- Must visit
Deutsches Marinemuseum
Major marine museum with historic ships, exhibitions on German naval history, and harbor views. The city’s signature museum experience.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- €46
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- €60
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 4 h 58 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 5 h 4 m
- Trains on Nov 03
- 2
- 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 €60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €46.
Fast trains
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct trains cover the 299 km distance in an average of 5 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 58 m .
On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest trains will take 5 h 10 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.
5:23 AM 4h58 Cologne 10:21 AM Wilhelmshaven €46 1 One-way 0 transfers7:11 AM 5h10 Cologne 12:21 PM Wilhelmshaven €73 1 One-way 0 transfers
5:23 AM 4h58 Cologne 10:21 AM Wilhelmshaven €46 1 One-way 0 transfers7:11 AM 5h10 Cologne 12:21 PM Wilhelmshaven €73 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €18 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 9m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance185 miles (299 km)
- Average train duration4h 26m
- Cheapest ticket price€18
- Trains per day6
- Fastest train4h 9m
- First train2:09 AM
- Last train11:10 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DayTue
- High SeasonApr - Jun
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DayWed
- Least Busy DayTue
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 Wilhelmshaven trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €18, while the average price is around €74.
The train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven takes 4h 9m and runs 6 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 direct train service currently available from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
Live departures
Cologne to Wilhelmshaven train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Wilhelmshaven trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:23 AM Cologne | 4h58 | 10:21 AM Wilhelmshaven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:11 AM Cologne | 5h10 | 12:21 PM Wilhelmshaven | 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 Wilhelmshaven trains with Omio?
NordWestBahn as well as Deutsche Bahn 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 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.
Train companies
Train companies from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven
Trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven with Deutsche Bahn and NordWestBahn. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and NordWestBahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
4h 9m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
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
Average NordWestBahn Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest NordWestBahn Price
€18
NordWestBahn frequency
3 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Wilhelmshaven
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 high-speed train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
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 Wilhelmshaven
Things to do in Wilhelmshaven
Discover the best of Wilhelmshaven — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Wilhelmshaven trip today.
- Must visit
UNESCO-Weltnaturerbe Wattenmeer Besucherzentrum
Interactive coastal and environmental museum explaining the Wadden Sea, climate, and regional ecology. Excellent context before seaside exploration.
- Recommended
Aquarium Wilhelmshaven
Modern aquarium and museum focused on marine life and evolution. Popular with families and a practical all-weather stop near the seafront.
- Must visit
Südstrand
Elegant seaside promenade with beach access, museums, and broad Jade Bay views. The city’s classic walking area and top place to enjoy the coast.
- Recommended
Bontekai
Lively harbor promenade with ships, tours, and event space. Great for maritime views and an easy introduction to Wilhelmshaven’s waterfront.
- Recommended
Kurpark
Central urban green space with mature trees, paths, and recreation areas. A pleasant break from the harbor and a popular local meeting place.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl Mit Pinkel
Kale cooked slowly with onions and spices, often served in Lower Saxony during winter with sausage or pork. A classic North German cold-season meal.
- Gluten-free
Nordseekrabben
Tiny North Sea brown shrimp, prized along the coast for their sweet, briny flavor. Commonly served on bread, with eggs, or in simple seafood plates.
Scholle
Pan-fried North Sea plaice, a regional favorite from nearby coastal waters. Usually served simply with potatoes, lemon, and butter.
Le Patio
Established harbor-area restaurant known for fresh fish and North German seafood in a relaxed maritime setting.
Kochs Speisewerk
Well-known traditional seafood restaurant by the water, popular for fish dishes and a classic coastal atmosphere.
Pumpwerk Gastronomie
Casual local venue for hearty German meals, beer, and regional comfort food in an informal pub-style setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than major cities, while local transit and casual meals remain reasonably priced for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50-80 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, round up or add 5-10%. Taxis are often rounded up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is common.
FahrPlaner
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.80
- Day pass
- €7.80
To the city center
Wilhelmshaven Mitte Station -> Wilhelmshaven Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in the FahrPlaner app, at machines, or from bus drivers where offered. Check your fare zone before travel.
- Contactless card payment is not available on all buses. Use the app or carry a payment card and some cash as backup.
Plan your visit to Wilhelmshaven
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 Wilhelmshaven.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Wilhelmshaven include Bremen, Oldenburg, Leer, Bad Zwischenahn, Varel.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven
Most Cologne to Wilhelmshaven trains use the Köln Hbf to Wilhelmshaven Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Wilhelmshaven 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 Wilhelmshaven
Which Cologne station do trains to Wilhelmshaven leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven 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 · €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/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 · €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.
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 · €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.
Which Wilhelmshaven station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Wilhelmshaven arrive at Wilhelmshaven Hbf. Wilhelmshaven Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Wilhelmshaven city centre.
Wilhelmshaven HbfWilhelmshaven, Ebertstr. 107, 26382 Wilhelmshaven
City-centre transport
Getting to Wilhelmshaven Hbf from Wilhelmshaven city centre
Wilhelmshaven Hbf is 1 km from Wilhelmshaven city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus6 · 5m · every ~5 min
Wilhelmshaven Hbf train station facilities and services
Wilhelmshaven 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: China Restaurant Pacific, Subway, PHO, Tayfun-Grill
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf. ATMs are available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf. Information desks are available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wilhelmshaven Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include City Hotel Valois, Atlantic Hotel, Home.
Train stations for Cologne to Wilhelmshaven
Check train stations information for Cologne and Wilhelmshaven, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Wilhelmshaven is Köln Hbf, which connects to Wilhelmshaven Hbf.
Most popular trains to and from Wilhelmshaven and Cologne
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