- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Merano to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$252
Average price
$252
Fastest journey
11 h 20 m
Average duration
11 h 20 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
565 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Merano to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Merano to Cologne will cost around $252 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $252.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Merano for Cologne on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 565 km distance in an average of 11 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 20 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 11 h 20 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.
8:46 AM11h20Merano8:06 PMCologne$2521One-way0 transfers
- 8:46 AM11h20Merano8:06 PMCologne$2521One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Merano to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Merano to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $59. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 9h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $59, and a train costs an average of $81.
Distance: 351 miles (565 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$221 Average price | $89 Average price Cheapest | $161 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 39m Average total duration Fastest 9h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 8m Average total duration 12h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Merano to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $89 (€73).
This is compared to other travel options from Merano to Cologne:
A bus is $132 (€108) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Merano to Cologne costing on average $221 (€181).
The fastest way to travel from Merano to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 9h 9m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Merano and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Merano 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 7m sooner (9h 9m by train vs 9h 16m by car). Tickets start at around $221 (€181) compared to roughly $161 (€132) 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
Merano to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Merano to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:46 AM Merano | 11h20 | 8:06 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Merano to Cologne by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Merano to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Regionale offer trains services from Merano to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Merano 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 Regionale to find the best option for your trip from Merano 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Merano to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Merano to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Merano to Cologne
Italy
Germany
Trains from Merano to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 9h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $81 (€66) but you can travel from only $59 (€48) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 351 miles (565 km) distance in 9h 19m.
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 $59 (€48)
Distance 351 miles (565 km) |
Average train duration 9h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $81 (€66) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 9h 19m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $59 (€48)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Regionale from Merano to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Regionale trains will get you between Merano and Cologne from $59 (€48). 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
9h 19m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€66)
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.
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.
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.
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
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
20h 6m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€104)
Regionale frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
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
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.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular riverfront promenade in Deutz with one of the city’s best postcard views toward the cathedral skyline, especially at sunset.
- Must visit
Cologne Old Town
Classic walking area with narrow lanes, traditional houses, churches, and river access, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
One of the Old Town’s best-known squares, surrounded by historic facades and a lively atmosphere close to major sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a local brauhaus.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, usually served with black pudding and fried onions. The sweet-savory combination is strongly associated with Rhineland home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye bread roll with aged Gouda, butter, mustard, and onions. It is a beloved Kölsch beer snack in traditional Cologne pubs.
Hanse Stube
An established fine-dining restaurant in central Cologne offering refined modern European cuisine, polished service, and an elegant hotel dining room.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
A well-known casual restaurant loved for schnitzel and hearty German comfort food. It has a relaxed, local feel and a strong reputation among visitors and residents.
Früh am Dom
One of Cologne’s most famous brauhäuser near the cathedral, known for Kölsch and classic Rhineland dishes in a lively traditional atmosphere.
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.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Hbf -> Cologne City Center
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tickets can be bought in the KVB-App and at station machines before boarding.
- Card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not always on board buses and trams, so buy your ticket in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Merano to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Merano 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 Merano to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $81 (€66), while the average price is around $221 (€181).
The train from Merano to Cologne takes 9h 19m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Merano to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Merano to Cologne is 351 miles (565 km).
The last train from Merano to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Merano to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Merano to Cologne.
The train station in Merano that goes to Cologne is Merano/Meran, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Merano to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $59 (€48).
Yes, the train journey from Merano to Cologne is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the South Tyrol region, the majestic Alps, and the charming Rhine Valley, providing travelers with stunning views of mountains, vineyards, and historic castles.
A day trip from Merano to Cologne is not feasible as the journey duration is 9h 19m. The distance is 351 miles (565 km), and there are 9 train trips 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 Merano to Cologne.
Since both Merano 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 Merano 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 Merano to Cologne
Merano
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Merano is Merano Meran. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Merano Meran for your trip from Merano to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with access from Via Piave
Dining
- Restaurant Forst
- Bistro 7
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Hotel Europa Splendid
- Hotel Terme Merano
- City Hotel Merano
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
- Hall 2: waiting area and shops
Public transit options for Merano Meran
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Regional connections to Bolzano and beyond
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingThe major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Merano.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Merano
More options for your journey from Merano to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Merano
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