- 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 Munich Airport to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jul 24
Cheapest price
$147
Average price
$150
Fastest journey
6 h 34 m
Average duration
6 h 37 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
451 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Munich Airport to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Munich Airport to Cologne will cost around $150 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $147.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Munich Airport for Cologne on Fri, Jul 24, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 24 the direct trains cover the 451 km distance in an average of 6 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 34 m .
On Fri, Jul 24 the slowest trains will take 6 h 42 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.
6:31 AM6h34Munich Airport1:05 PMCologne$1471One-way0 transfers- 7:31 AM6h34Munich Airport2:05 PMCologne$1481One-way0 transfers
- 8:24 AM6h42Munich Airport3:06 PMCologne$1531One-way0 transfers
- 7:31 AM6h34Munich Airport2:05 PMCologne$1481One-way0 transfers
- 6:31 AM6h34Munich Airport1:05 PMCologne$1471One-way0 transfers
- 8:24 AM6h42Munich Airport3:06 PMCologne$1531One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Munich Airport to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Munich Airport to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 7m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a flight costs an average of $62.
Distance: 280 miles (451 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$101 Average price | $194 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $84 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 4m Average total duration 5h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 7m Average total duration Fastest 1h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 31m Average total duration 6h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Munich Airport to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $48 (€48).
This is compared to other travel options from Munich Airport to Cologne:
A bus is $53 (€53) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Munich Airport to Cologne costing on average $101 (€101).
A bus is $146 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Munich Airport to Cologne costing on average $194 (€194).
The fastest way to travel from Munich Airport to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 7m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 34m.
Bus takes on average 6h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Munich Airport and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Munich Airport 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 (5h 34m by train vs 5h 41m by car). Tickets start at around $101 (€101) compared to roughly $84 (€84) 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
Munich Airport to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Munich Airport to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:31 AM Munich Airport | 6h34 | 1:05 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:31 AM Munich Airport | 6h34 | 2:05 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:24 AM Munich Airport | 6h42 | 3:06 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 Munich Airport 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.
Fri
Jul 24
Jul 24
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Jul 26
Jul 26
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Jul 27
Jul 27
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Jul 28
Jul 28
Wed
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Thu
Jul 30
Jul 30
Why should you book Munich Airport to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Munich Airport to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Munich Airport 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 Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Munich Airport 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Munich Airport 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 Munich Airport to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Munich Airport to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Munich Airport to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€27) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:16, the last at 20:51. The fastest train covers the 280 miles (451 km) distance in 5h 25m.
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 280 miles (451 km) |
Average train duration 5h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€27) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 25m |
First train 6:16 AM |
Last train 8:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Munich Airport to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Munich Airport and Cologne from $27 (€27). 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
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€27)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 58m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€67)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
12 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
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 Munich Airport to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Munich Airport 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 Munich Airport to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€27), while the average price is around $101 (€101).
The train from Munich Airport to Cologne takes 5h 25m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Munich Airport to Cologne leaves at 6:16 AM.
The distance by train from Munich Airport to Cologne is 280 miles (451 km).
The last train from Munich Airport to Cologne leaves at 8:51 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Munich Airport to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Munich Airport to Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Munich Airport to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $27 (€27).
The train journey from Munich Airport to Cologne offers glimpses of scenic Bavarian countryside, charming villages, and rolling hills, though most of the route prioritizes efficiency over extensive picturesque views.
A day trip from Munich Airport to Cologne is not feasible as the one-way journey takes 5h 25m and the distance is 280 miles (451 km). Trains operate 9 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 Munich Airport to Cologne.
Since both Munich Airport 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 Munich Airport 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Munich Airport to Cologne
Most Munich Airport to Cologne trains use the München Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Munich Airport and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Munich
Arrival train stations in Cologne
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 · $7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $5 · 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 Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · $3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
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 · $4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $5
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.
Most popular train connections from Munich Airport
More options for your journey from Munich Airport to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Munich Airport
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