- Must visit
Pinacoteca di Brera
One of Italy’s top art museums, featuring masterpieces by Mantegna, Bellini, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Piero della Francesca.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Milan
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$9
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$9
Fastest journey on Sep 18
1 h 19 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
1 h 19 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
60 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Milan is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Milan will cost around $9 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Milan, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 60 km distance in an average of 1 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 19 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 1 h 19 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
1:40 PM1h19Cologne2:59 PMMilan$91One-way0 transfers- 2:40 PM1h19Cologne3:59 PMMilan$91One-way0 transfers
- 2:40 PM1h19Cologne3:59 PMMilan$91One-way0 transfers
- 1:40 PM1h19Cologne2:59 PMMilan$91One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Milan
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Milan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $10 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 36m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $10, while a bus costs an average of $135.
Distance: 37 miles (60 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$10 Average price Cheapest | $135 Average price | $176 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 36m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 55m Average total duration 1h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 8m 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 Milan is a train with an average price of $10.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Milan:
A train is $125 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cologne to Milan costing on average $135.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Milan is by train with an average journey time of 1h 6m.
Other travel options to Milan take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Milan including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Milan among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2m faster (1h 6m by train vs 1h 8m by car) and roughly $166 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($10 vs $176). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Milan train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Milan trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:40 PM Cologne | 1h19 | 2:59 PM Milan | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:40 PM Cologne | 1h19 | 3:59 PM Milan | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Milan 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
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Sep 22
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Sep 24
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Milan
ItalyItaly
Trains from Cologne to Milan run on average 45 times per day, taking around 1h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 37 miles (60 km) distance in 52m.
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
Distance 37 miles (60 km) |
Average train duration 1h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 |
Trains per day 45 |
Fastest train 52m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 11:41 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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
Train companies: Regionale, Italo, Frecciarossa from Cologne to Milan trainsRegionale, Italo, Frecciarossa trains will get you between Cologne and Milan from $4. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regionale Duration
52m
Cheapest Regionale Price
$9
Regionale frequency
43 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Italo
About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Italo Duration
59m
Cheapest Italo Price
$4
Italo frequency
30 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Frecciarossa
About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Frecciarossa Duration
59m
Cheapest Frecciarossa Price
$16
Frecciarossa frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Milan
Things to do in Milan
Discover the best of Milan — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milan trip today.
- Must visit
Fondazione Prada
This contemporary art museum near Porta Romana presents rotating exhibitions in a striking former industrial distillery complex.
- Must visit
Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci
Italy’s leading science museum is set in a former monastery and features Leonardo galleries, trains, aircraft, and a submarine.
- Must visit
Piazza del Duomo
Milan’s central square frames the cathedral and major civic buildings, making it the city’s essential meeting point and photo stop.
- Must visit
Brera
This artistic district offers charming lanes, Brera atmosphere, boutiques, and easy access to galleries and evening strolls.
- Must visit
Parco Sempione
A large landscaped park behind the castle, perfect for walks, skyline views, and reaching landmarks like the Arch of Peace.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Alla Milanese
Saffron risotto cooked with butter, stock and cheese. It is Milan's signature dish, linked to the city's love of rich northern Italian rice cookery.
Cotoletta Alla Milanese
Breaded veal cutlet fried in butter until golden. A classic Milanese main, prized for its simple preparation and long-standing local tradition.
- Gluten-free
Ossobuco
Slow-braised veal shanks with vegetables, wine and broth, often finished with gremolata. A hearty Lombard specialty commonly paired with risotto.
Enrico Bartolini Al Mudec
Three-Michelin-star fine dining by Enrico Bartolini in MUDEC. Expect refined Italian tasting menus in a polished contemporary setting.
Ristorante Savini
Historic Milanese restaurant near the Duomo, famous for risotto and cotoletta. Traditional, elegant rooms and a strong local culinary identity.
Antica Trattoria Della Pesa
Long-running local favorite for classic Milanese cuisine, especially risotto and ossobuco. Warm, old-school atmosphere in the Brera area.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe. Hotels and central dining can be pricey, but transit is affordable and budget meals, aperitivo deals, and local cafes help keep daily costs reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Service may be included. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for good restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.
ATM Milano Official App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.20
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city center
Milan Centrale -> Piazza del Duomo
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless bank cards work on ATM metro gates and on many buses and trams with tap-in validators.
- The €2.20 ticket is valid for 90 min on ATM urban network, including metro, buses, and trams within Milan fare zones.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Milan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Milan 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 Milan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Milan can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4, while the average price is around $10.
The train from Cologne to Milan takes 52m and runs 45 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Milan is 37 miles (60 km).
The first train from Cologne to Milan leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Milan leaves at 11:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Milan.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Milan.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Milan.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Milan is Cologne station, which connects to Milano Lambrate.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Milan is by train, with a cost of around $4.
The train journey from Cologne to Milan is quite scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley, picturesque German countryside, and the stunning Swiss Alps as you cross into Italy.
A day trip from Cologne to Milan is not feasible as the journey duration is 52m. However, there are 48 train trips available per day.
In Milan, you can visit the iconic Duomo di Milano for its stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic views, explore Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and stroll through the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its luxury boutiques. Discover the grand Sforza Castle, which houses various museums and art collections, and relax in the serene Sempione Park near the city center.
To fully experience Milan's key attractions, including the Duomo, The Last Supper, and shopping in the fashion district, plan for around 3 to 4 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Milan.
Since both Cologne and Milan 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 Milan include Como, Varenna, Turin, Bergamo, Genoa.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Milan 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 Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
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 Milan, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation, popular tourist sites, and busy shopping streets such as Corso Buenos Aires. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets or phones, and fake charity collectors near landmarks. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and to confirm fares beforehand. Staying alert and securing valuables can help ensure a safe 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 Milan
Most Cologne to Milan trains use the Cologne to Milano Centrale station pair, with some services arriving at Milano Lambrate. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Milan 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 Milan
Which Cologne station do trains to Milan leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Milan leave from Cologne. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at 25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy.
Cologne25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Cologne from Cologne city centre
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Cologne train station facilities and services
Cologne has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cologne.
Which Milan station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Milan most often arrive at Milano Centrale. Some services arrive at Milano Lambrate, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Milan arrival station.
Milano CentralePiazza Duca d'Aosta, 1, 20124 Milan, Italy+39 892021
City-centre transport
Getting to Milano Centrale from Milan city centre
Milano Centrale is 2 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe51 · 11m · $2 · every ~5 min
BusNm3 · 9m · $2 · every ~1 min
60 · 31m · $2 · every ~10 min
Tram9 · 27m · $2 · every ~16 min
Subway3 · 11m · $2 · every ~25 min
Milano Centrale train station facilities and services
Milano Centrale 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: Venchi, Panzera Coffee, Burger King, Bar Motta, Caffè Napoli, VyTA Boulangerie, Spontini, Starbucks, Dispensa Emilia, McDonald's, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi in the station. ATMs are there are ATMs in various locations around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:50 - 22:20. Information desks are located next to the ticket office on the ground floor in the shopping gallery.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is provided by KiPoint and located on the ground floor, on the side of Piazza Luigi di Savoia. It is open every day from 06:00 to 23:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milano Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milano Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Centrale: Station is wheelchair accessible, has elevators and the Sala Blu, Trenitalia's office of assistance for disabled travelers, is next to Platform 4.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Glam Hotel Milano, NYX MIlan, iQ Hotel Milano.
Milano LambratePiazza Enrico Bottini, 20131 Milan, Italy+39 02 7740 4318
City-centre transport
Getting to Milano Lambrate from Milan city centre
Milano Lambrate is 4 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1, S5, R34, Re2, R6, Re6, Re13 · 9m · $2 · every ~3 min
S9 · 17m · $2 · every ~4 min
BusNm2 · 26m · $2 · every ~1 min
Tram19 · 21m · $2 · every ~13 min
19 · 38m · $2 · every ~12 min
Subway2 · 17m · $2 · every ~30 min
Milano Lambrate train station facilities and services
Milano Lambrate 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: Ristorante Pizzeria Il Girasole, Osteria Lambrate
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Milano Lambrate. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Milano Lambrate. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milano Lambrate: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milano Lambrate: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Lambrate: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include MEININGER Milano Lambrate, Hotel Gamma, Hotel Lugano.
Milano Greco PirelliVia Roberto Cozzi, 20126 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Milano Greco Pirelli from Milan city centre
Milano Greco Pirelli is 5 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS11, S8, R14, S7, S9, R13 · 7m · $2 · every ~14 min
Re13, R38 · 22m · $2 · every ~3 min
BusBus · 45m
Milano Greco Pirelli train station facilities and services
Milano Greco Pirelli has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Greco, Osteria della Stazione
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Milano Greco Pirelli. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Milano Greco Pirelli. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milano Greco Pirelli: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milano Greco Pirelli: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Greco Pirelli.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Greco, Hotel Gala, Novotel Milano Nord Ca Granda.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Milan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Milan and Cologne
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