- Must visit
Völklinger Hütte
Industrial heritage museum at the Völklingen Ironworks, a UNESCO site within easy reach. Essential for visitors interested in the Saar region's identity.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Saarlouis
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$72
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$107
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 2 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 49 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
181 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Saarlouis is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Saarlouis will cost around $107 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Saarlouis, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 181 km distance in an average of 5 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 2 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 7 h 35 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.
7:21 AM4h02Cologne11:23 AMSaarlouis$721One-way0 transfers- 9:42 PM7h35Cologne5:17 AMSaarlouis$1431One-way0 transfers
- 7:21 AM4h02Cologne11:23 AMSaarlouis$721One-way0 transfers
- 9:42 PM7h35Cologne5:17 AMSaarlouis$1431One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Cologne to Saarlouis
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Saarlouis among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $33 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 49m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, while a flight costs an average of $697.
Distance: 112 miles (181 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$86 Average price | $697 Average price | $33 Average price Cheapest | $42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 49m Average total duration Fastest 3h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 21m Average total duration 2h 21m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Saarlouis is a bus with an average price of $33.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Saarlouis:
A bus is $52 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Saarlouis costing on average $86.
A bus is $664 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Saarlouis costing on average $697.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Saarlouis is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 21m.
Other travel options to Saarlouis take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 19m.
Bus takes on average 4h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Saarlouis including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Saarlouis 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 $86 compared to roughly $42 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-43.07. The journey takes 3h 19m versus 3h 0m 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 Saarlouis train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Saarlouis trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:21 AM Cologne | 4h02 | 11:23 AM Saarlouis | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Saarlouis by train or flight
Compare train 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
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 23
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cologne to Saarlouis trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Saarlouis.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Saarlouis.
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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Saarlouis.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Saarlouis.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Saarlouis
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Saarlouis run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 but you can travel from only $23 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:50, the last at 22:39. The fastest train covers the 112 miles (181 km) distance in 3h 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 $23
Distance 112 miles (181 km) |
Average train duration 3h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 2m |
First train 12:50 AM |
Last train 10:39 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $23
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Saarlouis trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Saarlouis from $23. 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 2m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$49
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 Saarlouis
Things to do in Saarlouis
Discover the best of Saarlouis — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Saarlouis trip today.
- Recommended
Stadtmuseum Saarlouis
Main local history museum covering Saarlouis' fortress origins, urban development, and cultural life. Best starting point for understanding the city.
- Recommended
Stadtgalerie Saarlouis
Municipal exhibition venue presenting contemporary art shows in a central historic setting. Good for visitors wanting current regional culture.
- Must visit
Großer Markt
Main central square framed by historic buildings, markets, and events. The city's social heart and best place to feel Saarlouis' atmosphere.
- Must visit
Altstadt Saarlouis
Historic old town area with baroque layout, shops, and fortress traces. Ideal for a first walk through Saarlouis' distinctive urban history.
- Recommended
Wallanlagen
Green promenade on former ramparts offering relaxed walking and views of the fortress landscape. A local favorite for easy urban strolls.
- Gluten-free
Dibbelabbes
Dibbelabbes is a Saarland potato bake with onions and bacon, cooked until crisp. It is a hearty regional comfort food often served with apple sauce or salad.
Gefillde
Gefillde are potato dumplings stuffed with minced meat and served with creamy bacon sauce or sauerkraut. They are a classic Sunday dish across Saarland.
- Gluten-free
Saarländischer Lyoner
Lyoner is the Saarland's beloved bologna-style sausage, eaten cold, fried, or in salads. It is a local everyday specialty strongly tied to regional identity.
Louis Restaurant
Refined Michelin-starred dining in Saarlouis, known for modern French and regional cuisine in an elegant setting.
Gasthaus Zum Stiefel
Traditional Saarland brewery restaurant serving hearty regional dishes and beer in a relaxed, historic atmosphere.
Ratskeller Saarlouis
Well-known local restaurant for German and Saarland specialties, with a cozy setting suited to classic regional dining.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and daily essentials stay fairly reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is customary but modest. Round up or add 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change in cafes.
saarVV
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.60
- Day pass
- :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
To the city center
Saarlouis Hbf -> Großer Markt, Saarlouis
- Distance
- 600 m
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Buy tickets in the saarVV app or from bus ticket machines before boarding when possible.
- Contactless card payment availability varies by bus and sales point, so carry a backup payment method or use the app.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Saarlouis
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Saarlouis 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 Saarlouis, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Saarlouis can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49, while the average price is around $86.
The train from Cologne to Saarlouis takes 3h 2m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Saarlouis leaves at 12:50 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Saarlouis is 112 miles (181 km).
The last train from Cologne to Saarlouis leaves at 10:39 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Saarlouis.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Saarlouis.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Saarlouis is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Saarlouis Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Saarlouis is by bus, with a cost of around $23.
The train journey from Cologne to Saarlouis offers a scenic route with views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and picturesque German countryside, especially as you travel through the regions of North Rhine-Westphalia and Saarland.
A day trip from Cologne to Saarlouis is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 2m one way. Trains run 7 times per day.
To fully enjoy Saarlouis, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended, allowing time to explore its historic fortifications, charming old town, and nearby nature attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Saarlouis.
Since both Cologne and Saarlouis 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 Saarlouis include Mannheim, Trier, Luxembourg, Metz, Kaiserslautern.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Saarlouis 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.
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 Saarlouis, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near public transportation and popular landmarks. Scams involving overcharging by taxi drivers can occur, so agreeing on a fare beforehand or using official taxi services is advisable. Overall, Saarlouis is considered safe, but staying alert in busy spots helps ensure a smooth 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 Saarlouis
Most Cologne to Saarlouis trains use the Köln Hbf to Saarlouis Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Saarlouis 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 Saarlouis
Which Cologne station do trains to Saarlouis leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Saarlouis 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 · $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/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Saarlouis station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Saarlouis arrive at Saarlouis Hbf. Saarlouis Hbf is 1 miles (2 km) from Saarlouis city centre.
Saarlouis HbfSaarlouis Hbf, Bahnhofsplatz 11, 66740 Saarlouis
City-centre transport
Getting to Saarlouis Hbf from Saarlouis city centre
Saarlouis Hbf is 1 km from Saarlouis city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus463, 438, 437, 404, 403, 402 · 5m · every ~13 min
R5, 463, 438, 437, 404, 403, 402, 401 · 7m · every ~18 min
402, 404 · 7m · every ~10 min
Saarlouis Hbf train station facilities and services
Saarlouis 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: Daglar Bistro, Macedonia Grill, Sultans, Kalimera
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Saarlouis Hbf. ATMs are available at Saarlouis Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Saarlouis Hbf. Information desks are available at Saarlouis Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Saarlouis Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Saarlouis Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Saarlouis Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Saarlouis Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Bahnhof-Hotel, Victor's Residenz, Hotel Europa.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Saarlouis
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Saarlouis and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Saarlouis
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