- Must visit
Musée d'arts de Nantes
Major fine arts museum with collections from Old Masters to contemporary works in a restored palace and modern extension.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Nantes
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$238
Average price
$287
Fastest journey
7 h 11 m
Average duration
7 h 42 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
744 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Nantes is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Nantes will cost around $287 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $238.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Nantes without transferring at least once.
9438+
882710:39 AM13h15Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$2381One-way1 transfer- 9438+1248710:39 AM12h15Cologne Hbf10:54 PMNantes station$2451One-way1 transfer
- 9438+893710:39 AM12h15Cologne Hbf10:54 PMNantes station$2561One-way1 transfer
- 9474+88274:43 PM7h11Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$2711One-way1 transfer
ICE 316+9838 · 52359:43 AM12h26Cologne Hbf10:09 PMNantes station$2731One-way2 transfers
- 9426+88758:39 AM7h11Cologne Hbf3:50 PMNantes station$3291One-way1 transfer
- 9474+88274:43 PM7h11Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$2711One-way1 transfer
- 9414+88076:39 AM7h41Cologne Hbf2:20 PMNantes station$3161One-way1 transfer
- 9426+88118:39 AM8h14Cologne Hbf4:53 PMNantes station$3291One-way1 transfer
- 9414+124716:39 AM8h15Cologne Hbf2:54 PMNantes station$3051One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Nantes
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Nantes among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 40m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $176.
Distance: 462 miles (744 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$213 Average price | $75 Average price Cheapest | $678 Average price | $247 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 3m Average total duration 6h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 0m Average total duration 13h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Nantes is a bus with an average price of $75 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Nantes:
A bus is $138 (€112) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Nantes costing on average $213 (€172).
A bus is $604 (€489) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Nantes costing on average $678 (€549).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Nantes is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 40m.
Other travel options to Nantes take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 33m.
Bus takes on average 13h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Nantes including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Nantes among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2h 57m faster (6h 33m by train vs 9h 30m by car) and roughly $34 (€28) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($213 (€172) vs $247 (€200)). 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 Nantes train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Nantes trains for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9426+ 8811 | 8:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h14 | 4:53 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 316+9836 · 7060 · 8751 | 9:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h42 | 9:25 PM Nantes station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 316+9838 · 5488 | 9:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h40 | 10:23 PM Nantes station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 316+9832 | 9:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h07 | 7:50 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1112+9832 | 10:40 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h10 | 7:50 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1112+9838 · 5488 | 10:40 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h43 | 10:23 PM Nantes station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1112+9836 · 7060 · 8751 | 10:40 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h45 | 9:25 PM Nantes station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 16+9838 · 5488 | 11:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h40 | 10:23 PM Nantes station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 16+9832 | 11:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h07 | 7:50 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 16+9836 · 7060 · 8751 | 11:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h42 | 9:25 PM Nantes station | 3 transfers | |
| 9450+9832 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h11 | 7:50 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, June 5 | |||||
| 9414+12471 | 6:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h15 | 2:54 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9414+8807 | 6:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h41 | 2:20 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9414+8921 | 6:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h15 | 2:54 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Nantes by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Nantes trains with Omio?
Eurostar as well as SNCF | TGV INOUI or TGV offer trains services from Cologne to Nantes.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Nantes.
Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurostar, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF | TGV INOUI or TGV to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Nantes.
- 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 Eurostar with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Nantes.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Nantes.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Nantes
Germany
France
Trains from Cologne to Nantes run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $112 (€91) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 462 miles (744 km) distance in 7h 11m.
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 $47 (€38)
Distance 462 miles (744 km) |
Average train duration 6h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $112 (€91) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 11m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 5 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $47 (€38)
Train companies: Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI, TGV from Cologne to Nantes trainsEurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI, TGV trains will get you between Cologne and Nantes from $47 (€38). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 33m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€91)
Eurostar frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Nantes
Things to do in Nantes
Discover the best of Nantes — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nantes trip today.
- Recommended
Jules Verne Museum
Museum dedicated to Nantes-born writer Jules Verne, with manuscripts, editions, models and exhibits on his imagination and voyages.
- Recommended
Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Nantes
Natural history museum known for zoology, geology and regional science collections, popular with families and curious visitors.
- Must visit
Île de Nantes
Former industrial island turned creative district, known for contemporary architecture, riverside walks and Machines de l'Île nearby.
- Must visit
Bouffay
Historic quarter with medieval street patterns, lively squares and many half-timbered buildings; ideal for wandering on foot.
- Must visit
Jardin des Plantes de Nantes
Large botanical garden by the station with themed plantings, greenhouses, ponds and whimsical installations.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Beurre Blanc
A classic sauce from the Nantes area made with butter, shallots, and white wine or vinegar, traditionally served with local river or Atlantic fish.
- Gluten-free
Sandre au Beurre Blanc
Pike-perch, a freshwater fish from the Loire region, commonly served with beurre blanc; it is one of the most emblematic traditional dishes around Nantes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Muscadet
The famous dry white wine produced near Nantes, especially valued with seafood, shellfish, and regional fish dishes.
L'Atlantide 1874 - Maison Guého
Well-known fine dining restaurant on the Loire with refined contemporary cuisine and a strong local reputation for elegant tasting menus.
Crêperie Heb-Ken
Popular crêperie serving Breton-style galettes and sweet crêpes in a casual setting, a good choice for western French comfort food.
Le Bouchon
Established traditional restaurant in central Nantes known for hearty French classics, regional specialties, and a warm bistro atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by French standards: groceries and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for sandwiches, kebabs, or simple lunch deals.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for an espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving EUR 1-2 in cafés is enough; 5-10% for excellent restaurant service is appreciated, not required.
Naolib Tram & Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.80 EUR
- Day pass
- 6.00 EUR
To the city center
Gare de Nantes -> Place du Commerce, Nantes
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- You can use the same 1-hour ticket on tram, Busway and bus with transfers within the validity period. Buy tickets in advance at machines, retail points or in the official app.
- On many Nantes buses and trams, bank card payment is available via contactless validators, but having the official app or a pre-bought ticket is still useful.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Nantes
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Nantes 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 Nantes, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Nantes can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $112 (€91), while the average price is around $213 (€172).
The train from Cologne to Nantes takes 7h 11m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Nantes leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Nantes is 462 miles (744 km).
The last train from Cologne to Nantes leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cologne to Nantes.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Nantes.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Nantes.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Nantes is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Nantes station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Nantes is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from Cologne to Nantes offers a mix of urban and pastoral landscapes, with views of the Rhine Valley, charming German towns, and the rolling countryside of northern France, making certain sections of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Cologne to Nantes is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 11m one way. There are 2 train trips available per day. The distance is 462 miles (744 km).
In Nantes, you can explore Les Machines de l'Île, featuring mechanical animals and rides inspired by Jules Verne, and visit the Musée d'Arts de Nantes to see European paintings and contemporary works. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Bouffay district with its restaurants and bars, or take a scenic cruise on the Erdre River. Reflect on history at the Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery. Don't miss the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Jardin des Plantes, Passage Pommeraye, and Île de Versailles for a mix of history, architecture, and tranquility.
Two to three days in Nantes is typically enough to explore its main attractions, such as the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Les Machines de l'Île, and the vibrant arts scene, while also enjoying the local cuisine and atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Nantes.
Since both Cologne and Nantes 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 Nantes include Rennes, Angers, Saint-Nazaire, La Rochelle, Le Mans.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Nantes 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Nantes, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Scams involving fake petitions or street performers asking for money can also occur. It is advisable to stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuables openly, and use official taxi services to ensure safety.
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 Nantes
Cologne
Nantes
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Nantes.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
The major train station for arrivals in Nantes is Gare de Nantes. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gare de Nantes for your journey to Nantes from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
15Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Boulevard de Stalingrad.
Dining
- Le Café de la Gare
- La Cigale
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.80
Hotel
- ibis Styles Nantes Centre Gare
- Mercure Nantes Centre Gare
- Hotel Astoria
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 120 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-10 for TGV and regional trains
- Hall 2: platforms 11-15 for local services
- Hall 3: tramway and bus connections
Public transit options for Gare de Nantes
- Tramway: Line 1
- Bus: Several lines available
- Navibus: River shuttle service
More options for your journey from Cologne to Nantes
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Nantes and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Nantes
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