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

Sat, Jun 21
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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

6

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.

Deutsche BahnICE 610 · IC 2045
09:27AM5h39
Munich Hbf
03:06PMCologne Hbf
$741One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 200
08:46AM4h19
Munich Hbf
01:05PMCologne Hbf
$981One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1010
08:27AM4h21
Munich Hbf
12:48PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$981One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 568 · ICE 578 · ICE 314
09:02AM4h31
Munich Hbf
01:33PMCologne Hbf
$981One-way
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 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
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 698 · IC 60402 · RB 25408
Delayed
8:01 PM 7:51 PMMunich Hbf
8h11
4:02 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Saturday, June 21
deutsche_bahnICE 10106:27 AM Munich Hbf
4h21
10:48 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 690 · ICE 200
On time
6:46 AM Munich Hbf
4h19
11:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 724
On time
6:47 AM Munich Hbf
4h27
11:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 568 · ICE 578 · ICE 314
On time
7:02 AM Munich Hbf
4h31
11:33 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 610
On time
7:27 AM Munich Hbf
4h38
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 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.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Munich to Cologne

userReviewImage
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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
IconHeaters 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
Iconbeautiful 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
IconVery 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
IconComfort
IconQuick
IconOn time
IconClean
IconWIFI
Cons
IconPrice
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
Iconpleasant temperature
Cons
Iconsomewhat 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
IconLounger 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
Iconclean toilets
Cons
Iconsomewhat 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
IconOn time
IconClean
Cons
IconBoard 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
IconFast ride
Cons
IconTrain 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
IconPunctuality, nice staff
Cons
IconI 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
IconQuiet, relaxed journey without much hustle and bustle
IconThere was wifi and a power socket which made it easy for me to work
IconVery nice service
Cons
IconI arrived a little later than expected
IconHigh 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
IconReception
Cons
IconNone
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
IconComfortable
Cons
IconNone
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
IconPunctual
Cons
IconUnhygienic
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

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train
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
10
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
3h 57m
First train
07:27
Last train
20:51
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 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

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%


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.
FAQs

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.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes.
Lockers
Lockers
  • The station has luggage lockers.
Dining
Dining
  • Cantina Estación Mediterrano
  • Rischart Bakery
  • Ditsch Pretzels
  • backWERK
  • Cafe-Shop
  • Le Crobag
  • Yorma's
  • Coffee Fellows
  • Dunkin Donuts
  • McDonald's
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Accessibility equipment, elevators, & mobility service. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • a&o München Hauptbahnhof
  • IntercityHotel München
  • Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • There is an information desk located on the main concourse near the food court.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Haidhauser Augustiner
  • Burger King
  • Tassilogarten
  • Mitani
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hilton Munich City
  • MOMA1890
  • Mk Hotel
  • Hotel Pension Christl
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
8 km
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • McDonald's
  • Hunsinger in der Goldenen Gans
  • Orexi Taverna
Hotel
Hotel
  • Guenstigwohnen24.de
  • Jagdschloss Residenz
  • Hotel Miano
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Munich.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln-EhrenfeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
  • Burger King
  • Café Franck
  • Eichendorf
Hotel
Hotel
  • Kölnotel
  • Black Hotels
Köln Messe/DeutzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps

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