- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$97
Average price
$133
Fastest journey
3 h 33 m
Average duration
5 h 11 m
Trains per day
6
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 $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $97.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf without transferring at least once.
FlixTrain · FlixTrain10:13 AM7h30Erfurt Hbf5:43 PMCologne Hbf$971One-way1 transfer
ICE 839 · ICE 2812:50 PM5h16Erfurt Hbf6:06 PMCologne Hbf$1101One-way1 transfer- ICE 839 · ICE 12212:50 PM3h53Erfurt Hbf4:43 PMCologne Hbf$1421One-way1 transfer
- 26108 · ICE 680 · IC 2440 · ICE 2031:07 PM5h41Erfurt Hbf6:48 PMCologne Hbf$1451One-way3 transfers
- ICE 839 · ICE 628 · S612:50 PM3h33Erfurt Hbf4:23 PMCologne Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers
- ICE 839 · ICE 628 · S612:50 PM3h33Erfurt Hbf4:23 PMCologne Hbf$1461One-way2 transfers
- ICE 839 · ICE 12212:50 PM3h53Erfurt Hbf4:43 PMCologne Hbf$1421One-way1 transfer
- ICE 839 · ICE 2812:50 PM5h16Erfurt Hbf6:06 PMCologne Hbf$1101One-way1 transfer
- 26108 · ICE 680 · IC 2440 · ICE 2031:07 PM5h41Erfurt Hbf6:48 PMCologne Hbf$1451One-way3 transfers
- FlixTrain · FlixTrain10:13 AM7h30Erfurt Hbf5:43 PMCologne Hbf$971One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train 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 prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $34.
Distance: 177 miles (286 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$93 Average price | $33 Average price Cheapest | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 32m Average total duration Fastest 4h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration 5h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  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 $33 (€27).
This is compared to other travel options from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf:
A bus is $60 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average $93 (€76).
The fastest way to travel from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by train with an average journey time of 4h 2m.
Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Erfurt Hbf and Cologne Hbf including taking a bus and train.
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 meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 17m sooner (4h 2m by train vs 4h 19m by car). Tickets start at around $93 (€76) compared to roughly $61 (€50) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 10:13 AM Erfurt Hbf | 7h30 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 839 · ICE 628 · S6 | Delayed 11:09 AM 12:50 PMErfurt Hbf | 3h33 | 4:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 839 · ICE 28 | Delayed 11:09 AM 12:50 PMErfurt Hbf | 5h16 | 4:20 PM 4:20 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 839 · ICE 122 | Delayed 11:09 AM 12:50 PMErfurt Hbf | 3h53 | 4:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 26108 · ICE 680 · IC 2440 · ICE 203 | On time 1:07 PM Erfurt Hbf | 5h41 | 6:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 2:09 PM Erfurt Hbf | 7h31 | 9:40 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 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.
Sun
Jun 21
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 bus and train 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 bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf
GermanyGermany
Trains from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:16, the last at 12:25. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (286 km) distance in 3h 33m.
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 $18 (€15)
Distance 177 miles (286 km) |
Average train duration 4h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 33m |
First train 6:16 AM |
Last train 12:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $18 (€15)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Erfurt Hbf and Cologne Hbf from $18 (€15). 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
3h 33m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 27m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€83)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
11 a day
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
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Cologne’s key archaeological museum for Roman heritage, famous for mosaics and finds from the city’s ancient past. Parts of the collection may be presented in temporary locations during building works
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Leading fine arts museum with important medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century paintings, offering one of Cologne’s strongest classic art collections.
- Must visit
Rheinauhafen
Revitalized waterfront district with striking modern architecture, promenades, and photogenic Rhine views, popular on social media.
- Must visit
Kölner Rheinboulevard
Wide riverside steps and promenade on the right bank, famous for postcard views back toward the cathedral skyline.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic Old Town square lined with traditional facades and lively public life, ideal for absorbing the classic Cologne atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
The city’s signature top-fermented beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to Cologne’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a classic brauhaus.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
A classic Cologne snack of rye roll, Gouda cheese, mustard, onions, and pickles. Despite the name, it contains no chicken and is a staple in local beer halls.
- Gluten-free
Himmel Un Ääd
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The name means 'Heaven and Earth.'
Peters Brauhaus
Established traditional brewery restaurant in the old town, popular for authentic Cologne specialties, Kölsch, and rustic historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Well-known central brauhaus serving Sion Kölsch and dependable local dishes. A solid choice for visitors wanting a classic Cologne beer hall experience.
Haxenhaus zum Rheingarten
A long-established restaurant by the Rhine, especially known for pork knuckle and hearty German fare in a traditional, tourist-friendly setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.70
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Köln Hbf, Köln -> Köln Dom, Köln
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Ticket validation is generally not required for VRS/KVB digital tickets, but carry your ticket before boarding and keep it ready for inspection.
- On many KVB buses, card payment may be available at ticket machines, but not always onboard; buying in the KVB-App is the safest option.
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.
Train ticket prices from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34 (€28), while the average price is around $93 (€76).
The train from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 3h 33m and runs 7 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 12:25 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 $18 (€15).
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 33m. 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
Erfurt
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Erfurt is Erfurt Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Erfurt Hbf for your trip from Erfurt to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Tuesday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Wednesday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Thursday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Friday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Saturday: 09:30 - 16:30
- Sunday: 09:30 - 16:30
Dining
- Istanbul Grill
- McDonald's
- Masala
- Planet Comics
Hotel
- Hotel Krämerbrücke
- Intercity Hotel
- Pension am Dom
- Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Erfurt.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
More options for your journey from Erfurt Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Erfurt Hbf
Most popular train connections to Cologne Hbf
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