- Recommended
Heimathaus Sonthofen
Local history museum covering Sonthofen's Alpine culture, crafts, and town development; the best starting point for understanding the area.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Sonthofen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€28
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€44
Fastest journey on Sep 19
6 h 57 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
6 h 57 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
450 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Sonthofen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Sonthofen will cost around €44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €28.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Sonthofen, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 450 km distance in an average of 6 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 57 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 6 h 57 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.
9:53 AM6h57Cologne4:50 PMSonthofen€281One-way0 transfers- 8:53 AM6h57Cologne3:50 PMSonthofen€601One-way0 transfers
- 9:53 AM6h57Cologne4:50 PMSonthofen€281One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM6h57Cologne3:50 PMSonthofen€601One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Sonthofen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Sonthofen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €35 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 33m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €35, while a flight costs an average of €296.
Distance: 279 miles (450 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€54 Average price | €35 Average price Cheapest | €296 Average price | €84 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 42m Average total duration 5h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 15m Average total duration 10h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 33m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 Sonthofen is a bus with an average price of €35.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Sonthofen:
A bus is €19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Sonthofen costing on average €54.
A bus is €261 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Sonthofen costing on average €296.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Sonthofen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 33m.
Other travel options to Sonthofen take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 12m.
Bus takes on average 10h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Sonthofen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Sonthofen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 43m faster (5h 12m by train vs 5h 55m by car) and roughly €30 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€54 vs €84). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Sonthofen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Sonthofen trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:53 AM Cologne | 6h57 | 3:50 PM Sonthofen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:53 AM Cologne | 6h57 | 4:50 PM Sonthofen | 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 Sonthofen 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.
Sat
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Why should you book Cologne to Sonthofen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Sonthofen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Sonthofen.
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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Sonthofen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Sonthofen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Sonthofen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Sonthofen run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €33 but you can travel from only €32 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 279 miles (450 km) distance in 4h 36m.
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 €32
Distance 279 miles (450 km) |
Average train duration 5h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price €33 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 4h 36m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 €32
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Sonthofen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Sonthofen from €32. 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
4h 36m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€33
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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 Sonthofen
Things to do in Sonthofen
Discover the best of Sonthofen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sonthofen trip today.
- Recommended
Heimatmuseum Bad Hindelang
Museum in nearby Bad Hindelang focused on regional farming, folk life, and Allgäu customs; compact, informative, and easy to combine with a day trip.
- Recommended
Skimuseum Fischen
Specialist ski museum in Fischen presenting winter sports history, equipment, and local athletic heritage in the northern Alps.
- Must visit
Hinanger Wasserfall
Popular waterfall walk above Sonthofen with a dramatic gorge setting; one of the area's best short outings and a favorite for visitors and locals.
- Recommended
Innenstadt Sonthofen
Pedestrian-friendly center with shops, historic buildings, and easy access to churches and civic landmarks; the practical heart of a Sonthofen visit.
- Recommended
Oberer Marktplatz
Main square used for markets and events, framed by everyday town life and mountain views; ideal for orientation and a relaxed stroll.
- Vegetarian
Allgaeuer Kaesespaetzle
Cheese spaetzle with fried onions, a beloved Allgaeu mountain dish served in inns across Sonthofen. Rich alpine cheese gives it its regional character.
Krautkrapfen
Potato noodles pan-fried with sauerkraut and bacon. This hearty Swabian-Allgaeu specialty is a classic comfort food in southern Bavaria.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Obatzda
A rustic cheese spread made with Camembert, butter, onion and paprika. Popular in Bavarian beer gardens and mountain huts as a savory snack.
Hotel Zum Goldenen Hirsch Restaurant
Established alpine-style restaurant serving Allgaeu classics, seasonal specialties and a cozy inn setting popular with locals and visitors.
Gasthof Hirsch
Traditional Bavarian brewery tavern known for hearty regional dishes and beer-focused atmosphere in central Sonthofen.
Gasthaus Zum Löwen
Casual German inn with regional comfort food, generous portions and a relaxed atmosphere suited to families and hikers.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Bavaria: lodging and dining are below Munich, but alpine tourism can raise hotel and restaurant prices in peak seasons. Local transit is manageable.
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
Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, tip about 5-10% for good service, usually by telling the total when paying.
DB Navigator
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- :null
- Day pass
- :null
To the city center
Sonthofen Bahnhof -> Sonthofen Rathaus
- Distance
- 300 m
- Travel time
- 4 min
- From Sonthofen Bahnhof, the town center is walkable in a few minutes, so you may not need a bus for central trips.
- Check fares in DB Navigator before boarding; payment options vary by bus operator, and contactless onboard payment is not reliably published.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Sonthofen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Sonthofen 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 Sonthofen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Sonthofen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €33, while the average price is around €54.
The train from Cologne to Sonthofen takes 4h 36m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Sonthofen is 279 miles (450 km).
The first train from Cologne to Sonthofen leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Sonthofen leaves at 11:42 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Sonthofen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Sonthofen.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Sonthofen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Sonthofen.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Sonthofen is by bus, with a cost of around €32.
The train journey from Cologne to Sonthofen offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and the beautiful Bavarian countryside, making it a visually enjoyable route.
A day trip from Cologne to Sonthofen is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 36m one way. There are 7 trains per day for this route.
Spending 2 to 3 days in Sonthofen is ideal to explore its charming town center, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or cycling in the surrounding Allgäu Alps, and experience local culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Sonthofen.
Since both Cologne and Sonthofen 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 Sonthofen include Oberstdorf, Kempten, Memmingen, Immenstadt im Allgau, Fischen im Allgäu.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Sonthofen 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 Sonthofen, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially during festivals or market days. It is advisable to stay vigilant when using public transportation or in busy tourist spots. Scams are generally rare, but travelers should avoid unofficial taxi services and be cautious when dealing with street vendors to prevent overcharging. Overall, Sonthofen is considered a safe destination with standard precautions recommended.
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 Sonthofen
Most Cologne to Sonthofen trains use the Köln Hbf to Sonthofen station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Sonthofen 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 Sonthofen
Which Cologne station do trains to Sonthofen leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Sonthofen 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.
Which Sonthofen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Sonthofen arrive at Sonthofen. Sonthofen is 0 miles (1 km) from Sonthofen city centre.
SonthofenSonthofen, Bahnhofsplatz 3, 87527 Sonthofen
City-centre transport
Getting to Sonthofen from Sonthofen city centre
Bus48, 22, 20, 81 · 6m · €2 · every ~4 min
22, 48 · 10m · €2 · every ~3 min
Sonthofen train station facilities and services
Sonthofen 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: IO Cafebar, Gasthof zum Löwen, Handwerk, Taverna Santorini
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sonthofen. ATMs are available at Sonthofen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sonthofen. Information desks are available at Sonthofen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Sonthofen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sonthofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Sonthofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sonthofen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Gasthof Hirsch, Gasthof zum Löwen, Deutsches Haus, Kaisers kleines Stadthotel.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Sonthofen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sonthofen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Sonthofen
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