- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and one of Germany’s strongest 20th-century collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$21
Average price
$55
Fastest journey
1 h 6 m
Average duration
1 h 8 m
Trains per day
48
Distance
152 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt (Main) 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 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast trains
Of the 48 trains that leave Frankfurt (Main) Hbf for Cologne Hbf on Fri, Jun 05, 25 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct trains cover the 152 km distance in an average of 1 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 6 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 1 h 9 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.
ICE 6184:46 AM1h18Frankfurt (Main) Hbf6:04 AMCologne Hbf$211One-way0 transfers- ICE 2225:34 AM1h09Frankfurt (Main) Hbf6:43 AMCologne Hbf$211One-way0 transfers
- ICE 1554 · IC 23478:43 PM2h33Frankfurt (Main) Hbf11:16 PMCologne Hbf$321One-way1 transfer
- S9 · ICE 51010:32 PM1h53Frankfurt (Main) Hbf12:25 AMCologne Hbf$331One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1220 · 106389:44 PM2h38Frankfurt (Main) Hbf12:22 AMCologne Hbf$371One-way1 transfer
- ICE 186:34 AM1h06Frankfurt (Main) Hbf7:40 AMCologne Hbf$491One-way0 transfers
- ICE 106:33 PM1h07Frankfurt (Main) Hbf7:40 PMCologne Hbf$541One-way0 transfers
- ICE 1207:34 PM1h09Frankfurt (Main) Hbf8:43 PMCologne Hbf$541One-way0 transfers
- ICE 2207:34 AM1h09Frankfurt (Main) Hbf8:43 AMCologne Hbf$401One-way0 transfers
- ICE 1241:34 PM1h09Frankfurt (Main) Hbf2:43 PMCologne Hbf$741One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a flight costs an average of $974.
Distance: 94 miles (152 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$43 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $974 Average price | $29 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 45m Average total duration 2h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration 3h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 1h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf is a bus with an average price of $20 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf:
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average $43 (€35).
A bus is $955 (€772) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average $974 (€788).
The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 10m.
Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 15m.
Flight takes on average 3h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and Cologne Hbf including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt (Main) 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 $43 (€35) compared to roughly $29 (€24) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.64 (€-11.03). The journey takes 2h 15m versus 1h 57m 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
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 60402 | Delayed 1:11 AM 3:11 AMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h33 | 3:44 AM 3:44 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 2518 | Delayed 2:46 AM 4:46 AMFrankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h36 | 4:04 AM 4:04 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 18 | On time 6:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h06 | 7:40 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 2241 | On time 6:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h23 | 9:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S8 · ICE 616 | 6:47 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h23 | 8:10 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 824 · S6 | On time 7:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h15 | 8:23 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 220 | 7:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h09 | 8:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1022 | On time 7:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h23 | 10:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1022 · ICE 204 | On time 7:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 822 · S6 | On time 8:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h15 | 9:23 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1612 | On time 8:12 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h20 | 9:32 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 316 | On time 8:33 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h06 | 9:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S8 · ICE 614 | 8:47 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 10:09 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 820 · S6 | On time 9:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h15 | 10:23 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 128 | On time 9:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h09 | 10:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1020 | On time 9:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h22 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1020 · ICE 202 | On time 9:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 728 · S6 | On time 10:08 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h15 | 11:23 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1610 | On time 10:11 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 11:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 16 | On time 10:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h05 | 11:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4493 · IC 1947 | On time 10:38 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h28 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1564 · ICE 612 | 10:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 126 | On time 11:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h09 | 12:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 926 | On time 11:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h22 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 926 · ICE 200 | On time 11:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 724 · S6 | On time 12:07 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h16 | 1:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1518 | 12:11 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 124 | On time 1:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h09 | 2:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1228 · ICE 108 | On time 1:43 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1228 | On time 1:43 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h23 | 4:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 720 · S6 | On time 2:07 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h16 | 3:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1516 | On time 2:11 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 3:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 2844 | On time 2:11 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 3:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 122 | On time 3:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h09 | 4:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 28 | 3:41 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h25 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 28 · ICE 106 | 3:41 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h24 | 5:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 626 · S6 | On time 4:08 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h15 | 5:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1514 | On time 4:11 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 5:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1224 | On time 5:43 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h22 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1224 · ICE 104 | On time 5:43 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 622 · S6 | On time 6:08 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h15 | 7:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1512 | On time 6:11 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 7:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 2846 | On time 6:11 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 7:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 10 | On time 6:33 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h07 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 120 | On time 7:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h09 | 8:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 24 · ICE 102 | 7:43 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 24 | 7:43 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h32 | 10:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 528 · 10284 | On time 8:07 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h19 | 9:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 318 | On time 8:14 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h25 | 9:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1220 · ICE 100 | On time 9:44 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h26 | 11:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1220 | On time 9:44 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h30 | 12:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 524 | On time 10:07 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h32 | 11:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S9 · ICE 510 | On time 10:32 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h38 | 12:10 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 522 | On time 11:11 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h20 | 12:31 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, June 5 | |||||
| ICE 618 | 4:46 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h18 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 2518 | 4:46 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h18 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 222 | On time 5:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h09 | 6:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 826 · 10604 | On time 5:41 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h41 | 7:22 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 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf by train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Hessische Landesbahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt (Main) 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 Hessische Landesbahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt (Main) 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt (Main) 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, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf
GermanyGermany
Trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:46, the last at 22:34. The fastest train covers the 94 miles (152 km) distance in 1h 6m.
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 $11 (€9)
Distance 94 miles (152 km) |
Average train duration 2h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 6m |
First train 2:46 AM |
Last train 10:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
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 $11 (€9)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and Cologne Hbf from $11 (€9). 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
1h 6m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
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.
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
Hessische Landesbahn
About
Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Hessische Landesbahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 46m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
8 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.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century European painting, offering one of Cologne’s key classical art collections.
- Recommended
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Cologne’s leading museum for Roman heritage, with mosaics, archaeology, and finds from the city’s ancient past. Parts of the collection may be shown in temporary venues during works.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Broad stepped promenade on the east bank with outstanding cathedral skyline views, especially popular for sunset photos and social media content.
- Must visit
Old Town Cologne
Walkable historic core with narrow lanes, churches, river views, and many of the city’s best-known postcard scenes.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic square in the Old Town lined with traditional buildings, bars, and civic history, making it a classic base for first-time visitors.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Top-fermented pale beer traditionally served in small glasses. It is Cologne’s signature drink and central to the city’s brewery culture.
- Gluten-free
Himmel Un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes with apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. It is a well-known Rhineland comfort food.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Rhineland-style pot roast, traditionally marinated for days and served with rich gravy, dumplings, or potato sides. It is one of the region’s most famous festive dishes.
maiBeck
Modern, acclaimed restaurant near the center with a more refined approach to regional and seasonal German cuisine.
Peters Brauhaus
Established traditional brewery restaurant serving hearty Rhineland specialties and fresh Kölsch in an atmospheric old-town interior.
Gilden im Zims
Large, established Cologne brewery restaurant offering local dishes and beer in a polished but traditional atmosphere.
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 takeaway.
- 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. Round up in cafés and taxis. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.
DB Navigator
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
- 4 min
- Tickets must be validated before travel if required by the ticket type; inspectors check frequently.
- On many KVB buses, card payment may not be available onboard, so buy tickets in the app or at ticket machines in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt (Main) 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 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 1h 6m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 2:46 AM.
The distance by train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 94 miles (152 km).
The last train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 10:34 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Köln Hbf offers scenic views of the Rhine Valley, featuring picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historic castles along the riverbank.
Yes, a day trip from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Köln Hbf is feasible, with a travel time of 1h 6m and a distance of 94 miles (152 km). Trains run frequently, with 6 trips per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Since both Frankfurt (Main) 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 Frankfurt (Main) 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 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Frankfurt am Main
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Frankfurt am Main is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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
- Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located in the main hall.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Burger King
- Ciao Bella
- Coffee Fellows
- Crepes de France Express
- dean&david
- Starbucks
- Uddin's Sky Sportsbar
- McDonald's
- Dunkin Donuts
- & many more
Accessibility
- Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Hotel Cristall
- Grand Hotel Empire
- Hotel Carlton
Information Desk
- Located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
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 Frankfurt am Main.
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.
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.
Most popular train connections from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
More options for your journey from Frankfurt (Main) 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 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
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