- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Milan to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 01
Cheapest price on Oct 01
$232
Average ticket price on Oct 01
$263
Fastest journey on Oct 01
8 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Oct 01
9 h 42 m
Trains on Oct 01
6
Distance
630 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Milan to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Milan to Cologne will cost around $263 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $232.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Milan to Cologne without transferring at least once.
11:10 AM8h55Milan8:05 PMCologne$2321One-way1 transfer- 8:10 AM8h55Milan5:05 PMCologne$2671One-way2 transfers
- 1:10 PM10h00Milan11:10 PMCologne$2671One-way2 transfers
- 6:10 PM11h47Milan5:57 AMCologne$2671One-way2 transfers
- 8:10 PM14h55Milan11:05 AMCologne$2671One-way2 transfers
- 8:10 AM8h55Milan5:05 PMCologne$2671One-way2 transfers
- 10:10 AM8h55Milan7:05 PMCologne$2761One-way2 transfers
- 11:10 AM8h55Milan8:05 PMCologne$2321One-way1 transfer
- 1:10 PM10h00Milan11:10 PMCologne$2671One-way2 transfers
- 6:10 PM11h47Milan5:57 AMCologne$2671One-way2 transfers
Live departures
Milan to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Milan to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:10 AM Milan | 8h55 | 5:05 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 10:10 AM Milan | 8h55 | 7:05 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 11:10 AM Milan | 8h55 | 8:05 PM Cologne | 1 transfer | |
| 1:10 PM Milan | 10h00 | 11:10 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Milan 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.
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Why should you book Milan to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Milan to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Milan to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Milan 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 Milan to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Milan to Cologne
Italy
Germany
Trains from Milan to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $269 (€222) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 391 miles (630 km) distance in 8h 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
Flight from $21 (€17)
Distance 391 miles (630 km) |
Average train duration 8h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $269 (€222) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 8h 19m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Flight from $21 (€17)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Milan to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Milan and Cologne from $21 (€17). 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 19m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$269 (€222)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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.
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
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
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.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
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 Milan to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milan 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 Milan to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $269 (€222), while the average price is around $308 (€255).
The train from Milan to Cologne takes 8h 19m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Milan to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Milan to Cologne is 391 miles (630 km).
The last train from Milan to Cologne leaves at 7:00 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Milan to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Milan to Cologne.
The train station in Milan that goes to Cologne is Milan Centrale, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The train journey from Milan to Cologne offers a scenic experience as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of the Italian and Swiss Alps, providing views of charming villages, lush valleys, and stunning mountains.
Yes, you can take the train from Milan to Cologne.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
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 Milan to Cologne
Most Milan to Cologne trains use the Milano Centrale to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Milan and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Milan
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Which Milan station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Trains from Milan to Cologne leave from Milano Centrale. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Milan city centre at Piazza Duca d'Aosta, 1, 20124 Milan, Italy.
Milano CentralePiazza Duca d'Aosta, 1, 20124 Milan, Italy+39 892021
City-centre transport
Getting to Milano Centrale from Milan city centre
Milano Centrale is 2 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe51 · 11m · $2 · every ~5 min
BusNm3 · 9m · $2 · every ~1 min
60 · 31m · $2 · every ~10 min
Tram9 · 27m · $2 · every ~16 min
Subway3 · 11m · $2 · every ~25 min
Milano Centrale train station facilities and services
Milano Centrale 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: Venchi, Panzera Coffee, Burger King, Bar Motta, Caffè Napoli, VyTA Boulangerie, Spontini, Starbucks, Dispensa Emilia, McDonald's, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi in the station. ATMs are there are ATMs in various locations around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:50 - 22:20. Information desks are located next to the ticket office on the ground floor in the shopping gallery.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is provided by KiPoint and located on the ground floor, on the side of Piazza Luigi di Savoia. It is open every day from 06:00 to 23:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milano Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milano Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Centrale: Station is wheelchair accessible, has elevators and the Sala Blu, Trenitalia's office of assistance for disabled travelers, is next to Platform 4.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Glam Hotel Milano, NYX MIlan, iQ Hotel Milano.
Milano DateoPiazzale Dateo, Milan, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Milano Dateo from Milan city centre
Milano Dateo is 2 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus61, Nm4 · 11m · $2 · every ~10 min
61 · 17m · $2 · every ~9 min
Subway4 · 3m · $2 · every ~30 min
Milano Dateo train station facilities and services
Milano Dateo has practical services for this route, including Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Milano Dateo.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Milano Dateo.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milano Dateo: Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milano Dateo: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Dateo: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel MM Dateo, Hotel Dateo Milano.
Which Cologne station do trains from Milan arrive at?
Trains from Milan to Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf. Some services arrive at Köln/Bonn Flughafen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · $8 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
More options for your journey from Milan to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Milan
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