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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Dec 05
Cheapest price
$77
Average price
$186
Fastest journey
4 h 24 m
Average duration
4 h 52 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
381 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leipzig to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leipzig to Cologne will cost around $186 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leipzig to Cologne without transferring at least once.
IC 2046 · ICE 942 · ICE 72108:34AM6h08
Leipzig Hbf02:42PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$771One-way
2 transfers
IC 2430 · ICE 65009:42AM5h59
Leipzig Hbf03:41PMCologne Hbf
$1641One-way
1 transfer
ICE 791 · ICE 20008:41AM4h24
Leipzig Hbf01:05PMCologne Hbf
$1641One-way
1 transfer
IC 2048 · ICE 940 · ICE 72510:34AM6h08
Leipzig Hbf04:42PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1731One-way
2 transfers
ICE 793 · ICE 10810:41AM4h24
Leipzig Hbf03:05PMCologne Hbf
$1911One-way
1 transfer
ICE 791 · ICE 20008:41AM4h24
Leipzig Hbf01:05PMCologne Hbf
$1641One-way
1 transfer
ICE 793 · ICE 10810:41AM4h24
Leipzig Hbf03:05PMCologne Hbf
$1911One-way
1 transfer
ICE 1652 · ICE 61009:33AM4h32
Leipzig Hbf02:05PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$2681One-way
1 transfer
ICE 1652 · ICE 12409:33AM5h00
Leipzig Hbf02:33PMCologne Hbf
$2681One-way
1 transfer
IC 2430 · ICE 65009:42AM5h59
Leipzig Hbf03:41PMCologne Hbf
$1641One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Leipzig to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, and a flight costs an average of €394.
Distance: 236 miles (381 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€88 Average price | €32 Average price Cheapest | €519 Average price |
6h 32m Average total duration Fastest 6h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 10m Average total duration 6h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 34m Average total duration 7h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Leipzig to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Friday, December 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:30 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2046 · ICE 942 · ICE 721 | On time 7:34 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h08 | 1:42 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 791 · ICE 200 | On time 7:41 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h24 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1652 · ICE 124 | On time 8:33 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h00 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1652 · ICE 610 | On time 8:33 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h32 | 1:05 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2430 · ICE 650 | Delayed 8:42 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h59 | 2:50 PM 2:50 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2048 · ICE 940 · ICE 725 | On time 9:34 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h08 | 3:42 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 793 · ICE 108 | On time 9:41 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h24 | 2:05 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 Leipzig to Cologne by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Leipzig to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Leipzig to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Leipzig to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne.
Trains
from $24Buses
from $22ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Leipzig to Cologne
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE, regional express ICE 1656, ICE 128, RE 92nd class
Purpose
Holidays
Month
April
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Holidays
Month
April
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
Wifi availablePunctualSufficient seating availableDisadvantages
NothingI travelled to Cologne with my husband for a city trip. We had always wanted to see the cathedral. We travelled by train and were even lucky enough to get seats. The wifi worked really well. There was also an on-board restaurant on the ICE trains. But we didn't use it. All the trains were on time and we arrived as planned.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE 693, 5282nd class
Purpose
Private
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Private
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
Just in time, the change workedComfort and equipmentCleanliness and hygiene very goodDisadvantages
Toilet defectiveAir conditioning did not workFrom Leipzig to Cologne I had to change trains in Frankfurt, but this worked out very well due to the punctuality. Neither train was very full either. Although there was a direct train, this would have been a bit more expensive, which is why I chose this connection. Both trains were clean, but the toilet on the first train was faulty. On the same train, the air conditioning wasn't working either, so it was very hot. Otherwise, the cleanliness and hygiene was very good. The seats were very comfortable on both trains and they were fully equipped. I can definitely recommend this connection.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE 1654 / 7262nd class
Purpose
Business
Month
June
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Business
Month
June
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
PünkltichFastCentrally locatedDisadvantages
Little cleanlinessI travelled from Leipzig to Cologne by train after a conference.
I have to change trains in Frankfurt and change ICE trains. Fortunately, everything is on time. The staff are very friendly and there is an on-board bistro, which makes the journey a little more pleasant.
Unfortunately, the loo and the train were not very clean. There were enough seats and I didn't have to make a reservation.
If Deutsche Bahn is punctual, it's a great alternative to other means of transport.
Train details
Deutsche BahnIC 24422
Purpose
Family
Month
March
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Family
Month
March
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
No changeoverDisadvantages
DelayUnfortunately, this train journey was not a good experience. The train was late and extremely full. I didn't have a seat at the beginning and had to sit in the aisle. The air was bad and it was noisy in the carriage. The wifi wasn't working and there was no announcement about the delay. I was glad when the journey was finally over.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
PersonnelWIFIDisadvantages
ToiletsMy train journey was very satisfactory overall. The train arrived on time, which is always important to me personally. The seats were comfortable enough for me to sit and relax for long periods of time. The wifi worked well for the most part, even if it sometimes wiped out briefly. The staff on board were friendly and helpful, which made the journey more pleasant. One small drawback was the toilets, which could have been cleaner. Nevertheless, I would choose this connection again.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
No delays, no changesAffordable ticket and good facilitiesComfort and cleanliness very goodDisadvantages
NoneThe train from Leipzig to Cologne was relatively under-utilised, so I didn't have to reserve a seat in advance. The journey didn't take long and I didn't have to change trains. The ticket price was also reasonable for the long journey. The seat was very comfortable and had power sockets, internet and a large table. There was also a snack vending machine on the train. The cleanliness was very good and the toilets looked hygienic. The staff were very friendly and carried out a quick check. The train was not delayed, which is why I can fully recommend the journey.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
Clean trainDisadvantages
DelayNo on-board bistro openSeat reservation was cancelled because there were new/fewer compartmentsThe train was clean. But we had to start late and there was a change of carriage numbers, so our seat reservation was affected. Paying over €300 in total for a journey from Leipzig to Cologne is not a good option when you consider how much you would pay for the journey by car. I have travelled the route 3 times so far and have always been disappointed
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 6h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) 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 236 miles (381 km) distance in 4h 24m.
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 $27 (€22)
Distance 236 miles (381 km) |
Average train duration 6h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 24m |
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 $27 (€22)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from $27 (€22). 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 26m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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
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
7h 4m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€29)
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
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
FAQs: Trains from Leipzig to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31 (€25), while the average price is around $109 (€88).
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
A day trip from Leipzig to Cologne is not feasible with a travel duration of 4h 24m each way. However, there are 12 train trips available per day for this 236 miles (381 km) journey.
The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Leipzig to Cologne offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the scenic Rhine Valley, charming villages, and rolling hills, making it a pleasant experience, although not the most dramatically scenic route in Germany.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Leipzig to Cologne.
The train from Leipzig to Cologne takes 4h 24m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Leipzig to Cologne is 236 miles (381 km).
The train station in Leipzig that goes to Cologne is Leipzig Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The first train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leipzig to Cologne.
Yes, there is a direct train from Leipzig to Cologne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
The last train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Leipzig to Cologne
Leipzig
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Leipzig is Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof for your trip from Leipzig to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
23Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Willy-Brandt-Platz.
Dining
- Restaurant Zchocolat
- Vapiano Leipzig
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
- a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Leipzig
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-13 for long-distance and regional trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 14-23
- Hall 3: shopping and dining area
Public transit options for Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- Tram: Lines 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15
- S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S5X, S6
- Bus: Several lines available
Leipzig-Connewitz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmDining
- TD Imbiss
- Bistro Cleopatra
- Bistro mit Internet
- Calla Pizza
Leipzig-Engelsdorf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Athos
- Zur Standuhr
- Fortuna Klause
- Zappendorfer Wurstmacher
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 Leipzig.
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.
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
Köln-Mülheim
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Tuesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Wednesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Thursday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Friday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Zum Piccolo
- Kolpinghaus
- Pizzeria Marco Polo
- Grill Stube
Hotel
- Pension Europa
- Hotel Geisler
- The niu Mill
Most popular train connections from Leipzig
More options for your journey from Leipzig to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Leipzig
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