Cologne to Wilhelmshaven train with NordWestBahn

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
NordWestBahn
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
NordWestBahn
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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 Wilhelmshaven

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$81

Average price

$140

Fastest journey

4 h 43 m

Average duration

5 h 5 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

299 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 616+NordWestBahn75315
    8:11 AM5h10
    Cologne Hbf
    1:21 PMWilhelmshaven station
    $811One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 204+NordWestBahn75317
    9:11 AM5h10
    Cologne Hbf
    2:21 PMWilhelmshaven station
    $1311One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1053+NordWestBahn75321
    11:38 AM4h43
    Cologne Hbf
    4:21 PMWilhelmshaven station
    $1451One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 614+NordWestBahn75319
    10:11 AM5h10
    Cologne Hbf
    3:21 PMWilhelmshaven station
    $1551One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 612+NordWestBahn75323
    12:11 PM5h10
    Cologne Hbf
    5:21 PMWilhelmshaven station
    $1891One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and flight for Cologne to Wilhelmshaven

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $32, and a flight costs an average of $244.

Distance: 185 miles (299 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$81

Average price

Cheapest

$437

Average price

$64

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 6m

Average total duration

4h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 54m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 54m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven is a train with an average price of $81 (€66).

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

A train is $356 (€291) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven costing on average $437 (€357).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 30m.

Other travel options to Wilhelmshaven take longer:

Flight takes on average 3h 54m.

Train takes on average 4h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Wilhelmshaven including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $81 (€66) compared to roughly $64 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-16.42 (€-13.44). The journey takes 4h 36m versus 3h 57m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cologne to Wilhelmshaven train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Wilhelmshaven trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 616+NordWestBahn75315
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h10
1:21 PM Wilhelmshaven station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 204+NordWestBahn75317
On time
9:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h10
2:21 PM Wilhelmshaven station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 614+NordWestBahn75319
On time
10:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h10
3:21 PM Wilhelmshaven station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1053+NordWestBahn75321
On time
11:38 AM Cologne Hbf
4h43
4:21 PM Wilhelmshaven station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 612+NordWestBahn75323
On time
12:11 PM Cologne Hbf
5h10
5:21 PM Wilhelmshaven station
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Wilhelmshaven by train or flight

Compare train 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cologne to Wilhelmshaven trains with Omio?

NordWestBahn as well as Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
Omio is the only official third party seller for NordWestBahn tickets.

Why book with Omio vs NordWestBahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for NordWestBahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
  • 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 NordWestBahn with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 02:09, the last at 23:10. The fastest train covers the 185 miles (299 km) distance in 4h 36m.

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
185 miles (299 km)
Average train duration
4h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
4h 36m
First train
2:09 AM
Last train
11:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
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: NordWestBahn, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven trainsNordWestBahn, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Wilhelmshaven from $32 (€26). 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
4h 39m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€63)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

NordWestBahn

About
NordWestBahn is a German train company that operates in the states of Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Hesse. NordWestBahn offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. The most popular routes for NordWestBahn are from Hanover to Dortmund, from Hanover to Cologne, and from Hanover to Frankfurt. These routes offer travelers a convenient way to travel between major cities in Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
NordWestBahn frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Hand luggage and one piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible before first day of validity
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 36m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
15 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 32m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€91)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven 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 Wilhelmshaven, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $81 (€66).
The train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven takes 4h 36m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven is 185 miles (299 km).
The first train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven leaves at 2:09 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven leaves at 11:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Wilhelmshaven is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Wilhelmshaven station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven is by train, with a cost of around $32 (€26).
The train journey from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Rhine River, charming towns, and the rolling landscapes of Lower Saxony.
A day trip from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven is not feasible as the travel duration is 4h 36m and the trip frequency is 8 per day for trains over a distance of 185 miles (299 km).
For a fulfilling visit to Wilhelmshaven, 2 to 3 days are recommended to explore its maritime museums, the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea, and other local attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
Since both Cologne and Wilhelmshaven 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 Wilhelmshaven include Bremen, Oldenburg, Leer, Bad Zwischenahn, Varel.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven 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 Wilhelmshaven, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. It's advisable to stay alert in nightlife districts and avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent scams. Overall, the city is considered safe, but standard precautions with personal belongings and awareness of surroundings are 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 Wilhelmshaven

Cologne
Wilhelmshaven
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
  • Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin

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