Cologne to Lyon train with TGV

Sun, Aug 30
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Eurostar
SNCF | TGV INOUI
TER
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2,000+ travel companies
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Eurostar
SNCF | TGV INOUI
TER
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lyon

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30

Cheapest price on Aug 30

$238

Average ticket price on Aug 30

$291

Fastest journey on Aug 30

7 h 12 m

Average journey duration on Aug 30

8 h 48 m

Trains on Aug 30

10

Distance

597 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Lyon will cost around $291 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $238.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Lyon without transferring at least once.

  • Eurostar9462+SNCF | TGV INOUI6633
    2:43 PM8h27
    Cologne Hbf
    11:10 PMLyon Part Dieu
    $2381One-way
    1 transfer
  • Eurostar9426+TER17775
    8:39 AM10h04
    Cologne Hbf
    6:43 PMLyon Part Dieu
    $2841One-way
    1 transfer
  • Eurostar9450+TER17779
    12:42 PM10h02
    Cologne Hbf
    10:44 PMLyon Part Dieu
    $2841One-way
    1 transfer
  • Eurostar9426+TER17777
    8:39 AM12h05
    Cologne Hbf
    8:44 PMLyon Part Dieu
    $2841One-way
    1 transfer
  • Eurostar9426+TER17779
    8:39 AM14h05
    Cologne Hbf
    10:44 PMLyon Part Dieu
    $2841One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Lyon

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Lyon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $70 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 40m. 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 $70, while a flight costs an average of $385.

Distance: 370 miles (597 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$179

Average price

$70

Average price

Cheapest

$385

Average price

$186

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 55m

Average total duration

6h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 45m

Average total duration

11h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 40m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 40m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

7h 58m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

1.8 - 3.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

TGV

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Lyon is a bus with an average price of $70 (€56).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Lyon:

A bus is $110 (€89) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Lyon costing on average $179 (€145).

A bus is $315 (€256) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Lyon costing on average $385 (€312).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Lyon is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 40m.

Other travel options to Lyon take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 25m.

Bus takes on average 11h 15m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Lyon including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Lyon among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1h 33m faster (6h 25m by train vs 7h 58m by car) and roughly $7 (€6) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($179 (€145) vs $186 (€151)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Lyon train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lyon trains for tomorrow, Sunday, August 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Eurostar9426+TER177758:39 AM Cologne Hbf
10h04
6:43 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9426+TER177778:39 AM Cologne Hbf
12h05
8:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9426+TER177798:39 AM Cologne Hbf
14h05
10:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9438+TER1777710:39 AM Cologne Hbf
10h05
8:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9438+TER1777910:39 AM Cologne Hbf
12h05
10:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9438+SNCF | TGV INOUI662310:39 AM Cologne Hbf
8h17
6:56 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9450+SNCF | TGV INOUI662712:42 PM Cologne Hbf
7h12
7:54 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9450+TER1777912:42 PM Cologne Hbf
10h02
10:44 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9450+SNCF | TGV INOUI663312:42 PM Cologne Hbf
10h28
11:10 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer
Eurostar9462+SNCF | TGV INOUI66332:43 PM Cologne Hbf
8h27
11:10 PM Lyon Part Dieu1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Lyon 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.

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Why should you book Cologne to Lyon trains with Omio?

TGV as well as Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI, TER and more offer trains services from Cologne to Lyon.
Omio is the only official third party seller for TGV tickets.

Why book with Omio vs TGV?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for TGV, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI or TER to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Lyon.
  • 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 TGV with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Lyon.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Lyon

GermanyGermany
FranceFrance
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Lyon run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $100 (€81) but you can travel from only $42 (€34) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 370 miles (597 km) distance in 6h 17m.

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 $42 (€34)
Distance
370 miles (597 km)
Average train duration
6h 25m
Cheapest ticket price
$100 (€81)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
6h 17m
First train
12:10 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
42 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 $42 (€34)

Train companies: TGV, Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI from Cologne to Lyon trainsTGV, Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Cologne and Lyon from $42 (€34). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

TGV

About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurostar Duration
5h 43m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$100 (€81)
Eurostar frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

SNCF | TGV INOUI

About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Lyon

Things to do in Lyon

Discover the best of Lyon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lyon trip today.

  • Must visit

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

Major fine arts museum in a former abbey, with strong collections from antiquity to modern art. A core cultural stop in Lyon.

  • Must visit

Musée Cinéma et Miniature

Museum of cinema miniatures and film props in Vieux Lyon. Popular for detailed sets, special-effects history, and family-friendly exhibits.

  • Must visit

Musée des Confluences

Excellent free natural history and ethnography museum with fossils, animals, and global cultures. A strong local favorite, especially for families.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while public transport is good value for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Lyon

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lyon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $100 (€81), while the average price is around $179 (€145).
The train from Cologne to Lyon takes 6h 17m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lyon is 370 miles (597 km).
The first train from Cologne to Lyon leaves at 12:10 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Lyon leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cologne to Lyon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Lyon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Lyon.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Lyon is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Lyon Part Dieu.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Lyon is by bus, with a cost of around $42 (€34).
The train journey from Cologne to Lyon offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the rolling hills and vineyards of eastern France.
A day trip from Cologne to Lyon is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 17m each way. Trains run 2 times per day.
In Lyon, you can explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an indoor market offering gourmet food, take a river cruise on the Rhône and Saône, and discover the secret passageways of the traboules in Vieux Lyon. Attend a performance at the Opéra de Lyon or visit the Institut Lumière for cinema history. Don't miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic views, Vieux Lyon for its Renaissance architecture, Parc de la Tête d'Or with its zoo and botanical garden, the Musée des Confluences, or the bustling Place Bellecour.
For a fulfilling experience in Lyon, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows you to explore key attractions such as Vieux Lyon, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the Musée des Confluences, while also enjoying the city's renowned gastronomy and vibrant cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lyon.
Since both Cologne and Lyon 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 Lyon include Annecy, Saint-Étienne, Avignon, Grenoble, Perouges.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Lyon 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Lyon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist spots, and markets. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Staying alert in busy zones ensures a safer visit.
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 Lyon

Most Cologne to Lyon trains use the Köln Hbf to Lyon Part Dieu station pair, with some services arriving at Lyon Saint-Exupéry TGV. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Lyon 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 Lyon

Which Cologne station do trains to Lyon leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Lyon 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, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · 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 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $4 · 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.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

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 and drink

Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

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