Munich to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RB,RE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Munich to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$74

Average price

$94

Fastest journey

4 h 19 m

Average duration

4 h 27 m

Trains per day

Distance

456 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Munich 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 to Cologne will cost around $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Munich for Cologne on Sat, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 456 km distance in an average of 4 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 19 m .

On Sat, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 4 h 38 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.

ICE 610 · IC 2045

09:27AM5h39

Munich Hbf

03:06PMCologne Hbf

$741One-way

1 transfer

ICE 690 · ICE 200

08:46AM4h19

Munich Hbf

01:05PMCologne Hbf

$981One-way

1 transfer

ICE 1010

08:27AM4h21

Munich Hbf

12:48PMCologne Messe/Deutz

$981One-way

0 transfers

ICE 568 · ICE 578 · ICE 314

09:02AM4h31

Munich Hbf

01:33PMCologne Hbf

$981One-way

2 transfers

ICE 724

08:47AM4h27

Munich Hbf

01:14PMCologne Messe/Deutz

$981One-way

0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Munich to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Munich to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg.

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight
€90 Average price	€60 Average price Cheapest	€206 Average price
6h 52m Average duration 6h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	12h 20m Average duration 11h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 43m Average duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions	1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Munich to Cologne train times

Showing trains for today, Friday, June 20

Last updated at 7:34 PM

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
ICE 698 · IC 60402 · RB 25408	Delayed 8:01 PM 7:51 PMMunich Hbf	8h11	4:02 AM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
Saturday, June 21
ICE 1010	6:27 AM Munich Hbf	4h21	10:48 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 transfersDirect
ICE 690 · ICE 200	On time 6:46 AM Munich Hbf	4h19	11:05 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 724	On time 6:47 AM Munich Hbf	4h27	11:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 transfersDirect
ICE 568 · ICE 578 · ICE 314	On time 7:02 AM Munich Hbf	4h31	11:33 AM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 610	On time 7:27 AM Munich Hbf	4h38	12:05 PM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 610 · IC 2045	On time 7:27 AM Munich Hbf	5h39	1:06 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 Munich to Cologne by train, bus, or flight

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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Munich to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Munich to Cologne is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Munich to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Munich to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Munich to Cologne.

Trains

from $49

Buses

from $31

Flights

from $118

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Munich to Cologne

The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.

Pros

Heaters were on

This trip was in 2nd class. It was very cold outside, but inside it was very warm because the heaters were on. The food was very tasty. There were also vegan dishes. The train looked very nice from the outside and also from the inside. The staff were very nice and friendly. There was plenty of room for luggage. The whole thing gets 5 out of 5 stars, I recommend it. In addition, my train arrived on time.

Pros

beautiful view

That was my outward journey, and I really enjoyed it. There was nothing that struck me as negative. I had many train changes and they all arrived on time. The staff were very humorous and nice. You could borrow earplugs and books, which I thought was great. There was also a lot of attention paid to hygiene, for example disinfectants. My croissant tasted very good and my coffee was of the highest quality and relatively cheap. My view from the train was very nice. You can already imagine that I can only pass on the ride. Great ride, deserved 5 stars.

Pros

Very beautiful view

That was a 2nd class journey. It was relatively cheap. I didn't notice anything negative, which is why I recommend it and rate it 5 stars. I liked the wonderful view from the window. The staff had a great sense of humour and were also funny. The food was cheap, delicious and still healthy. There was also disinfectant and co. The train arrived right on time. The wifi had full bars and a digital table always showed where I was.

Pros

Comfort

Quick

On time

Clean

WIFI

Cons

Price

The journey in the ICE was very pleasant and comfortable, although the price is high compared to other means of transport. The interior of the train was clean and modern and there was enough space for luggage. The train was on time and the journey went smoothly. The scenery along the route was beautiful and there was plenty of opportunity to enjoy the views. The service on board was friendly and helpful. Overall it was a great experience, although the price is a criticism, and I would still travel by ICE again if I need the extra comfort and reliable travel.

Pros

pleasant temperature

Cons

somewhat expensive

At the beginning, I would like to mention the only thing that was negative, and that was the price. The journey in 2nd class cost me €50.90. It's not that expensive, but it is a bit expensive. However, there were many more good things and the best thing, in my opinion, was that it was very comfortable, as the seats were cosy, the temperature was pleasant and very special was that it was very clean. The view was also very nice out of the window and the atmosphere was super cool. My favourite rating for the ride would be 4.6 stars and I can definitely recommend it.

Pros

Lounger seat

I travelled in 2nd class and was travelling with one person. The great thing was that it was very cosy on the train and the reclining seat was particularly cosy and I was provided with this in 2nd class. In general it was very comfortable. The toilets had a pleasant smell. The train arrived on time and there was no emergency change. The staff were very nice and did a good job. It gets 5 out of 5 stars as my ticket was also cheap. Greetings go out to the nice driver who had chatted to us before the journey and came across as very personable.

Pros

clean toilets

Cons

somewhat expensive

It was a long journey, but it didn't feel long because the staff kept you very entertained and it was very quiet on the train. The first thing I want to mention is the work of the service. It was great! Then we come to a negative point, and that is the price, it was unfortunately a bit expensive, but it was definitely worth it as the toilets smelled very good and I felt comfortable when I used them. Then I want to mention that I had a super view from the window. I can definitely recommend it. Finally, I wanted to say that Cologne is a very beautiful city.

Pros

On time

Clean

Cons

Board bistro

We took a short trip to Munich and travelled there and back with the DB. The train on the return journey was extremely punctual, which I didn't expect at all. In addition, the toilet was clean this time too. A big plus. The only thing that really bothered me was that the Board Bistro was sold almost empty. So I didn't have the opportunity to eat something hot. A great pity. The journey was pleasant. The staff were very friendly. Unfortunately, as always with DB, the ticket was very expensive. But it was environmentally friendly.

Pros

Fast ride

Cons

Train delay

The journey was very fast, the train was warm and the tickets were unbeatable cheap. The atmosphere was very pleasant. My wifi was very good. The journey was in first class, with a very comfortable seat. I have an absolutely positive experience with this train journey. I can recommend it to others, as it was also very cheap. Also, greetings go out to the friendly driver.

Pros

Punctuality, nice staff

Cons

I did not like the food

My journey in second class was great. The train was there five minutes faster than it should have been. I felt comfortable while using the toilets. The train was also very clean. I can recommend it because it's great value for money. It was a great ride. I can recommend the second class.

Pros

Quiet, relaxed journey without much hustle and bustle

There was wifi and a power socket which made it easy for me to work

Very nice service

Cons

I arrived a little later than expected

High ticket price

Travelling by train from Munich to Cologne was extremely pleasant for me personally. The relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to admire the beautiful scenery along the route made the journey a thoroughly positive experience. The absence of any travelling stress allowed me to concentrate fully on the surroundings and enjoy the journey to the full. The fact that there was wifi on the train was definitely a big plus. This allowed me to use my travelling time extremely productively - be it by working on projects, answering emails or simply relaxing and surfing the internet. This convenience added extra value to the train journey. The journey time was acceptable to me and there were no significant delays to disrupt my plans. In addition, the train journey allowed me to relax and arrive fresh at my destination, as opposed to the exhaustion of a long car journey or flight. The comfort and quietness of the train was particularly remarkable. The seats were extremely comfortable and the overall atmosphere contributed to a pleasant travelling experience. To summarise, I can recommend the train journey from Munich to Cologne without reservation - a journey I will gladly take again in the future.

Pros

Reception

Cons

None

The train journey took just under 6 hours. Things that speak in favour of buying the ticket are the exceptional punctuality, the excellent hygiene and, of course, the good wifi reception. The seats were very comfortable and cosy. Another advantage is that the train journey is not only more relaxed, but also cheaper than travelling by car. I didn't have to change trains and recommend the train journey.

Pros

Comfortable

Cons

None

The journey was very pleasant, the train was well cleaned and the toilets were clean. The train was equipped with working wifi and power sockets. My seat had a small table where I could place my laptop. The staff were very nice and friendly. I had a beautiful view of the German countryside. I personally think the price-performance ratio is pretty fair

Pros

Punctual

Cons

Unhygienic

The journey began with a thoroughly positive experience: the train was on time to the minute. Unfortunately, on the train I realised that the benches were not particularly clean or hygienic. However, I have to admit that the wifi and reception were very good. The staff also did an excellent job. Unfortunately, I can only award this connection 4 stars.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Munich to Cologne

Germany

Trains from Munich to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 6h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) if you book in advance.

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

282 miles (455 km)

Average train duration

6h 22m

Cheapest ticket price

$25 (€20)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

3h 57m

First train

07:27

Last train

20:51

Price information

Train providers: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain and TGV from Munich to Cologne trains

Buy your official Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain and TGV train tickets to Cologne from Munich from $44 (€36) with Omio. Find train times and tickets for over 1000 travel companies to compare and book the most popular route.

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main provider of train services and makes on average about 40,000 domestic and international journeys per day. Deutsche Bahn’s fleet of trains includes the high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) as well as the IC (Intercity), EC (Eurocity), IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express) and RB (Regionalbahn), which differ in terms of comfort and the time needed to travel. For example, while toilets are standard amenities, services like onboard restaurants or free WiFi are only available on certain train types and routes. Deutsche Bahn is well-known for its wide range of fares like Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible and discount cards like the Bahncard 25, 50 and 100, which you can also use for your Munich to Cologne train.

Deutsche Bahn from Munich to Cologne train information:

Average Duration: 4 h 20 min
Cheapest Price: $44
Deutsche Bahn frequency: 1 a day

Flixtrain GmbH is a German railway company owned by Flixmobility. FlixTrain already connects many cities in Germany with its green trains. The trains run on 100 percent renewable energy. Onboard facilities: FlixTrain trains are equipped with air conditioning, toilets, USB and sockets and have plenty of legroom. You will find free WiFi on most trains and a range of food and drinks is available. There is a standard ticket that guarantees you a seat. You can take luggage with you free of charge, provided it can be stowed in the luggage racks. Find the current FlixTrain timetable for your train between Munich and Cologne at Omio and easily book FlixTrain train tickets online.

Munich to Cologne train information with FlixTrain:

Average Duration: 15 h
Cheapest Price: $135

TGV is a high-speed train company based in France with trains to Cologne from Munich. It operates a fleet of modern, high-speed 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 offers different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. The TGV also offers a variety of ticket types, including Standard, Flexi, and Prem's. Onboard facilities include a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. The most popular routes for TGV are Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.

Train tickets from Munich to Cologne: when to book to save $

Time	Price	Savings
1 week earlier	40 €
2 weeks earlier	37 €	8%
3 weeks earlier	33 €	21%
1 month before	32 €	25%
2 months earlier	32 €	25%
3 months earlier	30 €	33%

All train ticket offers

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Train companies often offer promotional prices and offers—by buying in advance—you can get access the best prices for trains in the U.S., Canada, and the major European railroad operators. Search on Omio to check prices and cheap train tickets from Munich - Cologne. Easily find the most attractive rates and choose the your preferred route for your journey. Book and choose your mobile ticket: avoid the queues at the station and the added stress of printing your ticket.

The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:

Buying your train ticket from Munich - Cologne 3 weeks in advance means you can save on average up to 21% compared to the price available on the day of departure.
If you book a ticket Munich - Cologne with 2 months in advance you save up to about 25% compared to the initial price.
By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 33%.
On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.

FAQs: Trains from Munich to Cologne

FAQs: Travel by train from Munich to Cologne easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Munich to Cologne.

Cheap train tickets from Munich to Cologne can start from as little as $22 (€18) when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Munich to Cologne is $94 (€77); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

On average the Munich to Cologne train time is 4 h 24 min covering the 282 mile (455 km) long journey, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.

The first train from Munich to Cologne leaves at 12: 01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The last train from Munich to Cologne leaves at 11: 58 PM.

Yes, there are 6 direct trains a day from Munich to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.

For the journey from Munich to Cologne you can take a train with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. Be sure to check out all possible train providers that offer services from Munich to Cologne on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.

No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 11: 58 PM.

When departing from Munich, you have various train station options to start your route from including Munich Hbf and Munich Ost. When arriving in Cologne, you can end your route in train stations like Cologne Hbf, Cologne Messe/Deutz, Cologne/Bonn Flughafen and Cologne-Ehrenfeld.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Munich Hbf, which is located around 1.3 miles (2.1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre.

A trip to Cologne from Munich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 24 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.

The cheapest month for a train from Munich to Cologne is August.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel to Cologne from Munich including taking a train, bus or flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Munich to Cologne

Munich

Cologne

The major train station for departures in Munich is München Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at München Hbf for your trip from Munich to Cologne.

München Hbf Wifi