- Must visit
Museum Ulm – Archaeology
Museum on the famous Ice Age Lion Man and regional archaeology. It presents globally important prehistoric finds from caves in the Swabian Jura.
Cheapest price on Sep 15
$64
Average ticket price on Sep 15
$86
Fastest journey on Sep 15
2 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
3 h 3 m
Trains on Sep 15
12
Distance
357 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Ulm is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Ulm will cost around $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 12 trains from Cologne to Ulm, including 5 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 3 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 54 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 3 h 19 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.
IC 2044 · ICE 519
ICE 229 · ICE 1011
IC 2040 · ICE 515
ICE 519
ICE 107 · ICE 597
ICE 915
ICE 919
ICE 107 · ICE 597
ICE 103 · ICE 593
ICE 519Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Ulm among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $55 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 21m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $55, while a flight costs an average of $380.
Distance: 221 miles (357 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $380 Average price | $82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 59m Average total duration 3h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 35m Average total duration 8h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration Fastest 1h 21m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.1kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Ulm:
A bus is $64 (€52) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Ulm costing on average $119 (€97).
A bus is $325 (€264) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Ulm costing on average $380 (€308).
Other travel options to Ulm take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 29m.
Bus takes on average 8h 5m.
You'll arrive about 1h 32m sooner (3h 29m by train vs 5h 1m by car). Tickets start at around $119 (€97) compared to roughly $82 (€67) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ulm trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 2040 · ICE 515 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h20 | 1:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 103 · ICE 593 | On time 8:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h04 | 12:00 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915 | On time 9:32 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2h54 | 12:26 PM Ulm Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 515 | Delayed 7:58 AM 9:54 AMCologne Hbf | 3h19 | 1:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 27 · ICE 225 | On time 9:55 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h31 | 2:26 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 217 | On time 10:00 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h09 | 2:09 PM Ulm Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 | On time 10:00 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h33 | 1:33 PM Ulm Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2044 · ICE 519 | On time 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h20 | 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 107 · ICE 597 | On time 12:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h04 | 4:00 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 919 | Delayed 11:31 AM 1:30 PMCologne Messe/Deutz | 2h56 | 4:26 PM Ulm Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 229 · ICE 1011 | Delayed 11:55 AM 1:53 PMCologne Hbf | 4h33 | 4:27 PM 4:27 PMUlm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 519 | On time 1:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h19 | 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cologne to Ulm run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 221 miles (357 km) distance in 2h 47m.
Distance 221 miles (357 km) |
Average train duration 3h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 47m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Ulm — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ulm trip today.
Museum on the famous Ice Age Lion Man and regional archaeology. It presents globally important prehistoric finds from caves in the Swabian Jura.
Former monastery museum famed for its splendid late Baroque library hall. One of the most beautiful interiors in the Ulm area and a favorite day trip.
Major art museum with strong modern and contemporary collections, including works tied to Ulm's design heritage. A top cultural stop in the city center.
Broad square beside the minster, ideal for appreciating the church's immense scale. It often hosts events and is a natural pause on any walking route.
Central market square framed by the Town Hall and daily urban life. A practical starting point for sightseeing and one of Ulm's liveliest gathering places.
Waterside promenade along the Danube with open views toward Neu-Ulm. Good for relaxed walks, photos, and linking several historic sights on foot.
Swabian egg noodles often served with cheese and onions or as a side. They are a signature comfort food across Ulm and the wider Swabian region.
Handmade pasta pockets filled with minced meat, spinach, onions, and herbs, usually served in broth or with fried onions. A classic Swabian specialty.
A rich lentil stew served with Spätzle and usually sausages. It is a traditional everyday Swabian dish valued for its hearty, home-style character.
Refined Michelin-starred dining in an elegant setting, known for creative tasting menus and polished service in the heart of Ulm.
Historic traditional restaurant by the cathedral, valued for Swabian classics, local atmosphere, and a central old-town location.
Long-established inn focused on regional cuisine, including Maultaschen and roasts, with a classic, welcoming Swabian dining room.
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-range, transit is reasonable, and budget eats are easy to find.
Service is included, but rounding up is standard. Tip restaurants about 5-10%, taxis by rounding up, and cafes by leaving small change.
Official public transport app
Ulm Hbf -> Münsterplatz, Ulm
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Ulm 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 Ulm, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Ulm trains use the Köln Hbf to Ulm Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Ulm Ost. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Ulm train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ulm 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 options include: Café Schmizz, Blauflesch, Wilder Mann, Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute
Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Hbf. ATMs are available at Ulm Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Ulm Hbf. Information desks are available at Ulm Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Ulm Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ulm Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Ulm Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Bäumle, InterCityHotel Ulm, Lehrertal Garni.
Ulm Ost 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 options include: Bodhi, Schwarze Henne, Café Schmizz, Kornhäusle
Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Ost. ATMs are available at Ulm Ost.
Ticket office support is available at Ulm Ost. Information desks are available at Ulm Ost.
Luggage storage is available at Ulm Ost. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ulm Ost: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Ulm Ost: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Ost.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Hotel Comfor, Bäumle, Stern.
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