Merano to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Merano to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$252

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$252

Fastest journey on Sep 19

11 h 20 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

11 h 20 m

Trains on Sep 19

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

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Merano to Cologne, including 1 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 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, Sep 19 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:46 AM11h20
    Merano
    8:06 PMCologne
    $2521One-way
    0 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 an average ticket price of $112 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 9h 52m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $112, while a train costs an average of $202.

Distance: 351 miles (565 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$202

Average price

$112

Average price

Cheapest

$164

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

9h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

14h 22m

Average total duration

13h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 16m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 $112 (€91).

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

A bus is $90 (€74) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Merano to Cologne costing on average $202 (€165).

The fastest way to travel from Merano to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 9h 22m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 13h 52m.

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 the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $202 (€165) compared to roughly $164 (€134) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-38.62 (€-31.58). The journey takes 9h 22m versus 9h 16m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Merano to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Merano to Cologne trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnR 22432 · RJ 86 · ICE 512
On time
11:46 AM Merano/Meran
10h19
10:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 22432 · RJ 86 · ICE 592 · ICE 102
On time
11:46 AM Merano/Meran
9h19
9:05 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 22432 · RJ 86 · ICE 512 · IC 2347
On time
11:46 AM Merano/Meran
11h20
11:06 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 22432 · RJ 86 · ICE 512 · IC 2347
On time
11:50 AM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
11h16
11:06 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 22432 · RJ 86 · ICE 592 · ICE 102
On time
11:50 AM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
9h15
9:05 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 22432 · RJ 86 · ICE 512
On time
11:50 AM Merano-Maia Bassa/Meran-Untermais
10h15
10:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Saturday, September 19
Deutsche Bahn8:46 AM Merano
11h20
8:06 PM Cologne0 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
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

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

ItalyItaly
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Merano to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 9h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 351 miles (565 km) distance in 8h 39m.

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
351 miles (565 km)
Average train duration
9h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$24 (€19)
Trains per day
12
Fastest train
8h 39m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
7 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, ÖBB | ICE from Merano to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
8h 39m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$24 (€19)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | ICE Duration
9h 8m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
$24 (€19)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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

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 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Merano to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€19), while the average price is around $202 (€165).
The train from Merano to Cologne takes 8h 39m and runs 12 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 8h 39m. 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

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

Departure train stations in Merano
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Merano station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Merano to Cologne leave from Merano Meran. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Merano city centre at Piazza Stazione, 39012 Merano BZ, Italy.
Merano MeranPiazza Stazione, 39012 Merano BZ, Italy+39 0473 495 122WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Merano Meran from Merano city centre

Train200 · 2m · $2 · every ~1 min
Re · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus212 · 4m · every ~4 min

Merano Meran train station facilities and services

Merano Meran has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Forst, Bistro 7

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Merano Meran. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Merano Meran. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Merano Meran: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Merano Meran: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Merano Meran: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Europa Splendid, Hotel Terme Merano, City Hotel Merano.

Meran Untermais Merano-Maia BassaVia delle Palade, 108, 39012 Merano BZ, ItalyParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa from Merano city centre

Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa is 1 km from Merano city centre. Public transport options include:

Train200 · 2m · $2 · every ~1 min
Re · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus212 · 4m · every ~4 min

Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa train station facilities and services

Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Meran Untermais Merano-Maia Bassa.

More options for your journey from Merano to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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