- Must visit
LWL-Museum für Kunst und Kultur
Leading regional art museum with medieval to contemporary works, including major Westphalian collections. A core stop for art and history in Münster.
Cheapest price
$13
Average price
$45
Fastest journey
1 h 40 m
Average duration
1 h 41 m
Trains per day
70
Distance
124 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Münster is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Münster will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.
Of the 70 trains that leave Cologne for Münster on Sat, Jul 18, 28 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 18 the direct trains cover the 124 km distance in an average of 1 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .
On Sat, Jul 18 the slowest trains will take 1 h 42 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 512 · 14744
ICE 512 · 52360
FlixTrain
ICE 618 · 14708
FlixTrain
ICE 1036
ICE 1032
IC 2204
IC 2202
IC 2200Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Münster among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $8.
Distance: 77 miles (124 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$25 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $28 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 21m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 59m Average total duration 2h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Münster:
A bus is $13 (€11) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Münster costing on average $25 (€21).
Other travel options to Münster take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 29m.
The journey is about 8m faster (1h 51m by train vs 1h 59m by car) and roughly $2 (€2) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($25 (€21) vs $28 (€23)). 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Münster trains for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 200 · 52332 | 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 3:16 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 · 14724 | 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 3:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 | 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 2:54 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
17418 | 1:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 3:22 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2200 · 14892 | On time 1:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h55 | 3:41 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
IC 2200 · 52334 | On time 1:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 3:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
IC 2200 | On time 1:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h42 | 3:28 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 610 · 14728 | 2:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 4:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 610 · 52336 | 2:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 4:16 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 610 | 2:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 3:54 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
17420 · 14894 | 2:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h20 | 4:41 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
17420 · 52338 | 2:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h17 | 4:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
17420 | 2:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 4:22 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
28520 · 10223 · 14727 | 2:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h25 | 4:56 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 2 transfers | |
28520 · 10223 | 2:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h04 | 4:35 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 3:01 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h45 | 4:46 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 108 · 14730 | On time 3:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 5:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 108 · 52340 | On time 3:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 5:16 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 108 | On time 3:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 4:54 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2008 · 14896 | 3:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h55 | 5:41 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
IC 2008 · 52342 | 3:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 5:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 518 · 52344 | On time 4:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 6:16 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 518 · 14732 | On time 4:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 6:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
17424 · 52346 | 4:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h17 | 6:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
17424 · 14898 | 4:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h20 | 6:41 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
28524 · 10227 · 14731 | 4:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h25 | 6:56 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 2 transfers | |
ICE 106 · 14734 | On time 5:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 7:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 106 · 52348 | On time 5:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 7:16 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
IC 2006 · 52350 | 5:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 7:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 516 · 14736 | On time 6:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 8:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
17428 · 52352 | 6:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h17 | 8:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 104 · 14738 | On time 7:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 9:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
17430 · 52354 | 7:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h17 | 9:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 514 · 14740 | On time 8:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 10:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 514+ 90300 | On time 8:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h04 | 10:15 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 620 · 89950 · 52356 | 8:17 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2h21 | 10:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 2 transfers | |
28532 · 10235 · 14742 | 8:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 11:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 2 transfers | |
28532 · 10235+ 90302 | 8:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h44 | 11:15 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 2 transfers | |
ICE 512 · 14744 | On time 10:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 12:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
28536 · 10239 · 14746 | 10:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 1:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1028 · 14700 | On time 4:00 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h14 | 6:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2214 · 14704 | 5:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h00 | 7:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 618 · 14708 | 6:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h13 | 8:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
17404 · 52312 | 6:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h17 | 8:38 AM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 206 · 14710 | 7:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 9:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
17406 | 7:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 9:22 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 2310 | On time 7:40 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h44 | 9:24 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2206 · 52316 | 7:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 9:38 AM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
IC 2206 | 7:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h42 | 9:28 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2306 | On time 8:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h51 | 9:52 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 616 | 8:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 9:54 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 616 · 14712 | 8:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 10:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
17408 | 8:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 10:22 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1036 | 8:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h40 | 10:25 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1036 · 52318 | 8:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h53 | 10:38 AM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 9:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h45 | 10:46 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 204 · 14714 | 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 11:14 AM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 204 | 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 10:54 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
17410 | 9:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 11:22 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2204 · 52320 | 9:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 11:38 AM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
IC 2204 | 9:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h42 | 11:28 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 614 · 14716 | 10:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 12:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 614 | 10:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 11:54 AM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
17412 · 52322 | 10:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h17 | 12:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
17412 | 10:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 12:22 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
28512 · 10215 | 10:31 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h04 | 12:35 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 202 · 14720 | On time 11:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 1:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 202 | On time 11:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 12:54 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
17414 | 11:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 1:22 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2202 · 52326 | 11:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 1:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
IC 2202 | 11:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h42 | 1:28 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 612 · 14722 | 12:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 2:14 PM Münster-Mecklenbeck | 1 transfer | |
ICE 612 | 12:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h43 | 1:54 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
17416 | 12:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 2:22 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1032 · 52330 | 12:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h53 | 2:38 PM Münster-Zentrum Nord | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1032 | 12:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h40 | 2:25 PM Münster (Westf) Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Cologne to Münster run on average 26 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 77 miles (124 km) distance in 1h 41m.
Distance 77 miles (124 km) |
Average train duration 1h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€7) |
Trains per day 26 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 1h 41m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 days |
Discover the best of Münster — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Münster trip today.
Leading regional art museum with medieval to contemporary works, including major Westphalian collections. A core stop for art and history in Münster.
Museum dedicated to Pablo Picasso and 20th-century graphic art. It is Germany’s only Picasso museum and a highlight for modern art fans.
Important natural history museum known for biodiversity, climate, and planetarium offerings. Excellent for families and science-minded visitors.
Münster’s arcaded historic market street is lined with gabled houses and key monuments. It is the classic place to walk, sightsee, and absorb the city center.
Tree-lined ring on former fortifications encircling the old town. Perfect for walking or cycling and one of the best ways to experience Münster locally.
Large lake and leisure area near the old town, popular for strolling, boating, and sunset views. A favorite local escape with broad open scenery.
Westphalian rye bread baked very dark and dense. It is a regional staple, traditionally served with ham, cheese, or buttered toppings.
A hearty Münsterland stew of green beans, potatoes, pears, bacon, and often mutton or beef. It reflects the region’s rural farmhouse cooking.
A traditional Münsterland meat ragout, usually made from veal or beef offal in a creamy sauce. It is an old tavern dish linked to local home cooking.
Refined fine dining in the historic center, known for creative modern cuisine, polished service, and an elegant setting.
Well-known upscale restaurant in a historic building, offering seasonal German cuisine with a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
Historic brewery restaurant by the Prinzipalmarkt serving traditional German and Westphalian dishes with house beer in a lively setting.
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transport is reasonable, and student demand can raise central accommodation costs.
Service is usually included. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafés if service was good.
Official public transport app
Münster (Westf) Hbf -> Prinzipalmarkt, Münster
The train connection between Cologne and Münster is well-served by reliable providers such as Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain. With frequent services throughout the day, travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey that typically takes around 1 hour. Whether you're heading to Münster for its historic architecture or exploring Cologne's vibrant culture, these trains offer an efficient way to travel between the two cities.
Traveling from Cologne to Münster takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. There are a total of 16 connections available each day, all of which are direct services. Passengers can depart from Köln Hbf or Köln Messe/Deutz and arrive at either Münster-Hiltrup or Münster(Westf) Hbf.
The first daily train from Cologne to Münster departs at 06:22, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the charming city of Münster. The last journey of the day leaves at 20:49, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Cologne and Münster is €7. The average ticket price typically hovers around €16, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant German cities.
St. Paul's Cathedral, or St.-Paulus-Dom, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 13th century and serves as the spiritual heart of Münster. Its magnificent dome rises majestically above the city skyline, symbolizing resilience after being heavily damaged during World War II; today it stands as a testament to both faith and artistry. As you explore its intricately designed interiors adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, you'll discover how this cathedral has been a center for community gatherings and significant events throughout history.
The Prinzipalmarkt is not just an architectural marvel but also the vibrant social hub of Münster since medieval times, where merchants once traded goods in bustling market stalls. The picturesque gabled houses lining this historic square reflect Renaissance influences while housing charming shops and cafes that invite visitors to soak up local culture. Here at Prinzipalmarkt, you can truly feel the pulse of Münster's rich heritage come alive through lively street performances and seasonal markets.
Münster Castle (Schloss Münster) boasts an impressive Baroque design completed in 1787 which originally served as a residence for princes-bishops before becoming part of Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität’s campus. This grand structure features beautifully landscaped gardens perfect for leisurely strolls while offering insights into noble life centuries ago—each room tells stories from its storied past filled with intrigue and power struggles. Don't miss out on exploring its museum exhibits showcasing art collections that highlight both regional history and cultural significance within Germany!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Münster 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 Münster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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