- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Ulm
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 30
Cheapest price on Oct 30
$98
Average ticket price on Oct 30
$131
Fastest journey on Oct 30
2 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Oct 30
3 h 30 m
Trains on Oct 30
6
Distance
357 km
Cheap tickets
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 $131 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.
Fast trains
On Fri, Oct 30, we found 6 trains from Cologne to Ulm, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 30 the direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 54 m .
On Fri, Oct 30 the slowest trains will take 4 h 20 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 1644 · ICE 51912:53 PM 4h20 Cologne Hbf 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf $98 1 One-way 1 transfer- ICE 229 · ICE 1011
1:53 PM 4h33 Cologne Hbf 6:26 PM Ulm Hbf $114 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 107 · ICE 597
12:43 PM 3h17 Cologne Messe/Deutz 4:00 PM Ulm Hbf $138 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 919
1:35 PM 2h54 Cologne Messe/Deutz 4:29 PM Ulm Hbf $138 1 One-way 0 transfers - ICE 519
1:54 PM 3h19 Cologne Hbf 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf $138 1 One-way 0 transfers
- ICE 919
1:35 PM 2h54 Cologne Messe/Deutz 4:29 PM Ulm Hbf $138 1 One-way 0 transfers - ICE 107 · ICE 597
12:43 PM 3h17 Cologne Messe/Deutz 4:00 PM Ulm Hbf $138 1 One-way 1 transfer - ICE 519
1:54 PM 3h19 Cologne Hbf 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf $138 1 One-way 0 transfers - ICE 15 · ICE 597
12:18 PM 3h42 Cologne Hbf 4:00 PM Ulm Hbf $159 1 One-way 1 transfer - IC 1644 · ICE 519
12:53 PM 4h20 Cologne Hbf 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf $98 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Ulm
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Ulm run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 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.
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 221 miles (357 km) |
Average train duration 3h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 |
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 |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Ulm trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Ulm.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Ulm can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22, while the average price is around $116.
The train from Cologne to Ulm takes 2h 47m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Ulm leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Ulm is 221 miles (357 km).
The last train from Cologne to Ulm leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Ulm. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Live departures
Cologne to Ulm train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ulm trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 15 · ICE 597 | On time 12:18 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h42 | 4:00 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 107 · ICE 597 | On time 12:43 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h17 | 4:00 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 1644 · ICE 519 | On time 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h20 | 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 919 | On time 1:35 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2h54 | 4:29 PM Ulm Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 229 · ICE 1011 | On time 1:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h33 | 6:26 PM Ulm 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
Why should you book Cologne to Ulm trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Ulm.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Ulm.
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 Ulm.
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 Ulm.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Ulm trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Ulm from $22. 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
2h 47m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$22
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Ulm
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Ulm.
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.
Complete guide to Ulm
Things to do in Ulm
Discover the best of Ulm — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ulm trip today.
- Must visit
Kloster Wiblingen Museum
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.
- Recommended
Museum Ulm
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.
- Must visit
Münsterplatz
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.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
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.
- Recommended
Danube Promenade
Waterside promenade along the Danube with open views toward Neu-Ulm. Good for relaxed walks, photos, and linking several historic sights on foot.
- Vegetarian
Spätzle
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.
Maultaschen
Handmade pasta pockets filled with minced meat, spinach, onions, and herbs, usually served in broth or with fried onions. A classic Swabian specialty.
Linsen mit Spätzle
A rich lentil stew served with Spätzle and usually sausages. It is a traditional everyday Swabian dish valued for its hearty, home-style character.
bi:brauderei
Refined Michelin-starred dining in an elegant setting, known for creative tasting menus and polished service in the heart of Ulm.
Zur Forelle
Historic traditional restaurant by the cathedral, valued for Swabian classics, local atmosphere, and a central old-town location.
Gasthaus zur Krone
Long-established inn focused on regional cuisine, including Maultaschen and roasts, with a classic, welcoming Swabian dining room.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-range, transit is reasonable, and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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
Service is included, but rounding up is standard. Tip restaurants about 5-10%, taxis by rounding up, and cafes by leaving small change.
DING App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.80
- Day pass
- €7.20
To the city center
Ulm Hbf -> Münsterplatz, Ulm
- Distance
- 800 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the DING app or from ticket machines before boarding. On most buses and trams, onboard ticket sales and card payment are limited.
- Ulm city centre is walkable from Ulm Hbf. Validate paper tickets if required and keep them until the end of your journey.
Plan your visit to Ulm
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Ulm.
The train journey from Cologne to Ulm offers scenic views of the Rhine Valley with its vineyards, castles, and picturesque landscapes, especially between Cologne and Koblenz, before transitioning to more urban and industrial scenes as you approach Ulm.
Popular day trips by train from Ulm include Munich, Stuttgart, Memmingen, Mannheim, Augsburg.
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 Ulm, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the main train station and popular tourist spots. Scam attempts involving distraction techniques are less common but still possible. It is advisable to keep personal belongings secure and avoid accepting unsolicited help from strangers. Overall, Ulm is considered a safe city, with standard urban 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.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Ulm.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Ulm
Most Cologne to Ulm trains use the Köln Hbf to Ulm Hbf station pair. 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.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Ulm
Which Cologne station do trains to Ulm leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Ulm 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 · $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 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 · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $3 · 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/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Ulm station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Ulm arrive at Ulm Hbf. Ulm Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Ulm city centre.
Ulm HbfUlm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm
City-centre transport
Getting to Ulm Hbf from Ulm city centre
Bus46 · 9m · $4 · every ~1 min
Tram1 · 3m · $4 · every ~11 min
Ulm Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Café Schmizz, Blauflesch, Wilder Mann, Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Hbf. ATMs are available at Ulm Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ulm Hbf. Information desks are available at Ulm Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ulm Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ulm Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ulm Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Bäumle, InterCityHotel Ulm, Lehrertal Garni.
Train stations for Cologne to Ulm
Check train stations information for Cologne and Ulm, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Ulm is Köln Hbf, which connects to Ulm Hbf.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Ulm
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ulm and Cologne
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