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

Sat, Aug 01
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Ulm

Showing times and prices for Aug 01

Cheapest price

€56

Average price

€84

Fastest journey

2 h 55 m

Average duration

3 h 29 m

Trains per day

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 €84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €56.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Cologne for Ulm on Sat, Aug 01, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .

On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 4 h 11 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 BahnICE 217
    9:58 AM4h11
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    2:09 PMUlm Hbf
    561One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 217 · 19223 · 16057
    9:58 AM3h53
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    1:51 PMUlm Hbf
    681One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515
    8:53 AM4h20
    Cologne Hbf
    1:13 PMUlm Hbf
    801One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 915
    9:31 AM2h55
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    12:26 PMUlm Hbf
    1001One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 515
    9:54 AM3h19
    Cologne Hbf
    1:13 PMUlm Hbf
    1001One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Ulm

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Ulm run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €25 but you can travel from only €20 by bus.

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 55m.

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 €20
Distance
221 miles (357 km)
Average train duration
3h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
€25
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 55m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €20

Live departures

Cologne to Ulm train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ulm trains for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 619
Delayed
10:02 PM 12:03 AMCologne Hbf
4h44
2:45 AM 2:45 AMUlm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 2013 · ICE 517
Delayed
10:53 AM Cologne Hbf
4h20
1:30 PM 1:30 PMUlm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 105 · ICE 2585
Delayed
9:13 AM 10:54 AMCologne Hbf
3h06
12:03 PM 12:03 PMUlm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 225
Delayed
9:23 AM 11:18 AMCologne Hbf
3h08
2:26 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 517
Delayed
10:27 AM 11:54 AMCologne Hbf
3h19
1:30 PM 1:30 PMUlm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2544 · ICE 519
On time
12:53 PM Cologne Hbf
4h20
5:13 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · ICE 2587
Delayed
12:54 PM Cologne Hbf
3h06
2:11 PM 2:11 PMUlm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 919
On time
1:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h56
4:26 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 519
Delayed
11:56 AM 1:54 PMCologne Hbf
3h19
5:13 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2546 · ICE 611
On time
2:53 PM Cologne Hbf
4h20
7:13 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 109 · ICE 2589
Delayed
2:54 PM Cologne Hbf
3h06
4:07 PM 4:07 PMUlm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1011
On time
3:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h56
6:26 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 611
On time
3:54 PM Cologne Hbf
3h19
7:13 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2508 · ICE 613
On time
4:53 PM Cologne Hbf
4h20
9:13 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 201 · ICE 2591
On time
4:54 PM Cologne Hbf
3h06
8:00 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
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
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
3h06
12:00 PM Ulm Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915
On time
9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h55
12:26 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 515
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
3h19
1:13 PM Ulm Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 217 · 19223 · 16057
On time
9:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h53
1:51 PM Ulm Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 217
On time
9:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h11
2:09 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 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.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Ulm?

The best time to book your train from Cologne to Ulm is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Ulm route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Ulm per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Ulm.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Ulm trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Ulm from €20. 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
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
€25
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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
3h 1m
Cheapest Price
€70
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
14 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest Price
€127
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
3 a day

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 €25, while the average price is around €87.
The train from Cologne to Ulm takes 2h 55m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Ulm is 221 miles (357 km).
The first train from Cologne to Ulm leaves at 12:01 AM.
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Ulm.
Popular day trips by train from Ulm include Munich, Stuttgart, Memmingen, Mannheim, Augsburg.
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 · €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 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 · €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.

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 · €4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · €4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · €5

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.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone