- Recommended
Museum Minden
Minden's leading local history museum, covering archaeology, urban history, and regional culture in a well-presented central venue.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Minden
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 21
Cheapest price on Sep 21
$51
Average ticket price on Sep 21
$57
Fastest journey on Sep 21
2 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 21
2 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 21
3
Distance
203 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Minden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Minden will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.
Fast trains
On Mon, Sep 21, we found 3 trains from Cologne to Minden, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 21 the direct trains cover the 203 km distance in an average of 2 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Mon, Sep 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 23 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.
6:11 AM2h36Cologne8:47 AMMinden$511One-way0 transfers- 8:11 AM2h35Cologne10:46 AMMinden$591One-way0 transfers
- 7:07 PM3h23Cologne10:30 PMMinden$621One-way0 transfers
- 8:11 AM2h35Cologne10:46 AMMinden$591One-way0 transfers
- 6:11 AM2h36Cologne8:47 AMMinden$511One-way0 transfers
- 7:07 PM3h23Cologne10:30 PMMinden$621One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Cologne to Minden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Minden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $65 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 20m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, while a flight costs an average of $621.
Distance: 126 miles (203 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$68 Average price | $65 Average price Cheapest | $621 Average price | $42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 46m Average total duration 7h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration 2h 16m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Minden is a bus with an average price of $65.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Minden:
A bus is $3 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Minden costing on average $68.
A bus is $556 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Minden costing on average $621.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Minden is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Other travel options to Minden take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 50m.
Bus takes on average 7h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Minden including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Minden 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 $68 compared to roughly $42 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-25.65. The journey takes 2h 50m versus 2h 45m 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 Minden train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Minden trains for today, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:59 AM Cologne | 3h31 | 11:30 AM Minden | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 11:14 AM Cologne | 6h33 | 5:47 PM Minden | 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 Minden by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, 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.
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Sun
Sep 27
Sep 27
Why should you book Cologne to Minden trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Minden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Minden.
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 Minden.
- 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Minden.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Minden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Minden
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Minden run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 but you can travel from only $14 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 126 miles (203 km) distance in 2h 4m.
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 $14
Distance 126 miles (203 km) |
Average train duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 4m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $14
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Minden trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Minden from $14. 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
2h 4m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$18
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
Complete guide to Minden
Things to do in Minden
Discover the best of Minden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Minden trip today.
- Recommended
Schifffahrtsmuseum Minden
Museum at the canal crossing explaining locks, shipping, and water engineering. Ideal for understanding Minden's famous transport landmark.
- Recommended
Preußenmuseum Minden
Exhibition space focused on Prussian military history and Minden's fortress era, set in a historic defensive complex.
- Must visit
Altstadt Minden
The historic old town offers lanes, churches, and heritage architecture. Best for walking, photography, and discovering local character.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Minden's central square framed by historic buildings, markets, and the town hall. A natural starting point for exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Weserpromenade
Popular riverside promenade along the Weser with walking paths, views, and easy access to major engineering landmarks.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Schinken
Westphalian cured ham, air-dried and lightly smoked. A classic regional specialty, often served thinly sliced with dark bread or asparagus in season.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl Mit Mettwurst
Hearty kale stew cooked in the North German style, often with sausage or pork. A cold-season favorite across the Minden and wider Westphalia region.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Spargel
White asparagus from the regional asparagus belt, prized in spring. Commonly served with potatoes, Hollandaise, ham, or schnitzel.
Die Knolle
Elegant dining in Minden known for refined seasonal cuisine and polished service. Suitable for a higher-end meal in a calm atmosphere.
Potts Brauhaus Minden
Traditional brewery-style venue serving German classics and beer in a relaxed, rustic setting. Good for hearty local dishes.
Altes Gasthaus
Well-known restaurant near the cathedral area with classic German and regional dishes. Comfortable atmosphere for lunch or dinner.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in major cities, while local transit and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding about 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up for taxis and leave small change in cafes.
westfalenfahrplan
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Minden (Westf) -> Minden ZOB, Minden
- Distance
- 600 m
- Travel time
- 8 min
- On buses in Minden, buying in the app is usually easiest; check WestfalenTarif or the Westfalenfahrplan app before boarding.
- Card or contactless payment availability can vary by bus operator and sales channel, so confirm payment options in the app or before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Minden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Minden 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 Minden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Minden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18, while the average price is around $68.
The train from Cologne to Minden takes 2h 4m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Minden leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Minden is 126 miles (203 km).
The last train from Cologne to Minden leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Minden. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Minden.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Minden is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Minden (Westf).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Minden is by bus, with a cost of around $14.
The train journey from Cologne to Minden offers a mix of urban and countryside views, showcasing the scenic landscapes of North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony, with glimpses of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and charming German towns.
A day trip from Cologne to Minden is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 4m. However, there are 10 trains per day for this route.
To fully explore Minden, including its historical sites, local culture, and nearby attractions, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Minden.
Since both Cologne and Minden 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 Minden include Hanover, Dortmund, Bielefeld, Hamm, Bremen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Minden 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 Minden, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and at transportation hubs. It's advisable to watch out for scams involving unofficial taxi services or overpriced rides. Staying vigilant with personal belongings and using authorized transportation options helps ensure a safer 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 Minden
Most Cologne to Minden trains use the Köln Hbf to Minden(Westf) station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Minden 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 Minden
Which Cologne station do trains to Minden leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Minden 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/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
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.
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 Minden station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Minden most often arrive at Minden(Westf). Some services arrive at Porta Westfalica, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Minden arrival station.
Minden(Westf)Minden (Westf), Bundesbahnhof 12, 32423 Minden
City-centre transport
Getting to Minden(Westf) from Minden city centre
Minden(Westf) is 1 km from Minden city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus2004 · 3m · every ~1 min
510, 509, 10, 6 · 4m · every ~6 min
605 · 9m
Minden(Westf) train station facilities and services
Minden(Westf) 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: Canito, Diwan Lounge, E-Werk, Mr. Kebab
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Minden(Westf). ATMs are available at Minden(Westf).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Minden(Westf). Information desks are available at Minden(Westf).
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Minden(Westf). Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Minden(Westf): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Minden(Westf): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Minden(Westf).
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel "FairSchlafen", Hotel Kronprinz.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Minden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Minden and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Minden
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
