Cologne to Zagreb train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC)

Tue, Aug 25
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Zagreb

Showing times and prices for Aug 25

Cheapest price

$142

Average price

$159

Fastest journey

14 h 2 m

Average duration

19 h 30 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

876 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Zagreb will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cologne for Zagreb on Tue, Aug 25, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Aug 25 the direct trains cover the 876 km distance in an average of 19 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 14 h 2 m .

On Tue, Aug 25 the slowest trains will take 22 h 44 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 Bahn
    9:53 AM22h44
    Cologne
    8:37 AMZagreb
    $1421One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:58 AM14h02
    Cologne
    9:00 PMZagreb
    $1421One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:54 AM21h43
    Cologne
    7:37 AMZagreb
    $1951One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne to Zagreb

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Zagreb among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $62.

Distance: 544 miles (876 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$136

Average price

$533

Average price

$103

Average price

Cheapest

$79

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

14h 16m

Average total duration

13h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 14m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 14m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

17h 44m

Average total duration

17h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 12m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Croatia Airlines

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Zagreb is a bus with an average price of $103.

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

A bus is $34 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Zagreb costing on average $136.

A bus is $430 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Zagreb costing on average $533.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Zagreb is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 14m.

Other travel options to Zagreb take longer:

Train takes on average 13h 46m.

Bus takes on average 17h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Zagreb including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Zagreb 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 $136 compared to roughly $79 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-57.01. The journey takes 13h 46m versus 11h 12m 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 Zagreb train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Zagreb trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:58 AM Cologne
14h02
9:00 PM Zagreb0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:53 AM Cologne
22h44
8:37 AM Zagreb0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:54 AM Cologne
21h43
7:37 AM Zagreb0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Zagreb by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, 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.

Tue
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Why should you book Cologne to Zagreb trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Zagreb.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Zagreb.

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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Zagreb.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Zagreb.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Zagreb

GermanyGermany
CroatiaCroatia
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Zagreb run on average 3 times per day, taking around 13h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 544 miles (876 km) distance in 12h 19m.

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
544 miles (876 km)
Average train duration
13h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$24
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
12h 19m
First train
4:20 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
49 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, Sylt Shuttle Plus, ÖBB | ICE from Cologne to Zagreb trainsDeutsche Bahn, Sylt Shuttle Plus, ÖBB | ICE trains will get you between Cologne and Zagreb from $47. 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
12h 19m
Cheapest Price
$50
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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

Sylt Shuttle Plus

About
Sylt Shuttle Plus was a unique passenger train service operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB) that connected Niebüll and Westerland on the island of Sylt, Germany. Unlike the primary Sylt Shuttle, which transports vehicles, the "Plus" service was designed for passengers without cars. It involved coupling a Class 628 diesel multiple unit to the rear of the car shuttle train. Introduced in 2015, the Sylt Shuttle Plus gained notoriety for its often-empty carriages and longer travel times compared to regional trains, leading to its nickname "ghost train." The service was discontinued in December 2024.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 22m
Cheapest Price
$75
Sylt Shuttle Plus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type
Refund
Full refund for cancelled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, additional fee applies
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket
Quiet zone

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 20m
Cheapest Price
$24
ÖBB | ICE frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Zagreb

Things to do in Zagreb

Discover the best of Zagreb — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zagreb trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum of Broken Relationships

Globally known museum presenting intimate stories from former relationships through donated objects, both moving and uniquely memorable.

  • Recommended

Museum of Arts and Crafts

Leading Croatian art museum with major collections from medieval works to modern masters, ideal for a broad cultural overview.

  • Recommended

Archaeological Museum in Zagreb

Major archaeology museum featuring Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Croatian finds, including the famous Zagreb mummy linen text.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Central Europe. Hotels rise in summer, but dining, coffee, and trams stay fairly affordable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up in cafes and taxis, or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Zagreb

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Zagreb can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $136.
The train from Cologne to Zagreb takes 12h 19m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Zagreb is 544 miles (876 km).
The first train from Cologne to Zagreb leaves at 4:20 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Zagreb leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Zagreb.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Zagreb.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Zagreb is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Zagreb Main Station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Zagreb is by bus, with a cost of around $47.
The train journey from Cologne to Zagreb offers a variety of scenic landscapes, including views of the Rhine Valley, picturesque German and Austrian countryside, and the rolling hills of Slovenia before reaching the vibrant cityscape of Zagreb.
A day trip from Cologne to Zagreb is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 19m each way and covers 544 miles (876 km). There are 2 trips per day available by train.
In Zagreb, you can visit the Zagreb Botanical Garden for a serene escape, explore vibrant street art, attend performances at the Croatian National Theatre, enjoy Maksimir Park's natural beauty, and uncover the history of the Grič Tunnel. Must-see sights include the stunning Zagreb Cathedral, the unique Museum of Broken Relationships, St. Mark's Church with its colorful roof, the lively Dolac Market, and Lotrščak Tower with panoramic city views.
Three to four days are ideal to explore Zagreb's main attractions, enjoy its vibrant culture, and savor local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Zagreb.
Since both Cologne and Zagreb 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 Zagreb include Celje, Dobova, Harmica, Sevnica, Zidani Most.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Zagreb 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.
Croatia uses the Croatian kuna (HRK) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred in smaller towns and markets.
In Zagreb, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and tourist spots. Common scams include taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid unlicensed currency exchange offices to prevent fraud. Staying alert and securing belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Zagreb

Most Cologne to Zagreb trains use the Köln Hbf to Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Zagreb 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 Zagreb

Which Cologne station do trains to Zagreb leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Zagreb 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.

HomeTrainsTrain Times to ZagrebCologne to Zagreb train

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