Cologne to Papenburg train with Deutsche Bahn (IC)

Wed, Jul 15
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Deutsche Bahn
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Papenburg

Showing times and prices for Jul 15

Cheapest price

$53

Average price

$53

Fastest journey

3 h 8 m

Average duration

3 h 8 m

Trains per day

1

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 $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Cologne for Papenburg on Wed, Jul 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jul 15 the direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 3 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 8 m .

On Wed, Jul 15 the slowest trains will take 3 h 8 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
    8:46 AM3h08
    Cologne
    11:54 AMPapenburg
    $531One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Papenburg

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Papenburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $35. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $35, and a train costs an average of $26.

Distance: 149 miles (240 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$58

Average price

$51

Average price

Cheapest

$49

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 55m

Average total duration

3h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 16m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Papenburg is a bus with an average price of $51 (€42).

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

A bus is $8 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Papenburg costing on average $58 (€48).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Papenburg is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 50m.

Other travel options to Papenburg take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 25m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Papenburg including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Papenburg 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 $58 (€48) compared to roughly $49 (€41) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-8.79 (€-7.24). The journey takes 3h 25m versus 3h 16m 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 Papenburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Papenburg trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn8:46 AM Cologne
3h08
11:54 AM Papenburg0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Papenburg 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.

Wed
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21

Why should you book Cologne to Papenburg trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as WestfalenBahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Papenburg

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Papenburg run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 25m. 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 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
Distance
149 miles (240 km)
Average train duration
3h 25m
Cheapest ticket price
$26 (€21)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
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
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Papenburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Papenburg from $26 (€21). 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
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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

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
WestfalenBahn frequency
3 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€52)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Papenburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $58 (€48).
The train from Cologne to Papenburg takes 3h 8m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Papenburg is 149 miles (240 km).
The first train from Cologne to Papenburg leaves at 4:00 AM.
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 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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 cheapest way to get from Cologne to Papenburg is by train, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
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.
A day trip from Cologne to Papenburg is not feasible due to the journey duration of 3h 8m. However, there are 7 train trips available per day for this route.
A stay of 1 to 2 days in Papenburg is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Meyer Werft shipyard, picturesque canals, and historical sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Papenburg.
Since both Cologne and Papenburg 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 Papenburg include Lingen, Groningen, Leer, Oldenburg, Emden.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Papenburg 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 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, 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 · $8 · 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.

More options for your journey from Cologne to Papenburg

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