- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its Picasso collection and important Pop Art holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Schiphol to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
$54
Average price
$75
Fastest journey
3 h 3 m
Average duration
3 h 42 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
215 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Schiphol to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Schiphol to Cologne will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Schiphol for Cologne on Wed, Jun 03, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 03 the direct trains cover the 215 km distance in an average of 3 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 3 m .
On Wed, Jun 03 the slowest trains will take 3 h 53 m 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.
3:13 AM3h52Schiphol7:05 AMCologne$541One-way0 transfers- 1:45 PM3h50Schiphol5:35 PMCologne$751One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM3h03Schiphol10:18 AMCologne$771One-way0 transfers
- 6:42 AM3h53Schiphol10:35 AMCologne$791One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 AM3h50Schiphol11:35 AMCologne$811One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM3h03Schiphol10:18 AMCologne$771One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 AM3h50Schiphol11:35 AMCologne$811One-way0 transfers
- 1:45 PM3h50Schiphol5:35 PMCologne$751One-way0 transfers
- 3:13 AM3h52Schiphol7:05 AMCologne$541One-way0 transfers
- 6:42 AM3h53Schiphol10:35 AMCologne$791One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Schiphol to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Schiphol to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $210.
Distance: 133 miles (215 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$75 Average price | $23 Average price Cheapest | $583 Average price | $59 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 30m Average total duration 6h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Schiphol to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $23 (€19).
This is compared to other travel options from Schiphol to Cologne:
A bus is $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Schiphol to Cologne costing on average $75 (€61).
A bus is $560 (€452) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Schiphol to Cologne costing on average $583 (€471).
The fastest way to travel from Schiphol to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 19m.
Flight takes on average 6h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Schiphol and Cologne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Schiphol 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 $75 (€61) compared to roughly $59 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.74 (€-12.71). The journey takes 3h 14m versus 3h 14m 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
Schiphol to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Schiphol to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:15 AM Schiphol | 3h03 | 10:18 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:45 AM Schiphol | 3h50 | 11:35 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, June 3 | |||||
| 3:13 AM Schiphol | 3h52 | 7:05 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:05 AM Schiphol | 4h07 | 10:12 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Schiphol to Cologne by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
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Jun 09
Why should you book Schiphol to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Schiphol to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Schiphol 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 Schiphol 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Schiphol 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 Schiphol to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Schiphol to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Schiphol to Cologne
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Schiphol to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 22:12. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 2h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $18 (€15)
Distance 133 miles (215 km) |
Average train duration 3h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 52m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 10:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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 $18 (€15)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Schiphol to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Schiphol and Cologne from $18 (€15). 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
2h 52m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
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
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
3 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
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Archaeological museum focused on Roman Cologne; famous for mosaics and finds from the ancient city. Main building has had closures, but the collection remains significant.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Leading fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque and 19th-century European painting in Cologne's historic center.
- Must visit
Old Town Cologne
The city's most visited walking area, with narrow lanes, churches, colorful houses and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
Popular riverside walking route with postcard views of the cathedral, bridges and skyline, especially lively near sunset.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic square in the Old Town surrounded by traditional facades, busy pedestrian activity and classic Cologne atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s signature pale beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses called Stangen. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a Brauhaus.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with fried onions and black pudding. 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 Gouda, mustard, onions, and pickles. It is a beloved Brauhaus snack traditionally eaten with Kölsch.
Ox & Klee
A celebrated fine-dining restaurant in Cologne known for creative modern tasting menus and polished service, ideal for a higher-end culinary experience.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
A well-known casual restaurant famous for schnitzel and generous portions, with a friendly, old-school Cologne neighborhood feel.
Peters Brauhaus
A long-established Brauhaus in the Old Town serving hearty Cologne specialties, fresh Kölsch, and a warm wood-paneled atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Euro
Moderate by German standards: supermarkets and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
- 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, but a tip is expected. Round up in cafés and taxis, and add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
KVB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.70
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Hbf, Cologne -> Cologne Cathedral, Cologne
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- You can buy tickets in the KVB App, at ticket machines, and on many buses and trams. Card payment is commonly available at machines and in the app.
- Validate that your ticket covers the correct fare zone before travel. Cologne city trips usually use the local city fare level.
FAQs: Trains from Schiphol to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Schiphol 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 Schiphol to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€37), while the average price is around $75 (€61).
The train from Schiphol to Cologne takes 2h 52m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Schiphol to Cologne is 133 miles (215 km).
The first train from Schiphol to Cologne leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Schiphol to Cologne leaves at 10:12 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Schiphol to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Schiphol to Cologne.
The train station in Schiphol that goes to Cologne is Schiphol Airport, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Schiphol to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Schiphol to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the Dutch countryside with its iconic windmills and canals, transitioning to the more industrial landscapes of Germany as you approach Cologne.
A day trip from Schiphol to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 52m. Trains run 8 times per day, covering a distance of 133 miles (215 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 Schiphol to Cologne.
Since both Schiphol 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 Schiphol 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 Schiphol to Cologne
Schiphol
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
- 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 Schiphol
More options for your journey from Schiphol to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Schiphol
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