- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Major art museum with one of Europe’s best collections from medieval painting to modern masters, including notable Impressionist works.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17
Cheapest price on Sep 17
kr748
Average ticket price on Sep 17
kr793
Fastest journey on Sep 17
4 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
4 h 25 m
Trains on Sep 17
15
Distance
665 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 kr793 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr748.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leipzig to Cologne without transferring at least once.
.png)
5:41 AM6h57Leipzig12:38 PMKöln Hbfkr7481One-way1 transfer- 5:28 AM4h46Leipzig10:14 AMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 6:49 AM4h25Leipzig11:14 AMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 7:27 AM4h47Leipzig12:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 8:49 AM4h25Leipzig1:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 6:49 AM4h25Leipzig11:14 AMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 8:49 AM4h25Leipzig1:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 10:49 AM4h25Leipzig3:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 12:49 PM4h25Leipzig5:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 transfer
- 4:49 PM4h25Leipzig9:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bfkr7961One-way1 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 train, with an average ticket price of kr98 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 45m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of kr98, while a flight costs an average of kr985.
Distance: 413 miles (665 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
kr98 Average price Cheapest | kr926 Average price | kr985 Average price | kr560 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 18m Average total duration 9h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 50m Average total duration 13h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 9h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Leipzig to Cologne is a train with an average price of kr98.
This is compared to other travel options from Leipzig to Cologne:
A train is kr828 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average kr926.
A train is kr887 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average kr985.
The fastest way to travel from Leipzig to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 45m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 48m.
Bus takes on average 13h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leipzig and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 9m faster (9h 48m by train vs 9h 57m by car) and roughly kr462 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (kr98 vs kr560). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Leipzig to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:58 PM Leipzig | 8h16 | 7:14 AM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, September 17 | |||||
| 5:28 AM Leipzig | 4h46 | 10:14 AM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 5:41 AM Leipzig | 6h57 | 12:38 PM Köln Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6:49 AM Leipzig | 4h25 | 11:14 AM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 7:27 AM Leipzig | 4h47 | 12:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 8:49 AM Leipzig | 4h25 | 1:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 9:27 AM Leipzig | 4h47 | 2:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 10:49 AM Leipzig | 4h25 | 3:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 11:27 AM Leipzig | 4h47 | 4:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 12:49 PM Leipzig | 4h25 | 5:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 1:27 PM Leipzig | 4h47 | 6:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 2:48 PM Leipzig | 4h26 | 7:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 3:27 PM Leipzig | 4h47 | 8:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 4:49 PM Leipzig | 4h25 | 9:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
| 5:27 PM Leipzig | 4h47 | 10:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 transfer | |
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.
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne
Germany
Italy
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr66 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:44, the last at 14:40. The fastest train covers the 413 miles (665 km) distance in 9h 44m.
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
Distance 413 miles (665 km) |
Average train duration 9h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price kr66 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 9h 44m |
First train 6:44 AM |
Last train 2:40 PM |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from kr66. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
9h 44m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
kr66
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
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
Leading museum of modern and contemporary art, known for Picasso, Pop Art, and major postwar European collections.
- Recommended
Romano-Germanic Museum
Large archaeology museum presenting Cologne’s Roman past through mosaics, glass, inscriptions, and everyday artifacts.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic old town lanes with colorful houses, breweries, and churches; ideal for wandering between the Rhine and cathedral.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
Lively riverside promenade with classic skyline views, boat traffic, and easy walks connecting the old town and southern harbor.
- Recommended
Rheinauhafen
Modern harbor redevelopment known for the dramatic Kranhaus buildings, waterfront paths, and a polished urban atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
Canederli
Canederli are bread dumplings from the Alpine north, often served in broth or with butter. They reflect Tyrolean influence and are a classic local comfort dish.
- Gluten-free
Speck Alto Adige
Speck is lightly smoked, cured ham from South Tyrol. It is prized for its mountain-aging tradition and is commonly served with bread, cheese, or dumplings.
- Vegetarian
Schlutzkrapfen
Schlutzkrapfen are half-moon pasta filled with spinach and ricotta, usually dressed with butter and chives. They are a hallmark of the region’s Alpine cuisine.
Restaurant Zur Rose
Michelin-starred dining with creative tasting menus rooted in local ingredients. Elegant atmosphere for a high-end South Tyrolean meal.
Wirtshaus Vögele
Historic traditional restaurant known for South Tyrolean classics, wood-paneled rooms, and a refined but welcoming atmosphere in the old town.
Forsterbräu Central
Well-known local tavern serving canederli, schnitzel, and regional wine in a rustic setting popular with residents and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe; hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and public transport are generally manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
KVB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.70
- Day pass
- €9.00
To the city center
Cologne Central Station, Cologne -> Köln Hauptbahnhof, Cologne
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines and in the KVB App, but not reliably onboard every bus or tram.
- Validate paper tickets if required, and buy before boarding when possible to avoid fines.
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 kr66, while the average price is around kr98.
The train from Leipzig to Cologne takes 9h 44m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 6:44 AM.
The distance by train from Leipzig to Cologne is 413 miles (665 km).
The last train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 2:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Leipzig to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leipzig to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leipzig to Cologne.
The train station in Leipzig that goes to Cologne is Leipzig Hbf, which connects to Cologne station.
The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around kr66.
The train journey from Leipzig to Cologne offers scenic views of the German countryside, including rolling hills, quaint villages, and sections along the Rhine River, providing passengers with picturesque landscapes throughout the trip.
A day trip from Leipzig to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 44m. Trains run 3 times per day. The distance is 413 miles (665 km).
To fully experience Cologne, including its historic cathedral, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Leipzig to Cologne.
Since both Leipzig 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 Brescia, Bergamo, Milan, Verona, Palazzolo sull'Oglio.
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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and around popular attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Staying alert and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Leipzig to Cologne
Most Leipzig to Cologne trains use the Leipzig Hauptbahnhof to Cologne station pair. Use this guide to compare Leipzig and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leipzig
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Which Leipzig station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne leave from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leipzig city centre at Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany.
Leipzig HauptbahnhofWilly-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany+49 341 9686190
City-centre transport
Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre
TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 1m · kr8 · every ~23 min
BusN3, 89 · 9m · every ~11 min
Tram9 · 8m · every ~11 min
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.
Which Cologne station do trains from Leipzig arrive at?
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne arrive at Cologne. Cologne is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre.
Cologne25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Cologne from Cologne city centre
TrainRe · 17m · kr32 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · kr32
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · kr40
Cologne train station facilities and services
Cologne has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cologne.
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
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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.
