Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Thu, Sep 10
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Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 10

Cheapest price on Sep 10

lei151

Average ticket price on Sep 10

lei349

Fastest journey on Sep 10

5 h

Average journey duration on Sep 10

5 h 20 m

Trains on Sep 10

3

Distance

288 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne will cost around lei349 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei151.

Fast trains

On Thu, Sep 10, we found 3 trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne, including 3 direct services.

On Thu, Sep 10 the direct trains cover the 288 km distance in an average of 5 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h .

On Thu, Sep 10 the slowest trains will take 6 h 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 Bahn
    10:05 AM5h01
    Rothenburg ob der Tauber
    3:06 PMCologne
    lei1511One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:05 AM5h00
    Rothenburg ob der Tauber
    1:05 PMCologne
    lei3221One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:05 AM6h00
    Rothenburg ob der Tauber
    1:05 PMCologne
    lei5721One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of lei472 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 58m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of lei472, while a train costs an average of lei472.

Distance: 178 miles (288 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

lei472

Average price

Cheapest

lei298

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 47m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne is a train with an average price of lei472.
The fastest way to travel from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 4h 28m.
Yes, you can take a train between Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Cologne.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 lei472 compared to roughly lei298 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about lei-173.74. The journey takes 4h 28m versus 3h 47m 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

Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday, September 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:05 AM Rothenburg ob der Tauber
6h00
1:05 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:05 AM Rothenburg ob der Tauber
5h00
1:05 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:05 AM Rothenburg ob der Tauber
5h01
2:06 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn10:05 AM Rothenburg ob der Tauber
5h01
3:06 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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.

Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16

Why should you book Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at lei157 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 178 miles (288 km) distance in 3h 17m.

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
178 miles (288 km)
Average train duration
4h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
lei157
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 17m
First train
3:04 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
42 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 from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Cologne from lei157. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
lei157
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

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

Museum Ludwig

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • 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.

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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at lei157, while the average price is around lei472.
The train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne takes 3h 17m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne leaves at 3:04 AM.
The distance by train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne is 178 miles (288 km).
The last train from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne.
The train station in Rothenburg ob der Tauber that goes to Cologne is Rothenburg ob der Tauber station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around lei157.
The train journey from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne offers picturesque views, including charming Bavarian landscapes, rolling hills, and historic towns, providing a scenic travel experience.
A day trip from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 17m. However, there are 8 train services per day available for this route, covering a distance of 178 miles (288 km).
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne.
Since both Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne

Most Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne trains use the Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Rothenburg ob der Tauber station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne leave from Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The station is from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre at Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Rothenburg ob der TauberRothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der TauberWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre

Bus854 · 5m · lei17

Rothenburg ob der Tauber train station facilities and services

Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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: Gusto Kaffeemanufaktur & Spezialitäten, Imbiss Heller, Brothaus Café im Schlachthof, Pizzeria & Eis-Café Roma

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ATMs are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Information desks are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Schranne, Villa Mittermeier, Hotel Hornburg Garni, Glocke.

Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to CologneRothenburg ob der Tauber to Cologne train

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