- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lyon to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jul 18
Cheapest price
$177
Average price
$280
Fastest journey
7 h 4 m
Average duration
7 h 26 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
597 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lyon to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Cologne will cost around $280 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $177.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lyon to Cologne without transferring at least once.
ICE 106+
TGV 958310:01 AM7h04Lyon Part Dieu5:05 PMCologne Hbf$1771One-way1 transfer
17754+
94477:16 AM11h13Lyon Part Dieu6:29 PMCologne Hbf$2411One-way1 transfer- 17756+94599:16 AM11h00Lyon Part Dieu8:16 PMCologne Hbf$2461One-way1 transfer
- 17754+94597:16 AM13h00Lyon Part Dieu8:16 PMCologne Hbf$2461One-way1 transfer
6690+94477:04 AM11h25Lyon Part Dieu6:29 PMCologne Hbf$2801One-way1 transfer
- ICE 106+TGV 958310:01 AM7h04Lyon Part Dieu5:05 PMCologne Hbf$1771One-way1 transfer
- 6618+94591:04 PM7h12Lyon Part Dieu8:16 PMCologne Hbf$2851One-way1 transfer
- 6694+94591:04 PM7h12Lyon Part Dieu8:16 PMCologne Hbf$2911One-way1 transfer
- 6614+944711:04 AM7h25Lyon Part Dieu6:29 PMCologne Hbf$2911One-way1 transfer
- 6616+945912:00 PM8h16Lyon Part Dieu8:16 PMCologne Hbf$2911One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lyon to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 28m. 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 $47, and a flight costs an average of $211.
Distance: 370 miles (597 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$205 Average price | $79 Average price Cheapest | $699 Average price | $183 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 35m Average total duration 11h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 28m Average total duration Fastest 2h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | 1.8 - 3.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Lyon to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $79 (€65).
This is compared to other travel options from Lyon to Cologne:
A bus is $126 (€104) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Cologne costing on average $205 (€168).
A bus is $620 (€509) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lyon to Cologne costing on average $699 (€573).
The fastest way to travel from Lyon to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 28m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 50m.
Bus takes on average 11h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lyon and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lyon to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 57m sooner (5h 50m by train vs 7h 47m by car). Tickets start at around $205 (€168) compared to roughly $183 (€150) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Lyon to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Cologne trains for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6602+9423 | Delayed 4:14 AM 6:04 AMLyon Part Dieu | 8h15 | 2:19 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6602+9459 | Delayed 4:14 AM 6:04 AMLyon Part Dieu | 14h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6642+9423 | On time 6:38 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 7h41 | 2:19 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6642+9459 | On time 6:38 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 13h38 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6690+9459 | On time 7:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 13h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6604+9459 | On time 7:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 13h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6692+9459 | Delayed 5:39 AM 7:34 AMLyon Part Dieu | 12h42 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6608+9471 | 8:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 14h12 | 10:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6608+9459 | 8:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 12h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
889465+ 9764+9459 | 8:12 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 12h04 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9583+ICE 106 | On time 10:01 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 7h04 | 5:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| TGV 9583+ICE 516 | On time 10:01 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 8h04 | 6:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6612+9471 | 10:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 12h12 | 10:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6612+9459 | 10:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 10h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6614+9459 | 11:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 9h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6614+9471 | 11:04 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 11h12 | 10:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6616+9471 | 11:34 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 10h42 | 10:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6616+9459 | 11:34 AM Lyon Part Dieu | 8h42 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6694+9459 | 1:04 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 7h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6618+9459 | 1:04 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 7h12 | 8:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6618+9471 | 1:04 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 9h12 | 10:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6620+9471 | 2:04 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 8h12 | 10:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 6622+9471 | 3:04 PM Lyon Part Dieu | 7h12 | 10:16 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 Lyon to Cologne by train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Lyon to Cologne trains with Omio?
TGV as well as SNCF, Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI and more offer trains services from Lyon to Cologne.
Omio is the only official third party seller for TGV tickets.
Why book with Omio vs TGV?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for TGV, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF, Eurostar or SNCF | TGV INOUI to find the best option for your trip from Lyon 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 TGV with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lyon to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Cologne
France
Germany
Trains from Lyon to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $99 (€81) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:50, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 370 miles (597 km) distance in 6h 8m.
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 $47 (€38)
Distance 370 miles (597 km) |
Average train duration 5h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $99 (€81) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 6h 8m |
First train 12:50 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $47 (€38)
Train companies: TGV, SNCF, Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI from Lyon to Cologne trainsTGV, SNCF, Eurostar, SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Lyon and Cologne from $47 (€38). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 15m
Cheapest Price
$244 (€200)
Eurostar frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 15m
Cheapest Price
$346 (€284)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
SNCF
About
SNCF is France’s national railway company, operating a vast network of high-speed, regional, and local train services across the country and into neighboring nations. Its flagship TGV trains reach speeds of up to 320 km/h, connecting major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Lille in just a few hours. SNCF also runs popular regional services like TER and international routes including Eurostar, Thalys, and TGV Lyria. Ticket options range from budget-friendly fares to flexible and premium classes, catering to every type of traveler. Onboard amenities may include spacious seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and catering services, making SNCF a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to explore France and beyond.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 8m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€81)
SNCF 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
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.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
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 Lyon to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon 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 Lyon to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $99 (€81), while the average price is around $205 (€168).
The train from Lyon to Cologne takes 6h 8m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Lyon to Cologne is 370 miles (597 km).
The first train from Lyon to Cologne leaves at 12:50 AM.
The last train from Lyon to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lyon to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lyon to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lyon to Cologne.
The train station in Lyon that goes to Cologne is Lyon Part Dieu, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lyon to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from Lyon to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through picturesque regions like the Rhine Valley, known for its rolling vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles.
A day trip from Lyon to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 8m one way. The distance is 370 miles (597 km), and the frequency is 2 times per day by train.
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 Lyon to Cologne.
Since both Lyon 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 Lyon 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.
More options for your journey from Lyon to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Lyon
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