- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum known for its Picasso collection, Pop Art, and works by leading 20th-century artists beside the cathedral.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Osterode am Harz to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 02
Cheapest price
$174
Average price
$180
Fastest journey
4 h 44 m
Average duration
4 h 45 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
246 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Osterode am Harz to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Osterode am Harz to Cologne will cost around $180 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $174.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Osterode am Harz to Cologne without transferring at least 3 times.
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5:48 AM5h45Osterode Am Harz Mitte11:33 AMCologne$1741One-way2 transfers- 6:48 AM5h45Osterode Am Harz Mitte12:33 PMCologne$1741One-way2 transfers
- 7:48 AM5h46Osterode Am Harz Mitte1:34 PMCologne$1741One-way2 transfers
- 8:48 AM5h44Osterode Am Harz Mitte2:32 PMCologne$1741One-way2 transfers
- 9:48 AM5h46Osterode Am Harz Mitte3:34 PMCologne$1741One-way2 transfers
- 9:48 AM4h44Osterode Am Harz Mitte2:32 PMCologne$1941One-way3 transfers
- 3:48 PM4h44Osterode Am Harz Mitte8:32 PMCologne$1941One-way3 transfers
- 7:48 AM4h45Osterode Am Harz Mitte12:33 PMCologne$1941One-way3 transfers
- 11:48 AM4h45Osterode Am Harz Mitte4:33 PMCologne$1941One-way3 transfers
- 1:48 PM4h45Osterode Am Harz Mitte6:33 PMCologne$1941One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Osterode am Harz to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Osterode am Harz to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $67. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $67, and a train costs an average of $67.
Distance: 152 miles (246 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$67 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 58m Average total duration Fastest 4h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Osterode am Harz to Cologne is a train with an average price of $67 (€54).
The fastest way to travel from Osterode am Harz to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 4h 28m.
Yes, you can take a train between Osterode am Harz and Cologne.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Osterode am Harz to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $67 (€54) compared to roughly $56 (€45) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-10.77 (€-8.67). The journey takes 4h 28m versus 3h 38m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Osterode am Harz to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Osterode am Harz to Cologne trains for today, Monday, June 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h45 | 11:33 AM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 6:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h45 | 12:33 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 7:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 4h45 | 12:33 PM Cologne | 3 transfers | |
| 7:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h46 | 1:34 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 8:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h44 | 2:32 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 9:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 4h44 | 2:32 PM Cologne | 3 transfers | |
| 9:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h46 | 3:34 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 10:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h45 | 4:33 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 11:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 4h45 | 4:33 PM Cologne | 3 transfers | |
| 11:48 AM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h47 | 5:35 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 12:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h45 | 6:33 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 1:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 4h45 | 6:33 PM Cologne | 3 transfers | |
| 1:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h47 | 7:35 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 2:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h44 | 8:32 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 3:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 4h44 | 8:32 PM Cologne | 3 transfers | |
| 3:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h47 | 9:35 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 4:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h53 | 10:41 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 5:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 4h53 | 10:41 PM Cologne | 3 transfers | |
| 5:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h48 | 11:36 PM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 6:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 5h44 | 12:32 AM Cologne | 2 transfers | |
| 7:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 4h44 | 12:32 AM Cologne | 3 transfers | |
| 10:48 PM Osterode Am Harz Mitte | 7h24 | 6:12 AM Cologne | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Osterode am Harz to Cologne by train
Compare train 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.
Tue
Jun 02
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Why should you book Osterode am Harz to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Osterode am Harz to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Osterode am Harz 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 Osterode am Harz 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Osterode am Harz to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Osterode am Harz to Cologne run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€54) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 21:11. The fastest train covers the 152 miles (246 km) distance in 7h 0m.
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 152 miles (246 km) |
Average train duration 4h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 (€54) |
Trains per day 17 |
Fastest train 7h 0m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 9:11 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 Osterode am Harz to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Osterode am Harz and Cologne from $67 (€54). 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
4h 34m
Cheapest Price
$85 (€68)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
14 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 44m
Cheapest Price
$160 (€129)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
16 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.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
One of Germany’s important fine art museums, with medieval painting, Baroque masters, and strong 19th-century holdings in the city center.
- Recommended
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Key archaeological museum for Cologne’s Roman heritage. The main building has been under redevelopment, but the collection remains a city highlight.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular riverside promenade and steps on the Deutz side, famous for one of the best panoramic views of Cologne Cathedral and the skyline.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic Old Town square lined with traditional façades and lively public space, ideal for soaking up Cologne’s central atmosphere.
- Recommended
Heumarkt
Large central square in the Old Town, often used for events and a convenient base for exploring nearby historic streets and the riverfront.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s iconic pale ale, traditionally served in small Stangen glasses. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a classic brauhaus.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The sweet-savory combination is a Rhineland favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye roll with Gouda cheese, butter, mustard, and onions. It is a traditional brauhaus snack served with Kölsch.
Ox und Klee
A respected fine-dining restaurant offering creative modern cuisine and tasting menus, representing Cologne’s upscale food scene.
Päffgen
Historic brewery tavern with its own Kölsch, appreciated for authentic Cologne food, old-world atmosphere, and communal wooden tables.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
A long-established, casual local favorite especially known for large schnitzels and hearty Rhineland comfort food in a friendly atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate for Germany: museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and dining in central areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is customary in restaurants. Round up in taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff.
KVB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.70
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Hbf, Cologne -> Cologne Cathedral, Cologne
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- You can buy tickets in the KVB App, at ticket machines, and on many buses and trams. Card payment is commonly available at machines and in the app.
- Validate that your ticket covers the correct fare zone before travel. Cologne city trips usually use the local city fare level.
FAQs: Trains from Osterode am Harz to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Osterode am Harz 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 Osterode am Harz to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67 (€54), while the average price is around $67 (€54).
The train from Osterode am Harz to Cologne takes 7h 0m and runs 17 per day.
The first train from Osterode am Harz to Cologne leaves at 6:00 AM.
The distance by train from Osterode am Harz to Cologne is 152 miles (246 km).
The last train from Osterode am Harz to Cologne leaves at 9:11 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Osterode am Harz to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Osterode am Harz to Cologne.
The train station in Osterode am Harz that goes to Cologne is Osterode am Harz Leege, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Osterode am Harz to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $67 (€54).
The train journey from Osterode am Harz to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Harz Mountains and the charming countryside of Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia.
A day trip from Osterode am Harz to Cologne is not feasible as the travel duration is 7h 0m. However, trains run 16 times per day for this 152 miles (246 km) journey.
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 Osterode am Harz to Cologne.
Since both Osterode am Harz 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 Osterode am Harz 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 Osterode am Harz to Cologne
Osterode am Harz
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Osterode am Harz is Osterode am Harz Leege. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Osterode am Harz Leege for your trip from Osterode am Harz to Cologne.
Osterode am Harz Leege
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmAmenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParking
DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Dining
- Der Grieche
- Syrtaki
- Sergio
- Pizzeria Italia
Hotel
- Zum Röddenberg
- Hotel Garni Börgener
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 Osterode am Harz.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Most popular train connections from Osterode am Harz
More options for your journey from Osterode am Harz to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Osterode am Harz
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