- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rennes to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$214
Average price
$266
Fastest journey
6 h 50 m
Average duration
7 h 37 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
697 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rennes to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rennes to Cologne will cost around $266 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $214.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Rennes to Cologne without transferring at least once.
8052+
94717:48 AM13h52Rennes station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$2141One-way1 transfer- 12210+94711:35 PM8h05Rennes station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$2141One-way1 transfer
- 8710+947111:35 AM10h05Rennes station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$2401One-way1 transfer
- 8606+94719:35 AM12h05Rennes station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$2401One-way1 transfer
- 8052+94597:48 AM11h52Rennes station7:40 PMCologne Hbf$2411One-way1 transfer
- 8090+945912:50 PM6h50Rennes station7:40 PMCologne Hbf$2801One-way1 transfer
- 8082+94236:48 AM7h01Rennes station1:49 PMCologne Hbf$3261One-way1 transfer
- 8720+94711:35 PM8h05Rennes station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$2601One-way1 transfer
- 8710+945911:35 AM8h05Rennes station7:40 PMCologne Hbf$2671One-way1 transfer
- 12210+94711:35 PM8h05Rennes station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$2141One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Rennes to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Rennes to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a train costs an average of $134.
Distance: 433 miles (697 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$230 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest | $224 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 13m Average total duration Fastest 5h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 50m Average total duration 12h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Rennes to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $76.
This is compared to other travel options from Rennes to Cologne:
A bus is $154 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rennes to Cologne costing on average $230.
The fastest way to travel from Rennes to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 5h 43m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rennes and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Rennes to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 3h 8m sooner (5h 43m by train vs 8h 51m by car). Tickets start at around $230 compared to roughly $224 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.
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.
Live departures
Rennes to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Rennes to Cologne trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8082+9459 | 6:48 AM Rennes station | 12h52 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8082+9423 | 6:48 AM Rennes station | 7h01 | 1:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8702+9459 | 7:35 AM Rennes station | 12h05 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8602+9459 | 7:35 AM Rennes station | 12h05 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8052+9459 | 7:48 AM Rennes station | 11h52 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8052+9471 | 7:48 AM Rennes station | 13h52 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8604+9459 | 8:34 AM Rennes station | 11h06 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8604+9471 | 8:34 AM Rennes station | 13h06 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8706+9459 | 9:35 AM Rennes station | 10h05 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8606+9459 | 9:35 AM Rennes station | 10h05 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8606+9471 | 9:35 AM Rennes station | 12h05 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8610+9471 | 11:35 AM Rennes station | 10h05 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8610+9459 | 11:35 AM Rennes station | 8h05 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8710+9459 | 11:35 AM Rennes station | 8h05 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8090+9471 | 12:50 PM Rennes station | 8h50 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8090+9459 | 12:50 PM Rennes station | 6h50 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 8720+9471 | 1:35 PM Rennes station | 8h05 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 12210+9471 | 1:35 PM Rennes station | 8h05 | 9:40 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 Rennes to Cologne by train or bus
Compare train 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.
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Why should you book Rennes to Cologne trains with Omio?
Eurostar as well as TGV or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) offer trains services from Rennes to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rennes to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurostar, but also compare tickets for the likes of TGV or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) to find the best option for your trip from Rennes 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Eurostar with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rennes to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Rennes to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rennes to Cologne
France
Germany
Trains from Rennes to Cologne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $134 but you can travel from only $49 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:10, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 433 miles (697 km) distance in 6h 15m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $49
Distance 433 miles (697 km) |
Average train duration 5h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $134 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 6h 15m |
First train 1:10 AM |
Last train 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 70 days |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $49
Train companies: Eurostar, TGV, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Rennes to Cologne trainsEurostar, TGV, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Rennes and Cologne from $49. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Eurostar frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern 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 provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 52m
Cheapest Price
$357
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
1 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.
- Must visit
Kolumba
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
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.
FAQs: Trains from Rennes to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rennes 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 Rennes to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $134, while the average price is around $230.
The train from Rennes to Cologne takes 6h 15m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Rennes to Cologne leaves at 1:10 AM.
The distance by train from Rennes to Cologne is 433 miles (697 km).
The last train from Rennes to Cologne leaves at 10:50 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Rennes to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rennes to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rennes to Cologne.
The train station in Rennes that goes to Cologne is Rennes station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Rennes to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $49.
The train journey from Rennes to Cologne offers a mix of scenic views, including the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside, charming villages, and the rolling hills of the Rhineland region in Germany, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers looking to appreciate the natural and cultural beauty along the route.
A day trip from Rennes to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 15m and covers 433 miles (697 km). The frequency for this trip is 1 per day for trains.
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 Rennes to Cologne.
Since both Rennes 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Rennes 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.
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 Rennes to Cologne
Most Rennes to Cologne trains use the Rennes to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Rennes and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rennes
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Which Rennes station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Trains from Rennes to Cologne leave from Rennes. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Rennes city centre at 19 Place de la Gare, 35000 Rennes, France.
Rennes19 Place de la Gare, 35000 Rennes, France+33 2 99 30 70 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Rennes from Rennes city centre
BusC2, 12 · 8m · $2 · every ~15 min
Subwayb · 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
a · 3m · $2 · every ~30 min
Rennes train station facilities and services
Rennes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Café de Rennes, L'Embarcadère
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rennes. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rennes. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rennes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rennes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rennes: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Ibis Rennes Centre Gare Sud, Mercure Rennes Centre Gare, Novotel Rennes Centre Gare.
Which Cologne station do trains from Rennes arrive at?
Trains from Rennes to Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf. Some services arrive at Köln Messe/Deutz, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Most popular train connections from Rennes
More options for your journey from Rennes to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Rennes
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