Dortmund Airport to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC,RB)

Mon, Sep 14
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund Airport to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14

Cheapest price on Sep 14

$13

Average ticket price on Sep 14

$43

Fastest journey on Sep 14

1 h 19 m

Average journey duration on Sep 14

1 h 19 m

Trains on Sep 14

98

Distance

80 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Dortmund Airport to Cologne will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.

Fast trains

On Mon, Sep 14, we found 98 trains from Dortmund Airport to Cologne, including 13 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 14 the direct trains cover the 80 km distance in an average of 1 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 19 m .

On Mon, Sep 14 the slowest trains will take 1 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 BahnS4 · S2 · ICE 1013
    3:10 PM2h19
    Dortmund-Wickede station
    5:29 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $131One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS4 · S2 · ICE 1013
    3:12 PM2h17
    Dortmund-Wickede West station
    5:29 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $131One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS4 · S2 · ICE 1015
    5:12 PM2h15
    Dortmund-Wickede West station
    7:27 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $131One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS4 · S2 · ICE 1015
    5:10 PM2h17
    Dortmund-Wickede station
    7:27 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $131One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS4 · S2 · ICE 615
    5:57 PM1h49
    Dortmund-Wickede West station
    7:46 PMCologne Hbf
    $131One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Dortmund Airport to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dortmund Airport to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $11 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, while a train costs an average of $46.

Distance: 49 miles (80 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$46

Average price

$11

Average price

Cheapest

$18

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 54m

Average total duration

2h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 14m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Dortmund Airport to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $11 (€9).

This is compared to other travel options from Dortmund Airport to Cologne:

A bus is $35 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dortmund Airport to Cologne costing on average $46 (€37).

The fastest way to travel from Dortmund Airport to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 1h 38m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 24m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dortmund Airport and Cologne including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund Airport to Cologne 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 $46 (€37) compared to roughly $18 (€15) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-27.84 (€-22.53). The journey takes 1h 38m versus 1h 14m 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

Dortmund Airport to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Dortmund Airport to Cologne trains for today, Sunday, September 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixTrain10:27 AM Dortmund Airport
1h14
11:41 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain11:27 AM Dortmund Airport
1h14
12:41 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain2:27 PM Dortmund Airport
1h16
3:43 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain3:27 PM Dortmund Airport
1h16
4:43 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain3:39 PM Dortmund Airport
1h18
4:57 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnS4 · S2 · ICE 515
On time
7:57 AM Dortmund-Wickede West station
1h49
9:46 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS4 · 20070 · ICE 956
On time
8:03 AM Dortmund-Wickede West station
2h19
10:22 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS4 · 20070 · ICE 956
On time
8:06 AM Dortmund-Wickede station
2h16
10:22 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS4 · S1 · IC 2042
On time
8:40 AM Dortmund-Wickede station
2h05
10:45 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS4 · S1 · IC 2042
On time
8:42 AM Dortmund-Wickede West station
2h03
10:45 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn20070 · ICE 956
On time
8:42 AM Holzwickede station
1h40
10:22 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Dortmund Airport to Cologne by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20

Why should you book Dortmund Airport to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Dortmund Airport to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dortmund Airport to Cologne.

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 FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Dortmund Airport to Cologne.
  • 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dortmund Airport to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Dortmund Airport to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Dortmund Airport to Cologne run on average 26 times per day, taking around 1h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€5) if you book in advance.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:27, the last at 18:54. The fastest train covers the 49 miles (80 km) distance in 1h 0m.

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
49 miles (80 km)
Average train duration
1h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$7 (€5)
Trains per day
26
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 0m
First train
6:27 AM
Last train
6:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
28 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, FlixTrain from Dortmund Airport to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Dortmund Airport and Cologne from $7 (€5). 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
1h 0m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$13 (€11)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
15 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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixTrain Duration
1h 10m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$7 (€5)
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

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

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Dortmund Airport to Cologne

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Dortmund Airport to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7 (€5), while the average price is around $46 (€37).
The train from Dortmund Airport to Cologne takes 1h 0m and runs 26 per day.
The first train from Dortmund Airport to Cologne leaves at 6:27 AM.
The distance by train from Dortmund Airport to Cologne is 49 miles (80 km).
The last train from Dortmund Airport to Cologne leaves at 6:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Dortmund Airport to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dortmund Airport to Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Dortmund Airport to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€5).
The train journey from Dortmund Airport to Cologne offers a mix of industrial and rural landscapes, with views of the Ruhr region's urban scenery transitioning into more scenic countryside as you approach Cologne.
Yes, a day trip from Dortmund Airport to Cologne is feasible with a travel time of 1h 0m and a distance of 49 miles (80 km). Trains run 31 times per day.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund Airport to Cologne.
Since both Dortmund Airport and Cologne 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 Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund Airport to Cologne 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 Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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 Dortmund Airport to Cologne

Most Dortmund Airport to Cologne trains use the Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Dortmund Airport and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Dortmund
Arrival train stations in Cologne
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.

More options for your journey from Dortmund Airport to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to CologneDortmund Airport to Cologne train

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