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

Tue, Sep 15
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
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 Ulm

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

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

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 $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.

Fast trains

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.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 519
    12:53 PM4h20
    Cologne Hbf
    5:13 PMUlm Hbf
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 229 · ICE 1011
    1:53 PM4h33
    Cologne Hbf
    6:26 PMUlm Hbf
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515
    8:53 AM4h20
    Cologne Hbf
    1:13 PMUlm Hbf
    $781One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 519
    1:54 PM3h19
    Cologne Hbf
    5:13 PMUlm Hbf
    $791One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 107 · ICE 597
    12:56 PM3h04
    Cologne Hbf
    4:00 PMUlm Hbf
    $791One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Ulm

Omio 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)

Compare train with

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

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

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 Ulm is a bus with an average price of $55 (€44).

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).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Ulm is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 21m.

Other travel options to Ulm take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 29m.

Bus takes on average 8h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Ulm including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Ulm among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

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.

Live departures

Cologne to Ulm train times

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.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
4h20
1:13 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · ICE 593
On time
8:56 AM Cologne Hbf
3h04
12:00 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915
On time
9:32 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h54
12:26 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 515
Delayed
7:58 AM 9:54 AMCologne Hbf
3h19
1:13 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225
On time
9:55 AM Cologne Hbf
4h31
2:26 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 217
On time
10:00 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h09
2:09 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565
On time
10:00 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h33
1:33 PM Ulm Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 519
On time
12:53 PM Cologne Hbf
4h20
5:13 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · ICE 597
On time
12:56 PM Cologne Hbf
3h04
4:00 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 919
Delayed
11:31 AM 1:30 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
2h56
4:26 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 229 · ICE 1011
Delayed
11:55 AM 1:53 PMCologne Hbf
4h33
4:27 PM 4:27 PMUlm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 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 prices and tickets Cologne to Ulm 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.

Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21

Why should you book Cologne to Ulm trains with Omio?

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

  • 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 Ulm.
  • 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Ulm

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

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.

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 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
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 from Cologne to Ulm trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Ulm from $26 (€21). 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 (€18)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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

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

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.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Ulm can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $119 (€97).
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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Ulm.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Ulm is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Ulm Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Ulm is by bus, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
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.
A day trip from Cologne to Ulm is not feasible, as the travel duration is 2h 47m. However, there are 11 train journeys available per day covering the 221 miles (357 km) distance.
To fully experience Ulm, including its historic sites, the Ulm Minster, and the picturesque Danube views, a stay of 1 to 2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Ulm.
Since both Cologne and Ulm 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 Ulm include Munich, Stuttgart, Memmingen, Mannheim, Augsburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Ulm 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 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Ulm

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.

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, 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/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

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