Cologne to Sonthofen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sat, Jun 20
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Sonthofen

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$34

Average price

$54

Fastest journey

6 h 57 m

Average duration

6 h 57 m

Trains per day

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 $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Cologne for Sonthofen on Sat, Jun 20, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jun 20 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, Jun 20 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:53 AM6h57
    Cologne
    4:50 PMSonthofen
    $341One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:53 AM6h57
    Cologne
    3:50 PMSonthofen
    $731One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Sonthofen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Sonthofen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $63.

Distance: 279 miles (450 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$93

Average price

$51

Average price

Cheapest

$171

Average price

$102

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 20m

Average total duration

5h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

15h 1m

Average total duration

14h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 8m

Onboard

+

3h 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

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 $51 (€42).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Sonthofen:

A bus is $41 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Sonthofen costing on average $93 (€76).

A bus is $120 (€99) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Sonthofen costing on average $171 (€140).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Sonthofen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 8m.

Other travel options to Sonthofen take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 50m.

Bus takes on average 14h 31m.

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 train 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 5m faster (5h 50m by train vs 5h 55m by car) and roughly $9 (€7) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($93 (€76) vs $102 (€83)). 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.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

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, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn8:53 AM Cologne
6h57
3:50 PM Sonthofen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:53 AM Cologne
6h57
4:50 PM Sonthofen0 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
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Cologne to Sonthofen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Sonthofen.
  • 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
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Sonthofen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 279 miles (450 km) distance in 5h 6m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
279 miles (450 km)
Average train duration
5h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$34 (€28)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 6m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:42 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Sonthofen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Sonthofen from $34 (€28). 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
5h 6m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€80)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
9 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 32m
Cheapest Price
$256 (€210)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Sonthofen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34 (€28), while the average price is around $93 (€76).
The train from Cologne to Sonthofen takes 5h 6m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Sonthofen leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Sonthofen is 279 miles (450 km).
The last train from Cologne to Sonthofen leaves at 11:42 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Sonthofen. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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 train, with a cost of around $34 (€28).
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 5h 6m 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 train 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, with some services arriving at Altstädten(Allgäu). 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, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min

Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services

Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.

Köln-ChorweilerKöln-Chorweiler, Liverpooler Platz, 50769 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln-Chorweiler from Cologne city centre

Köln-Chorweiler is 10 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS11, S6 · 11m · $2 · every ~11 min
S11, S6 · 13m · $4 · every ~11 min
BusS11 · 24m · $5
Subway15 · 28m · $4 · every ~12 min
15 · 29m · $4 · every ~12 min

Köln-Chorweiler train station facilities and services

Köln-Chorweiler 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: Weiler Kebap, Başak Grill, Le'zzet, Seniorencafé Treffpunkt

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Chorweiler. ATMs are available at Köln-Chorweiler.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln-Chorweiler. Information desks are available at Köln-Chorweiler.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln-Chorweiler. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln-Chorweiler: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln-Chorweiler: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Chorweiler.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Haus Wester.

More options for your journey from Cologne to Sonthofen

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