Linz to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Wed, Jul 22
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | Nightjet
SNCB
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | Nightjet
SNCB
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Linz to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jul 22

Cheapest price

$73

Average price

$119

Fastest journey

7 h 44 m

Average duration

7 h 46 m

Trains per day

25

Distance

603 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Linz to Cologne will cost around $119 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Linz to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnRJX 19938 · EC 212 · ICE 880 · ICE 228
    6:45 AM9h21
    Linz Hbf
    4:06 PMCologne Hbf
    $731One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnRJX 19938 · EC 212 · ICE 918
    6:45 AM7h44
    Linz Hbf
    2:29 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $731One-way
    2 transfers
  • ÖBB | InterCityIC 407+ÖBB | ICEICE 518
    7:15 AM8h50
    Linz Hbf
    4:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $761One-way
    1 transfer
  • ÖBB | InterCityIC 540+ÖBBRJX 260+ÖBB | ICEICE 518
    7:30 AM8h35
    Linz Hbf
    4:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $761One-way
    2 transfers
  • ÖBB | InterCityIC 848+ÖBB | ICEICE 880 · ICE 228+ÖBB | Euro City (EC)EC 212
    6:30 AM9h36
    Linz Hbf
    4:06 PMCologne Hbf
    $761One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Linz to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Linz to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, and a flight costs an average of $551.

Distance: 374 miles (603 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$138

Average price

$65

Average price

Cheapest

$839

Average price

$145

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 2m

Average total duration

8h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 8m

Average total duration

10h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 15m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

7h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Linz to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $65 (€53).

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

A bus is $73 (€60) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Linz to Cologne costing on average $138 (€113).

A bus is $774 (€637) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Linz to Cologne costing on average $839 (€691).

The fastest way to travel from Linz to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 8h 32m.

Bus takes on average 10h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Linz and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Linz 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, SNCB.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Linz to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Linz to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ÖBB | REXREX 2+ÖBB | RegionalzugR 25798+ÖBBRE5+ÖBB | ICEICE 6105:03 AM Linz Hbf
10h03
3:06 PM Cologne Hbf4 transfers
ÖBB | REXREX 2+ÖBB | RegionalzugR 25798+ÖBBRE5+ÖBB | ICEICE 6105:03 AM Linz Hbf
9h02
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Linz 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.

Wed
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27
Tue
Jul 28

Why should you book Linz to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet, SNCB and more offer trains services from Linz to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Linz 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 ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Linz 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Linz to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Linz to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Linz to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Linz to Cologne

AustriaAustria
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Linz to Cologne run on average 17 times per day, taking around 8h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€42) but you can travel from only $40 (€33) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 374 miles (603 km) distance in 7h 20m.

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 $40 (€33)
Distance
374 miles (603 km)
Average train duration
8h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$51 (€42)
Trains per day
17
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
7h 20m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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 $40 (€33)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet, SNCB from Linz to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet, SNCB trains will get you between Linz and Cologne from $40 (€33). 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
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 35m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€63)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

ÖBB | Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 55m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€80)
ÖBB | Nightjet frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

SNCB

About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 55m
Cheapest Price
$85 (€70)
SNCB 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

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Linz to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Linz 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 Linz to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€42), while the average price is around $138 (€113).
The train from Linz to Cologne takes 7h 20m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Linz to Cologne is 374 miles (603 km).
The first train from Linz to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Linz to Cologne leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Linz to Cologne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, SNCB.
Yes, there is a night train from Linz to Cologne.
The train station in Linz that goes to Cologne is Linz Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Linz to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $40 (€33).
The train journey from Linz to Cologne offers scenic views, especially as it passes through picturesque regions like the Rhine Valley, famous for its charming landscapes, vineyards, and historic castles.
A day trip from Linz to Cologne is not feasible, as the journey takes 7h 20m and the distance covered is 374 miles (603 km). However, there are 17 trains per day available for this route.
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 Linz to Cologne.
Since both Linz 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 Linz 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.
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 Linz to Cologne

Most Linz to Cologne trains use the Linz Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Linz and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Linz
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Linz station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Linz to Cologne leave from Linz Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Linz city centre at Bahnhofplatz 3-6, 4020 Linz, Austria.
Linz HbfBahnhofplatz 3-6, 4020 Linz, Austria+43 51717WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Linz Hbf from Linz city centre

Linz Hbf is 1 km from Linz city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus270 · 12m · $4
27, Se · 14m · every ~7 min
Tram1, 2, 3, 4, N82 · 7m · every ~38 min

Linz Hbf train station facilities and services

Linz Hbf 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Josef Linz, Das Anton

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Linz Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Linz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Linz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Linz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Linz Hbf: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Schillerpark, Austria Trend Hotel Schillerpark, Park Inn by Radisson Linz.

Linz/Donau Wegscheid Bahnhof4030 Linz, Austria
City-centre transport

Getting to Linz/Donau Wegscheid Bahnhof from Linz city centre

Linz/Donau Wegscheid Bahnhof is 6 km from Linz city centre. Public transport options include:

Train3921, 3923, 3927, 3929, 3931, 3933, 3935, 3941, 3945, 3949, 3951, 3953, 3955, 3957, 3959, 3961, 3963, 3965, 3967, 3969, 3971, 3973, 3975, 3977, 3985, 3987, 3989, 3993, 14993 · 5m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus43 · 28m · every ~8 min
43 · 36m · every ~8 min
Tram1, 2, 4, 3, N82 · 40m · every ~38 min
Linz/Donau Pichling4030 Linz, AustriaParkingDiningAccessibilityWCBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Linz/Donau Pichling from Linz city centre

Linz/Donau Pichling is 9 km from Linz city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus400 · 30m · $6 · every ~3 min
19 · 52m · every ~5 min
19 · 1h 0m · every ~5 min

Linz/Donau Pichling train station facilities and services

Linz/Donau Pichling has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Linz/Donau Pichling.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Linz/Donau Pichling: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Linz/Donau Pichling: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Linz/Donau Pichling.

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