The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Merano
Cheapest price
$284
Average price
$309
Fastest journey
9 h 15 m
Average duration
9 h 33 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
565 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Merano is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Merano will cost around $309 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $284.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Merano without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 1648 · ICE 573 · ICE 563 · RJ 876:53 AM11h22Cologne Hbf6:15 PMMerano/Meran$2841One-way4 transfers
ICE 1648 · ICE 573 · ICE 563 · RJ 876:53 AM11h16Cologne Hbf6:09 PMMerano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais$2841One-way4 transfers
ICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 224356:54 AM9h21Cologne Hbf4:15 PMMerano/Meran$3181One-way3 transfers
ICE 529 · RJ 87 · R 224398:45 AM9h24Cologne Messe/Deutz6:09 PMMerano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais$3181One-way2 transfers
ICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 224356:54 AM9h15Cologne Hbf4:09 PMMerano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais$3181One-way3 transfers
ICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 224356:54 AM9h15Cologne Hbf4:09 PMMerano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais$3181One-way3 transfers
ICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 224356:54 AM9h21Cologne Hbf4:15 PMMerano/Meran$3181One-way3 transfers
ICE 529 · RJ 87 · R 224398:45 AM9h24Cologne Messe/Deutz6:09 PMMerano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais$3181One-way2 transfers
ICE 529 · RJ 87 · R 224398:45 AM9h30Cologne Messe/Deutz6:15 PMMerano/Meran$3181One-way2 transfers
ICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 224397:54 AM10h15Cologne Hbf6:09 PMMerano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais$3181One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne to Merano
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Merano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, and a flight costs an average of $498.
Distance: 351 miles (565 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$161 Average price | $498 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $161 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 44m Average total duration 9h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 30m Average total duration Fastest 3h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 45m Average total duration 17h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Merano:
A bus is $90 (€73) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Merano costing on average $161 (€132).
A bus is $427 (€349) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Merano costing on average $498 (€408).
Other travel options to Merano take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 14m.
Bus takes on average 17h 15m.
Tickets start at around $161 (€132) compared to roughly $161 (€132) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-0.02 (€-0.02). The journey takes 9h 14m versus 9h 8m 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 Merano train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Merano trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1648 · ICE 573 · ICE 563 · RJ 87 | On time 6:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h22 | 6:15 PM Merano/Meran | 4 transfers | |
ICE 1648 · ICE 573 · ICE 563 · RJ 87 | On time 6:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h16 | 6:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais | 4 transfers | |
ICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 22435 | On time 6:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h21 | 4:15 PM Merano/Meran | 3 transfers | |
ICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 22435 | On time 6:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h15 | 4:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais | 3 transfers | |
ICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439 | On time 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h21 | 6:15 PM Merano/Meran | 2 transfers | |
ICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439 | On time 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h15 | 6:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais | 2 transfers | |
ICE 529 · RJ 87 · R 22439 | On time 8:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 9h24 | 6:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais | 2 transfers | |
ICE 529 · RJ 87 · R 22439 | On time 8:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 9h30 | 6:15 PM Merano/Meran | 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 Merano by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Jun 20
Jun 21
Jun 22
Jun 23
Jun 24
Jun 25
Jun 26
Why should you book Cologne to Merano trains with Omio?
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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Merano.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Merano.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Merano
Trains from Cologne to Merano run on average 11 times per day, taking around 9h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 (€57) but you can travel from only $51 (€42) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 19:50. The fastest train covers the 351 miles (565 km) distance in 9h 21m.
Distance 351 miles (565 km) |
Average train duration 9h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€57) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 9h 21m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 7:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Merano trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Merano from $51 (€42). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Merano
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Merano 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 Merano, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Merano
Most Cologne to Merano trains use the Köln Hbf to Merano Meran station pair, with some services arriving at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Merano train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Merano leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Which Merano station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Merano Meran from Merano city centre
Merano Meran train station facilities and services
Merano Meran has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Forst, Bistro 7
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Merano Meran. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Merano Meran. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Merano Meran: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Merano Meran: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Merano Meran: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Europa Splendid, Hotel Terme Merano, City Hotel Merano.
Getting to Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa from Merano city centre
Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa is 1 km from Merano city centre. Public transport options include:
Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa train station facilities and services
Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Merano
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