Cologne to Plzeň train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sun, Jun 21
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Plzeň

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$98

Average price

$152

Fastest journey

7 h 2 m

Average duration

8 h 44 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

475 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Plzeň is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne to Plzeň will cost around $152 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cologne for Plzeň on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 475 km distance in an average of 8 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 2 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 10 h 15 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
    7:32 AM10h15
    Cologne
    5:47 PMPlzeň
    $981One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:53 AM8h54
    Cologne
    5:47 PMPlzeň
    $1751One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:45 AM7h02
    Cologne
    2:47 PMPlzeň
    $1841One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Plzeň

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Plzeň among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a flight costs an average of $77.

Distance: 295 miles (475 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$143

Average price

$49

Average price

Cheapest

$408

Average price

$129

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 3m

Average total duration

6h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 49m

Average total duration

8h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 12m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 17m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 2.8kg

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 Plzeň is a bus with an average price of $49 (€40).

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

A bus is $94 (€77) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Plzeň costing on average $143 (€117).

A bus is $360 (€294) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Plzeň costing on average $408 (€334).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Plzeň is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 12m.

Other travel options to Plzeň take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 33m.

Bus takes on average 8h 19m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Plzeň including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Plzeň 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 $143 (€117) compared to roughly $129 (€105) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.90 (€-11.37). The journey takes 6h 33m versus 6h 17m 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 Plzeň train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Plzeň trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn9:40 AM Cologne
9h07
6:47 PM Plzeň0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn11:45 AM Cologne
7h02
6:47 PM Plzeň0 transfersDirect
Sunday, June 21
Deutsche Bahn7:32 AM Cologne
10h15
5:47 PM Plzeň0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:45 AM Cologne
7h02
2:47 PM Plzeň0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:53 AM Cologne
8h54
5:47 PM Plzeň0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Plzeň 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
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cologne to Plzeň trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Plzeň.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Plzeň.

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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Plzeň.
  • 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 Plzeň.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • 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 Plzeň.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Plzeň

GermanyGermany
CzechiaCzechia
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Plzeň run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 (€46) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:59, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 295 miles (475 km) distance in 7h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $38 (€31)
Distance
295 miles (475 km)
Average train duration
6h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$56 (€46)
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
7h 2m
First train
1:59 AM
Last train
11:51 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
42 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 $38 (€31)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Plzeň trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Plzeň from $38 (€31). 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
7h 59m
Cheapest Price
$57 (€47)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 2m
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
7 a day

Complete guide to Plzeň

Things to do in Plzeň

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

  • Must visit

Brewery Museum

Historic museum in a preserved medieval malt house explaining beer production and everyday life in old Plzeň.

  • Recommended

West Bohemian Museum in Pilsen

Major regional museum with archaeology, applied arts, arms and local history collections in a grand Neo-Renaissance building.

  • Recommended

Patton Memorial Pilsen

Museum focused on the liberation of Plzeň by the U.S. Army in 1945, with military vehicles, uniforms and wartime memorabilia.

Czech Koruna

Generally cheaper than Prague. Meals, beer, and local transport are good value; hotels vary by season.

Average meal costs

Budget
CZK 120-200 for street food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CZK 250-450 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CZK 700-1,200+ per person at upscale venues.
Coffee
CZK 55-80 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

About 5-10% in restaurants if service is good, often rounded up. Tip taxi fares up slightly. No tip needed for counter service.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Plzeň

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Plzeň 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 Plzeň, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Plzeň can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56 (€46), while the average price is around $143 (€117).
The train from Cologne to Plzeň takes 7h 2m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Plzeň leaves at 1:59 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Plzeň is 295 miles (475 km).
The last train from Cologne to Plzeň leaves at 11:51 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Plzeň.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Plzeň.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Plzeň is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Plzen hl.n..
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Plzeň is by bus, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
The train journey from Cologne to Plzeň offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the Czech countryside.
A day trip from Cologne to Plzeň is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 2m and the distance is 295 miles (475 km). There are 8 trains per day.
In Plzeň, you can explore the Plzeň Historical Underground with guided tours of its tunnels and cellars, and enjoy the vibrant Republic Square with its colorful buildings. Visit the West Bohemian Museum for regional history and art, or catch a performance at the J.K. Tyl Theatre. Relax in Borský Park, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. Discover the Pilsner Urquell Brewery with guided tours and tastings, and admire the Gothic architecture of St. Bartholomew's Cathedral. Marvel at the Great Synagogue's Moorish-Romanesque design, engage with exhibits at Techmania Science Center, and enjoy the diverse species at Plzeň Zoo.
You typically need 1 to 2 days in Plzeň to explore its main attractions, such as the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, the Gothic St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, and the historic Old Town.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Plzeň.
Since both Cologne and Plzeň 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 Plzeň include Prague, České Budějovice, Mariánské Lázně, Horovice, Furth im Wald.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Plzeň 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.
The currency used in Czechia is the Czech koruna (CZK). While many places accept card payments, cash is still widely used, especially in smaller shops and markets, so travelers should carry some cash but can also use cards conveniently in most urban areas.
In Plzeň, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who do not use meters and unofficial currency exchange booths offering poor rates. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and using authorized services 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 Plzeň

Most Cologne to Plzeň trains use the Köln Hbf to Plzen hl.n. station pair, with some services arriving at Plzen zast.. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Plzeň 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 Plzeň

Which Cologne station do trains to Plzeň leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Plzeň 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 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.

Köln SüdKöln Süd, Otto-Fischer-Str. 2, 50674 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Süd from Cologne city centre

Köln Süd is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus978 · 7m · every ~5 min
Subway9 · 9m · $2 · every ~12 min

Köln Süd train station facilities and services

Köln Süd 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: Subway, Ganesha, Magnus, Borsalino

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Süd. ATMs are available at Köln Süd.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Süd. Information desks are available at Köln Süd.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Süd. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Süd: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Süd: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Süd.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Chelsea, Hotel Mado, Elite Hotel, Blacksheep Hostel.

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