- 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, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 20
Cheapest price on Oct 20
$210
Average ticket price on Oct 20
$261
Fastest journey on Oct 20
6 h 41 m
Average journey duration on Oct 20
7 h 24 m
Trains on Oct 20
10
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 $261 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $210.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Nantes without transferring at least once.
9474+
88274:43 PM7h11Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$2101One-way1 transfer- 9426+88758:37 AM7h10Cologne Hbf3:47 PMNantes station$2241One-way1 transfer
- 9426+88118:37 AM8h16Cologne Hbf4:53 PMNantes station$2241One-way1 transfer
- 9426+88798:37 AM9h17Cologne Hbf5:54 PMNantes station$2301One-way1 transfer
- 9450+882712:39 PM11h15Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$2411One-way1 transfer
- 9450+881712:39 PM6h41Cologne Hbf7:20 PMNantes station$2851One-way1 transfer
- 9426+88758:37 AM7h10Cologne Hbf3:47 PMNantes station$2241One-way1 transfer
- 9474+88274:43 PM7h11Cologne Hbf11:54 PMNantes station$2101One-way1 transfer
- 9414+88076:39 AM7h41Cologne Hbf2:20 PMNantes station$2971One-way1 transfer
- 9414+89216:39 AM8h15Cologne Hbf2:54 PMNantes station$2921One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Nantes
Germany
France
Trains from Cologne to Nantes run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 462 miles (744 km) distance in 5h 21m.
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
Flight from $22 (€18)
Distance 462 miles (744 km) |
Average train duration 5h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 5h 21m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 21 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
Flight from $22 (€18)
Live departures
Cologne to Nantes train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Nantes trains for today, Monday, October 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9474+8827 | 4:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h11 | 11:54 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, October 20 | |||||
| 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 | |
| 9414+8875 | 6:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h08 | 3:47 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9426+8879 | 8:37 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h17 | 5:54 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9426+8811 | 8:37 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h16 | 4:53 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9426+8875 | 8:37 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h10 | 3:47 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9450+8817 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h41 | 7:20 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9450+8985 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h15 | 8:54 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
| 9450+8827 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 11h15 | 11:54 PM Nantes station | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Nantes trains with Omio?
Eurostar as well as SNCF | TGV INOUI or Deutsche Bahn 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 Deutsche Bahn 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, Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF | TGV INOUI or Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Nantes.
- 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.
Train companies: Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Nantes trainsEurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Deutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Nantes from $22 (€18). 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 Eurostar Duration
5h 21m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$39 (€32)
Eurostar frequency
8 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
Average SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
5h 49m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
$29 (€24)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
6 a day
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
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
7h 1m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$70 (€58)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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 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 $29 (€24), while the average price is around $64 (€53).
The train from Cologne to Nantes takes 5h 21m and runs 9 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.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Nantes.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Nantes is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Nantes station.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Nantes.
Popular day trips by train from Nantes include Rennes, Angers, Saint-Nazaire, La Rochelle, Le Mans.
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.
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 · $3 · 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
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