- Must visit
Besucherzentrum Meyer Werft
Top attraction explaining cruise-ship construction with exhibitions and views tied to one of the world’s best-known shipyards.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Papenburg
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
kr223
Average ticket price on Oct 13
kr287
Fastest journey on Oct 13
3 h 8 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
3 h 16 m
Trains on Oct 13
2
Distance
240 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Papenburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Papenburg will cost around kr287 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr223.
Fast trains
On Tue, Oct 13, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Papenburg, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 13 the direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 3 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 8 m .
On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest trains will take 3 h 23 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.
7:31 AM3h23Cologne10:54 AMPapenburgkr2231One-way0 transfers- 8:46 AM3h08Cologne11:54 AMPapenburgkr3501One-way0 transfers
- 8:46 AM3h08Cologne11:54 AMPapenburgkr3501One-way0 transfers
- 7:31 AM3h23Cologne10:54 AMPapenburgkr2231One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Papenburg
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Papenburg run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr279 but you can travel from only kr227 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (240 km) distance in 3h 8m.
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 kr227
Distance 149 miles (240 km) |
Average train duration 3h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price kr279 |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 8m |
First train 4:00 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from kr227
Live departures
Cologne to Papenburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Papenburg trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:31 AM Cologne | 3h23 | 10:54 AM Papenburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:46 AM Cologne | 3h08 | 11:54 AM Papenburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Papenburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as WestfalenBahn offer trains services from Cologne to Papenburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Papenburg.
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 WestfalenBahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Papenburg.
- 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 Papenburg.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Papenburg.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn from Cologne to Papenburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn trains will get you between Cologne and Papenburg from kr227. 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
3h 8m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
kr279
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
WestfalenBahn
About
WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average WestfalenBahn Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest WestfalenBahn Price
kr398
WestfalenBahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Papenburg
Things to do in Papenburg
Discover the best of Papenburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Papenburg trip today.
- Recommended
Museumsschiff Friederike von Papenburg
Museum ship presenting Papenburg’s seafaring history through cabins, equipment, and life aboard a preserved coastal vessel.
- Recommended
Heimatmuseum Papenburg
Local history museum covering the peat-colony beginnings, canal layout, and everyday life that shaped modern Papenburg.
- Must visit
Hauptkanal
Papenburg’s signature canal street lined with trees, bridges, and historic houses; ideal for first-time walks and photos.
- Recommended
Obenende
Historic district on the northern side of the old town, known for long canal views, churches, and classic Papenburg atmosphere.
- Recommended
Untenende
Southern historic district with shops, bridges, and waterside strolls, giving a strong sense of the city’s canal-based layout.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl mit Pinkel
A hearty East Frisian kale stew with smoked sausage and pork. Common across northern Lower Saxony and especially popular in the cold season.
- Gluten-free
Räucheraal
Smoked eel from North German waterways, often served simply with bread or potatoes. It reflects the region’s long fishing and smoking traditions.
Krabben
Small North Sea brown shrimp, usually eaten on bread or with eggs. A classic regional delicacy valued for its fresh coastal flavor.
Historisch-Ökologischer Bauernhof
Traditional German dining in a historic setting, serving hearty regional dishes and seasonal specialties with a classic local feel.
Altes Gasthaus Kuhr
Established waterfront restaurant near the canals, known for regional fish, steaks, and a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
Restaurant Zeus
Popular local venue for generous German and international plates. Casual atmosphere, reliable service, and a broad menu for groups.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels are often cheaper than big cities, while dining and local transit are fairly standard for regional destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a 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 coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip 5-10% in restaurants. Round up small taxi fares and leave small change at cafes.
DB Navigator
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Papenburg (Ems) -> Papenburg Rathaus, Papenburg
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Regional buses in Papenburg are limited, so check timetables before travel using DB Navigator or the local operator website.
- Card payment availability on local buses is not reliably published; carry a valid ticket or cash as a backup.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Papenburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Papenburg 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 Papenburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Papenburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr279, while the average price is around kr579.
The train from Cologne to Papenburg takes 3h 8m and runs 13 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Papenburg leaves at 4:00 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Papenburg is 149 miles (240 km).
The last train from Cologne to Papenburg leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Papenburg. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Papenburg.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Papenburg is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Papenburg (Ems).
The train journey from Cologne to Papenburg offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Lower Saxony countryside and along the Ems River, providing a pleasant and visually appealing travel experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Papenburg.
Popular day trips by train from Papenburg include Lingen, Groningen, Leer, Oldenburg, Emden.
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 Papenburg, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near popular attractions like the Meyer Werft shipyard. Scams are rare, but travelers should remain cautious when using taxis or currency exchange services, ensuring they agree on prices beforehand and use official exchange points. Basic precautionary measures and staying alert in busy areas help 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 Papenburg
Most Cologne to Papenburg trains use the Köln Hbf to Papenburg(Ems) station pair, with some services arriving at Aschendorf. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Papenburg 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 Papenburg
Which Cologne station do trains to Papenburg leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Papenburg 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, Germany
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 · kr56 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · kr40 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · kr40 · 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 Köln
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 · kr32 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · kr32
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · kr40
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.
Which Papenburg station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Papenburg most often arrive at Papenburg(Ems). Some services arrive at Aschendorf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Papenburg arrival station.
Papenburg(Ems)Papenburg (Ems), Bahnhofstr. 21, 26871 Papenburg
City-centre transport
Getting to Papenburg(Ems) from Papenburg city centre
Papenburg(Ems) is 1 km from Papenburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus600 · 4m
600 · 5m
Papenburg(Ems) train station facilities and services
Papenburg(Ems) 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: Rosi's Grill, Olympia, Kim & Kim, Strandstulle
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Papenburg(Ems). ATMs are available at Papenburg(Ems).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Papenburg(Ems). Information desks are available at Papenburg(Ems).
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Papenburg(Ems). Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Papenburg(Ems): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Papenburg(Ems): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Papenburg(Ems).
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Alte Werft Papenburg, Apartment-Hotel Rüther, Rüther - Hotel, KEDI Hotel.
AschendorfAschendorf, Zur Waage 1, 26871 Papenburg
City-centre transport
Getting to Aschendorf from Papenburg city centre
Aschendorf is 5 km from Papenburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus963, 974, 965 · 14m · every ~2 min
974, 965 · 15m · every ~1 min
Aschendorf train station facilities and services
Aschendorf 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: Aiytarun, Eiscafe Losengo, "Bei Gavino" Pizzaria, Pizza Camillo
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Aschendorf. ATMs are available at Aschendorf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aschendorf. Information desks are available at Aschendorf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Aschendorf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aschendorf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Aschendorf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aschendorf.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Papenburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Papenburg and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Papenburg
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