Cologne to Paderborn train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE,RB)

Sun, Sep 06
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Deutsche Bahn
Regional
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Regional
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Paderborn

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 06

Cheapest price on Sep 06

$31

Average ticket price on Sep 06

$40

Fastest journey on Sep 06

2 h 29 m

Average journey duration on Sep 06

2 h 49 m

Trains on Sep 06

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 $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

On Sun, Sep 06, we found 5 trains from Cologne to Paderborn, including 5 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 06 the direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 2 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 29 m .

On Sun, Sep 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 46 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
    7:17 AM2h29
    Cologne
    9:46 AMPaderborn
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:17 AM2h29
    Cologne
    8:46 AMPaderborn
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:17 AM2h30
    Cologne
    10:47 AMPaderborn
    $341One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    1:54 AM3h46
    Cologne
    5:40 AMPaderborn
    $361One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:49 AM2h51
    Cologne
    9:40 AMPaderborn
    $671One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight 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 an average ticket price of $42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, while a train costs an average of $59.

Distance: 95 miles (153 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$59

Average price

$42

Average price

Cheapest

$34

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 59m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 32m

Average total duration

6h 2m

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

-

CO2 emissions

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 Paderborn is a bus with an average price of $42 (€34).

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

A bus is $17 (€14) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Paderborn costing on average $59 (€48).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Paderborn is by train with an average journey time of 2h 29m.

Other travel options to Paderborn take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 2m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Paderborn including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Paderborn among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $59 (€48) compared to roughly $34 (€27) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-25.45 (€-20.57). The journey takes 2h 29m 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 today, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:17 AM Cologne
2h29
8:46 AM Paderborn0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:17 AM Cologne
2h29
9:46 AM Paderborn0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:17 AM Cologne
2h30
10:47 AM Paderborn0 transfersDirect
Sunday, September 6
Deutsche Bahn1:54 AM Cologne
3h46
5:40 AM Paderborn0 transfersDirect

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, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12

Why should you book Cologne to Paderborn trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Regional or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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?

  • 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, bus and flight 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, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Paderborn.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Paderborn

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
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
IconCatering facilities available
IconPunctuality and without changing trains
IconComfortable seats and sufficient equipment
IconClean train with hygienic toilets
Disadvantages
IconStaff did not say hello back
As 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
IconWIFI
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconCleanliness
I 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

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Paderborn run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) 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 2m.

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
95 miles (153 km)
Average train duration
2h 29m
Cheapest ticket price
$12 (€10)
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 2m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Wed
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Regional from Cologne to Paderborn trainsDeutsche Bahn, Regional trains will get you between Cologne and Paderborn from $12 (€10). 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
2h 2m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$12 (€10)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
21 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

Regional

About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional Duration
2h 21m
Cheapest Regional Price
$32 (€26)
Regional frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

Complete guide to Paderborn

Things to do in Paderborn

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

  • Must visit

Museum in der Kaiserpfalz

Major art and cultural history museum in Schloss Neuhaus with changing exhibitions, archaeology, and regional collections in a palace setting.

  • Must visit

Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum

Computer museum with historic machines, interactive displays, and modern tech stories; one of Germany's leading museums of information technology.

  • Recommended

Diözesanmuseum Paderborn

Diocesan museum beside the cathedral, known for medieval treasures and ambitious temporary exhibitions of sacred art and design.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels, dining, and local transit are usually cheaper than in major cities like Munich or Frankfurt.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest: round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up small taxi fares and leave small change in cafes.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Paderborn can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $59 (€48).
The train from Cologne to Paderborn takes 2h 2m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Paderborn leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Paderborn is 95 miles (153 km).
The last train from Cologne to Paderborn leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Paderborn. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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 train, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
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 2m. 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.
Since both Cologne and Paderborn 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 Paderborn include Hanover, Dortmund, Essen, Kassel, Duisburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Paderborn 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 Paderborn, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as markets and public transport. While the city is generally safe, common scams like overcharging in taxis or at small shops may occur, so confirming prices upfront is advisable. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Paderborn

Most Cologne to Paderborn trains use the Köln Hbf to Paderborn Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Paderborn Nord. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Paderborn 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 Paderborn

Which Cologne station do trains to Paderborn leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Paderborn 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/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

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.

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