- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rostock to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$90
Average price
$179
Fastest journey
6 h 44 m
Average duration
8 h 3 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
496 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rostock to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rostock to Cologne will cost around $179 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Rostock to Cologne without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain1:15 PM8h25Rostock, Central bus station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$901One-way1 transfer- FlixBus+FlixTrain12:35 PM9h05Rostock, Warnemünde Strand9:40 PMCologne Hbf$1401One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain12:40 PM9h00Rostock, Warnemünde Werft (Parking)9:40 PMCologne Hbf$1401One-way1 transfer
63985 · 3509 · ICE 5489:33 AM8h02Rostock Hbf5:35 PMCologne Hbf$1991One-way2 transfers- ICE 1037 · ICE 6151:04 PM6h44Rostock Hbf7:48 PMCologne Hbf$2521One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1037 · ICE 6151:04 PM6h44Rostock Hbf7:48 PMCologne Hbf$2521One-way1 transfer
- 63985 · 3509 · ICE 5489:33 AM8h02Rostock Hbf5:35 PMCologne Hbf$1991One-way2 transfers
- 63987 · 3511 · ICE 54611:33 AM8h02Rostock Hbf7:35 PMCologne Hbf$2541One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+FlixTrain1:15 PM8h25Rostock, Central bus station9:40 PMCologne Hbf$901One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain12:40 PM9h00Rostock, Warnemünde Werft (Parking)9:40 PMCologne Hbf$1401One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Rostock to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rostock to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 42m. 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 $37, and a flight costs an average of $280.
Distance: 308 miles (496 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$84 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $654 Average price | $108 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 4m Average total duration 6h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 58m Average total duration 9h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 42m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Rostock to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $55 (€45).
This is compared to other travel options from Rostock to Cologne:
A bus is $28 (€23) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rostock to Cologne costing on average $84 (€69).
A bus is $598 (€490) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rostock to Cologne costing on average $654 (€535).
The fastest way to travel from Rostock to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 42m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 34m.
Bus takes on average 9h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Rostock and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rostock to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1m faster (6h 34m by train vs 6h 35m by car) and roughly $25 (€20) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($84 (€69) vs $108 (€89)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Rostock to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Rostock to Cologne trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:05 PM Rostock | 12h36 | 11:41 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 63985 · 3509 · ICE 548 | On time 9:33 AM Rostock Hbf | 8h02 | 5:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 63987 · 3511 · ICE 546 | On time 11:33 AM Rostock Hbf | 8h02 | 7:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 12:35 PM Rostock, Warnemünde Strand | 9h05 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 12:40 PM Rostock, Warnemünde Werft (Parking) | 9h00 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1037 · ICE 615 | On time 1:04 PM Rostock Hbf | 6h44 | 7:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 1:15 PM Rostock, Central bus station | 8h25 | 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 Rostock 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 Rostock to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Rostock to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rostock 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 Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Rostock 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rostock 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 Rostock to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rostock to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Rostock to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 308 miles (496 km) distance in 6h 52m.
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 308 miles (496 km) |
Average train duration 6h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 6h 52m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 7 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Rostock to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Rostock and Cologne from $36 (€29). 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
6h 52m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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 Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 52m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€110)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
3 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
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Cologne’s key archaeology museum for Roman heritage, especially famous for the Dionysus mosaic and Roman artifacts from the city.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century painting, including one of Germany’s leading Impressionist collections.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular riverfront promenade in Deutz with one of the city’s best postcard views toward the cathedral skyline, especially at sunset.
- Must visit
Cologne Old Town
Classic walking area with narrow lanes, traditional houses, churches, and river access, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
One of the Old Town’s best-known squares, surrounded by historic facades and a lively atmosphere close to major sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a local brauhaus.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, usually served with black pudding and fried onions. The sweet-savory combination is strongly associated with Rhineland home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye bread roll with aged Gouda, butter, mustard, and onions. It is a beloved Kölsch beer snack in traditional Cologne pubs.
Hanse Stube
An established fine-dining restaurant in central Cologne offering refined modern European cuisine, polished service, and an elegant hotel dining room.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
A well-known casual restaurant loved for schnitzel and hearty German comfort food. It has a relaxed, local feel and a strong reputation among visitors and residents.
Früh am Dom
One of Cologne’s most famous brauhäuser near the cathedral, known for Kölsch and classic Rhineland dishes in a lively traditional atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or currywurst.
- 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. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Add EUR 1-2 for taxis, and round up in cafés if table service is provided.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Hbf -> Cologne City Center
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tickets can be bought in the KVB-App and at station machines before boarding.
- Card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not always on board buses and trams, so buy your ticket in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Rostock to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rostock 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 Rostock to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€29), while the average price is around $84 (€69).
The train from Rostock to Cologne takes 6h 52m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Rostock to Cologne is 308 miles (496 km).
The first train from Rostock to Cologne leaves at 12:14 AM.
The last train from Rostock to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Rostock to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rostock to Cologne.
The train station in Rostock that goes to Cologne is Rostock Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Rostock to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Rostock to Cologne offers varied scenery, including views of the Baltic Sea, lush countryside, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes, particularly as you pass through the regions of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Lower Saxony.
A day trip from Rostock to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 52m, covering a distance of 308 miles (496 km). There are 8 trips per day available by train.
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 Rostock to Cologne.
Since both Rostock 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 Rostock 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 Rostock to Cologne
Rostock
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Rostock is Rostock Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rostock Hbf for your trip from Rostock to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 06:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Layali Alsham
- Heumond
- Joho-Broiler
- Cafe Kloster
Hotel
- Hotel Stadthalle
- Hotel Greifennest
- Appartement-Hotel
Rostock-Lichtenhagen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
8 kmDining
- Bella Italia
- Schnell-Imbiss
- Boulevard Imbiss
- China Imbiss
Rostock Holbeinplatz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Bäckerei u. Konditorei Nowak
- Little Money
- SushideLuxe
- Lucullus-Dream
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 Rostock.
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
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Rostock
More options for your journey from Rostock to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Rostock
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