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Wed
Oct 27
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$24STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Thu
Oct 28
$49Deutsche Bahn
$24STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Fri
Oct 29
$23Deutsche Bahn
$24STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Sat
Oct 30
$43Deutsche Bahn
$23Flixbus
Sun
Oct 31
$23Deutsche Bahn
$22Flixbus
Mon
Nov 1
$34Deutsche Bahn
$22STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Tue
Nov 2
$24Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Wed
Nov 3
$23Deutsche Bahn
$22STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Thu
Nov 4
$24Deutsche Bahn
$22STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Fri
Nov 5
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Sat
Nov 6
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Sun
Nov 7
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Mon
Nov 8
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Tue
Nov 9
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Wed
Nov 10
$19Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Thu
Nov 11
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Fri
Nov 12
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Sat
Nov 13
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Sun
Nov 14
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Mon
Nov 15
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.
Tue
Nov 16
$23Deutsche Bahn
$15STUDENT AGENCY k.s.

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Train Information between Rotterdam and Cologne

distanceDistance126 miles (203 km)
durationAverage train duration3 h 1 min
priceAverage train ticket price$34 (€28)
frequencyTrain frequency5 a day
changesDirect trainYes, there are 5 direct trains a day
carriersTrain companiesDeutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn with connection

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne cover the 126 miles (203 km) long journey taking on average 3 h 1 min with our travel partners like Deutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn with connection. Normally, there are 5 trains operating per day, including direct services available. While the average ticket price for this trip costs around $34 (€28), you can find the cheapest train ticket for as low as $23 (€19). Travelers depart most frequently from Rotterdam Centraal and arrive in Köln Hbf.

Train companies

Rotterdam to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn

Buy your official Deutsche Bahn train tickets between Rotterdam and Cologne from $23 (€19) with Omio. Find train times and tickets for over 1000 travel companies to compare and book the most popular route.

Deutsche Bahn

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is the main provider of train services in Germany, making on average 40, 000 journeys per day. A special feature of Deutsche Bahn is its wide range of ticket types, savings offers including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible fares and discount cards like the Bahncard 25, 50 and 100, which you can also use for your train between Rotterdam and Cologne. DB uses different types of trains such as the ICE (Intercity Express), IC (Intercity), EC (Eurocity), IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express) and RB (Regionalbahn) on its routes, which differ in terms of comfort and the time required to travel. For example, while bathrooms are standard amenities, services like an onboard restaurant or free WiFi are only available on certain trains.

  • Average Price: $23

These are Deutsche Bahn's ticket policies for COVID-19 for the train from Rotterdam to Cologne:

  • Normal conditions apply
  • Cashless payments recommended
  • Online booking and check-in recommended
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne

Every day, approximately 21 trains from Rotterdam to Cologne depart. Passengers will benefit from a quick journey across over 500 miles, with an average journey time of only 4 hours. Those who would like to reach Cologne even faster can choose a service with 1 transfer, which arrives in the city in 3 hours and 33 minutes. In general, the majority of services on this line have 3 changes. As this is a cross-country service, all passengers should carry their passport or internationally recognized identification onboard, as there likely will be border checks. 

Rotterdam to Cologne train times: daily departures

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne depart from 6:00 a.m. each morning until 2:00 a.m. each night. There are approximately 21 trains a day from Rotterdam to Cologne. There are no direct services on this line, but there are never more than 3 transfers.  Passengers who wish to catch a faster service can board a journey with only one transfer, which departs 8 times between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. 

How long is the journey by train from Rotterdam to Cologne?

Rotterdam is 504 miles from Cologne. Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne take 4 hours on average and typically have 3 transfers. However, passengers can choose to take a faster service which only has 1 transfer, and which only takes 3 hours and 33 minutes. This service departs from Rotterdam 8 times a day. 

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Rotterdam to Cologne?

Departure station: All trains from Rotterdam to Cologne depart from Rotterdam Centraal Station in the heart of Rotterdam city center. 

Arrival stations: Trains to Cologne arrive at Cologne Hauptbahnhof or Cologne Messe/Deutz. Cologne Hauptbahnhof is in Cologne city center, whereas Cologne Messe/Deutz is one mile from the city center, away across the Deutzer Bridge. 

Which train companies travel from Rotterdam to Cologne?

Deutsche Bahn provides high-speed trains from Rotterdam to Cologne. Deutsche Bahn is the German-owned rail company that operates throughout Europe. 

Deutsche Bahn Rotterdam to Cologne

Deutsche Bahn operates these high-speed trains from Rotterdam to Cologne. Passengers can board a Deutsche Bahn service from 6:00 a.m. each morning until 2:00 a.m. every night. Every train requires a transfer, with the majority of trains requiring that passengers change 3 times. However, each day there are 8 services which only require one change, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 pm. The average journey time takes 4 hours and 10 minutes, but the services with only 1 transfer take only 3 hours and 33 minutes. 

Rotterdam to Cologne​ trains: services on board

Deutsche Bahn trains from Rotterdam to Cologne have first-class tickets and second-class tickets. First-class tickets are frequently affordable and provide passengers with great legroom, plus complimentary refreshments. There are ample luggage storage facilities on Deutsche Bahn trains, with designated luggage holding bays in close proximity to all carriages. Passengers will find space to store smaller bags above and below their seats. Deutsche Bahn trains are wholly accessible to travelers with limited mobility, but they are advised to call in advance with their specific access requirements.  All carriage interiors are modern and comfortable, with free WiFi available in all areas of the train. 

How to find cheap train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne​?​

Passengers can find cheap trains from Rotterdam to Cologne by booking tickets in advance. Booking approximately 8 weeks before departure dates can help you secure the cheapest deals. A good thing to bear in mind is to look 2 days either side of your departure date. If you don't need to travel on one day in particular, this can be a great way to secure cheap tickets. If there is only one day you can travel on, look at different times across the day to secure the cheapest deal, as prices often vary across the day. 

Train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne: when to book to save $

Time Price Savings
1 week earlier 30 €
2 weeks earlier 29 €3%
1 month before 24 €25%
2 months earlier 24 €25%
3 months earlier 21 €43%


Train companies often offer promotional prices and offers—by buying in advance—you can get access the best prices for trains in the U.S., Canada, and the major European railroad operators. Search on Omio to check prices and cheap train tickets from Rotterdam - Cologne. Easily find the most attractive rates and choose the your preferred route for your journey. Book and choose your mobile ticket: avoid the queues at the station and the added stress of printing your ticket.

The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:

  • If you book a ticket Rotterdam - Cologne with 2 months in advance you save up to about 25% compared to the initial price.
  • By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 43%.
  • On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.

Travel Tips

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne
Travel by train to Cologne easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Rotterdam to Cologne.
FAQs
Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for international travel by train between Rotterdam and Cologne?

Travel between Rotterdam, Netherlands and Cologne, Germany by train is: Partially open.

What is the status of international entry into Germany from Netherlands?

International entry status: Entry is partially open for citizens and permanent residents of Netherlands

Do I need to self-quarantine on arrival in Germany from Rotterdam?

Conditions of entry:

  • Negative COVID-19 test issued at most 3 days before arrival or 10 day mandatory self-quarantine
  • Negative COVID-19 test is required to end quarantine early. This test occurs on day 5 in quarantine
  • Travellers with a certificate of vaccination are exempt from compulsory quarantine
  • Travellers who have recovered from COVID-19 in the last 6 months are exempt from compulsory quarantine (certificate needed)
  • Pre-arrival health declaration
  • The exact quarantine requirements depend on the regulations in each federal state
  • Digital entry registration is required prior to arrival

What are the safety rules to follow in Cologne, Germany?

When traveling in Germany, you must follow these COVID-19 safety rules:

  • Physical distance requirement: 1.5 metre (s) (5 feet)
  • Face mask requirement: Mandatory

The information above was last checked on 10/26/21. This can change before your date of travel so please review the latest COVID-19 travel safety regulations   for your train to Cologne from Rotterdam before traveling.

Are there travel restrictions, such as quarantine measures, in place when returning to Rotterdam, Netherlands from Cologne, Germany?

The current restriction level for your return trip by train from Cologne to Rotterdam is: Partially open

Are there any international entry restrictions on returning to Netherlands from Germany?

Reentry to Netherlands is allowed for: Entry is partially open for citizens and permanent residents of Germany

Do I need to quarantine on arrival in Netherlands from Cologne?

What are the requirements?

  • Negative COVID-19 test issued at most 3 days before arrival
  • Travellers issued with the EU Digital COVID Certificate are exempt from quarantine and COVID-19 testing
  • Health declaration required

What are the safety rules to follow in Rotterdam, Netherlands?

The government of Netherlands has imposed these measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

  • Physical distance: 1.5 metre (s) (5 feet)
  • Face mask: Mandatory

Last checked on 10/24/21. We do our best to keep this information up to date, but regulations can change so please double check the latest COVID-19 travel safety regulations ahead of your train to Rotterdam from Cologne here.

How much do cheap trains between Rotterdam and Cologne cost?
Train tickets between Rotterdam and Cologne for some dates and times can be found for as cheap as $23 (€19)  one way in the next 7 days.
What is the cost of a train from Rotterdam to Cologne?
If you’re looking to buy your train tickets in the next week, you can expect the Rotterdam to Cologne train price to come in at an average of $34 (€28)  one way.
How far is Rotterdam to Cologne by train?
The Rotterdam to Cologne train distance is approximately 126 miles (203 km).
How long is the train to Cologne from Rotterdam?
On average the Rotterdam to Cologne train time is 3 h 1 min  covering the 126 miles (203 km) long journey, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or traveling on weekends and holidays.
What train station in Rotterdam goes to Cologne? What train station do I come into Cologne from Rotterdam?

When taking a train from Rotterdam, you have a couple of train stations you can depart from including Rotterdam Centraal, Rotterdam Central Station and Rotterdam Noord. When you arrive in Cologne, your train can arrive in train stations including Köln Hbf, Köln Messe/Deutz and Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Omio customers traveling this route book their trains from Rotterdam Centraal   to Köln Hbf.

Where is the train station in Rotterdam to go to Cologne? Where is the train station in Cologne located?

Passengers booking this journey most frequently board their trains from Rotterdam Centraal and need to travel around 0 mile (s) / 0 km from the city center to get to this train station.

Passengers arriving in Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf and need to travel around 1 mile (s) / 1 km from this train station to the city center.

What train companies offer a service between Rotterdam and Cologne?
For the route from Rotterdam to Cologne you can take a train with Deutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn with connection. Be sure to check out all possible train companies that offer services from Rotterdam to Cologne on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
How many trains are there from Rotterdam to Cologne a day?
On average, there are 5 trains a day from Rotterdam to Cologne. The train times and services may be different on weekends and holidays compared to weekdays.
What are the first and last departure train times from Rotterdam to Cologne?
The earliest train for this trip departs from Rotterdam at 4: 44 AM. The last train leaves from Rotterdam at 9: 09 PM. Check Omio for the latest train schedule from Rotterdam to Cologne and book the best time to depart on your chosen travel date.
How far in advance should I book a train ticket from Rotterdam to Cologne to get the best deals?
If you book the Rotterdam to Cologne train within the next 7 days, you can find one way tickets to cost on average $34 (€28). However, booking your train ticket in advance gives you access to the best prices for trains from Rotterdam to Cologne. Look out for train tickets for this trip to go on sale a few months before your planned departure date to find the best deals.

Important Stations and Airports for this Journey

Rotterdam
Cologne
Rotterdam Centraal is the most popular Rotterdam railway station for Omio travelers, but it's not the only one. Read all the information you need to know about the main train stations in Rotterdam for your trip to Cologne.
Amenities at station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
ATMATM
address
Address
Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands,
phone
Phone
(+31) 302357822
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket office hours
Mon - Sun: 00: 00 - 24: 00
Connections to/from station
Subway lines: D, E
Tram lines: 4, 7, 8, 12, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25
Bus lines: 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 44, 48
Train lines: NS Intercity, NS Intercity Direct, NS Sprinter, NS Nachtnet, Thalys, Eurostar