Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sun, Sep 20
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

CHF37

Average ticket price on Sep 20

CHF87

Fastest journey on Sep 20

3 h 33 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

3 h 50 m

Trains on Sep 20

12

Distance

286 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around CHF87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF37.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 699 · IC 60402
    12:05 AM5h39
    Erfurt Hbf
    5:44 AMCologne Hbf
    CHF371One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 60408 · ICE 618+Hessische Landesbahn24300
    1:22 AM4h42
    Erfurt Hbf
    6:04 AMCologne Hbf
    CHF401One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 591 · ICE 1612
    5:29 AM4h03
    Erfurt Hbf
    9:32 AMCologne Hbf
    CHF651One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    12:09 PM8h47
    Erfurt Hbf
    8:56 PMCologne Hbf
    CHF741One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    12:09 PM8h49
    Erfurt Hbf
    8:58 PMCologne Hbf
    CHF801One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF30 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 1m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF30, while a train costs an average of CHF91.

Distance: 177 miles (286 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

CHF91

Average price

CHF30

Average price

Cheapest

CHF51

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 1m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 52m

Average total duration

5h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 19m

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 Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf is a bus with an average price of CHF30.

This is compared to other travel options from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf:

A bus is CHF62 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average CHF91.

The fastest way to travel from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by train with an average journey time of 4h 31m.

Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 22m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Erfurt Hbf and Cologne Hbf including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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 CHF91 compared to roughly CHF51 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF-40.75. The journey takes 4h 31m versus 4h 19m 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

Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1656 · ICE 614
On time
6:17 AM Erfurt Hbf
3h48
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 593 · IC 2047
On time
7:30 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h36
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 593 · ICE 1610
On time
7:30 AM Erfurt Hbf
4h03
11:33 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1654 · ICE 612
On time
8:16 AM Erfurt Hbf
3h49
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 750 · ICE 926
On time
8:50 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h16
2:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 750 · ICE 126
On time
8:50 AM Erfurt Hbf
3h53
12:43 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26104 · ICE 684 · IC 2046
On time
9:07 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h38
2:45 PM Cologne Hbf		2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 595 · IC 2045
On time
9:30 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h36
3:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 595 · ICE 1518
On time
9:30 AM Erfurt Hbf
4h03
1:33 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain10:13 AM Erfurt Hbf
7h28
5:41 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain10:13 AM Erfurt Hbf
7h30
5:43 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1652 · ICE 610
On time
10:16 AM Erfurt Hbf
3h49
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1652 · 3656 · ICE 882 · ICE 650
On time
10:16 AM Erfurt Hbf
4h59
3:15 PM Cologne Hbf		3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 837 · ICE 124
On time
10:50 AM Erfurt Hbf
3h53
2:43 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 837 · ICE 228
On time
10:50 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h16
4:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26106 · ICE 682 · IC 2048
On time
11:07 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h38
4:45 PM Cologne Hbf		2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 597 · ICE 1516
On time
11:30 AM Erfurt Hbf
4h03
3:33 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1650 · ICE 518
On time
12:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
3h49
4:05 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1650 · 3658 · ICE 880 · ICE 558
On time
12:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
4h59
5:15 PM Cologne Hbf		3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 839 · ICE 28
On time
12:50 PM Erfurt Hbf
5h16
6:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 839 · ICE 122
On time
12:50 PM Erfurt Hbf
3h53
4:43 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 839 · ICE 628 · S6
On time
12:50 PM Erfurt Hbf
3h33
4:23 PM Cologne Hbf		2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn26108 · ICE 680 · IC 2440
On time
1:07 PM Erfurt Hbf
5h38
6:45 PM Cologne Hbf		2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 599 · ICE 1514
On time
1:30 PM Erfurt Hbf
4h03
5:33 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain2:09 PM Erfurt Hbf
7h46
9:55 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1558 · ICE 516
On time
2:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
3h49
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 931 · ICE 26
On time
2:50 PM Erfurt Hbf
5h16
8:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 691 · ICE 1512
On time
3:30 PM Erfurt Hbf
4h03
7:33 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 691 · IC 2349
On time
3:30 PM Erfurt Hbf
5h36
9:06 PM 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 Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?

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

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 Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF28 but you can travel from only CHF15 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:16, the last at 12:09. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (286 km) distance in 3h 14m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from CHF15
Distance
177 miles (286 km)
Average train duration
4h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF28
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
3h 14m
First train
6:16 AM
Last train
12:09 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from CHF15

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Erfurt Hbf and Cologne Hbf from CHF15. 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
3h 14m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
CHF29
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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
6h 50m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
CHF28
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

FAQs: Trains from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF28, while the average price is around CHF91.
The train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 3h 14m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 177 miles (286 km).
The first train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 6:16 AM.
The last train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 12:09 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around CHF15.
The train journey from Erfurt Hbf to Köln Hbf offers scenic views of the Thuringian Forest and the picturesque Rhine Valley, providing a mix of lush landscapes and river vistas that can be particularly enjoyable for travelers.
A day trip from Erfurt Hbf to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 14m. Trains run 9 times per day over a distance of 177 miles (286 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Since both Erfurt Hbf and Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Venlo.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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.
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 Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Most Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains use the Erfurt Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Erfurt Hbf and Cologne Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Erfurt
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Erfurt HbfErfurt Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 12, 99084 ErfurtWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Erfurt Hbf from Erfurt city centre

Bus9 · 17m · every ~12 min
Tram6, 5, 1 · 5m · every ~20 min

Erfurt Hbf train station facilities and services

Erfurt 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: Istanbul Grill, McDonald's, Masala, Planet Comics

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Erfurt Hbf. ATMs are available at Erfurt Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Erfurt Hbf. Information desks are available at Erfurt Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Erfurt Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Erfurt Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Erfurt Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Erfurt Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Krämerbrücke, Intercity Hotel, Pension am Dom, Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior.

More about Erfurt Hbf

More options for your journey from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf

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

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Tickets and more information for trains to Cologne Hbf

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HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to Cologne HbfErfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf train

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