- 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.
Cheapest price
kr117
Average price
kr435
Fastest journey
1 h 21 m
Average duration
1 h 24 m
Trains per day
29
Distance
141 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mainz to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mainz to Cologne will cost around kr435 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr117.
Of the 29 trains that leave Mainz for Cologne on Wed, Aug 05, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 1 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 21 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 1 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
ICE 920
ICE 712
IC 60402
IC 2441
ICE 1020
ICE 712
ICE 25 · ICE 202
ICE 27 · ICE 200
ICE 23 · ICE 204
4253 · ICE 822Trains from Mainz to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr221 but you can travel from only kr104 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 1h 21m.
Distance 87 miles (141 km) |
Average train duration 1h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price kr221 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 21m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 63 days |
The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
S8 · ICE 122 | On time 3:02 PM Mainz Hbf | 1h41 | 4:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2012 | On time 3:20 PM Mainz Hbf | 1h46 | 5:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 229 · ICE 106 | Delayed 1:49 PM 3:42 PMMainz Hbf | 1h23 | 3:08 PM 3:08 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
29521 · ICE 216 | On time 3:59 PM Mainz Hbf | 1h53 | 5:52 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
4263 · ICE 516 | On time 4:10 PM Mainz Hbf | 1h55 | 6:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 28 | Delayed 2:34 PM 4:20 PMMainz Hbf | 1h46 | 4:19 PM 4:19 PMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 710 | On time 4:22 PM Mainz Hbf | 1h46 | 6:08 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
S8 · ICE 710 | On time 4:28 PM Mainz Hbf | 1h40 | 6:08 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
ICE 920 | 12:01 AM Mainz Hbf | 2h04 | 2:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 60402 | 3:49 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h55 | 5:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
S8 · ICE 618 | On time 4:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 2h02 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S8 · ICE 222 | On time 5:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h41 | 6:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
29551 · ICE 826 | On time 5:06 AM Mainz Hbf | 2h08 | 7:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
4250 · 28508 | 5:32 AM Mainz Hbf | 2h56 | 8:28 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S8 · ICE 18 | On time 5:32 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h50 | 7:22 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
33600 | 5:47 AM Mainz Hbf | 3h14 | 9:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 712 | On time 6:36 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h21 | 7:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
29503 · ICE 1014 | On time 6:58 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h31 | 8:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
S8 · ICE 220 | On time 7:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h41 | 8:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2441 | 7:17 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h49 | 9:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 23 · ICE 204 | On time 7:40 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h25 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
4253 · ICE 822 | On time 7:44 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h30 | 9:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
4253 · ICE 316 | On time 7:44 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h38 | 9:22 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
33604 | 8:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 3h00 | 11:02 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
29247 · ICE 614 | On time 8:27 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h38 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S8 · ICE 820 | On time 8:32 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h42 | 10:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
S8 · ICE 128 | On time 9:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h41 | 10:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2569 | On time 9:20 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h46 | 11:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 25 · ICE 202 | On time 9:42 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h23 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1020 | 10:20 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h45 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
S8 · ICE 726 | On time 10:32 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h42 | 12:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
S8 · ICE 126 | On time 11:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h41 | 12:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2577 | On time 11:20 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h46 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 27 · ICE 200 | On time 11:42 AM Mainz Hbf | 1h23 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
4256 · 28520 | 11:51 AM Mainz Hbf | 2h37 | 2:28 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
33612 | 12:02 PM Mainz Hbf | 3h00 | 3:02 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
4259 · ICE 610 | On time 12:10 PM Mainz Hbf | 1h55 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mainz 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.

Most Mainz to Cologne trains use the Mainz Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Mainz and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Mainz Hbf is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Mainz Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Mangal, Asia Wok, Bistrorante Midi, McDonald's
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Hbf. ATMs are available at Mainz Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Hbf. Information desks are available at Mainz Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Mainz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Mainz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Advena Europa Hotel, GuestHouse Mainz, Terminus, Hotel Moguntia.
Mainz Römisches Theater is 1 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Mainz Römisches Theater has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: McDonald's, Cafe Extrablatt, Hans im Glück, The Big Easy
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. ATMs are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Information desks are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Regency Mainz, Favorite Parkhotel, Ibis Hotel Mainz City, Hof Ehrenfels.
Mainz Nord is 4 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Mainz Nord has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Pizzeria Venezia, Kaiser Pide & Kebaphaus, Alaaeddin Döner
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Nord. ATMs are available at Mainz Nord.
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Nord. Information desks are available at Mainz Nord.
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Mainz Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Mainz Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Nord.
Nearby hotels include Super 8 by Wyndham Mainz Zollhafen.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need