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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Salzburg
Showing times and prices for Dec 08
Cheapest price
€106
Average price
€144
Fastest journey
6 h 14 m
Average duration
6 h 58 m
Trains per day
13
Distance
562 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Salzburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Salzburg will cost around €144 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €106.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Salzburg without transferring at least once.
EC 7 · ICE 573 · ICE 565 · RJX 6908:53AM8h05
Cologne Hbf04:58PMSalzburg Hbf
€1061One-way
3 transfers
ICE 915+
BRB 7902309:10AM6h32
Cologne Messe/Deutz03:42PMSalzburg Hbf
€1191One-way
1 transfer
ICE 529 · RJX 6708:44AM6h14
Cologne Messe/Deutz02:58PMSalzburg Hbf
€1281One-way
1 transfer
ICE 515+BRB 7902509:57AM6h45
Cologne Messe/Deutz04:42PMSalzburg Hbf
€1411One-way
1 transfer
S 6 · ICE 27 · ICE 225+
09:41AM7h40
Cologne Messe/Deutz05:21PMSalzburg Hbf
€1421One-way
3 transfers
ICE 529 · RJX 6708:44AM6h14
Cologne Messe/Deutz02:58PMSalzburg Hbf
€1281One-way
1 transfer
ICE 915+BRB 7902309:10AM6h32
Cologne Messe/Deutz03:42PMSalzburg Hbf
€1191One-way
1 transfer
ICE 515+BRB 7902509:57AM6h45
Cologne Messe/Deutz04:42PMSalzburg Hbf
€1411One-way
1 transfer
ICE 621+09:44AM7h37
Cologne Messe/Deutz05:21PMSalzburg Hbf
€1661One-way
1 transfer
S 6 · ICE 27 · ICE 225+09:41AM7h40
Cologne Messe/Deutz05:21PMSalzburg Hbf
€1421One-way
3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Salzburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Salzburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 34m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €30, and a flight costs an average of €115.
Distance: 349 miles (562 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€116 Average price | €416 Average price | €52 Average price Cheapest |
8h 6m Average total duration 7h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 1h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 59m Average total duration 9h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.7 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Salzburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Salzburg trains for today, Sunday, December 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 7:09 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 115 | On time 7:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h30 | 2:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 529+ | Delayed 7:45 AM 7:44 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 10h37 | 6:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 529 · RJX 67 | Delayed 7:45 AM 7:44 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 6h14 | 1:58 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 529+ | Delayed 7:45 AM 7:44 AMCologne Messe/Deutz | 8h37 | 4:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| EC 7 · ICE 573 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | Delayed 7:58 AM 7:53 AMCologne Hbf | 8h05 | 3:58 PM Salzburg Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 593+ | On time 7:55 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h26 | 4:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 593+ | On time 7:55 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 10h26 | 6:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 915+ | On time 8:10 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h11 | 4:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 915+ | On time 8:10 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 10h11 | 6:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 915+BRB 79023 | On time 8:10 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h32 | 2:42 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 515+BRB 79025 | On time 8:57 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h45 | 3:42 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, December 8 | |||||
| 6:24 AM Cologne | 8h34 | 2:58 PM Salzburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:44 AM Cologne | 6h14 | 12:58 PM Salzburg | 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 Salzburg by train, bus, or flight
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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Salzburg?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Salzburg is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Salzburg route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Salzburg per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Salzburg.
Trains
from €47Buses
from €33Flights
from €100Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Salzburg
Germany
Austria
Trains from Cologne to Salzburg run on average 9 times per day, taking around 7h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $38 (€30) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:23, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 349 miles (562 km) distance in 6h 12m.
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 $38 (€30)
Distance 349 miles (562 km) |
Average train duration 7h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 12m |
First train 00:23 |
Last train 23:58 |
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 $38 (€30)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet, Intercity from Cologne to Salzburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Salzburg from $38 (€30). 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
6h 12m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
ÖBB | ICE
About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 58m
Cheapest Price
$78 (€63)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). 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
Average Duration
9h 25m
Cheapest Price
$118 (€95)
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 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
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
6h 7m
Cheapest Price
$172 (€139)
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
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Salzburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Salzburg 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 Salzburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The train journey from Cologne to Salzburg is scenic, offering views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and picturesque towns along the route, especially between Cologne and Koblenz.
The distance by train from Cologne to Salzburg is 349 miles (562 km).
To fully experience Salzburg, including its historic sites, cultural attractions, and scenic views, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Salzburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $144 (€116).
The first train from Cologne to Salzburg leaves at 12:23 AM.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Salzburg is by bus, with a cost of around $38 (€30).
The train from Cologne to Salzburg takes 6h 12m and runs 9 per day.
In Salzburg, you can explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views of the city and Alps, visit the baroque Mirabell Palace and Gardens, discover Mozart's Birthplace to learn about the famous composer, admire the stunning architecture of Salzburg Cathedral, and stroll along Getreidegasse, a charming shopping street with historic buildings and cafes.
The last train from Cologne to Salzburg leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Salzburg.
A day trip from Cologne to Salzburg is not feasible due to the travel time of 6h 12m. Trains run 9 times per day over a distance of 349 miles (562 km).
The train station in Cologne that goes to Salzburg is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Salzburg Hbf.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Salzburg.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Salzburg. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Salzburg
Cologne
Salzburg
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 Salzburg.
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.
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
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Salzburg is Salzburg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Salzburg Hbf for your journey to Salzburg from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
11Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible from Südtiroler Platz.
Dining
- Restaurant Imlauer
- Stieglitz
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Hotel Europa Salzburg
- Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre
- H+ Hotel Salzburg
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for ÖBB and Westbahn trains
- Hall 2: platforms 6-11 for regional and international trains
Public transit options for Salzburg Hbf
- Bus: Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 25
- S-Bahn: Line S3
- Trolleybus: Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6
Salzburg Parsch
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingSalzburg Aiglhof
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingMore options for your journey from Cologne to Salzburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Salzburg and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Salzburg
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