The cheapest and fastest trains from Munich to Cologne
Cheapest price
$29
Average price
$144
Fastest journey
4 h 9 m
Average duration
4 h 11 m
Trains per day
39
Distance
456 km
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 $144 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Of the 39 trains that leave Munich for Cologne on Mon, Mar 02, 23 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Mar 02 the direct trains cover the 456 km distance in an average of 4 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 9 m .
On Mon, Mar 02 the slowest trains will take 4 h 18 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 990 · IC 60402
ICE 510
ICE 590 · ICE 100
ICE 784 · ICE 24
ICE 522 · ICE 920
ICE 912
ICE 916
ICE 1010
ICE 918
ICE 1014Travel 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 $30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, and a flight costs an average of $83.
Distance: 283 miles (456 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $52 Average price Cheapest | $271 Average price |
5h 27m Average total duration 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 17m Average total duration 6h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 7m Average total duration Fastest 1h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
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
The table below shows live departures for Munich to Cologne trains for today, Sunday, March 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 918 | On time 9:19 AM Munich Hbf | 4h10 | 1:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 518 · IC 2012 | Delayed 10:28 AM Munich Hbf | 5h38 | 4:07 PM 4:07 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 518 | On time 10:28 AM Munich Hbf | 4h37 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 628 | On time 10:45 AM Munich Hbf | 4h29 | 3:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 788 · ICE 28 | On time 11:06 AM Munich Hbf | 6h00 | 5:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 916 | On time 11:20 AM Munich Hbf | 4h09 | 3:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 516 · IC 1941 | On time 12:28 PM Munich Hbf | 5h37 | 6:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 516 | On time 12:28 PM Munich Hbf | 4h37 | 5:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 624 | On time 12:45 PM Munich Hbf | 4h29 | 5:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 786 · ICE 1224 | On time 1:06 PM Munich Hbf | 5h59 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 224 | On time 1:20 PM Munich Hbf | 4h23 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 514 | On time 2:28 PM Munich Hbf | 4h37 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 514 · ICE 1649 | On time 2:28 PM Munich Hbf | 5h38 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 620 | On time 2:45 PM Munich Hbf | 4h29 | 7:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 784 · ICE 24 | On time 3:06 PM Munich Hbf | 5h59 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 912 | On time 3:20 PM Munich Hbf | 4h09 | 7:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 512 | On time 4:28 PM Munich Hbf | 4h37 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 512 · IC 2347 | On time 4:28 PM Munich Hbf | 5h53 | 10:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 526 | On time 4:46 PM Munich Hbf | 4h28 | 9:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 782 · ICE 1220 | On time 5:11 PM Munich Hbf | 5h55 | 11:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 910 | On time 5:19 PM Munich Hbf | 4h11 | 9:30 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 510 | On time 6:28 PM Munich Hbf | 4h54 | 11:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 522 · ICE 920 | On time 6:45 PM Munich Hbf | 6h20 | 1:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 522 | On time 6:45 PM Munich Hbf | 4h46 | 11:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 990 · IC 60402 | On time 7:45 PM Munich Hbf | 9h12 | 4:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1014 | On time 3:11 AM Munich Hbf | 4h18 | 7:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 822 | On time 3:41 AM Munich Hbf | 4h33 | 8:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 614 · ICE 1049 | On time 4:33 AM Munich Hbf | 5h32 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 614 | On time 4:33 AM Munich Hbf | 4h32 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 820 · ICE 1020 | On time 4:44 AM Munich Hbf | 6h21 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 820 | On time 4:44 AM Munich Hbf | 4h30 | 9:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 612 · IC 1947 | On time 6:28 AM Munich Hbf | 5h37 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 612 | On time 6:28 AM Munich Hbf | 4h37 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 726 | On time 6:42 AM Munich Hbf | 4h32 | 11:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 882 · ICE 926 | On time 7:05 AM Munich Hbf | 6h00 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1010 | 7:19 AM Munich Hbf | 4h10 | 11:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 610 | 8:28 AM Munich Hbf | 4h37 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 610 · ICE 1645 | 8:28 AM Munich Hbf | 5h37 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 722 | On time 8:46 AM Munich Hbf | 4h28 | 1:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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Compare prices and tickets Munich 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 Munich to Cologne trains with Omio?
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 TGV to find the best option for your trip from Munich to Cologne.
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- 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 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 to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Munich to Cologne?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Munich to Cologne

Journey information
Overview: Train from Munich to Cologne
Trains from Munich to Cologne run on average 13 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 283 miles (456 km) distance in 4h 27m.
Distance 283 miles (456 km) |
Average train duration 4h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 4h 27m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TGV from Munich to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV trains will get you between Munich and Cologne from $25 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
TGV
FAQs: Trains from Munich to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Munich 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Munich to Cologne
- Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes.
- The station has luggage lockers.
- Cantina Estación Mediterrano
- Rischart Bakery
- Ditsch Pretzels
- backWERK
- Cafe-Shop
- Le Crobag
- Yorma's
- Coffee Fellows
- Dunkin Donuts
- McDonald's
- & many more
- Accessibility equipment, elevators, & mobility service. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- a&o München Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel München
- Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
- There is an information desk located on the main concourse near the food court.
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Burger King
- McDonald's
- Hunsinger in der Goldenen Gans
- Orexi Taverna
- Guenstigwohnen24.de
- Jagdschloss Residenz
- Hotel Miano
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 18:00
- Haidhauser Augustiner
- Burger King
- Tassilogarten
- Mitani
- Hilton Munich City
- MOMA1890
- Mk Hotel
- Hotel Pension Christl
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- 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
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- 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
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
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