The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Munich
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$180
Fastest journey
4 h 13 m
Average duration
4 h 16 m
Trains per day
40
Distance
456 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Munich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Munich will cost around $180 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Of the 40 trains that leave Cologne for Munich on Fri, Nov 21, 18 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 21 the direct trains cover the 456 km distance in an average of 4 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 13 m .
On Fri, Nov 21 the slowest trains will take 4 h 17 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.
ICE 619
ICE 827 · RE 4009
ICE 205 · ICE 695
RE 10925 · RE 28527 · IC 2546 · ICE 615
ICE 203 · ICE 693
ICE 225
ICE 1013
ICE 915
ICE 913
ICE 1011Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Munich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Munich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €21, and a flight costs an average of €110.
Distance: 283 miles (456 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€120 Average price | €47 Average price Cheapest | €198 Average price |
5h 21m Average total duration 4h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 42m Average total duration 7h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Munich train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Munich trains for today, Thursday, November 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 2501 · ICE 911 | On time 3:23 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h05 | 8:28 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 521 · ICE 271 · ICE 991 | On time 3:23 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h55 | 8:18 AM Munich Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 521 · ICE 911 | On time 3:23 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h05 | 8:28 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2511 | On time 4:51 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h35 | 9:26 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 511 | On time 4:51 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h35 | 9:26 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 101 · ICE 591 | On time 5:49 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h24 | 10:13 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 913 | On time 6:10 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h16 | 10:26 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 513 | On time 6:51 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h35 | 11:26 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 11 · ICE 571 · ICE 563 | On time 7:13 AM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 4h36 | 11:49 AM Munich Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 103 · ICE 593 | On time 7:55 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h18 | 12:13 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915 | On time 8:10 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h16 | 12:26 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 515 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h33 | 1:26 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 13 · ICE 573 · ICE 565 | On time 9:12 AM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 4h37 | 1:49 PM Munich Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 105 · ICE 595 | On time 9:47 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h27 | 2:14 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RE 10911 · IC 2013 · ICE 597 | On time 10:07 AM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 6h09 | 4:16 PM Munich Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 225 | On time 10:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h13 | 2:27 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 517 | On time 10:51 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h35 | 3:26 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
RE 10913 · RE 28515 · IC 2540 · ICE 519 | On time 11:07 AM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 6h19 | 5:26 PM Munich Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 107 · ICE 597 | On time 11:50 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h26 | 4:16 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RE 10917 · IC 5106 · IC 2542 · ICE 611 | On time 1:07 PM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 6h22 | 7:29 PM Munich Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 315 · ICE 577 · ICE 569 | On time 1:13 PM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 4h36 | 5:49 PM Munich Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1011 | On time 2:10 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h17 | 6:27 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
RE 10921 · RE 28523 · IC 2544 · ICE 613 | On time 3:16 PM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 6h10 | 9:26 PM Munich Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 201 · ICE 691 | On time 3:50 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h23 | 8:13 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1013 | On time 4:10 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h16 | 8:26 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 613 | 4:52 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h34 | 9:26 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
RE 10925 · RE 28527 · IC 2546 · ICE 615 | On time 5:07 PM Cologne-Ehrenfeld | 6h19 | 11:26 PM Munich Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 203 · ICE 693 | On time 5:49 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h24 | 10:13 PM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1015 | On time 6:10 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h29 | 10:39 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 615 | 6:51 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h35 | 11:26 PM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 619 | 10:57 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h06 | 5:03 AM Munich Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, November 21 | |||||
ICE 2507 · RE 4009 | On time 2:17 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h37 | 7:54 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 827 · RE 4009 | 2:17 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h37 | 7:54 AM Munich Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Munich by train, bus, or flight
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Munich

Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Munich
Trains from Cologne to Munich run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 283 miles (456 km) distance in 4h 18m.
Distance 283 miles (456 km) |
Average train duration 4h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 4h 18m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Munich trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Munich from $26 (€21). 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.
Traveling by train from Cologne to Munich
The train connection between Cologne and Munich offers a convenient and efficient way to travel across Germany. With several options available, you can choose from providers such as Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, and TGV. The journey typically takes around 4-5 hours, allowing you to relax while enjoying the scenic views of the German countryside along the route. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, these trains provide comfortable seating and various amenities to enhance your travel experience.
Train Connection: Cologne to Munich
Traveling from Cologne to Munich takes approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes. There are about 25 connections available each day, with direct trains offered for this route. The departure stations include Köln Messe/Deutz, Köln/Bonn Flughafen, and Köln Hbf, while the arrival stations are München Ost, München Hbf, and München-Pasing.
Cologne to Munich Train Connection
The first daily train from Cologne to Munich departs at 06:17, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of Germany. The last journey of the day leaves at 21:55, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their evening in either city before heading back.
Train Tickets Price for Cologne to Munich
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Cologne and Munich is €48. The average ticket price tends to be around €124, making it a good idea to book in advance or look out for special offers if you're planning your trip.
Exploring the Heart of Munich: Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and Englischer Garten
Welcome to Marienplatz, the heart of Munich! This historic square has been a central gathering place since the 12th century and is home to the iconic Glockenspiel, which delights visitors daily with its enchanting mechanical show. As you stand here surrounded by stunning Gothic architecture, take a moment to appreciate how this vibrant plaza embodies both Munich's rich history and its lively modern culture.
Next on our journey is Nymphenburg Palace, an opulent Baroque masterpiece that served as the summer residence for Bavarian royalty. Built in the 17th century, this sprawling palace complex features beautifully landscaped gardens and exquisite rooms adorned with intricate frescoes that tell tales of grandeur and elegance. Don't miss exploring its unique museums within—each offering fascinating insights into royal life through art collections and historical artifacts.
Finally, we arrive at Englischer Garten—a breathtaking urban park that's larger than New York's Central Park! Established in 1789 as a public space for relaxation and recreation, it boasts picturesque walking paths along serene waterways where locals enjoy picnics or paddleboarding. Be sure to visit one of its traditional beer gardens; it's not just about nature but also experiencing authentic Bavarian hospitality amidst lush greenery!
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Munich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Munich 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 Munich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Munich
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
- Monday: 07:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Tuesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Wednesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Thursday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Friday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Zum Piccolo
- Kolpinghaus
- Pizzeria Marco Polo
- Grill Stube
- Pension Europa
- Hotel Geisler
- The niu Mill
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- Subway
- Ganesha
- Magnus
- Borsalino
- Hotel Chelsea
- Hotel Mado
- Elite Hotel
- Blacksheep Hostel
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
- Haus Wester
- Couchsnacks
- Secco
- Bistro Lotus
- Ganesha
- Flandrischer Hof
- Lasthaus am Ring
- The Ascot Hotel
- Lindner Hotel City Plaza Cologne
- Kolpinghaus
- Pizzeria Marco Polo
- Burger King
- Localino
- Hotel Geisler
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
- Haus Wester
- Zur alten Post
- Piccolo Capriccio
- Brauhaus Dellbrück
- Al Capriccio
- Ihr Hotel Garni Köln
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- Yilmaz
- Bistro im Park
- Restaurant Fernandes
- Orient Palais Restaurants & Catering
- Hanoi46
- Aida
- Vasco da Gama
- Alforat Grill & Pizza
- Kreta Grill
- Haus Hesemann
- Pizzorro
- Restaurant
- Sushi World
- Al Capone
- Kraus
- Vitalis Grill
- West End Hotel
- Stammhaus
- Hofcafé Gut Clarenhof
- GolfCity Bistro
- McDonald's
- Wartesaal am Dom
- Alte Feuerwache
- Al Andalus
- A&O Köln Dom
- City Pension Storch II
- Azimut Hotel
- First Domizil
- Pizza Paradies
- Sushi Bar GAN-MI
- Potato and More
- Im Rauchfang
- Garten Hotel Ponick
- Hotel Osteria Centovini
- Goethe
- Brauhaus Eltzhof
- Cafe Wanda
- East Time
- Olymp
- Telekebab-pizza
- Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes.
- The station has luggage lockers.
- Cantina Estación Mediterrano
- Rischart Bakery
- Ditsch Pretzels
- backWERK
- Cafe-Shop
- Le Crobag
- Yorma's
- Coffee Fellows
- Dunkin Donuts
- McDonald's
- & many more
- Accessibility equipment, elevators, & mobility service. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- a&o München Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel München
- Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
- There is an information desk located on the main concourse near the food court.
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Haidhauser Augustiner
- Burger King
- Tassilogarten
- Mitani
- Hilton Munich City
- MOMA1890
- Mk Hotel
- Hotel Pension Christl
- Augustiner Bräustuben
- Peaches
- Subway
- Café Arnulfpark
- Hahn
- Citadines Arnulfpark
- Ibis München City Arnulfpark
- Novotel München City Arnulfpark
- Augustiner Bräustuben
- Lenz
- Das Bad
- Subway
- Theresienhöhe
- Hotel Schweiz
- Hotel Uhland
- Germania
- Ratskeller
- Speiserei Volksbad
- Klenze 17
- Trachtenvogl Café-Lounge
- Novotel München City
- Hilton Munich City
- Living Hotel am Deutschen Museum
- Unsöld's Factory Hotel
- Zum Brünnstein
- Satyam
- Tout oder Sie
- Ristorante il Padrino
- Holiday Inn Munich - Leuchtenbergring
- Holiday Inn München City Ost
- Holiday Inn Express München City Ost
- Hyperion
- Ratskeller
- Klenze 17
- Trachtenvogl Café-Lounge
- Burger King
- Unsöld's Factory Hotel
- Hotel Domus
- Hotel Mercure München Altstadt
- Hotel Herzog Wilhelm Tannenbaum Nebengebäude
- Asam-Schlössl
- L’Incontro Ristorante Pizzeria
- Santorini
- Cooking Yu Restaurant
- GS Hotel
- Life Style
- Harem
- Ristorante-Pizzeria Papà Franco
- Alte Mühle
- Edi's Cafe-Bar
- La Capannina
- Tre Scalini
- Antica Tropea
- Croatia Grill
- Monday: 06:45 - 18:15
- Tuesday: 06:45 - 18:15
- Wednesday: 06:45 - 18:15
- Thursday: 06:45 - 18:15
- Friday: 06:45 - 18:15
- Saturday: 07:30 - 14:15
- Sunday: 08:00 - 13:45
- Bella Italia
- Hot Wok
- Dillinger Chicago Bar'n Grill
- Osteria Il Gambero
- Moosbichl
- Leonardo Hotel
- Harry's home Hotel
- BonApartHotel
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Burger King
- McDonald's
- Hunsinger in der Goldenen Gans
- Orexi Taverna
- Guenstigwohnen24.de
- Jagdschloss Residenz
- Hotel Miano
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