Groningen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RB)

Thu, Nov 06
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
WestfalenBahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
FlixTrain
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
WestfalenBahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
FlixTrain
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Groningen to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Nov 07

Cheapest price

$43

Average price

$105

Fastest journey

3 h 57 m

Average duration

4 h 14 m

Trains per day

23

Distance

256 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Groningen to Cologne will cost around $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Groningen to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.

Deutsche BahnIC 580 · RE RS23 · RB 20235 · ICE 921
09:18PM5h44
Groningen station
03:02AMCologne Hbf
$431One-way
3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn37676 · IC 580 · RE RS23 · RB 20235
09:08PM5h54
Groningen Noord
03:02AMCologne Hbf
$431One-way
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnBus 72020+WestfalenBahnWFB 90301+Deutsche BahnICE 921
08:10PM6h52
Groningen
03:02AMCologne Hbf
$511One-way
2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
04:15AM8h43
Groningen, Centraal Station
12:58PMCologne Hbf
$591One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 528 · ICE 123
08:18AM4h57
Groningen station
01:15PMCologne Hbf
$1081One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Groningen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Groningen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 44m. 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 €12, and a train costs an average of €17.

Distance: 159 miles (256 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€50

Average price

€29

Average price

Cheapest

5h 14m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 13m

Average total duration

6h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Groningen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Groningen to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:26 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn37624 · IC 528 · IC 3635+viasVIA 21211
On time
7:08 AM Groningen Noord
5h04
12:12 PM Cologne Hbf
5 transfers
deutsche_bahn37624 · IC 528 · ICE 123
On time
7:08 AM Groningen Noord
5h07
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnIC 528 · IC 3635+viasVIA 21211 · VIA 20019
On time
7:18 AM Groningen station
4h54
12:12 PM Cologne Hbf
4 transfers
deutsche_bahnIC 528 · ICE 123
On time
7:18 AM Groningen station
4h57
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahn37628 · IC 532 · IC 3639 · ICE 123
On time
8:08 AM Groningen Noord
4h07
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
deutsche_bahnIC 532 · IC 3639 · ICE 123
On time
8:18 AM Groningen station
3h57
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahn37830 · RE 6134 · IC 17931 · RB 20211
On time
8:21 AM Groningen Noord
5h28
1:49 PM Cologne Hbf
4 transfers
deutsche_bahnRE 6134 · IC 17931 · RB 20211 · ICE 109
On time
8:32 AM Groningen station
5h17
1:49 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
deutsche_bahnIC 536 · IC 3643+viasVIA 21215 · VIA 20023
On time
9:18 AM Groningen station
4h54
2:12 PM Cologne Hbf
4 transfers
deutsche_bahnIC 536 · ICE 125
On time
9:18 AM Groningen station
5h00
2:18 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus+flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:15 AM Groningen, Centraal Station
8h43
11:58 AM Cologne Hbf1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Groningen 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.

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Journey information

Overview: Train from Groningen to Cologne

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train
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 $15 (€12)
Distance
159 miles (256 km)
Average train duration
4h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
$20 (€17)
Trains per day
15
Fastest train
4h 47m
First train
00:17
Last train
23:53

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Groningen to Cologne start from as low as $20 (€17) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $61 (€50) depending on the train type and class.
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 $15 (€12)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain from Groningen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain trains will get you between Groningen and Cologne from $15 (€12). 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 10m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€20)
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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
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
8h 43m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€17)
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

WestfalenBahn

About
WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.
Luggage & cancellation policy
WestfalenBahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Groningen to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Groningen 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
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.
Train ticket prices from Groningen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $20 (€17), while the average price is around $61 (€50).
A day trip from Groningen to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 47m. Trains run 15 times per day over a distance of 159 miles (256 km).
The train journey from Groningen to Cologne is moderately scenic, offering views of the Dutch countryside, passing through charming towns and fields, and as you approach Germany, you encounter more urban landscapes and the picturesque Rhine River near Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Groningen to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The distance by train from Groningen to Cologne is 159 miles (256 km).
The train from Groningen to Cologne takes 4h 47m and runs 15 per day.
The first train from Groningen to Cologne leaves at 12:17 AM.
The train station in Groningen that goes to Cologne is Groningen station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
Yes, you can take the train from Groningen to Cologne.
The last train from Groningen to Cologne leaves at 11:53 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Groningen to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Groningen to Cologne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Groningen to Cologne

Groningen
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Groningen is Groningen Europapark. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Groningen Europapark for your trip from Groningen to Cologne.
Groningen EuropaparkParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
9
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Stationsweg.
Dining
Dining
  • De Drie Gezusters
  • Mr. Mofongo
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • €0.70
Hotel
Hotel
  • NH Groningen Hotel
  • The Student Hotel Groningen
  • City Hotel Groningen
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 6500 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for international and intercity trains
  • Hall 2: regional train platforms
  • Hall 3: bus connections
Public transit options for Groningen
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Train: NS services to various destinations
Groningen NoordParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available near the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • Free of charge
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 80 places, covered
Station Plan
  • The station is a small regional station with two platforms and a simple layout.
Public transit options for Groningen Noord
  • Bus: Line 3, Line 4
  • Train: Arriva services to Groningen Central and Delfzijl
Groningen, HoofdstationParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental

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