- Must visit
Museen im Schloss Elisabethenburg
Main city museum inside Elisabethenburg Palace, presenting ducal history, music, theater, and regional culture in historic rooms.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Meiningen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$0.00
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$-0.01
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 2 m
Trains on Sep 20
8
Distance
247 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Meiningen 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 Meiningen without transferring at least 2 times.
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5:20 AM5h29Cologne10:49 AMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers- 7:45 AM5h04Cologne12:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 9:45 AM5h04Cologne2:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 11:45 AM5h04Cologne4:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 1:45 PM5h04Cologne6:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 6:45 PM4h55Cologne11:40 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 7:45 AM5h04Cologne12:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 9:45 AM5h04Cologne2:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 11:45 AM5h04Cologne4:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
- 1:45 PM5h04Cologne6:49 PMMeiningenFind prices2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Cologne to Meiningen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Meiningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $49 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, while a train costs an average of $99.
Distance: 153 miles (247 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$99 Average price | $49 Average price Cheapest | $59 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 44m Average total duration Fastest 4h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 57m Average total duration 10h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Meiningen is a bus with an average price of $49.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Meiningen:
A bus is $50 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Meiningen costing on average $99.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Meiningen is by train with an average journey time of 4h 14m.
Other travel options to Meiningen take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 27m.
Yes, you can take a train between Cologne and Meiningen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Meiningen 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 $99 compared to roughly $59 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-40.10. The journey takes 4h 14m versus 4h 2m 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 Meiningen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Meiningen trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:45 AM Cologne | 5h04 | 12:49 PM Meiningen | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
| 5:20 AM Cologne | 5h29 | 10:49 AM Meiningen | 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 Meiningen by train
Compare train 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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Sep 20
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Why should you book Cologne to Meiningen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Meiningen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Meiningen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Meiningen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Meiningen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $95 but you can travel from only $48 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:02, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 153 miles (247 km) distance in 3h 50m.
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 $48
Distance 153 miles (247 km) |
Average train duration 4h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $95 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 50m |
First train 5:02 AM |
Last train 10:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $48
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Meiningen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Meiningen from $48. 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
3h 50m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$95
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 Meiningen
Things to do in Meiningen
Discover the best of Meiningen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Meiningen trip today.
- Recommended
Theatermuseum Meiningen
Theater museum exploring the famous Meiningen court theater tradition, stage design, and performance history with original materials.
Jean-Paul-Museum
Literary memorial museum dedicated to novelist Jean Paul, focused on his life, works, and connection to Meiningen's cultural scene.
- Must visit
Englischer Garten
Large landscaped park with ponds, monuments, and walking paths. Ideal for a relaxed stroll close to major cultural sights.
- Must visit
Altstadt Meiningen
Old town area with walkable streets, restored facades, and compact historic charm. Best for getting a feel for Meiningen's urban character.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central market square framed by historic buildings, shops, and civic architecture. A practical starting point for exploring the old town.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Meiningen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Meiningen 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 Meiningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Meiningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $95, while the average price is around $99.
The train from Cologne to Meiningen takes 3h 50m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Meiningen leaves at 5:02 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Meiningen is 153 miles (247 km).
The last train from Cologne to Meiningen leaves at 10:26 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Meiningen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Meiningen.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Meiningen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Meiningen station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Meiningen is by bus, with a cost of around $48.
The train journey from Cologne to Meiningen offers scenic views, especially as it traverses through the picturesque landscapes of the Thuringian Forest, showcasing lush greenery and rolling hills, which are particularly captivating during the spring and autumn seasons.
A day trip from Cologne to Meiningen is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 50m one way. There are 15 trains per day.
In Meiningen, a stay of two to three days is generally sufficient to explore its key attractions, including the Meiningen Theatre, Elisabethenburg Palace, and the surrounding Thuringian Forest.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Meiningen.
Since both Cologne and Meiningen 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 Meiningen include Leipzig, Erfurt, Bad Salzungen, Schweinfurt, Würzburg.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Meiningen 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 Meiningen, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas and public transport, especially near train stations and popular tourist spots. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be cautious of distraction tactics used by scammers. Additionally, always use authorized taxi services and avoid unofficial offers to prevent overcharging or fraud. Overall, Meiningen is considered safe, but standard precautions help ensure a trouble-free 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 Meiningen
Most Cologne to Meiningen trains use the Köln Hbf to Meiningen station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Meiningen 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 Meiningen
Which Cologne station do trains to Meiningen leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Meiningen 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 · $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 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 · $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.
Which Meiningen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Meiningen arrive at Meiningen. Meiningen is 0 miles (1 km) from Meiningen city centre.
MeiningenMeiningen, Lindenallee 1, 98617 Meiningen
City-centre transport
Getting to Meiningen from Meiningen city centre
Bus10, 415, 412 · 4m · every ~3 min
Meiningen train station facilities and services
Meiningen 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: Goldener Zwinger, Schloss-Stuben, Zum Sonnegarten, Lava Java
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Meiningen. ATMs are available at Meiningen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Meiningen. Information desks are available at Meiningen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Meiningen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Meiningen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Meiningen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Meiningen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel an der Kapelle, Hotel Kaiserpark, Schlundhaus, Zum Sonnegarten.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Meiningen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Meiningen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Meiningen
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