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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gotha to Cologne
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$108
Average price
$150
Fastest journey
3 h 43 m
Average duration
3 h 48 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
263 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gotha to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Gotha to Cologne will cost around $150 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $108.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Gotha to Cologne without transferring at least once.
ICE 1656 · ICE 10206:31 AM5h34Gotha station12:05 PMCologne Hbf$1081One-way1 transfer- 3672 · ICE 778 · ICE 9464:58 AM5h37Gotha station10:35 AMCologne Hbf$1171One-way2 transfers
- 74600 · ICE 591 · ICE 10495:27 AM5h38Gotha station11:05 AMCologne Hbf$1171One-way2 transfers
- ICE 1656 · ICE 8206:31 AM3h43Gotha station10:14 AMCologne Messe/Deutz$1251One-way1 transfer
- 74600 · ICE 591 · ICE 16125:27 AM4h05Gotha station9:32 AMCologne Hbf$1291One-way2 transfers
- ICE 1656 · ICE 8206:31 AM3h43Gotha station10:14 AMCologne Messe/Deutz$1251One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1654 · ICE 7268:31 AM3h43Gotha station12:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$1501One-way1 transfer
- 74600 · ICE 591 · ICE 8225:27 AM3h47Gotha station9:14 AMCologne Messe/Deutz$1421One-way2 transfers
- 74608 · ICE 595 · ICE 7249:22 AM3h52Gotha station1:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$1671One-way2 transfers
- 74604 · ICE 593 · ICE 7287:21 AM3h53Gotha station11:14 AMCologne Messe/Deutz$1421One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Gotha to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gotha to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $35.
Distance: 163 miles (263 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$106 Average price | $30 Average price Cheapest | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 20m Average total duration 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 50m Average total duration Fastest 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Gotha to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $30 (€24).
This is compared to other travel options from Gotha to Cologne:
A bus is $76 (€60) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gotha to Cologne costing on average $106 (€85).
The fastest way to travel from Gotha to Cologne is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 20m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gotha and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gotha 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 $106 (€85) compared to roughly $63 (€50) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-43.40 (€-34.61). The journey takes 4h 50m versus 3h 54m 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
Gotha to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Gotha to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3672 · ICE 778 · ICE 946 | On time 4:58 AM Gotha station | 5h37 | 10:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 74600 · ICE 591 · ICE 822 | On time 5:27 AM Gotha station | 3h47 | 9:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| 74600 · ICE 591 · ICE 1612 | On time 5:27 AM Gotha station | 4h05 | 9:32 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 74600 · ICE 591 · ICE 1049 | On time 5:27 AM Gotha station | 5h38 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1656 · ICE 158 | On time 6:31 AM Gotha station | 4h12 | 10:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1656 · ICE 1020 | On time 6:31 AM Gotha station | 5h34 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1656 · ICE 820 | On time 6:31 AM Gotha station | 3h43 | 10:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| 3652 · ICE 888 · ICE 1548 | On time 6:35 AM Gotha station | 5h41 | 12:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 74642 · 24106 · 24217 · ICE 793 | On time 6:45 AM Gotha station | 4h20 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 74604 · ICE 593 · ICE 728 | On time 7:21 AM Gotha station | 3h53 | 11:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| 74604 · ICE 593 · ICE 1610 | On time 7:21 AM Gotha station | 4h12 | 11:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1654 · ICE 156 | On time 8:31 AM Gotha station | 4h12 | 12:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1654 · ICE 726 | On time 8:31 AM Gotha station | 3h43 | 12:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| 3654 · ICE 886 · ICE 1052 | On time 8:35 AM Gotha station | 5h44 | 2:19 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 3654 · ICE 2286 · ICE 1052 | On time 8:35 AM Gotha station | 5h44 | 2:19 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 74608 · ICE 595 · ICE 1518 | On time 9:22 AM Gotha station | 4h11 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 74608 · ICE 595 · ICE 724 | On time 9:22 AM Gotha station | 3h52 | 1:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Gotha 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.
Thu
May 07
May 07
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May 08
May 08
Sat
May 09
May 09
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May 10
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May 11
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May 12
Wed
May 13
May 13
Why should you book Gotha to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Gotha to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gotha to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Gotha 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 Gotha to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gotha to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gotha to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€28) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 163 miles (263 km) distance in 3h 32m.
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 $21 (€17)
Distance 163 miles (263 km) |
Average train duration 4h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€28) |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 3h 32m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $21 (€17)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Gotha to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Gotha and Cologne from $21 (€17). 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 32m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
FAQs: Trains from Gotha to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gotha 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.
Train ticket prices from Gotha to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35 (€28), while the average price is around $106 (€85).
The train from Gotha to Cologne takes 3h 32m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Gotha to Cologne leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Gotha to Cologne is 163 miles (263 km).
The last train from Gotha to Cologne leaves at 11:56 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Gotha to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gotha to Cologne.
The train station in Gotha that goes to Cologne is Gotha station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gotha to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Gotha to Cologne offers scenic views of the Thuringian Forest, picturesque countryside, and the Rhine Valley, providing passengers with a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Gotha to Cologne is not feasible due to the travel duration of 3h 32m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day for this journey.
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 Gotha to Cologne.
Since both Gotha 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gotha 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 Gotha to Cologne
Gotha
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Gotha is Gotha. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gotha for your trip from Gotha 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: 06:00 - 18:00
- Tuesday: 06:45 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
- Wednesday: 06:45 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
- Thursday: 06:45 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
- Friday: 06:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 17:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Eiscafé Dolomiti
- Wan Bao
- Am Aquarium
- Dilan Grill Gotha
Hotel
- Pension Cafe Suzette
- Hotel am Schlosspark
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 Gotha.
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
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Gotha
More options for your journey from Gotha to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Gotha
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