- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lyon
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$0.00
Average price
$249
Fastest journey
9 h 39 m
Average duration
14 h 50 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
396 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.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Lyon without transferring at least 3 times.
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10:19 AM9h39Koeln Hbf7:58 PMLyonFind prices3 transfers
6:44 PM20h00Köln Hbf2:44 PMLyon$4971One-way3 transfers
- 10:19 AM9h39Koeln Hbf7:58 PMLyonFind prices3 transfers
- 6:44 PM20h00Köln Hbf2:44 PMLyon$4971One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Lyon
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Lyon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $102.
Distance: 246 miles (396 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$180 Average price | $230 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $139 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 30m Average total duration 6h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 37m Average total duration Fastest 5h 37m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 24m Average total duration 8h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Lyon is a bus with an average price of $41.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Lyon:
A bus is $139 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Lyon costing on average $180.
A bus is $190 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Lyon costing on average $230.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Lyon is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 37m.
Other travel options to Lyon take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 0m.
Bus takes on average 8h 54m.
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. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $180 compared to roughly $139 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-40.96. The journey takes 6h 0m versus 5h 35m 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.
Live departures
Cologne to Lyon train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lyon trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:44 PM Köln Hbf | 20h00 | 2:44 PM Lyon | 3 transfers | |
| Tuesday, August 4 | |||||
| 10:19 AM Koeln Hbf | 9h39 | 7:58 PM Lyon | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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?
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) as well as Eurostar offer trains services from Cologne to Lyon.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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
Italy
France
Trains from Cologne to Lyon run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $180 but you can travel from only $36 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:50, the last at 16:08. The fastest train covers the 246 miles (396 km) distance in 6h 0m.
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 $36
Distance 246 miles (396 km) |
Average train duration 6h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $180 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 6h 0m |
First train 7:50 AM |
Last train 4:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $36
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar from Cologne to Lyon trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Lyon from $36. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
20h 0m
Cheapest Price
$497
Eurostar frequency
1 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 39m
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
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 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.
- Must visit
Vieux Lyon
Renaissance quarter with cobbled lanes, traboules, courtyards, and major monuments. Essential for atmosphere, history, and walking exploration.
- Must visit
Presqu'île
Central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône, packed with elegant streets, squares, shopping, and many of Lyon’s classic city views.
- Must visit
La Croix-Rousse
Historic silk-workers’ hill district with stairways, murals, markets, and hidden passageways. Great for local character and city panoramas.
Quenelles De Brochet
Pike dumplings in a rich crayfish sauce. A Lyon classic from traditional bouchons, prized for its delicate fish texture and luxurious sauce.
Salade Lyonnaise
Crisp salad of frisée, bacon lardons, croutons, and a poached egg. A staple Lyonnaise bistro dish that reflects the city's hearty cooking style.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cervelle De Canut
Slow-cooked onions with vinegar, often served warm or chilled. This old Lyonnais side dish is traditional in bouchons and pairs well with charcuterie.
L'Auberge Du Pont De Collonges
Refined dining by Paul Bocuse, known for polished French cuisine and iconic Lyon dishes in an elegant, historic dining room.
Le Musée
Well-known traditional bouchon in Vieux Lyon, praised for generous Lyonnais specialties and a lively old-city atmosphere.
Café Comptoir Abel
Historic bouchon near Place Bellecour serving quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and classic regional fare in a warm traditional setting.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lyon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $180, while the average price is around $180.
The train from Cologne to Lyon takes 6h 0m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lyon is 246 miles (396 km).
The first train from Cologne to Lyon leaves at 7:50 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Lyon leaves at 4:08 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 Milan Porta Garibaldi, which connects to Lyon Part Dieu.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Lyon is by bus, with a cost of around $36.
The train journey from Cologne to Lyon offers a mix of scenic views, including the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and charming small towns in the German countryside, transitioning into the diverse scenery of the French regions, adding a pleasant visual experience to your travels.
A day trip from Cologne to Lyon is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 0m with a frequency of 1 train per day and covers a distance of 246 miles (396 km).
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 Milano Porta Garibaldi to Lyon Part Dieu station pair. 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 Lyon station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Lyon arrive at Lyon Part Dieu. Lyon Part Dieu is 1 miles (2 km) from Lyon city centre.
Lyon Part Dieu5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France+33 184943635 
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon Part Dieu from Lyon city centre
Lyon Part Dieu is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX75 · 25m · $4 · every ~1 min
Lyon Part Dieu train station facilities and services
Lyon Part Dieu has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Alto Café, Paul, Paul The Café, Starbucks, Exki, Sushi Shop, Carrefour
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free unlimited WiFi. ATMs are located in the station's main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45, Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45, Sun: 06:45 - 21:45. Information desks are located in the station's main hall. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are available daily from 06:15 to 23:15. They are located near the station's reception desk. .
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon Part Dieu: Complimentary personalized care is available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon, Mercure Lyon Center, ibis Styles Lyon Center.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Lyon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lyon and Cologne
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