- Must visit
National Gallery of Slovenia
The country’s principal art museum, with major Slovenian works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. A strong choice for understanding national art history in one place.
Cheapest price
$62
Average price
$210
Fastest journey
11 h 5 m
Average duration
11 h 25 m
Trains per day
11
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 $210 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $62.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Ljubljana without transferring at least once.
IC 1940 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69
ICE 623 · RJX 69 · IC 799+
D 19
ICE 515 · RJX 69 · IC 799+
D 19
ICE 119+
D 319
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
D 319
ICE 915 · ICE 119+
D 319
EC 115+
ICE 911
ICE 623 · RJX 69 · IC 799+
D 19
ICE 119+
D 319
ICE 1511 · ICE 117+
D 317Omio 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 $52. 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 $52, and a flight costs an average of $151.
Distance: 482 miles (777 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$181 Average price | $79 Average price Cheapest | $538 Average price | $76 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 $102 (€83) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Ljubljana costing on average $181 (€147).
A bus is $459 (€372) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Ljubljana costing on average $538 (€436).
Other travel options to Ljubljana take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 28m.
Bus takes on average 14h 3m.
Tickets start at around $181 (€147) compared to roughly $76 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-105.18 (€-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, Wednesday, June 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 619+ RJX 265+ RJ 551+ D 313 | 12:02 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h25 | 12:27 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
ICE 619+ RJ 113+ D 315 | 12:02 AM Cologne Hbf | 14h12 | 2:14 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 921 · ICE 117+ D 317 | 3:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 14h20 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
EC 115+ ICE 911 | 5:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h15 | 4:40 PM Ljubljana station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1221+ RB75+ ICE 117+ D 317 | 5:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h16 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
ICE 1511 · ICE 117+ D 317 | 6:27 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h42 | 6:09 PM Ljubljana station | 2 transfers | |
IC 1940 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 13h16 | 10:09 PM Ljubljana station | 5 transfers | |
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 | 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 623 · RJX 69 · IC 799+ D 19 | On time 10:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h24 | 10:09 PM Ljubljana station | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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 $49 (€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 $49 (€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.
The country’s principal art museum, with major Slovenian works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. A strong choice for understanding national art history in one place.
Ljubljana’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, known for Slovenian and regional 20th-century collections and rotating exhibitions.
A well-curated museum on Ljubljana’s Roman origins, medieval growth, and modern city life. Good for visitors wanting a concise historical overview.
Ljubljana’s main square and social heart, framed by landmark architecture and river crossings. It is the natural starting point for exploring the old town.
The city’s most atmospheric walking area, lined with bridges, facades, and outdoor public life. Especially lively in the evening and highly photogenic.
A compact historic district of narrow lanes, baroque facades, and small squares beneath the castle hill. Ideal for slow walking and sightseeing.
Traditional Slovenian Carniolan sausage made from pork, bacon, and spices. It is one of the country’s most recognized dishes and is commonly served with mustard, horseradish, and bread.
Rolled dumplings made from dough and filled with ingredients such as cottage cheese, tarragon, walnuts, or apples. They are a classic Slovenian dish served in both savory and sweet forms.
Small dumplings filled with potato, onion, and herbs, traditionally from Idrija but widely enjoyed in Ljubljana. They are a protected Slovenian specialty often served with meat sauce or butter.
One of Ljubljana’s best-known fine dining restaurants, offering contemporary Slovenian cuisine with seasonal ingredients and an elegant, upscale dining room.
Beloved traditional restaurant near the old town, appreciated for honest Slovenian comfort food, fair prices, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Established Ljubljana restaurant known for Slovenian and Mediterranean dishes, quality seafood, and a polished old-town atmosphere with a leafy courtyard.
Prices are moderate by Western European standards. Old Town dining costs more, but transit and casual meals stay reasonable.
Service is usually included. Round up small bills in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is appreciated for good service but not obligatory.
Official public transport app
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport -> Ljubljana Bus Station
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.

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