Marseille to Cologne train with TGV

Tue, Sep 01
+ Add return
TGV
Eurostar
SNCF
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
SNCF | TGV INOUI
2,000+ travel companies
TGV
Eurostar
SNCF
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
SNCF | TGV INOUI
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Marseille to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01

Cheapest price on Sep 01

$133

Average ticket price on Sep 01

$133

Fastest journey on Sep 01

8 h 53 m

Average journey duration on Sep 01

8 h 53 m

Trains on Sep 01

1

Distance

857 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Marseille to Cologne will cost around $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $133.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 106+TGVTGV 9583
    8:12 AM8h53
    Marseille Saint-Charles
    5:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $1331One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Marseille to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Marseille to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $101 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 41m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.3 - 0.8kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $101, while a flight costs an average of $416.

Distance: 532 miles (857 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$204

Average price

$101

Average price

Cheapest

$416

Average price

$284

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 52m

Average total duration

7h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

16h 19m

Average total duration

15h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 41m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

10h 39m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.9 - 2.1kg

CO2 emissions

2.6 - 5.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

TGV

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa Cityline

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 Marseille to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $101 (€82).

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

A bus is $102 (€83) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Marseille to Cologne costing on average $204 (€165).

A bus is $315 (€255) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Marseille to Cologne costing on average $416 (€337).

The fastest way to travel from Marseille to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 41m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 22m.

Bus takes on average 15h 49m.

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

The journey is about 3h 17m faster (7h 22m by train vs 10h 39m by car) and roughly $80 (€64) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($204 (€165) vs $284 (€230)). 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.

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

Live departures

Marseille to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Marseille to Cologne trains for today, Monday, August 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
TGVTGV 9583+Deutsche BahnICE 106
On time
8:12 AM Marseille Saint-Charles
8h53
5:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
TGVTGV 9583+Deutsche BahnICE 12
On time
8:12 AM Marseille Saint-Charles
9h28
5:40 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 Marseille 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
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21

Why should you book Marseille to Cologne trains with Omio?

TGV as well as Eurostar, SNCF, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI and more offer trains services from Marseille 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 Eurostar, SNCF, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) or SNCF | TGV INOUI to find the best option for your trip from Marseille 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 Marseille to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Marseille to Cologne

FranceFrance
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Marseille to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $116 (€94) but you can travel from only $56 (€45) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 532 miles (857 km) distance in 8h 11m.

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 $56 (€45)
Distance
532 miles (857 km)
Average train duration
7h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$116 (€94)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
8h 11m
First train
3:20 AM
Last train
11:15 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
35 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 $56 (€45)

Train companies: TGV, Eurostar, SNCF, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI from Marseille to Cologne trainsTGV, Eurostar, SNCF, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Marseille and Cologne from $56 (€45). 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
TGV frequency
2 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
Eurostar frequency
3 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 SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
7h 11m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
$422 (€342)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
4 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 SNCF Duration
8h 11m
Cheapest SNCF Price
$116 (€94)

Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) Duration
7h 14m
Cheapest Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) Price
$519 (€420)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (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

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 Marseille to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Marseille 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 Marseille to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $116 (€94), while the average price is around $204 (€165).
The train from Marseille to Cologne takes 8h 11m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Marseille to Cologne is 532 miles (857 km).
The first train from Marseille to Cologne leaves at 3:20 AM.
The last train from Marseille to Cologne leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Marseille to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Marseille to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Marseille to Cologne.
The train station in Marseille that goes to Cologne is Marseille Saint-Charles, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Marseille to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $56 (€45).
The train journey from Marseille to Cologne offers varied scenery, including the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside and the scenic views along the Rhine River as you approach Cologne, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers.
A day trip from Marseille to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 11m with a distance of 532 miles (857 km). Trains run 3 times 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 Marseille to Cologne.
Since both Marseille 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 Marseille 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 Marseille to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Marseille
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Marseille station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Marseille to Cologne leave from Marseille Saint-Charles. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Marseille city centre at Square Narvik, 13232 Marseille, France.
Marseille Saint-CharlesSquare Narvik, 13232 Marseille, France+33 4950491012WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Marseille Saint-Charles from Marseille city centre

Bus52, 509, Bm2 · 6m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayM2 · 1m · $2 · every ~22 min

Marseille Saint-Charles train station facilities and services

Marseille Saint-Charles has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Caffe San Carlo, DAKAO, Espressamente Illy, EXKi, McDonald's, Monop'Daily, Starbucks, Casa Di Pasta, Chatime, PAUL

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. ATMs are located between track M and the bus station at the Honnorat exit.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00. Information desks are located on level -1 of the station, entrances via the station or via Bd Bourdet.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is the lockers are located on Boulevard Bourdet, on level 0 of the station. Service is provided by La Bag Mobile.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Marseille Saint-Charles: Accès Plus is a service offered to passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility who need assistance at the station. For more information email [email protected] or call +33 890640650.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Adagio Access Marseille-Saint Charles, Holiday Inn Express Marseille-Saint Charles, Hotel Les Bords De Me.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone