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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Paderborn
Showing times and prices for Jan 19
Cheapest price
$18
Average price
$31
Fastest journey
2 h 21 m
Average duration
2 h 37 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
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 $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Paderborn on Mon, Jan 19, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jan 19 the direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 2 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 21 m .
On Mon, Jan 19 the slowest trains will take 3 h 2 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.
07:19AM2h27
Cologne09:46AMPaderborn
$181One-way
0 transfers
07:38AM3h02
Cologne10:40AMPaderborn
$231One-way
0 transfers
02:14PM8h01
Cologne10:15PMPaderborn
$271One-way
0 transfers
06:24AM2h21
Cologne08:45AMPaderborn
$391One-way
0 transfers
06:49AM2h51
Cologne09:40AMPaderborn
$481One-way
0 transfers
06:24AM2h21
Cologne08:45AMPaderborn
$391One-way
0 transfers
04:21AM2h25
Cologne06:46AMPaderborn
$481One-way
0 transfers
07:19AM2h27
Cologne09:46AMPaderborn
$181One-way
0 transfers
06:49AM2h51
Cologne09:40AMPaderborn
$481One-way
0 transfers
07:38AM3h02
Cologne10:40AMPaderborn
$231One-way
0 transfers
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 train with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 4m. 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 train costs an average of €15, and a bus costs an average of €14.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€27 Average price Cheapest | €28 Average price |
2h 51m Average total duration 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 34m Average total duration Fastest 2h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Paderborn train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Paderborn trains for tomorrow, Monday, January 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 10:11 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:21 AM Cologne | 2h25 | 6:46 AM Paderborn | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:24 AM Cologne | 2h21 | 8:45 AM Paderborn | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:49 AM Cologne | 2h51 | 9:40 AM Paderborn | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:19 AM Cologne | 2h27 | 9:46 AM Paderborn | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:38 AM Cologne | 3h02 | 10:40 AM Paderborn | 0 transfersDirect |
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.
Mon
Jan 19
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Jan 25
Why should you book Cologne to Paderborn trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (RE,RB,IC,ICE) as well as National Express and FlixTrain offer trains services from Cologne to Paderborn. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Paderborn.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (RE,RB,IC,ICE)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (RE,RB,IC,ICE), but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express and FlixTrain 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 (RE,RB,IC,ICE) 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 and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (RE,RB,IC,ICE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (RE,RB,IC,ICE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of National Express and FlixTrain to help you choose the right option for your journey 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
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Catering facilities availablePunctuality and without changing trainsComfortable seats and sufficient equipmentClean train with hygienic toiletsDisadvantages
Staff did not say hello backAs I travelled here very early, the train was not full and therefore very quiet. The staff were quick to check tickets, but they didn't greet me back. The train was very clean and the toilets were acceptable in terms of hygiene. I found the seats comfortable and adequately equipped. There was also a snack vending machine on the train. As the train was not delayed and I didn't have to change trains, I found the journey very good.
Advantages
WIFIPunctualityDisadvantages
CleanlinessI travelled from Cologne to Paderborn by train. The train pulled into the station on time. Inside, however, dirty seats awaited me, the corridors were very dirty, as were the sanitary facilities. The wifi on offer, however, worked. The staff were very friendly. Unfortunately, I couldn't shake off this unpleasant feeling during the journey.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Paderborn
GermanyGermanyTrain Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Cologne to Paderborn start from as low as $18 (€15) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $33 (€27) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 10 daily trains from Cologne to Paderborn with 1 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 2h 21m but the average duration is 2h 21m
Train Operators
- Travel from Cologne to Paderborn with Deutsche Bahn, National Express, and FlixTrain
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Deutsche Bahn.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from Cologne Hbf and arrive in Paderborn Hbf
- First train typically departs at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:40 PM
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average train duration 2h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 21m |
First train 00:15 |
Last train 23:40 |
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 $18 (€14)
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 $18 (€14)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, National Express, FlixTrain from Cologne to Paderborn trainsDeutsche Bahn, National Express, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne and Paderborn from $18 (€14). 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 Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 44m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 57m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
National Express frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Paderborn can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€15), while the average price is around $33 (€27).
The train from Cologne to Paderborn takes 2h 21m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Paderborn is 95 miles (153 km).
The first train from Cologne to Paderborn leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Paderborn leaves at 11:40 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Paderborn. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Paderborn.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Paderborn is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Paderborn Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Paderborn is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€14).
The train journey from Cologne to Paderborn offers scenic views of the Rhineland's picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, charming villages, and sections of the lush Westerwald forest, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
A day trip from Cologne to Paderborn is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 21m. Trains run 10 times per day, covering a distance of 95 miles (153 km).
To fully experience Paderborn's historical landmarks, museums, and nearby natural attractions, plan for a 2 to 3-day visit.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Paderborn.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Paderborn
Cologne
Paderborn
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Paderborn.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
The major train station for arrivals in Paderborn is Paderborn Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Paderborn Hbf for your journey to Paderborn from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Koya Kitchen
- Café Central
- Moso Sushi & Grill
- Waffel Dream
Hotel
- Haus Irma
- Südhotel
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Cafeteria
- Café Röhren
- Cherusker Klause
- Haci Baba
Hotel
- Aspethera
- Zur Mühle
- Arthotel Ana Fleur
- Cherusker Hof
Paderborn-Sennelager
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskMore options for your journey from Cologne to Paderborn
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Paderborn and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Paderborn
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