- Must visit
Moderna Museet Malmö
Branch of Sweden’s modern art museum in a converted power station, known for contemporary art exhibitions and a strong national profile.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Malmö
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$119
Fastest journey
10 h 57 m
Average duration
11 h 19 m
Trains per day
14
Distance
657 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Malmö is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Malmö will cost around $119 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Malmö without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 206 · ECE 1196 · ICL 50046 · R 11127:11 AM11h44Cologne Hbf6:55 PMMalmö Centralstation$731One-way3 transfers- 26835 · IC 2349 · 4446 · ECE 11988:49 PM16h36Cologne Hbf1:25 PMMalmö Centralstation$961One-way5 transfers
- ICE 920 · ECE 398 · R 10842:09 AM13h16Cologne Hbf3:25 PMMalmö Centralstation$981One-way2 transfers
- ICE 1028 · ECE 398 · R 10844:00 AM11h25Cologne Hbf3:25 PMMalmö Centralstation$981One-way2 transfers
- ICE 920 · ECE 396 · R 11002:09 AM15h16Cologne Hbf5:25 PMMalmö Centralstation$1101One-way2 transfers
- ICE 610 · ECE 392 · R 11622:11 PM10h57Cologne Hbf1:08 AMMalmö Centralstation$1541One-way2 transfers
- ICE 614 · ECE 394 · R 113210:11 AM11h14Cologne Hbf9:25 PMMalmö Centralstation$1341One-way2 transfers
- ICE 618 · ECE 396 · R 11006:11 AM11h14Cologne Hbf5:25 PMMalmö Centralstation$1101One-way2 transfers
- ICE 1028 · ECE 398 · R 10844:00 AM11h25Cologne Hbf3:25 PMMalmö Centralstation$981One-way2 transfers
- ICE 206 · ECE 1196 · ICL 50046 · R 11127:11 AM11h44Cologne Hbf6:55 PMMalmö Centralstation$731One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Malmö
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Malmö among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 9h 39m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $55, and a train costs an average of $179.
Distance: 408 miles (657 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$179 Average price | $82 Average price Cheapest | $267 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 9m Average total duration Fastest 9h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 1m Average total duration 15h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Malmö is a bus with an average price of $82 (€67).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Malmö:
A bus is $97 (€80) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Malmö costing on average $179 (€147).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Malmö is by train with an average journey time of 9h 39m.
Other travel options to Malmö take longer:
Bus takes on average 15h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Malmö including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Malmö 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 $179 (€147) compared to roughly $267 (€219) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $87 (€71). The journey takes 9h 39m versus 9h 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 Malmö train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Malmö trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 202 · RJ 382 · R 1148 | On time 11:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h14 | 11:25 PM Malmö Centralstation | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 612 · 11176 · IC 5764 · IC 70176 | On time 12:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 15h14 | 3:25 AM Malmö Centralstation | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 610 · ECE 392 · R 1168 | On time 2:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 12h14 | 2:25 AM Malmö Centralstation | 2 transfers | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| ICE 1028 · ECE 398 · R 1084 | On time 4:00 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h25 | 3:25 PM Malmö Centralstation | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1028 · ECE 396 · R 1100 | On time 4:00 AM Cologne Hbf | 13h25 | 5:25 PM Malmö Centralstation | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 208 · ECE 396 · R 1100 | On time 5:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h14 | 5:25 PM Malmö Centralstation | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 618 · ECE 396 · R 1100 | On time 6:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h14 | 5:25 PM Malmö Centralstation | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Malmö by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Malmö trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Malmö.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Malmö.
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) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Malmö.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Malmö.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Malmö.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Malmö
Germany
Sweden
Trains from Cologne to Malmö run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $179 (€147) but you can travel from only $55 (€45) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 408 miles (657 km) distance in 11h 59m.
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 $55 (€45)
Distance 408 miles (657 km) |
Average train duration 9h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $179 (€147) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 11h 59m |
First train 12:09 AM |
Last train 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $55 (€45)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Malmö trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Malmö from $55 (€45). 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 Duration
11h 59m
Cheapest Price
$179 (€147)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 37m
Cheapest Price
$150 (€123)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Malmö
Things to do in Malmö
Discover the best of Malmö — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Malmö trip today.
- Must visit
Malmö Museer
City museum complex covering local history, natural science, technology, and maritime heritage, spread across historic buildings near the castle.
- Must visit
Malmö Konsthall
One of Europe’s largest halls for contemporary art, admired for its light-filled architecture and changing international exhibitions.
- Must visit
Gamla Staden
Malmö’s old town area with cobbled streets, historic squares, and a compact mix of heritage buildings, shops, and walkable lanes.
- Must visit
Västra Hamnen
Redeveloped waterfront district known for contemporary architecture, promenades, sea views, and social-media-friendly photo spots.
- Must visit
Stortorget
Malmö’s main historic square, framed by landmark civic buildings and often used as a starting point for exploring the center.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Spettekaka
A traditional Scanian cake made by piping egg, sugar, and potato starch batter onto a rotating spit. It is a regional specialty strongly associated with Skåne.
Äggakaka
A thick Scanian egg pancake, richer and denser than ordinary pancakes, traditionally served with fried pork and lingonberries. It is one of Skåne’s best-known local dishes.
- Gluten-free
Sill
Pickled herring is a staple of southern Swedish food culture, commonly served at holidays and smörgåsbord meals with potatoes, sour cream, and herbs.
Lyran
A highly regarded Malmö restaurant with a refined, ingredient-driven menu and intimate atmosphere. Known for creative modern Nordic cooking.
Saltimporten Canteen
A respected waterfront lunch venue celebrated for simple, seasonal cooking and a minimalist Scandinavian atmosphere. A favorite among locals for high-quality midday meals.
Bastard
A well-known Malmö bistro with a lively atmosphere, focused on seasonal Nordic ingredients and robust flavors. Popular for quality cooking and a stylish but relaxed setting.
Swedish Krona
Malmö is costly for many visitors. Cards dominate, and restaurant and coffee prices are high by regional standards.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- SEK 100-140 for fast food or lunch.
- Mid-range
- SEK 180-320 per person.
- Fine dining
- SEK 700+ per person.
- Coffee
- SEK 35-50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated. Taxis can be rounded up.
Skånetrafiken
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 31 SEK
- Day pass
- 62 SEK
To the city center
Malmö Centralstation, Malmö -> Stortorget, Malmö
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- You can buy tickets in the Skånetrafiken app or at ticket machines; onboard purchase is limited, so buy before boarding when possible.
- Card payment is commonly accepted at ticket machines, but not all buses sell tickets onboard, so do not rely on paying the driver.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Malmö
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Malmö 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 Malmö, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Malmö can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $179 (€147), while the average price is around $179 (€147).
The train from Cologne to Malmö takes 11h 59m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Malmö is 408 miles (657 km).
The first train from Cologne to Malmö leaves at 12:09 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Malmö leaves at 11:35 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Malmö.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Malmö.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Malmö is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Malmö Centralstation.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Malmö is by bus, with a cost of around $55 (€45).
The train journey from Cologne to Malmö offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of northern Germany and southern Sweden, featuring lush countryside, charming towns, and coastal vistas.
A day trip from Cologne to Malmö is not feasible due to the travel duration of 11h 59m. The trip distance is 408 miles (657 km), and there are only 2 train trips per day.
In Malmö, you can explore Malmö Konsthall for contemporary art, relax at Ribersborg Beach with views of the Öresund Bridge, and enjoy Folkets Park's lively atmosphere with playgrounds and a small zoo. Discover multicultural vibes at Möllevångstorget, and marvel at the engineering of the Öresund Bridge. For sights, visit the iconic Turning Torso, explore the historic Malmö Castle and Malmöhus Slott, and unwind at Lilla Torg and Kungsparken.
For a well-rounded experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Malmö is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Malmö.
Since both Cologne and Malmö 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 Malmö include Copenhagen, Lund, Ystad, Trelleborg, Helsingborg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Malmö 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.
Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK) as its currency. It is generally better for travelers to use cards, as card payments are widely accepted across the country, including in most shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Cash is less commonly used but can be handy in smaller towns or for small purchases.
In Malmö, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging in taxis have also been reported. Staying vigilant in busy spots like the central train station and popular tourist sites helps reduce risks.
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 Malmö
Cologne
Malmö
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Malmö.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Malmö is Malmö Centralstation. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Malmö Centralstation for your journey to Malmö from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 09:15 - 17:15
Wifi
- The station WiFi is called "All Station Guests" and is free to use
Lockers
- There are storage lockers at the station that are locked digitally and opened with a code. Max storage time 7 days
Dining
- Bistro Royal
- Burger King
- Chao Oriental Express
- Espresso House
- O'Leary's
- Sliders & Shakes
- Woso Sushi
- Subway
- Sofra
- Spazio
- & many more
Accessibility
- Accessible entrances to the station are via the so-called Glashallen on the north side. Barrier-free toilets and handicapped parking spaces are available for a fee
Hotel
- Hotel Duxiana Malmo
- Moment Hotels
- Mayfair Hotel Tunneln
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 09:15 - 17:15
Public transit options for Malmö Centralstation
- Bus lines: 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 31, 32, 35
- Train lines: City Tunnel, Øresund Line, Southern Main Line, West Coast Line
More options for your journey from Cologne to Malmö
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Malmö and Cologne
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