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The cheapest and fastest trains from Groningen to Cologne
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$46
Average price
$72
Fastest journey
4 h 50 m
Average duration
5 h 13 m
Trains per day
5
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 $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Groningen for Cologne on Thu, May 07, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 256 km distance in an average of 5 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 50 m .
On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 6 h 4 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.
9:18 AM4h50Groningen2:08 PMCologne$461One-way0 transfers- 7:10 AM6h04Groningen1:14 PMCologne$471One-way0 transfers
- 8:32 AM5h17Groningen1:49 PMCologne$741One-way0 transfers
- 7:18 AM5h00Groningen12:18 PMCologne$941One-way0 transfers
- 11:18 AM4h54Groningen4:12 PMCologne$1021One-way0 transfers
- 9:18 AM4h50Groningen2:08 PMCologne$461One-way0 transfers
- 11:18 AM4h54Groningen4:12 PMCologne$1021One-way0 transfers
- 7:18 AM5h00Groningen12:18 PMCologne$941One-way0 transfers
- 8:32 AM5h17Groningen1:49 PMCologne$741One-way0 transfers
- 7:10 AM6h04Groningen1:14 PMCologne$471One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus 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 $23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 43m. 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 $23, and a train costs an average of $26.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$68 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest |
5h 13m Average total duration Fastest 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 15m Average total duration 6h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Groningen to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $42 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Groningen to Cologne:
A bus is $26 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Groningen to Cologne costing on average $68 (€54).
The fastest way to travel from Groningen to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 4h 43m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Groningen and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Groningen to Cologne among Omio's users.
Live departures
Groningen to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Groningen 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:10 AM Groningen | 6h04 | 1:14 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:18 AM Groningen | 5h00 | 12:18 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:32 AM Groningen | 5h17 | 1:49 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:18 AM Groningen | 4h50 | 2:08 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:18 AM Groningen | 4h54 | 4:12 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Groningen 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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Why should you book Groningen to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as WestfalenBahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain and more offer trains services from Groningen to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Groningen 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 WestfalenBahn, VIAS Rail GmbH or FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Groningen 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 Groningen to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of WestfalenBahn, VIAS Rail GmbH or FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Groningen to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Groningen to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Groningen to Cologne
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Groningen to Cologne run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) but you can travel from only $23 (€18) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:07, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 4h 49m.
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 $23 (€18)
Distance 159 miles (256 km) |
Average train duration 4h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 (€21) |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 4h 49m |
First train 1:07 AM |
Last train 11:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 77 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 $23 (€18)
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 $23 (€18). 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 57m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
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
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
5 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 26m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€27)
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.
Train ticket prices from Groningen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $68 (€54).
The train from Groningen to Cologne takes 4h 49m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Groningen to Cologne is 159 miles (256 km).
The first train from Groningen to Cologne leaves at 1:07 AM.
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.
The train station in Groningen that goes to Cologne is Groningen station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Groningen to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€18).
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.
A day trip from Groningen to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 49m. Trains run 15 times per day over a distance of 159 miles (256 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 Groningen to Cologne.
Since both Groningen 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 Groningen 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.
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 Groningen to Cologne
Groningen
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Groningen is Groningen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Groningen for your trip from Groningen to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
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
- De Drie Gezusters
- Mr. Mofongo
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- NH Groningen Hotel
- The Student Hotel Groningen
- City Hotel Groningen
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 6500 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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 Noord
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- Free of charge
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 Europapark
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike ParkingBike RentalThe 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 Groningen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost 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.
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
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
Most popular train connections from Groningen
More options for your journey from Groningen to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Groningen
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