Friedrichshafen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Tue, May 12
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Friedrichshafen to Cologne

Showing times and prices for May 12

Cheapest price

$129

Average price

$148

Fastest journey

5 h 31 m

Average duration

5 h 48 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

408 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Friedrichshafen to Cologne will cost around $148 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $129.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Friedrichshafen for Cologne on Tue, May 12, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, May 12 the direct trains cover the 408 km distance in an average of 5 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 31 m .

On Tue, May 12 the slowest trains will take 6 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:34 AM5h31
    Friedrichshafen
    2:05 PMCologne
    $1291One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    2:34 PM5h32
    Friedrichshafen
    8:06 PMCologne
    $1521One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:45 AM6h20
    Friedrichshafen
    2:05 PMCologne
    $1631One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Friedrichshafen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Friedrichshafen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, and a train costs an average of $52.

Distance: 253 miles (408 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$135

Average price

$56

Average price

Cheapest

$94

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 58m

Average total duration

8h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 16m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Friedrichshafen to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $56 (€45).

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

A bus is $79 (€63) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Friedrichshafen to Cologne costing on average $135 (€108).

The fastest way to travel from Friedrichshafen to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 5h 12m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 28m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Friedrichshafen and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Friedrichshafen to Cologne 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 1h 4m sooner (5h 12m by train vs 6h 16m by car). Tickets start at around $135 (€108) compared to roughly $94 (€75) 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.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

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

Friedrichshafen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Friedrichshafen to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, May 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:45 AM Friedrichshafen
6h20
2:05 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:34 AM Friedrichshafen
5h31
2:05 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Friedrichshafen to Cologne 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.

Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13
Thu
May 14
Fri
May 15
Sat
May 16
Sun
May 17
Mon
May 18

Why should you book Friedrichshafen to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) offer trains services from Friedrichshafen to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Friedrichshafen 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) to find the best option for your trip from Friedrichshafen 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Friedrichshafen to Cologne.

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 Friedrichshafen to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Friedrichshafen to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Friedrichshafen to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€41) but you can travel from only $40 (€32) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 253 miles (408 km) distance in 4h 31m.

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 $40 (€32)
Distance
253 miles (408 km)
Average train duration
5h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$52 (€41)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 31m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
49 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 $40 (€32)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) from Friedrichshafen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) trains will get you between Friedrichshafen and Cologne from $40 (€32). 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
4h 31m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€41)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 17m
Cheapest Price
$94 (€75)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
2 a day

DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 23m
Cheapest Price
$108 (€86)
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) frequency
5 a day

FAQs: Trains from Friedrichshafen to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $52 (€41), while the average price is around $135 (€108).
The train from Friedrichshafen to Cologne takes 4h 31m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Friedrichshafen to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Friedrichshafen to Cologne is 253 miles (408 km).
The last train from Friedrichshafen to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen to Cologne.
The train station in Friedrichshafen that goes to Cologne is Friedrichshafen Stadt, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Friedrichshafen to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $40 (€32).
The train journey from Friedrichshafen to Cologne offers scenic views, especially as it travels along Lake Constance and through the picturesque landscapes of the Black Forest region, providing passengers with a charming and visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Friedrichshafen to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 31m. However, there are 7 trips per day available by train over a distance of 253 miles (408 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 Friedrichshafen to Cologne.
Since both Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen 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 Friedrichshafen to Cologne

Friedrichshafen
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Friedrichshafen is Friedrichshafen Stadt. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Friedrichshafen Stadt for your trip from Friedrichshafen to Cologne.
Friedrichshafen StadtWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
address
Address
Friedrichshafen Stadt, Stadtbahnhof 1, 88045 Friedrichshafen
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 08:00 - 18:30
  • Tuesday: 08:00 - 18:30
  • Wednesday: 08:00 - 18:30
  • Thursday: 08:00 - 18:30
  • Friday: 08:00 - 18:30
  • Saturday: 08:15 - 16:30
  • Sunday: 12:00 - 17:00
Dining
Dining
  • Kochlöffel
  • Ailinger Hof
  • Cafe Vinebar Al Porto
  • Felders
Hotel
Hotel
  • Stadthotel Kleiner Berg
  • Select Hotel Goldenes Rad Friedrichshafen
  • Schwanen
  • Villa Von Soden
Friedrichshafen FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost 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
address
Address
Friedrichshafen Flughafen, Am Flugplatz 64, 88046 Meckenbeuren
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Do-X
  • Imbiss auf Besucherterrasse
  • LSC Restaurant
  • Volare
Friedrichshafen HafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
address
Address
Friedrichshafen Hafen, Romanshorner Platz 12, 88045 Friedrichshafen
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald's
  • Antalya
  • Kochlöffel
  • Ailinger Hof
Hotel
Hotel
  • Stadthotel Kleiner Berg
  • Select Hotel Goldenes Rad Friedrichshafen
  • Schwanen
  • Hotel Zeppelin

More options for your journey from Friedrichshafen to Cologne

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