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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Showing times and prices for Jan 11
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$77
Fastest journey
3 h 53 m
Average duration
4 h 30 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
288 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber will cost around $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Rothenburg ob der Tauber on Sun, Jan 11, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jan 11 the direct trains cover the 288 km distance in an average of 4 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 53 m .
On Sun, Jan 11 the slowest trains will take 5 h 37 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.
07:53AM4h58
Cologne12:51PMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$361One-way
0 transfers
07:44AM4h07
Cologne11:51AMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$591One-way
0 transfers
06:55AM3h56
Cologne10:51AMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$621One-way
0 transfers
06:58AM3h53
Cologne10:51AMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$731One-way
0 transfers
09:14AM5h37
Cologne02:51PMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$1571One-way
0 transfers
06:58AM3h53
Cologne10:51AMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$731One-way
0 transfers
06:55AM3h56
Cologne10:51AMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$621One-way
0 transfers
07:44AM4h07
Cologne11:51AMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$591One-way
0 transfers
07:53AM4h58
Cologne12:51PMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$361One-way
0 transfers
09:14AM5h37
Cologne02:51PMRothenburg ob der Tauber
$1571One-way
0 transfers
Live departures
Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains for tomorrow, Sunday, January 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 9:23 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:55 AM Cologne | 3h56 | 10:51 AM Rothenburg ob der Tauber | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:58 AM Cologne | 3h53 | 10:51 AM Rothenburg ob der Tauber | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:44 AM Cologne | 4h07 | 11:51 AM Rothenburg ob der Tauber | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:53 AM Cologne | 4h58 | 12:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:14 AM Cologne | 5h37 | 2:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber by train
Compare train 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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Jan 11
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Jan 17
Why should you book Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,RB,IC) as well as National Express and Intercity offer trains services from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,RB,IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,RB,IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express and Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,RB,IC) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,RB,IC)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of National Express and Intercity to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:44, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 178 miles (288 km) distance in 3h 53m.
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 178 miles (288 km) |
Average train duration 3h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€24) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 3h 53m |
First train 04:44 |
Last train 23:42 |
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, National Express, Intercity from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trainsDeutsche Bahn, National Express, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber from $30 (€24). 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 53m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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
Intercity
About
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "Intercity" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use "InterCity" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 57m
Intercity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 14m
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Typically, a stay of 1 to 2 days is sufficient to explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber, allowing time to visit its medieval old town, walk along the city walls, and enjoy local attractions like the Christmas Museum and the Crime Museum.
A day trip from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 53m each way. There are 9 trips per day by train, covering a distance of 178 miles (288 km).
In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, explore the Old Town with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Experience the Night Watchman Tour for historical insights, and visit the festive Rothenburg Christmas Market. Enjoy Franconian cuisine at local restaurants. Take a scenic bike ride along the Tauber Valley. Key sights include the Rothenburg Town Walls for panoramic views, the iconic Plönlein street corner, St. Jakob's Church with the Holy Blood altarpiece, the striking Rothenburg Town Hall, and the intriguing Medieval Crime and Justice Museum.
The distance by train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is 178 miles (288 km).
The train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber takes 3h 53m and runs 9 per day.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station.
The last train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 11:42 PM.
The train journey from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers scenic views of the German countryside, featuring picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, charming villages, and stretches along the Rhine Valley, known for its vineyards and historic castles.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€24), while the average price is around $91 (€73).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by train, with a cost of around $30 (€24).
The first train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 4:44 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Cologne
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
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
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
The major train station for arrivals in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rothenburg ob der Tauber for your journey to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Dining
- Gusto Kaffeemanufaktur & Spezialitäten
- Imbiss Heller
- Brothaus Café im Schlachthof
- Pizzeria & Eis-Café Roma
Hotel
- Hotel Schranne
- Villa Mittermeier
- Hotel Hornburg Garni
- Glocke
More options for your journey from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to Rothenburg ob der TauberCologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber train
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