Leipzig to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn

Tue, May 05
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne

Showing times and prices for May 05

Cheapest price

$117

Average price

$123

Fastest journey

4 h 25 m

Average duration

4 h 25 m

Trains per day

5

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 $123 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $117.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Leipzig to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    5:41 AM6h57
    Leipzig
    12:38 PMKöln Hbf
    $1171One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    5:28 AM4h46
    Leipzig
    10:14 AMKöln Messe/deutz Bf
    $1251One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    6:49 AM4h25
    Leipzig
    11:14 AMKöln Messe/deutz Bf
    $1251One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    7:27 AM4h47
    Leipzig
    12:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bf
    $1251One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    8:49 AM4h25
    Leipzig
    1:14 PMKöln Messe/deutz Bf
    $1251One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Leipzig to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the flight 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 $83. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $83, and a flight costs an average of $147.

Distance: 413 miles (665 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$113

Average price

$152

Average price

$92

Average price

Cheapest

7h 31m

Average total duration

7h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 45m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

21h 10m

Average total duration

20h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Leipzig to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, May 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)5:28 AM Leipzig
4h46
10:14 AM Köln Messe/deutz Bf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)5:41 AM Leipzig
6h57
12:38 PM Köln Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)6:49 AM Leipzig
4h25
11:14 AM Köln Messe/deutz Bf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)7:27 AM Leipzig
4h47
12:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)8:49 AM Leipzig
4h25
1:14 PM Köln Messe/deutz Bf1 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.

Tue
May 05
Wed
May 06
Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11

Why should you book Leipzig to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Leipzig to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leipzig to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leipzig to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leipzig to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne

GermanyGermany
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $107 (€86) but you can travel from only $83 (€66) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:44, the last at 14:40. The fastest train covers the 413 miles (665 km) distance in 4h 56m.

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 $83 (€66)
Distance
413 miles (665 km)
Average train duration
7h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$107 (€86)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
4h 56m
First train
6:44 AM
Last train
2:40 PM
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 $83 (€66)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from $83 (€66). 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 56m
Cheapest Price
$107 (€86)
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.
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 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Leipzig to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $107 (€86), while the average price is around $113 (€91).
The train from Leipzig to Cologne takes 4h 56m 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 direct train service currently available from Leipzig to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leipzig to Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $83 (€66).
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 4h 56m. 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.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leipzig 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.
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.

More options for your journey from Leipzig to Cologne

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