- Must visit
Schlossmuseum Ludwigsburg
Museum inside the palace with ceremonial rooms, apartments, and court history. Essential for understanding Ludwigsburg’s Baroque identity.
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Ludwigsburg
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€57
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€85
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 58 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
3 h 44 m
Trains on Sep 19
3
Distance
277 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Ludwigsburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Ludwigsburg will cost around €85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €57.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 trains from Cologne to Ludwigsburg, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 277 km distance in an average of 3 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 4 h 14 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.
7:58 AM2h58Cologne10:56 AMLudwigsburg€571One-way0 transfers- 9:53 AM3h59Cologne1:52 PMLudwigsburg€941One-way0 transfers
- 6:14 AM4h14Cologne10:28 AMLudwigsburg€1051One-way0 transfers
- 7:58 AM2h58Cologne10:56 AMLudwigsburg€571One-way0 transfers
- 9:53 AM3h59Cologne1:52 PMLudwigsburg€941One-way0 transfers
- 6:14 AM4h14Cologne10:28 AMLudwigsburg€1051One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Ludwigsburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Ludwigsburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €36 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €36, while a flight costs an average of €423.
Distance: 172 miles (277 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€98 Average price | €423 Average price | €36 Average price Cheapest | €51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration 1h 50m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 27m Average total duration 6h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Ludwigsburg is a bus with an average price of €36.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Ludwigsburg:
A bus is €62 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Ludwigsburg costing on average €98.
A bus is €387 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Ludwigsburg costing on average €423.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Ludwigsburg is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 50m.
Other travel options to Ludwigsburg take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 42m.
Bus takes on average 6h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Ludwigsburg including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Ludwigsburg among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 3m sooner (2h 42m by train vs 3h 45m by car). Tickets start at around €98 compared to roughly €51 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Ludwigsburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ludwigsburg trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:53 AM Cologne | 4h27 | 1:20 PM Ludwigsburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:58 AM Cologne | 2h58 | 11:56 AM Ludwigsburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Ludwigsburg 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Cologne to Ludwigsburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Cologne to Ludwigsburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Ludwigsburg.
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 Ludwigsburg.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Ludwigsburg.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Ludwigsburg.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Ludwigsburg
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Ludwigsburg run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €62 but you can travel from only €24 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:37, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (277 km) distance in 2h 11m.
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 €24
Distance 172 miles (277 km) |
Average train duration 2h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price €62 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 11m |
First train 12:37 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 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 €24
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Ludwigsburg trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Ludwigsburg from €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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€62
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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.
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.
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.
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
Complete guide to Ludwigsburg
Things to do in Ludwigsburg
Discover the best of Ludwigsburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ludwigsburg trip today.
- Recommended
Keramikmuseum Ludwigsburg
Compact ceramics museum in the palace complex, highlighting local craftsmanship and decorative arts tied to the region’s design heritage.
- Recommended
Modemuseum Ludwigsburg
Fashion museum in Schloss Favorite displaying historical garments and courtly style. A distinctive niche collection in a beautifully preserved setting.
- Must visit
Marktplatz Ludwigsburg
Grand central square framed by churches and arcades. It is the best place to experience Ludwigsburg’s formal Baroque urban design.
- Recommended
Schlossplatz Ludwigsburg
Palace-facing square used for events and city views. It offers broad perspectives of the residence and the ordered geometry of the old town.
- Recommended
Schlossallee
Green palace avenue lined with trees and formal vistas. Ideal for a short walk connecting the residence area with the wider city fabric.
Maultaschen
Maultaschen are Swabian filled pasta pockets, usually stuffed with meat, spinach, bread, and herbs. They are a regional classic widely loved in Ludwigsburg.
Linsen mit Spätzle
Linsen mit Spätzle pairs hearty lentils with soft egg noodles, often served with sausages. It is one of the best-known traditional Swabian comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Käsespätzle
Käsespätzle are Swabian egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with onions. This comforting dish is a staple across Württemberg.
Gutsschenke Schlosshotel Monrepos
Refined restaurant in Schlosshotel Monrepos known for polished regional cuisine and an elegant lakeside estate atmosphere.
Parkbrauerei Ludwigsburg
Traditional brewery restaurant serving Swabian classics and house beer in a historic, lively setting near the palace area.
Zum Urigen
Well-known casual venue for Swabian dishes, local wines, and hearty portions in a cozy traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are cheaper than Munich, but above small-town averages. Transit is reasonable; central stays and upscale dining raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10%. For taxis, round up the fare. In cafes, round up small amounts or leave about €1.
VVS Mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- €6.70
To the city center
Ludwigsburg Station -> Ludwigsburg Marktplatz
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the VVS Mobil app or from ticket machines before boarding; buses generally do not sell all ticket types.
- Contactless card payment is commonly available at VVS ticket machines, but onboard payment options can vary by bus operator.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Ludwigsburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Ludwigsburg 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 Ludwigsburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Ludwigsburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €62, while the average price is around €98.
The train from Cologne to Ludwigsburg takes 2h 11m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Ludwigsburg is 172 miles (277 km).
The first train from Cologne to Ludwigsburg leaves at 12:37 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Ludwigsburg leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Ludwigsburg.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Ludwigsburg.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Ludwigsburg is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Ludwigsburg station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Ludwigsburg is by bus, with a cost of around €24.
The train journey from Cologne to Ludwigsburg offers scenic views, particularly of the Rhine River landscapes and rolling vineyards, providing a picturesque experience through the German countryside.
A day trip from Cologne to Ludwigsburg is not feasible due to the travel time of 2h 11m. However, there are 7 train trips available per day for this route.
To fully experience Ludwigsburg, including its Baroque architecture, the Ludwigsburg Palace, and the Blooming Baroque gardens, plan for a 2 to 3-day visit.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Ludwigsburg.
Since both Cologne and Ludwigsburg 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 Ludwigsburg include Frankfurt am Main, Strasbourg, Karlsruhe, Memmingen, Heidelberg.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Ludwigsburg 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Ludwigsburg, 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’s advisable to use licensed taxis. Overall, Ludwigsburg is considered safe, but standard precautions such as keeping belongings secure and staying aware of surroundings are recommended.
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 Ludwigsburg
Most Cologne to Ludwigsburg trains use the Köln Hbf to Ludwigsburg station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Ludwigsburg 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 Ludwigsburg
Which Cologne station do trains to Ludwigsburg leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Ludwigsburg 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, Germany
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 · €7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · €5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · €5 · 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 Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
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 · €3 · 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.
Which Ludwigsburg station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Ludwigsburg arrive at Ludwigsburg. Ludwigsburg is 0 miles (1 km) from Ludwigsburg city centre.
LudwigsburgLudwigsburg, Bahnhofstr.10, 71638 Ludwigsburg
City-centre transport
Getting to Ludwigsburg from Ludwigsburg city centre
BusN43, N41, 533, 444, 443, 433, 433A, 431, 430, 430A, 427, 427A, 426, 425, 425A, 424, 422, 422A, 421, 421A · 3m · €3 · every ~73 min
Ludwigsburg train station facilities and services
Ludwigsburg 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: Burger King, Ludwigsburger Brauhaus, Sofra, Burgertime
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ludwigsburg. ATMs are available at Ludwigsburg.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ludwigsburg. Information desks are available at Ludwigsburg.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ludwigsburg. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ludwigsburg: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ludwigsburg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ludwigsburg.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Komfort Hotel, Nestor Hotel, Best Western Favorit, City Oase Lb.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Ludwigsburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ludwigsburg and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Ludwigsburg
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
