Cologne to Oberstdorf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sun, Sep 20
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Oberstdorf

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$81

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$140

Fastest journey on Sep 20

5 h 26 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

6 h 56 m

Trains on Sep 20

6

Distance

461 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Oberstdorf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne to Oberstdorf will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.

Fast trains

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 6 trains from Cologne to Oberstdorf, including 6 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 461 km distance in an average of 6 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 26 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 7 h 53 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:28 AM7h44
    Cologne
    5:12 PMOberstdorf
    $811One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:54 AM5h26
    Cologne
    1:20 PMOberstdorf
    $1091One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:53 AM7h19
    Cologne
    5:12 PMOberstdorf
    $1271One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:31 AM6h19
    Cologne
    1:50 PMOberstdorf
    $1421One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:19 AM7h53
    Cologne
    4:12 PMOberstdorf
    $1891One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, flight, and bus for Cologne to Oberstdorf

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Oberstdorf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $67 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 26m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $67, while a flight costs an average of $349.

Distance: 286 miles (461 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$127

Average price

$349

Average price

$67

Average price

Cheapest

$105

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 15m

Average total duration

5h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 26m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

12h 10m

Average total duration

11h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.4 - 2.8kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Oberstdorf is a bus with an average price of $67.

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Oberstdorf:

A bus is $60 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Oberstdorf costing on average $127.

A bus is $283 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Oberstdorf costing on average $349.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Oberstdorf is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 26m.

Other travel options to Oberstdorf take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 45m.

Bus takes on average 11h 40m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Oberstdorf including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Oberstdorf among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 25m sooner (5h 45m by train vs 6h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $127 compared to roughly $105 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Oberstdorf train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Oberstdorf trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2348 · ICE 563 · 3699
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h27
2:20 PM Oberstdorf station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2511 · ICE 591 · 3695
On time
6:55 AM Cologne Hbf
5h26
12:21 PM Oberstdorf station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · 3699
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h26
2:20 PM Oberstdorf station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · 3983
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h28
4:21 PM Oberstdorf station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2513 · ICE 593 · 3699
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h26
2:20 PM Oberstdorf station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · 3983
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h27
4:21 PM Oberstdorf station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · 3985
On time
9:55 AM Cologne Hbf
7h31
5:26 PM Oberstdorf station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2013 · ICE 597 · 3987
On time
10:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h29
6:22 PM Oberstdorf station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2515 · ICE 595 · 3983
On time
10:54 AM Cologne Hbf
5h27
4:21 PM Oberstdorf station
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Oberstdorf by train, flight, or bus

Compare train, flight, 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Cologne to Oberstdorf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Oberstdorf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Oberstdorf.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Oberstdorf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Oberstdorf.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Oberstdorf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Oberstdorf run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:33, the last at 23:22. The fastest train covers the 286 miles (461 km) distance in 4h 55m.

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
Distance
286 miles (461 km)
Average train duration
5h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$33
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
4h 55m
First train
4:33 AM
Last train
11:22 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
1 day
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Oberstdorf trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Oberstdorf from $33. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
4h 55m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$33
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Oberstdorf

Things to do in Oberstdorf

Discover the best of Oberstdorf — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oberstdorf trip today.

  • Recommended

Heimatmuseum Oberstdorf

Local history museum on village life, skiing, crafts, and customs, offering the clearest introduction to Oberstdorf's heritage.

  • Recommended

Skiflugschanze Ausstellung

Ski flying museum and exhibition area at Heini-Klopfer-Skiflugschanze explaining records, athletes, and engineering of the giant hill.

  • Recommended

Breitachklamm Besucherzentrum

Exhibition space at the gorge visitor area presenting geology, water power, and the natural history of the Breitachklamm.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Alpine Germany; stays and dining cost more in peak season, while local buses and basic meals remain fairly manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-15 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€45-80 per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Round taxi fares up, and leave small change at cafes if service was good.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Oberstdorf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Oberstdorf 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 Oberstdorf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Oberstdorf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33, while the average price is around $127.
The train from Cologne to Oberstdorf takes 4h 55m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Oberstdorf is 286 miles (461 km).
The first train from Cologne to Oberstdorf leaves at 4:33 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Oberstdorf leaves at 11:22 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Oberstdorf. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Oberstdorf.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Oberstdorf is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Oberstdorf station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Oberstdorf is by train, with a cost of around $33.
The train journey from Cologne to Oberstdorf is considered scenic, offering picturesque views of the rolling hills, charming villages, and the majestic landscapes of the Bavarian Alps as you approach Oberstdorf.
A day trip from Cologne to Oberstdorf is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 55m. There are 9 trains per day covering a distance of 286 miles (461 km).
To fully enjoy Oberstdorf, spending 3 to 4 days is ideal, allowing ample time to explore hiking trails, visit the Nebelhorn, and enjoy local attractions like the Erdinger Arena.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Oberstdorf.
Since both Cologne and Oberstdorf 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 Oberstdorf include Memmingen, Kempten, Ulm, Sonthofen, Lindau (Bodensee).
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Oberstdorf 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Oberstdorf, travelers should be mindful of common safety concerns such as slippery paths during winter and the risk of altitude sickness when hiking. Petty scams are rare, but it’s advisable to use official transportation and ticket vendors to avoid overcharging. Always keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas and be cautious with unlicensed taxi services.
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 Oberstdorf

Most Cologne to Oberstdorf trains use the Köln Hbf to Oberstdorf Bahnhof station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Oberstdorf 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 Oberstdorf

Which Cologne station do trains to Oberstdorf leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Oberstdorf 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, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

Köln SüdKöln Süd, Otto-Fischer-Str. 2, 50674 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Süd from Cologne city centre

Köln Süd is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus978 · 7m · every ~5 min
Subway9 · 9m · $2 · every ~12 min

Köln Süd train station facilities and services

Köln Süd 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: Subway, Ganesha, Magnus, Borsalino

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Süd. ATMs are available at Köln Süd.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Süd. Information desks are available at Köln Süd.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Süd.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Chelsea, Hotel Mado, Elite Hotel, Blacksheep Hostel.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone