- Must visit
Valkhof Museum
The city’s main museum, known for Roman archaeology, old masters, and modern art. It is the best place to understand Nijmegen’s ancient roots and cultural history.
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$61
Fastest journey
1 h 58 m
Average duration
1 h 58 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
127 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Nijmegen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Nijmegen will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Nijmegen without transferring at least once.
IC 5107 · IC 3139+
20016
ICE 124 · IC 3055
ICE 122 · IC 3063
ICE 126 · IC 3047
ICE 220 · IC 3031
ICE 124 · IC 3055
ICE 122 · IC 3063
ICE 126 · IC 3047
ICE 128 · IC 3039
ICE 220 · IC 3031Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Nijmegen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 18m. 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 $14, and a train costs an average of $25.
Distance: 78 miles (127 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$56 Average price | $25 Average price Cheapest | $35 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 52m Average total duration 3h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 57m 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 Nijmegen:
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Nijmegen costing on average $56 (€45).
Other travel options to Nijmegen take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 22m.
Tickets start at around $56 (€45) compared to roughly $35 (€28) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-21.43 (€-17.39). The journey takes 2h 18m versus 1h 57m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Nijmegen trains for today, Friday, June 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 60402 · IC 3121 | Delayed 4:44 AM 5:47 AMCologne Hbf | 2h15 | 8:02 AM Nijmegen station | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 13 | |||||
ICE 220 · IC 3031 | On time 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h58 | 10:47 AM Nijmegen station | 1 transfer | |
IC 5107+ 20016+ IC 3139 | 9:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 12:32 PM Nijmegen station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 128 · IC 3039 | On time 10:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h58 | 12:47 PM Nijmegen station | 1 transfer | |
26817+ 20020+ IC 3147 | 11:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 2:32 PM Nijmegen station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 126 · IC 3047 | On time 12:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h58 | 2:47 PM Nijmegen station | 1 transfer | |
26821+ 20024+ IC 3155 | 1:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h42 | 4:32 PM Nijmegen station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 124 · IC 3055 | On time 2:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h58 | 4:47 PM Nijmegen station | 1 transfer | |
26825+ 20028+ IC 3163 | 3:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 6:32 PM Nijmegen station | 2 transfers | |
ICE 122 · IC 3063 | On time 4:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 1h58 | 6:47 PM Nijmegen station | 1 transfer | |
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 Nijmegen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) but you can travel from only $14 (€11) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 22:33. The fastest train covers the 78 miles (127 km) distance in 1h 57m.
Distance 78 miles (127 km) |
Average train duration 2h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 1h 57m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 10:33 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 days |
Discover the best of Nijmegen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nijmegen trip today.
The city’s main museum, known for Roman archaeology, old masters, and modern art. It is the best place to understand Nijmegen’s ancient roots and cultural history.
An unusual museum experience focused on seeing and navigating the world with visual impairment. Visits are guided and widely regarded as memorable and educational.
A nature and cultural history center built around the old city defenses by the river. It combines local history, the Waal landscape, and family-friendly exhibitions.
The city’s best-known park, combining river views, ruins, historic chapels, and green walking paths. It is one of Nijmegen’s essential outdoor stops.
Claimed as the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands, this atmospheric lane is filled with historic buildings, independent shops, and strong local character.
The river promenade along the Waal, popular for walks, views, and photos of the bridge and passing ships. It is especially lively around sunset.
Dutch apple pie with a thick spiced filling and buttery crust, commonly served in cafés across Nijmegen. It is a classic local treat with coffee.
Small deep-fried ragout balls, usually filled with beef and eaten with mustard. A staple Dutch bar snack often shared with drinks.
Large Dutch pancakes served sweet or savory. They are a long-standing family favorite in the Netherlands and widely enjoyed around Nijmegen.
Highly regarded fine dining restaurant known for innovative vegetable-led cuisine and a refined tasting menu experience.
Established restaurant blending Southeast Asian flavors with fine dining technique. Stylish and creative, it is one of the city's better-known upscale options.
Well-known Nijmegen brewery and restaurant in a historic setting, popular for house beers and hearty Dutch-European dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Prices are moderate by Dutch standards. Supermarkets and casual cafes are reasonable, while hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up small taxi fares; no tip is expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Nijmegen Centraal, Nijmegen -> Grote Markt, Nijmegen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Nijmegen 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 Nijmegen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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