- Must visit
Vatican Museums
A vast complex of papal collections including classical sculpture, Renaissance masterpieces, the Raphael Rooms, and access to the Sistine Chapel. One of Rome’s most important art visits and often best
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Cologne to Rome
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Rome among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $79. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.1 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $79, and a flight costs an average of $92.
Distance: 677 miles (1090 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$269 Average price | $117 Average price Cheapest | $402 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 23m Average total duration Fastest 4h 23m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 51m Average total duration 20h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
3.3 - 6.5kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  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 Rome is a bus with an average price of $117 (€95).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Rome:
A bus is $152 (€123) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Rome costing on average $269 (€217).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Rome is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 23m.
Other travel options to Rome take longer:
Train takes on average 17h 9m.
Bus takes on average 20h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Rome including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Rome among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Rome by bus or flight
Compare 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Rome
Germany
Italy
Take a train from Cologne to Rome and enjoy the approximately 677 miles (1090 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:24, the last at 23:50.
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 $79 (€64)
Distance 677 miles (1090 km) |
Average train duration 17h 9m |
Trains per day 2 |
First train 5:24 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 70 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 $79 (€64)
Train companies: Intercity Notte, ÖBB | Nightjet from Cologne to Rome trainsIntercity Notte, ÖBB | Nightjet trains will get you between Cologne and Rome from $79 (€64). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
ÖBB | Nightjet
About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
ÖBB | Nightjet frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Rome
Things to do in Rome
Discover the best of Rome — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rome trip today.
- Must visit
Galleria Borghese
A superb villa museum with Bernini sculptures and paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. Timed entry is limited, making advance booking especially important.
- Recommended
Capitoline Museums
The world’s oldest public museums, displaying Roman bronzes, ancient inscriptions, imperial sculpture, and excellent views over the Roman Forum from Capitoline Hill.
- Must visit
Piazza Navona
A grand baroque square with Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, elegant facades, and constant street life. One of Rome’s classic strolling areas.
- Must visit
Trastevere
A lively neighborhood of narrow lanes, ivy-covered buildings, and popular evening atmosphere. Very popular for wandering and photography, especially after sunset.
- Must visit
Spanish Steps
A famous monumental staircase linking Piazza di Spagna with Trinità dei Monti. A classic meeting point and one of the city’s most photographed urban scenes.
- Vegetarian
Cacio E Pepe
A classic Roman pasta made with pecorino romano and black pepper. It is one of the city’s most iconic dishes for its simplicity and bold flavor.
Carbonara
Traditional Roman pasta with guanciale, egg yolk, pecorino romano, and black pepper. It is a defining dish of Rome and is traditionally made without cream.
Amatriciana
A beloved pasta sauce of tomato, guanciale, and pecorino romano, usually served with bucatini. It is a cornerstone of Roman trattoria cooking.
La Pergola
Rome’s best-known luxury dining destination, offering fine dining, panoramic views, and an acclaimed tasting-menu experience by Heinz Beck.
Armando Al Pantheon
A historic restaurant near the Pantheon celebrated for careful Roman cooking, including gricia, oxtail, and seasonal specialties, in a polished traditional space.
Roscioli Salumeria Con Cucina
A famous central Rome dining room and delicatessen known for Roman pasta, cured meats, cheeses, and an exceptional wine list in a lively upscale setting.
Euro
Moderate by Western Europe standards: sights and central hotels cost more, while casual dining and transit stay reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-40 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.20-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or covered by a coperto. Tipping is not mandatory; round up or leave EUR 1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for great restaurant service, and round up taxis.
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Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- EUR 7.00
To the city center
Rome Termini -> Piazza Venezia, Rome
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding; contactless card payment is available on many ATAC buses, trams, and Metro gates.
- The same BIT ticket is valid for 100 min on buses, trams, and Metro, but it allows only one Metro entry.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Rome
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Rome 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 Rome, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Cologne to Rome is 677 miles (1090 km).
The first train from Cologne to Rome leaves at 5:24 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Rome leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Rome.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Rome.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Rome.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Rome is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Rome Tiburtina.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Rome is by bus, with a cost of around $79 (€64).
The train journey from Cologne to Rome offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling hills and vineyards of Germany, the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, and the charming countryside of Northern Italy.
In Rome, explore Trastevere's charming streets and nightlife, stroll through Villa Borghese's parks and museums, enjoy gelato at the lively Piazza Navona, and visit the Spanish Steps for views and people-watching. Discover the ancient Catacombs with guided tours, and don't miss the best sights: the iconic Colosseum, the art-filled Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel, the ruins of the Roman Forum, the well-preserved Pantheon, and the famous Trevi Fountain where you can toss a coin for good luck.
To experience Rome's main attractions, a stay of 3 to 4 days is generally recommended, allowing time to visit landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and explore local neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Rome.
Since both Cologne and Rome 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 Rome include Civitavecchia, Fiumicino, Tivoli, Orvieto, Anzio.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Rome 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Rome, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, major landmarks, and popular squares. Common scams include unofficial taxi drivers overcharging and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use authorized taxis, keep valuables secure, and be wary of distraction techniques used by scammers in busy tourist spots.
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 Rome
Cologne
Rome
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 Rome.
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.
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 Rome is Roma Tiburtina. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Roma Tiburtina for your journey to Rome from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:35 - 20:20
Distance to city center
4 kmWifi
- Free, limited Wi-Fi available in the station for 15 minutes.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located in the station lobby.
Dining
- Rock n’ Coffee Roma
- Arabian Kebab
- Ingredienti
- McDonald’s
- Numb's Bakery Café
Accessibility
- Accessible facilities include elevators and escalators.
Hotel
- B&B Rome Tiburtina
- B&B Alba Domus Roma
- Hotel delle Province
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:35 - 20:20
Information Desk
- Located inside the main terminal.
Public transit options for Roma Tiburtina
- Metro lines: LB
- Bus lines: 62, 71, 111, 111F, 120F, 135, 163, 168, 211, 309, 409, n409, n041, C2, C3, Airport Shuttle
- Train lines: FR, FA, IC, REG, FL1, FL2, FL3
More options for your journey from Cologne to Rome
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rome and Cologne
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