ROTTERDAM to COLOGNE train from $10 with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE,RB)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13

Cheapest price on Oct 13

$64

Average ticket price on Oct 13

$69

Fastest journey on Oct 13

3 h 20 m

Average journey duration on Oct 13

3 h 20 m

Trains on Oct 13

Distance

204 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Cologne will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Cologne without transferring at least once.

RE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121
5:54 AM3h30
Rotterdam Centraal
9:24 AMCologne Hbf
$641One-way
2 transfers
IC 2817 · ICE 121
5:50 AM3h34
Rotterdam Centraal
9:24 AMCologne Hbf
$641One-way
1 transfer
IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621
9:15 AM3h20
Rotterdam Centraal
12:35 PMCologne Hbf
$701One-way
3 transfers
IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 10619
8:15 AM3h20
Rotterdam Centraal
11:35 AMCologne Hbf
$701One-way
3 transfers
IC 1119 · IC 3517 · 20071 · 10615
6:15 AM3h20
Rotterdam Centraal
9:35 AMCologne Hbf
$701One-way
3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Cologne

Netherlands

Germany

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 but you can travel from only $10 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:14. The fastest train covers the 126 miles (204 km) distance in 1h 54m.

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 $10

Distance

126 miles (204 km)

Average train duration

3h 11m

Cheapest ticket price

$24

Trains per day

Fastest train

1h 54m

First train

12:05 AM

Last train

11:14 PM

Cheapest Month

Apr

Cheapest Day

Thu

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

63 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $10

Live departures

Rotterdam to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Cologne trains for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
IC 2851 · ICE 127	Delayed 2:20 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h04	3:31 PM 3:31 PMCologne Hbf	1 transfer
IC 1163 · IC 3561 · 20093 · 10637	5:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	8:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 2067 · ICE 221	Delayed 6:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h15	7:25 PM 7:25 PMCologne Hbf	1 transfer
IC 2067 · ICE 221	On time 6:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	9:25 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
IC 1167 · IC 3565 · 20095 · 10639	6:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	9:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 1171 · IC 3569 · 20097 · 10641	7:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	10:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 1175 · IC 3573 · 20099 · 10643	8:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	11:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 2877 · IC 60403	On time 8:50 PM Rotterdam Centraal	3h16	12:06 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
RE 4074 · IC 579 · IC 3079 · ICE 921	8:54 PM Rotterdam Centraal	6h33	3:27 AM Cologne Hbf	4 transfers
Tuesday, October 13
IC 2817 · ICE 121	On time 5:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h34	9:24 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
RE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121	On time 5:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h30	9:24 AM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
IC 1119 · IC 3517 · 20071 · 10615	6:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	9:35 AM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 1123 · IC 3521 · 20073 · 10617	7:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	10:35 AM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 2027 · ICE 225	On time 8:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	11:25 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 10619	8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	11:35 AM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621	9:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal	3h20	12:35 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Rotterdam to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Rotterdam to Cologne.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam 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 VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Cologne.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Rotterdam to Cologne is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Rotterdam to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Rotterdam to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Rotterdam to Cologne.

Trains

from $30

Buses

from $18

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Rotterdam to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Rotterdam and Cologne from $10. 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

1h 54m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$24

Deutsche Bahn frequency

4 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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

VIAS Rail GmbH

About

VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration

3h 17m

Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price

$24

VIAS Rail GmbH frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled services

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snack and beverage service available

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for additional fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

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.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

View on map Visit website

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 Rotterdam to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $81.

The train from Rotterdam to Cologne takes 1h 54m and runs 4 per day.

The first train from Rotterdam to Cologne leaves at 12:05 AM.

The distance by train from Rotterdam to Cologne is 126 miles (204 km).

The last train from Rotterdam to Cologne leaves at 11:14 PM.

There is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Cologne.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rotterdam to Cologne.

The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Cologne is Rotterdam Centraal, which connects to Cologne Hbf.

The train journey from Rotterdam to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Rhine River in parts, making it moderately scenic.

Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Cologne.

Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.

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 Rotterdam to Cologne

Most Rotterdam to Cologne trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Rotterdam

Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne leave from Rotterdam Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Rotterdam city centre at Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre

BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m

4 · 10m · $2

Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.

More about Rotterdam Centraal

Rotterdam AlexanderKleine Beer 601, Rotterdam, 3067 ZW, Netherlands Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Alexander from Rotterdam city centre

Rotterdam Alexander is 6 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIntercity, Sprinter · 8m · $1 · every ~12 min

BusStopbus ipv trein, Taxibus ipv trein · 17m · every ~2 min

5 · 36m · $5

SubwayMetro ipv trein · 17m · $2 · every ~4 min

Rotterdam Alexander train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Alexander has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.