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

Sat, Jun 13
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Erfurt to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jun 13

Cheapest price

$44

Average price

$103

Fastest journey

3 h 44 m

Average duration

4 h 8 m

Trains per day

9

Distance

286 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Erfurt to Cologne will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.

Fast trains

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

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    9:47 AM6h58
    Erfurt Hbf
    4:45 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)
    $441One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    10:13 AM7h30
    Erfurt Hbf
    5:43 PMCologne Hbf
    $451One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    2:09 PM7h31
    Erfurt Hbf
    9:40 PMCologne Hbf
    $511One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1654 · ICE 726
    8:16 AM3h58
    Erfurt Hbf
    12:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $1181One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 2595 · ICE 724
    9:30 AM3h44
    Erfurt Hbf
    1:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $1181One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Erfurt to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Erfurt to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 34m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a train costs an average of $35.

Distance: 177 miles (286 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$93

Average price

$43

Average price

Cheapest

$66

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 16m

Average total duration

4h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Erfurt to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).

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

A bus is $50 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Erfurt to Cologne costing on average $93 (€75).

The fastest way to travel from Erfurt to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 4h 34m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 46m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Erfurt and Cologne including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt 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 $93 (€75) compared to roughly $66 (€53) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-26.78 (€-21.72). The journey takes 4h 34m versus 4h 11m 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 to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Erfurt to Cologne trains for today, Friday, June 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1654 · IC 1947
On time
8:16 AM Erfurt Hbf
4h49
1:05 PM 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 503 · 4612 · ICE 926
On time
8:35 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h30
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 503 · 4612 · ICE 926 · ICE 200
On time
8:35 AM Erfurt Hbf
4h30
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn26104 · ICE 684 · IC 2046 · ICE 109
On time
9:07 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h41
2:48 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 837 · ICE 1228
Delayed
9:09 AM 10:50 AMErfurt Hbf
5h16
4:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 837 · ICE 124
Delayed
9:09 AM 10:50 AMErfurt Hbf
3h53
2:43 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 837 · ICE 722
Delayed
9:09 AM 10:50 AMErfurt Hbf
3h24
2:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26106 · ICE 682 · IC 2048 · ICE 201
On time
11:07 AM Erfurt Hbf
5h41
4:48 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1650 · ICE 518
On time
12:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
3h49
4:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1650 · IC 2012
On time
12:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
4h50
5:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 839 · ICE 28
Delayed
11:09 AM 12:50 PMErfurt Hbf
5h16
6:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 839 · ICE 628
Delayed
11:09 AM 12:50 PMErfurt Hbf
3h24
4:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 839 · ICE 122
Delayed
11:09 AM 12:50 PMErfurt Hbf
3h53
4:43 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26108 · ICE 680 · IC 2440 · ICE 203
On time
1:07 PM Erfurt Hbf
5h41
6:48 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1558 · ICE 516
On time
2:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
3h49
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1558 · IC 1941
On time
2:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
4h49
7:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 931 · ICE 1224
Delayed
1:09 PM 2:50 PMErfurt Hbf
5h15
6:07 PM 6:07 PMCologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 931 · ICE 1512
Delayed
1:09 PM 2:50 PMErfurt Hbf
4h43
7:33 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 931 · ICE 624
Delayed
1:09 PM 2:50 PMErfurt Hbf
3h24
6:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26110 · ICE 588 · IC 2442 · ICE 205
On time
3:07 PM Erfurt Hbf
5h41
8:48 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 756 · ICE 514
On time
4:16 PM Erfurt Hbf
3h49
8:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 933 · ICE 120
Delayed
3:06 PM 4:50 PMErfurt Hbf
3h53
8:43 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 933 · ICE 24
Delayed
3:06 PM 4:50 PMErfurt Hbf
5h15
10:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 933 · ICE 620
Delayed
3:06 PM 4:50 PMErfurt Hbf
3h24
8:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Erfurt 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.

Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19

Why should you book Erfurt to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Erfurt to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Erfurt 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 or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Erfurt 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 Erfurt 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 Erfurt to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Erfurt to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Erfurt to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€28) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (286 km) distance in 3h 24m.

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 $25 (€20)
Distance
177 miles (286 km)
Average train duration
4h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
$35 (€28)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
3h 24m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
21 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $25 (€20)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Erfurt to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Erfurt and Cologne from $25 (€20). 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 24m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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 Duration
6h 58m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 24m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 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

Museum Ludwig

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its Picasso collection and important Pop Art holdings.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Archaeological museum focused on Roman Cologne; famous for mosaics and finds from the ancient city. Main building has had closures, but the collection remains significant.

  • Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Leading fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque and 19th-century European painting in Cologne's historic center.

Euro

Moderate by German standards: supermarkets and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
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 a tip is expected. Round up in cafés and taxis, and add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.

FAQs: Trains from Erfurt to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erfurt 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 Erfurt to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35 (€28), while the average price is around $93 (€75).
The train from Erfurt to Cologne takes 3h 24m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Erfurt to Cologne is 177 miles (286 km).
The first train from Erfurt to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Erfurt to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Erfurt to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erfurt to Cologne.
The train station in Erfurt that goes to Cologne is Erfurt Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Erfurt to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Erfurt to Cologne offers a scenic experience as it traverses through picturesque landscapes, including the Thuringian Forest and the Rhine Valley, providing travelers with views of rolling hills, charming villages, and the iconic Rhine River.
A day trip from Erfurt to Cologne is not feasible, as the travel duration is 3h 24m. However, there are 8 train connections available per day for this journey, which is 177 miles (286 km).
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 Erfurt to Cologne.
Since both Erfurt 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 Erfurt 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 Erfurt to Cologne

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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
Dining
  • Istanbul Grill
  • McDonald's
  • Masala
  • Planet Comics
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Krämerbrücke
  • Intercity Hotel
  • Pension am Dom
  • Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior
Erfurt-BischlebenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Zur Schuhleiste
  • Bachstelze
Erfurt NordWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald's
  • Bruzelkiste Tag & Nacht
  • Pizzeria Vulcano
  • Bagdad Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Lindeneck
  • Pension Feldschlößchen

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