- Must visit
Musée d'histoire de Nantes
Major city-history museum inside the ducal castle. Strong multimedia displays explain Nantes from medieval power to port history.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Nantes
Showing times and prices for Jul 21
Cheapest price
$184
Average price
$184
Fastest journey
8 h 41 m
Average duration
8 h 41 m
Trains per day
1
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 $184 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $184.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Nantes without transferring at least once.
9474+
88273:13 PM8h41Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$1841One-way1 transfer
- 9474+88273:13 PM8h41Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$1841One-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 $46. 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 $46, and a flight costs an average of $173.
Distance: 462 miles (744 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$209 Average price | $73 Average price Cheapest | $667 Average price | $243 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) |
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 $73 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Nantes:
A bus is $136 (€112) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Nantes costing on average $209 (€172).
A bus is $594 (€489) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Nantes costing on average $667 (€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 ($209 (€172) vs $243 (€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 tomorrow, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9474+8827 | 3:13 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h41 | 11:54 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 $111 (€91) but you can travel from only $46 (€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 $46 (€38)
Distance 462 miles (744 km) |
Average train duration 6h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $111 (€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 $46 (€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 $46 (€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
$111 (€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.
- Must visit
Musée d'arts de Nantes
Important fine arts museum with old masters, modern works and a striking contemporary extension. One of western France’s best.
- Must visit
Mémorial de l'Abolition de l'Esclavage
Fascinating memorial museum beneath the quay recounting the transatlantic slave trade and abolition with powerful documentation.
- Must visit
Les Machines de l'Île Area
Creative riverside site with giant mechanical creatures, terraces and industrial heritage. One of Nantes’s most memorable walking areas.
- Must visit
Jardin des Plantes
Large central garden with botanical collections, greenhouses, sculptures and shaded paths. Ideal for a calm break near the station.
- Must visit
Quartier du Bouffay
Historic pedestrian quarter of half-timbered houses, small lanes and lively squares. Best area for wandering old Nantes on foot.
- Vegetarian
Gâteau Nantais
Butter cake from Nantes flavored with dark rum and almond. A 19th-century local classic linked to the port's trade history.
- Vegetarian
Petit Beurre LU
Crisp butter biscuits from Nantes, created in the late 19th century. A famous local snack often eaten with coffee or tea.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Muscadet
Muscadet white wine from vineyards near Nantes. Dry, light, and famously paired with Atlantic seafood and local shellfish.
Les Cadets
Established fine dining restaurant serving seasonal French cuisine with a modern touch in an intimate, elegant room.
La Mare aux Oiseaux
Michelin-starred restaurant by Éric Guérin, offering refined creative cuisine in a polished, destination-style dining experience.
Le Loup, Le Renard et la Galette
Well-known Nantes crêperie specializing in Breton galettes and sweet crêpes in a relaxed, central setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France: trams are affordable, casual meals are fair, but hotels and central dining can cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; small change is fine in cafes.
Naolib
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.80
- Day pass
- €6.50
To the city center
Gare de Nantes -> Place du Commerce, Nantes
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- You can tap a contactless bank card on trams, buses, and Busway to buy a 1-hour ticket at the same price as a standard single fare.
- Validate your ticket or card at each boarding, even when changing lines within the ticket's validity period.
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 $111 (€91), while the average price is around $209 (€172).
The train from Cologne to Nantes takes 7h 11m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Nantes is 462 miles (744 km).
The first train from Cologne to Nantes leaves at 12:20 AM.
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 $46 (€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
Most Cologne to Nantes trains use the Köln Hbf to Gare de Nantes station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Nantes 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 Nantes
Which Cologne station do trains to Nantes leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Nantes 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 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 Nantes station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Nantes arrive at Gare de Nantes. Gare de Nantes is 0 miles (1 km) from Nantes city centre.
Gare de Nantes27 Boulevard de Stalingrad, 44041 Nantes, France+33 892 35 35 35
City-centre transport
Getting to Gare de Nantes from Nantes city centre
BusC2, C3, C8 · 4m · $2 · every ~31 min
Gare de Nantes train station facilities and services
Gare de Nantes 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: Le Café de la Gare, La Cigale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gare de Nantes. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gare de Nantes. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gare de Nantes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gare de Nantes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gare de Nantes: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include ibis Styles Nantes Centre Gare, Mercure Nantes Centre Gare, Hotel Astoria.
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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