplings and beer in a historic, wood-lined setting by the Danube.
Well-known Linz brewery tavern with classic Austrian dishes, house beer and a lively casual atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Moderate for Austria. Hotels and dining cost less than Vienna, while local transit and everyday meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10%. Round up for taxis and leave small change in cafes.
Official public transport app
Linz Hauptbahnhof -> Hauptplatz, Linz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Linz 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 Linz, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Linz trains use the Köln Hbf to Linz Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Linz/Donau Ebelsberg Bahnhof. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Linz train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln-Ehrenfeld is 3 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln-Ehrenfeld 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 options include: I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato, Burger King, Café Franck, Eichendorf
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. ATMs are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Information desks are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Nearby hotels include Kölnotel, Black Hotels.
Linz Hbf is 1 km from Linz city centre. Public transport options include:
Linz Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Josef Linz, Das Anton
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Linz Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Linz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Linz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Linz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Linz Hbf: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schillerpark, Austria Trend Hotel Schillerpark, Park Inn by Radisson Linz.
Linz/Donau Ebelsberg Bahnhof is 7 km from Linz city centre. Public transport options include:
Linz/Donau Ebelsberg Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Linz/Donau Ebelsberg Bahnhof.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need