Cologne to Merano train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Tue, Nov 03
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Merano

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
Cheapest price on Nov 03
$176
Average ticket price on Nov 03
$188
Fastest journey on Nov 03
9 h 16 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03
10 h
Trains on Nov 03
10
Distance
565 km
Cheap tickets

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 $188 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $176.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Merano without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2348 · ICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJ 89 · R 22443
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2348 · ICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
    3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Merano

GermanyGermany
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Merano run on average 10 times per day, taking around 9h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 but you can travel from only $50 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 8h 38m.

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 $50

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance351 miles (565 km)
  • Average train duration9h 25m
  • Cheapest ticket price$57
  • Trains per day10
  • Fastest train8h 38m
  • First train6:00 AM
  • Last train7:50 PM
  • Cheapest MonthFeb
  • Cheapest DayWed
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Best time to book1 day

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $50

Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Merano trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Merano.

Train ticket prices from Cologne to Merano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57, while the average price is around $196.
The train from Cologne to Merano takes 8h 38m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Merano leaves at 6:00 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Merano is 351 miles (565 km).
The last train from Cologne to Merano leaves at 7:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Merano.

Live departures

Cologne to Merano train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Merano trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2348 · ICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
11h22
6:15 PM Merano/Meran
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2348 · ICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
11h16
6:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 22435
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
9h22
4:15 PM Merano/Meran
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 101 · ICE 591 · RJ 85 · R 22435
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
9h16
4:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
10h15
6:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · RJ 87 · R 22439
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
10h21
6:15 PM Merano/Meran
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJ 89 · R 22443
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
11h22
8:15 PM Merano/Meran
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJ 89 · R 22443
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
11h16
8:09 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593+Bayerische Regiobahn79071+Deutsche BahnRJX 19976
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
10h45
7:39 PM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
5 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593+Bayerische Regiobahn79071+Deutsche BahnRJX 19976
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
10h50
7:44 PM Merano/Meran
5 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cologne to Merano trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Merano.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Merano.

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.

Train companies

Train companies from Cologne to Merano

Trains from Cologne to Merano with Deutsche Bahn. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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
8h 38m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$57
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Merano

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Merano.
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.

Complete guide to Merano

Things to do in Merano

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

  • Must visit

Palais Mamming Museum

Merano's main city museum presents local history, art, and everyday culture in a refined palace in the historic center.

  • Must visit

Touriseum

Touriseum explores Alpine tourism history through engaging displays inside Trauttmansdorff Castle above Merano.

  • Recommended

Castello Principesco

Well-preserved 15th-century residence with period interiors and weapons, offering a vivid look at noble life in historic Merano.

Euro (€)

Moderate for northern Italy: stays and dining run above smaller towns, but buses are affordable and many cafes and trattorias are reasonably priced.

Average meal costs

Budget
€10-15 for pizza, panini, or fast lunch.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares. Small change is enough in cafes.

Plan your visit to Merano

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Merano.

Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Merano is scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and mountainous landscapes as it passes through the picturesque regions of Germany and into the Italian Alps.
Popular day trips by train from Merano include Bolzano, Trento, Brixen, Sterzing-Vipiteno, Rovereto.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Merano, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as markets and public transport. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares can occur, so it’s advisable to use official taxi services or pre-book transportation. Additionally, travelers should remain cautious when exchanging currency and avoid unofficial exchange offices to prevent fraud. Overall, Merano is considered safe, but staying vigilant in busy locations helps ensure a smooth 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.

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.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Merano.

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.

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Merano

Which Cologne station do trains to Merano leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Merano 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 · $3 · 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.

Train stations for Cologne to Merano

Check train stations information for Cologne and Merano, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Cologne that goes to Merano is Köln Hbf, which connects to Merano Meran.

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