- Must visit
RothenburgMuseum
Major local museum in a former convent, covering art, history, crafts, and everyday life. The best all-round museum introduction to Rothenburg.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 09
Cheapest price on Oct 09
€66
Average ticket price on Oct 09
€86
Fastest journey on Oct 09
3 h 53 m
Average journey duration on Oct 09
3 h 56 m
Trains on Oct 09
10
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 €86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €66.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber without transferring at least 3 times.
ICE 229 · 57223 · 589111:53 PM4h58Cologne Hbf6:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€661One-way2 transfers- ICE 107 · ICE 29 · 57221 · 5890712:54 PM3h57Cologne Hbf4:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€681One-way3 transfers
- ICE 625 · 57171 · 5890511:45 AM4h06Cologne Messe/Deutz3:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€681One-way2 transfers
- ICE 629 · 57179 · 589091:45 PM4h06Cologne Messe/Deutz5:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€681One-way2 transfers
- ICE 29 · 57221 · 5890711:53 AM4h58Cologne Hbf4:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€731One-way2 transfers
- ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 588998:58 AM3h53Cologne Messe/Deutz12:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€861One-way3 transfers
- ICE 105 · ICE 27 · 57217 · 5890310:54 AM3h57Cologne Hbf2:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€1371One-way3 transfers
- ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 588998:54 AM3h57Cologne Hbf12:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€771One-way3 transfers
- ICE 107 · ICE 29 · 57221 · 5890712:54 PM3h57Cologne Hbf4:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€681One-way3 transfers
- ICE 109 · ICE 229 · 57223 · 589112:54 PM3h57Cologne Hbf6:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€781One-way3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €27 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 6m.
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 51m |
Cheapest ticket price €27 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 6m |
First train 4:44 AM |
Last train 11:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 63 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
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, Friday, October 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 58899 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h57 | 12:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 58899 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h53 | 12:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 621 · 57161 · 58901 | On time 9:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h06 | 1:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 105 · ICE 27 · 57217 · 58903 | On time 10:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h57 | 2:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 625 · 57171 · 58905 | On time 11:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h06 | 3:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 29 · 57221 · 58907 | On time 11:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h58 | 4:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 107 · ICE 29 · 57221 · 58907 | On time 12:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h57 | 4:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 629 · 57179 · 58909 | On time 1:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h06 | 5:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 229 · 57223 · 58911 | On time 1:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h58 | 6:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 109 · ICE 229 · 57223 · 58911 | On time 2:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h57 | 6:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber from €27. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 6m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€27
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
Complete guide to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Discover the best of Rothenburg ob der Tauber — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rothenburg ob der Tauber trip today.
- Must visit
Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum
Interactive crime museum with legal history, punishments, and social control from the Middle Ages onward. Unusual, memorable, and very popular.
- Recommended
Deutsches Weihnachtsmuseum
Large Christmas museum and shop complex celebrating German festive traditions. A distinctive stop that is especially atmospheric in winter.
- Must visit
Plönlein
The most famous picture spot in Rothenburg, where narrow lanes and half-timbered houses create the classic fairy-tale Old Town scene.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central square framed by the town hall and historic facades. It is the main orientation point and often hosts seasonal events and markets.
- Must visit
Stadtmauer Walk
Walkable fortification route with towers, gates, and elevated views. One of the best ways to understand Rothenburg’s preserved medieval layout.
- Vegetarian
Schneeballen
Schneeballen are Rothenburg's signature pastry: strips of shortcrust dough fried into a ball and dusted with sugar or chocolate. A famous local specialty sold across the old town.
Fränkische Bratwurst
Franconian bratwurst is a regional grilled pork sausage, often served with sauerkraut or potato salad. It is a staple of local taverns and beer gardens.
Fränkisches Schäufele
Schäufele is Franconian roast pork shoulder with a crispy crust, usually paired with dumplings and gravy. It is one of the area's classic Sunday dishes.
Reichsküchenmeister Restaurant
Casual long-running tavern popular for sausages, schnitzel, and regional beer in a lively medieval atmosphere.
Baumeisterhaus
Historic traditional inn in the old town known for Franconian classics, local wine, and atmospheric timbered dining rooms.
Restaurant M - Hotel Eisenhut
Well-known restaurant in a heritage hotel serving refined Franconian and German cuisine in an elegant historic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: lodging in the walled old town can be pricey, but dining is reasonable and the compact center keeps local transport costs low.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-14 for fast food, bakery items, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50-90 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes if service was good.
VGN Fahrplan & Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Bahnhof -> Marktplatz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Most local buses are integrated into VGN fares; buy tickets in the VGN app or check whether the bus accepts cash only before boarding.
- Rothenburg’s old town is compact and walkable from the station. Card or contactless payment on board is not reliably available on all regional buses.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €27, while the average price is around €79.
The train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber takes 3h 6m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 4:44 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is 178 miles (288 km).
The last train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 11:42 PM.
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.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Popular day trips by train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber include Nuremberg, Würzburg, Bamberg, Erlangen, Aschaffenburg.
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing risks, especially in crowded areas like the town center and popular attractions. Scams are rare, but it is advisable to be cautious when approached by street vendors or individuals offering unsolicited services. Always use official ticket counters for transportation and guided tours to avoid overcharging or counterfeit tickets.
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Most Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains use the Köln Hbf to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Which Cologne station do trains to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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, Germany
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 · €7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · €5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · €5 · 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 Köln
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 · €3 · 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-Mülheim Köln-Mülheim, Montanusstr., 51065 Köln-Mülheim
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln-Mülheim from Cologne city centre
Köln-Mülheim is 5 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS11, S6 · 4m · €1 · every ~13 min
Rb, Re · 7m · every ~8 min
S11, S6 · 7m · €1 · every ~13 min
Bus171 · 27m · every ~3 min
S11 · 33m · €4
Tram18 · 18m · €3 · every ~6 min
Subway18 · 18m · €3 · every ~7 min
18 · 19m · €3 · every ~7 min
Köln-Mülheim train station facilities and services
Köln-Mülheim 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: Zum Piccolo, Kolpinghaus, Pizzeria Marco Polo, Grill Stube
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Mülheim . ATMs are available at Köln-Mülheim .
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Mülheim . Information desks are available at Köln-Mülheim .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Mülheim . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln-Mülheim : Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln-Mülheim : Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Mülheim .
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Europa, Hotel Geisler, The niu Mill.
Which Rothenburg ob der Tauber station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber most often arrive at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Some services arrive at Schweinsdorf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Rothenburg ob der Tauber arrival station.
Rothenburg ob der TauberRothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
City-centre transport
Getting to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre
Bus854 · 5m · €3
Rothenburg ob der Tauber train station facilities and services
Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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: Gusto Kaffeemanufaktur & Spezialitäten, Imbiss Heller, Brothaus Café im Schlachthof, Pizzeria & Eis-Café Roma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ATMs are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Information desks are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include 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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
