- Must visit
Cultural History Museum Rostock
Leading regional history museum in a former monastery, with Hanseatic art, archaeology, and changing exhibitions on Rostock's past.
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$40
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$82
Fastest journey on Sep 19
6 h 8 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
6 h 14 m
Trains on Sep 19
20
Distance
496 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Rostock is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Rostock will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 20 trains from Cologne to Rostock, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 496 km distance in an average of 6 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 8 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 6 h 32 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.
FlixTrain+
FlixBus
FlixTrain+
FlixBus
ICE 920 · 4305
ICE 516 · 4321
FlixTrain+
FlixBus
ICE 651 · ICE 588
ICE 553 · ICE 686 · ICE 1534
ICE 1036
ICE 557 · ICE 682 · ICE 1532
ICE 655 · ICE 584 · 4321+
21138Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Rostock among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $70 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 21m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $70, while a flight costs an average of $729.
Distance: 308 miles (496 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$125 Average price | $729 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $109 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 11m Average total duration 6h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 21m Average total duration Fastest 2h 21m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 13h 19m Average total duration 12h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Rostock:
A bus is $54 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Rostock costing on average $125.
A bus is $659 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Rostock costing on average $729.
Other travel options to Rostock take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 41m.
Bus takes on average 12h 49m.
Tickets start at around $125 compared to roughly $109 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.21. The journey takes 6h 41m versus 6h 28m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Rostock trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1028 · ICE 1536 | On time 3:55 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h00 | 10:55 AM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2214 · 4307 | On time 5:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h36 | 11:50 AM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 618 · ICE 1534 | On time 6:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h44 | 12:55 PM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 553 · ICE 686 · ICE 1534 | On time 6:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 12:55 PM Rostock Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 855 · 3348 · ICE 1978 | On time 7:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h58 | 2:36 PM Rostock Hbf | 2 transfers | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h21 | 6:35 PM Rostock, Warnemünde Strand | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h46 | 6:00 PM Rostock, Central bus station | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h16 | 6:30 PM Rostock, Warnemünde Werft (Parking) | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1036 | On time 8:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 2:55 PM Rostock Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 9:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h24 | 8:25 PM Rostock, Central bus station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1022 · ICE 1532 | On time 10:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h41 | 4:55 PM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 557 · ICE 682 · ICE 1532 | On time 10:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h11 | 4:55 PM Rostock Hbf | 2 transfers | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 10h06 | 10:20 PM Rostock, Central bus station | 1 transfer | |
ICE 651 · ICE 588 | On time 2:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h08 | 8:52 PM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 953 · 4366 | On time 3:38 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h45 | 11:23 PM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 518 · 4319 | On time 4:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h39 | 11:50 PM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 653 · ICE 586 · 4319 | On time 4:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h06 | 11:50 PM Rostock Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 516 · 4321 | On time 6:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h05 | 1:16 AM Rostock Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 655 · ICE 584 · 4321+ 21138 | On time 6:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h32 | 1:16 AM Rostock Hbf | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cologne to Rostock run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 308 miles (496 km) distance in 5h 31m.
Distance 308 miles (496 km) |
Average train duration 6h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 5h 31m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Rostock — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rostock trip today.
Leading regional history museum in a former monastery, with Hanseatic art, archaeology, and changing exhibitions on Rostock's past.
Art museum in a landmark East German modernist building, known for important collections of 20th-century and contemporary art.
Maritime museum on a preserved cargo ship in IGA Park, explaining seafaring, shipbuilding, and life aboard a vessel.
Main pedestrian street lined with historic facades, shops, and gateways; ideal for experiencing Rostock's Hanseatic core on foot.
Central square with the town hall and market traditions, serving as the symbolic heart of Rostock's old city.
Popular promenade and beach district with sea views, ferries, and resort architecture; the city's best-known coastal outing area.
Fried or smoked Baltic herring, a Hanseatic coast staple long tied to Rostock's fishing trade and often served with potatoes or bread.
Smoked eel from nearby waters, prized in Mecklenburg coastal cuisine for its rich flavor and traditional smokehouse preparation.
Fresh Baltic cod, often pan-fried or baked, reflecting Rostock's maritime food culture and the region's preference for simple fish dishes.
Well-known fish restaurant in Warnemünde focused on fresh seafood and maritime classics near the waterfront.
Historic restaurant in the old town serving refined regional and German cuisine in an elegant, traditional setting.
Popular brewery pub known for house beer and hearty northern German dishes in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Moderate for Germany: hotels often cost less than in Berlin or Hamburg, while dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common. Round up in cafes and taxis; tip only for good service.
Official public transport app
Rostock Hbf -> Neuer Markt, Rostock
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Rostock 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 Rostock, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Rostock trains use the Köln Hbf to Rostock Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Rostock train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln-Ehrenfeld is 3 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln-Ehrenfeld 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 options include: I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato, Burger King, Café Franck, Eichendorf
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. ATMs are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Information desks are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Nearby hotels include Kölnotel, Black Hotels.
Rostock Hbf is 1 km from Rostock city centre. Public transport options include:
Rostock 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 options include: Layali Alsham, Heumond, Joho-Broiler, Cafe Kloster
Wi-Fi is available at Rostock Hbf. ATMs are available at Rostock Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Rostock Hbf. Information desks are available at Rostock Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Rostock Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Rostock Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Rostock Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Rostock Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Stadthalle, Hotel Greifennest, Appartement-Hotel.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need