Magdeburg to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sat, Jun 20
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Magdeburg to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$34

Average price

$89

Fastest journey

4 h 27 m

Average duration

5 h 1 m

Trains per day

7

Distance

349 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Magdeburg to Cologne will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.

Fast trains

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

  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    9:40 AM8h03
    Magdeburg, ZOB
    5:43 PMCologne Hbf
    $341One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 944
    8:03 AM4h30
    Magdeburg Hbf
    12:33 PMCologne Hbf
    $831One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2046 · ICE 942
    10:05 AM4h27
    Magdeburg Hbf
    2:32 PMCologne Hbf
    $831One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2432 · ICE 1052
    9:02 AM5h17
    Magdeburg Hbf
    2:19 PMCologne Hbf
    $831One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn16412 · ICE 1546+WestfalenBahn95764
    10:33 AM5h46
    Magdeburg Hbf
    4:19 PMCologne Hbf
    $891One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Magdeburg to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Magdeburg to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. 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 $24, and a flight costs an average of $80.

Distance: 216 miles (349 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$66

Average price

$35

Average price

Cheapest

$182

Average price

$79

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 6m

Average total duration

4h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 35m

Average total duration

6h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 5m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 58m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Magdeburg to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).

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

A bus is $30 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Magdeburg to Cologne costing on average $66 (€54).

A bus is $147 (€120) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Magdeburg to Cologne costing on average $182 (€149).

The fastest way to travel from Magdeburg to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 36m.

Bus takes on average 6h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Magdeburg and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Magdeburg to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 22m faster (4h 36m by train vs 4h 58m by car) and roughly $13 (€11) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($66 (€54) vs $79 (€64)). 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.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Magdeburg to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Magdeburg to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 944
On time
8:03 AM Magdeburg Hbf
4h30
12:33 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2432 · ICE 371 · ICE 722
On time
9:02 AM Magdeburg Hbf
5h12
2:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2432 · ICE 1052
On time
9:02 AM Magdeburg Hbf
5h17
2:19 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain9:40 AM Magdeburg, ZOB
8h03
5:43 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2046 · ICE 942
On time
10:05 AM Magdeburg Hbf
4h27
2:32 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn16412 · ICE 1546+WestfalenBahn9576410:33 AM Magdeburg Hbf
5h46
4:19 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn16317 · ICE 839 · ICE 628
On time
10:34 AM Magdeburg Hbf
5h40
4:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Magdeburg 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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Magdeburg to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Magdeburg to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Magdeburg 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Magdeburg 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 Magdeburg 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 Magdeburg to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Magdeburg to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Magdeburg to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 216 miles (349 km) distance in 4h 28m.

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
216 miles (349 km)
Average train duration
4h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€19)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
4h 28m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
21 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Magdeburg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Magdeburg and Cologne from $23 (€19). 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 28m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Price
$79 (€65)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 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

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Cologne’s key archaeology museum for Roman heritage, especially famous for the Dionysus mosaic and Roman artifacts from the city.

  • Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century painting, including one of Germany’s leading Impressionist collections.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or currywurst.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Add EUR 1-2 for taxis, and round up in cafés if table service is provided.

FAQs: Trains from Magdeburg to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Magdeburg 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 Magdeburg to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $66 (€54).
The train from Magdeburg to Cologne takes 4h 28m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Magdeburg to Cologne is 216 miles (349 km).
The first train from Magdeburg to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Magdeburg to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Magdeburg to Cologne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Magdeburg to Cologne.
The train station in Magdeburg that goes to Cologne is Magdeburg Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Magdeburg to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
The train journey from Magdeburg to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Harz Mountains and the rolling hills of North Rhine-Westphalia, providing glimpses of charming German countryside and quaint villages along the way.
A day trip from Magdeburg to Cologne is not feasible due to a travel duration of 4h 28m and a distance of 216 miles (349 km). However, there are 7 train trips available per day.
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 Magdeburg to Cologne.
Since both Magdeburg 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 Magdeburg 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Magdeburg to Cologne

Magdeburg
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Magdeburg is Magdeburg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Magdeburg Hbf for your trip from Magdeburg to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 20:00
  • Tuesday: 06:00 - 20:00
  • Wednesday: 06:00 - 20:00
  • Thursday: 06:00 - 20:00
  • Friday: 06:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 06:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Hummels Brauhaus
  • Pizza Hut
  • ALEX
  • Subway
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Stadtfeld
  • ArtHOTEL Magdeburg
Magdeburg-BuckauWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Roter Stern
  • ZAZA Bingöl Grill
  • Vocelli Esskultur
  • City Tele Cafe
Magdeburg HasselbachplatzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
Dining
Dining
  • Subway
  • Café "Alt Magdeburg" in der grünen Zitadelle
  • Indian Palace
  • Bingöl Grill
Hotel
Hotel
  • ArtHOTEL Magdeburg

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