- Must visit
National Gallery of Slovenia
Slovenia’s leading art museum, known for medieval to modern works and major national collections in a central historic setting.
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$205
Fastest journey
10 h 39 m
Average duration
10 h 58 m
Trains per day
20
Distance
777 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Ljubljana is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Ljubljana will cost around $205 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Ljubljana without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 119+
D 319
ICE 2013 · ICE 517 · RJX 261 · IC 891
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
D 319
ICE 517 · RJX 261 · IC 891+
D 39
IC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · IC 799
ICE 913 · ICE 117+
D 317
RE7+
ICE 913 · ICE 117+
D 317
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
D 319
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
D 319
RE9+
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
D 319Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Ljubljana among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a flight costs an average of $122.
Distance: 482 miles (777 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$147 Average price | $64 Average price Cheapest | $436 Average price | $62 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 58m Average total duration 12h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 33m Average total duration 14h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 59m Average total duration Fastest 1h 59m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 2.3 - 4.7kg 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 Ljubljana:
A bus is $83 (€83) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Ljubljana costing on average $147 (€147).
A bus is $372 (€372) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Ljubljana costing on average $436 (€436).
Other travel options to Ljubljana take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 28m.
Bus takes on average 14h 3m.
Tickets start at around $147 (€147) compared to roughly $62 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-85.33 (€-85.33). The journey takes 12h 28m versus 10h 9m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ljubljana trains for tomorrow, Saturday, July 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 921 · ICE 117+ D 317 | 3:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 14h20 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 911+ EC 115 | 5:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h15 | 4:40 PM Ljubljana station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 511 · ICE 117+ D 317 | 5:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h21 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 23 · ICE 913 · ICE 117+ D 317 | 5:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h16 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
ICE 913 · ICE 117+ RE7 · D 317 | 7:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h48 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
ICE 913 · ICE 117+ D 317 | 7:30 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 10h39 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
IC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · IC 799 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 13h16 | 10:09 PM Ljubljana station | 4 transfers | |
ICE 515+ D 19+ IC 799+ RJX 69 | Delayed 9:33 AM 8:53 AMCologne Hbf | 13h16 | 10:09 PM Ljubljana station | 4 transfers | |
ICE 103 · ICE 119+ D 319 | 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h42 | 8:36 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 119+ D 319 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h38 | 8:36 PM Ljubljana station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 119+ D 319 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h38 | 8:36 PM Ljubljana station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119+ D 319 · RE9 | Delayed 7:31 AM 9:22 AMCologne Hbf | 11h14 | 8:36 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119+ D 319 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h05 | 8:36 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119+ D 319 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h05 | 8:36 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 515 · RJX 69 · IC 799+ D 19 | On time 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h15 | 10:09 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
ICE 515+ IC 799+ RJX 69 · D 19 | On time 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h15 | 10:09 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
ICE 2013 · ICE 517 · RJX 261 · IC 891 | On time 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h25 | 11:18 PM Ljubljana station | 4 transfers | |
ICE 2013 · ICE 517+ RJX 261 · D 39 | On time 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h25 | 11:18 PM Ljubljana station | 4 transfers | |
ICE 225 · ICE 211+ D 39 | 11:18 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h00 | 11:18 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 517 · RJX 261 · IC 891+ D 39 | On time 11:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h24 | 11:18 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cologne to Ljubljana run on average 11 times per day, taking around 12h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€40) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 482 miles (777 km) distance in 11h 5m.
Distance 482 miles (777 km) |
Average train duration 12h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€40) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 11h 5m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 91 days |
Discover the best of Ljubljana — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ljubljana trip today.
Slovenia’s leading art museum, known for medieval to modern works and major national collections in a central historic setting.
Main museum for Slovenian history, archaeology, and applied culture, with key national treasures and broad permanent displays.
Contemporary art museum with influential Slovenian and international works, especially strong in postwar and avant-garde movements.
Ljubljana’s main square, anchored by the poet Prešeren statue and riverfront views. It is the natural starting point for exploring the center.
Leafy central park with promenades, ponds, and cultural venues. Ideal for walks, relaxation, and access to several museums.
Historic old town square below the castle, lined with Baroque buildings, shops, and access to major landmarks.
Carniolan sausage is Slovenia’s iconic smoked pork sausage, often served with mustard and bread. It is a protected regional specialty widely loved in Ljubljana.
Štruklji are rolled dumplings with fillings like cottage cheese, tarragon, walnut, or apple. They are a classic Slovenian comfort food found across Ljubljana.
Potica is a festive rolled cake filled with walnut paste. It is one of Slovenia’s most famous traditional desserts, served at holidays and family gatherings.
Established restaurant serving refined Slovenian and Mediterranean dishes with strong wine focus. Elegant atmosphere in the city center.
Contemporary fine dining by chef Ana Roš’s team. Expect inventive Slovenian tasting menus in a polished yet relaxed central Ljubljana setting.
Casual old-town venue focused on Slovenian craft beer and local comfort food. Good for tasting regional brews in a lively setting.
Moderate for Europe: hotels and dining are cheaper than Western capitals, but Old Town stays and tourist restaurants raise costs. Transit is affordable.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
Official public transport app
Ljubljana Bus Station -> Prešeren Square, Ljubljana
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Ljubljana 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 Ljubljana, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Ljubljana trains use the Köln Hbf to Ljubljana station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Ljubljana 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/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ljubljana has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Sokol, JB Restaurant
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Ljubljana. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Ljubljana. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ljubljana: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Ljubljana: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ljubljana: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include InterContinental Ljubljana, City Hotel Ljubljana, Grand Hotel Union.
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