- 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.
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€13
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€34
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 9 m
Trains on Sep 19
35
Distance
167 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Osnabrück to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Osnabrück to Cologne will cost around €34 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €13.
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 35 trains from Osnabrück to Cologne, including 19 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 167 km distance in an average of 2 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 9 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 11 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.
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
ICE 921
ICE 517
ICE 611
ICE 615
ICE 613
ICE 2515Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Osnabrück to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €32 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €32, while a flight costs an average of €444.
Distance: 103 miles (167 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€41 Average price | €32 Average price Cheapest | €444 Average price | €30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 0m Average total duration 7h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration 2h 17m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Osnabrück to Cologne:
A bus is €9 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Osnabrück to Cologne costing on average €41.
A bus is €412 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Osnabrück to Cologne costing on average €444.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 18m.
Bus takes on average 7h 30m.
You'll arrive about 13m sooner (2h 18m by train vs 2h 31m by car). Tickets start at around €41 compared to roughly €30 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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.
The table below shows live departures for Osnabrück to Cologne trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 205 | On time 6:37 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h11 | 8:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 2215 · 28533 | On time 7:04 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h25 | 9:29 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2215 | On time 7:04 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h27 | 9:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
90621 · 10244 · 26800 | 1:19 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 4h05 | 5:24 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
90621 · 10244 · ICE 523 | On time 1:19 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 4h01 | 5:20 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
10204 · 17407 | 5:45 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h53 | 8:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
20353 · IC 2040 | On time 5:47 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h58 | 8:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2513 | On time 6:37 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h11 | 8:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10206 · 17409 | 6:49 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h49 | 9:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
10206 · ICE 915 | On time 6:49 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h40 | 9:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2515 | On time 8:37 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h11 | 10:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10210 · 17413 | 8:49 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h49 | 11:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 517 | On time 9:37 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h09 | 11:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10212 · IC 2009 | On time 9:41 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h33 | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
20361 · IC 2044 | On time 9:47 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h58 | 12:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 10:44 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h14 | 12:58 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 10:44 AM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h12 | 12:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 2519 | On time 12:37 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h11 | 2:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1033 | On time 1:04 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h16 | 3:20 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 611 | On time 1:37 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h09 | 3:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10220 · IC 2203 | On time 1:41 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h33 | 4:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
20369 · IC 2048 | On time 1:47 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h58 | 4:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 201 | On time 2:37 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h13 | 4:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 2311 | On time 3:03 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h16 | 5:19 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 613 | On time 3:37 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h09 | 5:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10224 · IC 2205 | On time 3:45 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h29 | 6:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 4:44 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h12 | 6:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 4:44 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h14 | 6:58 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1037 | On time 5:04 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h16 | 7:20 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 615 | On time 5:37 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h09 | 7:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10228 · IC 2207 | On time 5:41 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h33 | 8:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
20377 · IC 2442 | On time 5:46 PM Osnabrück Hbf | 2h59 | 8:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, flight, and bus 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.

Trains from Osnabrück to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 103 miles (167 km) distance in 2h 3m.
Distance 103 miles (167 km) |
Average train duration 2h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price €7 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 3m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Osnabrück 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.

Most Osnabrück to Cologne trains use the Osnabrück Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Osnabrück and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Osnabrück 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 options include: Beykebab, Kochlöffel, Algarve Grill, Pizza Max
Wi-Fi is available at Osnabrück Hbf. ATMs are available at Osnabrück Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Osnabrück Hbf. Information desks are available at Osnabrück Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Osnabrück Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Osnabrück Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Osnabrück Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Osnabrück Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Pension Haus Auf Dem Klushügel, Best Western Hotel Hohenzollern, Ibis Budget, Boardinghouse Villa Il Paradiso.
Osnabrück Altstadt 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 options include: McDonald's, Cafe Extrablatt, Cafe & Bar Celona, Café Mano Negra
Wi-Fi is available at Osnabrück Altstadt. ATMs are available at Osnabrück Altstadt.
Ticket office support is available at Osnabrück Altstadt. Information desks are available at Osnabrück Altstadt.
Luggage storage is available at Osnabrück Altstadt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Osnabrück Altstadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Osnabrück Altstadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Osnabrück Altstadt.
Nearby hotels include Romantikhotel Walhalla, Dom-Hotel, Hotel am Nikolaiort, Bergmann Boardinghouse.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need