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Cologne - SalzburgCompare Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet, Intercity
$25
6h 13m
15 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
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.
Accessibility
Wifi
Seat reservation: Second Class:\nNot included by default.\nYou can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).\nCosts around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).\n\nFirst Class:\nYes, always included in the ticket price.\n\n
Toilets
USB plugs
Quiet zone
Pets: Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):\nAllowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage). \nMust stay in the box for the entire journey.\n\nLarge dogs:\nRequire a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.\nMust be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.\nCannot sit on seats.\n\nAssistance dogs:\nTravel free of charge.\nDo not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.\nAllowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Food sold onboard: Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:\nA Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.\nA Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.\nAt-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.\n\nRegional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):\nNo onboard catering.\nYou’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Luggage included: Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Cancellation Policy: Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Check in: DB does not have a formal check-in process. Passengers can board the train with a valid ticket and find their reserved or available seat.
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.
$115
9h 39m
1 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Accessibility
Wifi
Seat reservation: Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Quiet zone
Pets: Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Food sold onboard: Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Luggage included: 2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Cancellation Policy: Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Check in: No formal check-in process required. Passengers can board with valid ticket.
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.
$173
6h 7m
1 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Accessibility
Wifi
Seat reservation: Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Quiet zone
Pets: Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
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.
Luggage included: 2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Cancellation Policy: According to ticket conditions
Check in: No formal check-in process, passengers can board with valid ticket
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.
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Salzburg
Showing times and prices for Apr 22
Cheapest price
$68
Average price
$94
Fastest journey
6 h 27 m
Average duration
7 h 20 m
Trains per day
5
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 $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Salzburg on Wed, Apr 22, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Apr 22 the direct trains cover the 562 km distance in an average of 7 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 27 m .
On Wed, Apr 22 the slowest trains will take 7 h 53 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.
12:53 PM8h56Cologne9:49 PMSalzburg$681One-way0 transfers
7:58 AM7h01Cologne2:59 PMSalzburg$911One-way0 transfers- 7:53 AM8h05Cologne3:58 PMSalzburg$961One-way0 transfers
- 7:29 AM7h30Cologne2:59 PMSalzburg$1011One-way0 transfers
- 10:54 PM8h52Cologne7:46 AMSalzburg$1141One-way0 transfers
- 2:25 PM6h27Cologne8:52 PMSalzburg$2021One-way0 transfers
- 7:58 AM7h01Cologne2:59 PMSalzburg$911One-way0 transfers
- 7:29 AM7h30Cologne2:59 PMSalzburg$1011One-way0 transfers
- 5:53 AM7h49Cologne1:42 PMSalzburg$1271One-way0 transfers
- 11:53 AM7h53Cologne7:46 PMSalzburg$1881One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, 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 $39. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. 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 $39, and a flight costs an average of $187.
Distance: 349 miles (562 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$131 Average price | $59 Average price Cheapest | $666 Average price |
8h 6m Average total duration 7h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 2m Average total duration 9h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
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 tomorrow, Tuesday, April 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:53 AM Cologne | 7h49 | 1:42 PM Salzburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:29 AM Cologne | 7h30 | 2:59 PM Salzburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:53 AM Cologne | 8h05 | 3:58 PM Salzburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:58 AM Cologne | 7h01 | 2:59 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 bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, 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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Salzburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet, Intercity and more offer trains services from Cologne to Salzburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Salzburg.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet or Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Salzburg.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Salzburg.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet or Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Salzburg.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Salzburg.
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 $59Buses
from $41Flights
from $125Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Salzburg
Germany
Austria
Trains from Cologne to Salzburg run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 349 miles (562 km) distance in 6h 13m.
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 349 miles (562 km) |
Average train duration 7h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 13m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 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
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Salzburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $131 (€104).
The train from Cologne to Salzburg takes 6h 13m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Salzburg is 349 miles (562 km).
The first train from Cologne to Salzburg leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Salzburg leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Salzburg. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Salzburg.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Salzburg is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Salzburg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Salzburg is by train, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
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.
A day trip from Cologne to Salzburg is not feasible due to the travel time of 6h 13m. Trains run 9 times per day over a distance of 349 miles (562 km).
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.
To fully experience Salzburg, including its historic sites, cultural attractions, and scenic views, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Salzburg.
Since both Cologne and Salzburg 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 Salzburg include Munich, Linz, Zell am See, Bad Gastein, Schladming.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Salzburg 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.
Austria uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred in smaller towns or for small purchases.
In Salzburg, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town, train stations, and popular tourist spots. Beware of distraction scams where individuals may approach to engage in conversation or ask for signatures, aiming to steal valuables. It’s also advisable to use licensed taxis and official transportation services to avoid overcharging. Staying vigilant with personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night helps ensure a safe 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 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.
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/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
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike 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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