Heidelberg to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

Wed, Jun 10
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
DB Regio Stuttgart
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
DB Regio Stuttgart
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Heidelberg to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jun 10

Cheapest price

$43

Average price

$63

Fastest journey

1 h 46 m

Average duration

2 h 9 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

210 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Heidelberg to Cologne will cost around $63 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 Heidelberg to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnS3 · IC 1947
    9:43 AM3h22
    Heidelberg Hbf
    1:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $431One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1096 · ICE 1020+Hessische Landesbahn24510
    8:46 AM3h19
    Heidelberg Hbf
    12:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $441One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 1012
    8:43 AM1h46
    Heidelberg Hbf
    10:29 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $581One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn19260 · ICE 202
    9:10 AM1h55
    Heidelberg Hbf
    11:05 AMCologne Hbf
    $761One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 614
    8:13 AM1h52
    Heidelberg Hbf
    10:05 AMCologne Hbf
    $761One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Heidelberg to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Heidelberg to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 5m. 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 $15, and a train costs an average of $23.

Distance: 130 miles (210 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$66

Average price

$25

Average price

Cheapest

$47

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 35m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 38m

Average total duration

3h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

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 Heidelberg to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $25 (€20).

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

A bus is $41 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Heidelberg to Cologne costing on average $66 (€54).

The fastest way to travel from Heidelberg to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 3h 5m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 8m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Heidelberg and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Heidelberg 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 $66 (€54) compared to roughly $47 (€38) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.35 (€-15.76). The journey takes 3h 5m versus 2h 48m 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

Heidelberg to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Heidelberg to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, June 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 616
On time
6:02 AM Heidelberg Hbf
2h03
8:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnS1 · ICE 1014
Delayed
6:43 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h46
6:32 AM 6:32 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1098+Hessische Landesbahn24506+Deutsche BahnICE 1022
On time
6:46 AM Heidelberg Hbf
3h20
10:06 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS7 · ICE 204
On time
7:09 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h56
9:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 994 · 4654 · ICE 316
On time
7:18 AM Heidelberg Hbf
2h21
9:39 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 614
On time
8:13 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h52
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 1012
On time
8:43 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h46
10:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1096+Hessische Landesbahn24510+Deutsche BahnICE 1020
On time
8:46 AM Heidelberg Hbf
3h19
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn19260 · ICE 202
On time
9:10 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h55
11:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnS3 · IC 1947
On time
9:43 AM Heidelberg Hbf
3h22
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 612
On time
10:13 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h52
12:05 PM 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 Heidelberg to Cologne by train or bus

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Why should you book Heidelberg to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB Regio Stuttgart and more offer trains services from Heidelberg to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Heidelberg 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), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or DB Regio Stuttgart to find the best option for your trip from Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Heidelberg to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Heidelberg to Cologne is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Heidelberg to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Heidelberg to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Heidelberg to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Heidelberg to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Heidelberg to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 130 miles (210 km) distance in 1h 58m.

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
130 miles (210 km)
Average train duration
3h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€19)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
1h 58m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 $15 (€12)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB Regio Stuttgart from Heidelberg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB Regio Stuttgart trains will get you between Heidelberg 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
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 21m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
5 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 46m
Cheapest Price
$69 (€56)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
16 a day

DB Regio Stuttgart

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 55m
DB Regio Stuttgart frequency
1 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.

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its Picasso collection and important Pop Art holdings.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Archaeological museum focused on Roman Cologne; famous for mosaics and finds from the ancient city. Main building has had closures, but the collection remains significant.

  • Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Leading fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque and 19th-century European painting in Cologne's historic center.

Euro

Moderate by German standards: supermarkets and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
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, but a tip is expected. Round up in cafés and taxis, and add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.

FAQs: Trains from Heidelberg to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $66 (€54).
The train from Heidelberg to Cologne takes 1h 58m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Heidelberg to Cologne is 130 miles (210 km).
The first train from Heidelberg to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Heidelberg to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Heidelberg to Cologne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Heidelberg to Cologne.
The train station in Heidelberg that goes to Cologne is Heidelberg Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Heidelberg to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Heidelberg to Cologne offers scenic views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, passing through charming towns, vineyards, and historic castles along the riverbanks.
Yes, a day trip from Heidelberg to Cologne is feasible with a travel time of 1h 58m and frequent trains operating 10 times per day across a distance of 130 miles (210 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 Heidelberg to Cologne.
Since both Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Cologne

Heidelberg
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Heidelberg is Heidelberg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Heidelberg Hbf for your trip from Heidelberg to Cologne.
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 19:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Heid´s Grill
  • McDonald's
  • Uuuhmami
  • Taj Mahal
Hotel
Hotel
  • Leonardo Hotel
  • Qube Hotel
  • NH Heidelberg
  • Krokodil
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Persepolis
  • Zum Brückenaff
  • 'S' Kastanie
  • Choa
Hotel
Hotel
  • Parkhotel Atlantic
  • Hackteufel
  • Goldener Falke
  • Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Dufke
  • Stettiner Klause
  • Hakim's Imbiss
  • KOLBEZ Cafe
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Rose

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