Students! Get 15% off your first app booking and 5% off all future trips.

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

Sat, Jan 24
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Italo
Frecciarossa
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Italo
Frecciarossa
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Heidelberg to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jan 25

Cheapest price

$24

Average price

$97

Fastest journey

1 h 46 m

Average duration

1 h 53 m

Trains per day

10

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 $97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Heidelberg for Cologne on Sun, Jan 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jan 25 the direct trains cover the 210 km distance in an average of 1 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 46 m .

On Sun, Jan 25 the slowest trains will take 1 h 58 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 BahnICE 618
03:43AM2h21
Heidelberg Hbf
06:04AMCologne Hbf
$241One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2967
10:24AM3h24
Heidelberg Hbf
01:48PMCologne Hbf
$551One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnS2 · ICE 616
06:07AM1h58
Heidelberg Hbf
08:05AMCologne Hbf
$871One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 698 · IC 60402
02:02AM4h08
Heidelberg Hbf
06:10AMCologne Hbf
$971One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1670 · ICE 16
09:18AM2h21
Heidelberg Hbf
11:39AMCologne Hbf
$971One-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 €13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 37m. 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 €13, and a train costs an average of €15.

Distance: 130 miles (210 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€52

Average price

€21

Average price

Cheapest

3h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 47m

Average total duration

3h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

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

Heidelberg to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Heidelberg to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Sunday, January 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 3:11 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 698 · IC 60402
Delayed
1:02 AM Heidelberg Hbf
4h08
5:15 AM 5:15 AMCologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 618
On time
2:43 AM Heidelberg Hbf
2h21
5:04 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnS2 · ICE 616
On time
5:07 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h58
7:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS1 · ICE 204
On time
6:03 AM Heidelberg Hbf
2h02
8:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS3 · ICE 614
On time
7:13 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h52
9:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahn19260 · ICE 202
On time
8:10 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h55
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1670 · ICE 16
On time
8:18 AM Heidelberg Hbf
2h21
10:39 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS3 · ICE 612
On time
9:13 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h52
11:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 2967
On time
9:24 AM Heidelberg Hbf
3h24
12:48 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnS3 · ICE 1010
On time
9:43 AM Heidelberg Hbf
1h46
11:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Heidelberg 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.

Sun
Jan 25
Mon
Jan 26
Tue
Jan 27
Wed
Jan 28
Thu
Jan 29
Fri
Jan 30
Sat
Jan 31
Sun
Feb 01
Mon
Feb 02
Tue
Feb 03
Wed
Feb 04
Thu
Feb 05
Fri
Feb 06
Sat
Feb 07
Sun
Feb 08
Mon
Feb 09
Tue
Feb 10
Wed
Feb 11
Thu
Feb 12
Fri
Feb 13
Sat
Feb 14

Why should you book Heidelberg to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC) operates all train services from Heidelberg to Cologne. Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC) tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC)?

  • 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 (ICE,IC,RE,EC) 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 and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC) tickets can only be bought on Omio or Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC)'s website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC) tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC) tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • 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 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $17 (€13) 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 52m.

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 $17 (€13)
Distance
130 miles (210 km)
Average train duration
2h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$19 (€15)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
1h 52m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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 $17 (€13)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Heidelberg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Heidelberg and Cologne from $17 (€13). 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 52m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
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

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 $19 (€15), while the average price is around $66 (€52).
The train from Heidelberg to Cologne takes 1h 52m 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.
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 $17 (€13).
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 52m 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.

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

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone