The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Paderborn
Cheapest price
$38
Average price
$70
Fastest journey
3 h 4 m
Average duration
3 h 5 m
Trains per day
18
Distance
153 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Paderborn is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Paderborn will cost around $70 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Paderborn without transferring at least once.
FlixTrain+
FlixBus4:14 PM8h01Cologne Hbf12:15 AMPaderborn, Maspernplatz-West$381One-way1 transfer
ICE 1012 · 90331 · 9202110:36 AM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz1:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 1010 · 90335 · 9202512:36 PM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz3:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 918 · 90339 · 920292:36 PM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz5:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 916 · 90343 · 921534:36 PM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz7:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 1012 · 90331 · 9202110:36 AM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz1:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 1010 · 90335 · 9202512:36 PM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz3:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 918 · 90339 · 920292:36 PM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz5:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 916 · 90343 · 921534:36 PM3h04Cologne Messe/Deutz7:40 PMPaderborn Hbf$581One-way2 transfers
ICE 847+
750359:26 AM3h11Cologne Hbf12:37 PMPaderborn Hbf$851One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Paderborn
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Paderborn among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 1m. 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 $28, and a train costs an average of $26.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$41 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $34 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 32m Average total duration 3h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 31m Average total duration Fastest 2h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Paderborn:
A bus is $4 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Paderborn costing on average $41 (€33).
Other travel options to Paderborn take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 2m.
Tickets start at around $41 (€33) compared to roughly $34 (€27) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-7.49 (€-6.06). The journey takes 3h 2m versus 2h 20m 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.
Live departures
Cologne to Paderborn train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Paderborn trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 545+ 75031 | On time 8:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h12 | 11:37 AM Paderborn Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 847+ 75035 | On time 9:26 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h11 | 12:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 547+ 75039 | On time 10:24 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h13 | 1:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1012 · 90331 · 92021 | On time 10:36 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h04 | 1:40 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 202 · IC 2049+ 75045 | On time 11:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h26 | 2:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 849 · 90333 · 92023 | On time 11:28 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h12 | 2:40 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 549+ 75051 | On time 12:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h11 | 3:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1010 · 90335 · 92025 | On time 12:36 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h04 | 3:40 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 200 · IC 2047+ 75057 | On time 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h26 | 4:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 941 · 90337 · 91989 | On time 1:27 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h13 | 4:40 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 641+ 75063 | On time 2:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h11 | 5:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 918 · 90339 · 92029 | On time 2:36 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h04 | 5:40 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 108 · IC 2045+ 75069 | On time 3:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h26 | 6:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 943 · 90341 · 92151 | On time 3:28 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h12 | 6:40 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 4:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h01 | 12:15 AM Paderborn, Maspernplatz-West | 1 transfer | |
ICE 643+ 75075 | On time 4:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h11 | 7:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 916 · 90343 · 92153 | On time 4:36 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h04 | 7:40 PM Paderborn Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 945+ 75079 | On time 5:24 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h13 | 8:37 PM Paderborn Hbf | 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 Paderborn by train or bus
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.
Jun 04
Jun 05
Jun 06
Jun 07
Jun 08
Jun 09
Jun 10
Why should you book Cologne to Paderborn trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Regional or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Paderborn.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Paderborn.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Regional or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Paderborn.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Paderborn.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Paderborn

Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Paderborn
Trains from Cologne to Paderborn run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 2h 29m.
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average train duration 3h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 (€21) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 29m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 4 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Regional, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Paderborn trainsDeutsche Bahn, Regional, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Paderborn from $26 (€21). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
Regional
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Paderborn
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Paderborn 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 Paderborn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Paderborn
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- 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
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- Monday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
- Koya Kitchen
- Café Central
- Moso Sushi & Grill
- Waffel Dream
- Haus Irma
- Südhotel
- Cafeteria
- Café Röhren
- Cherusker Klause
- Haci Baba
- Aspethera
- Zur Mühle
- Arthotel Ana Fleur
- Cherusker Hof
- Balthasar
- Café Röhren
- Xinh City
- Cherusker Klause
- Aspethera
- Zur Mühle
- Arthotel Ana Fleur
- Haus Irma
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