The cheapest and fastest trains from Stuttgart to Cologne
Cheapest price
$50
Average price
$65
Fastest journey
2 h 3 m
Average duration
2 h 49 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
288 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stuttgart to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Stuttgart to Cologne will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Of the 5 trains that leave Stuttgart for Cologne on Wed, Jan 14, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jan 14 the direct trains cover the 288 km distance in an average of 2 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 3 m .
On Wed, Jan 14 the slowest trains will take 3 h 55 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.
ICE 1012 · ICE 1020
ICE 612 · IC 1947
ICE 612
ICE 1012
ICE 692 · ICE 202
ICE 1012
ICE 612
ICE 692 · ICE 202
ICE 612 · IC 1947
ICE 1012 · ICE 1020Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Stuttgart to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stuttgart to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €17, and a flight costs an average of €345.
Distance: 178 miles (288 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€94 Average price | €31 Average price Cheapest | €448 Average price |
3h 25m Average total duration 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 22m Average total duration 4h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Stuttgart to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Stuttgart to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, January 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1012 | On time 7:26 AM Stuttgart Hbf | 2h03 | 9:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | On time 7:26 AM Stuttgart Hbf | 3h55 | 11:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 692 · ICE 202 | On time 7:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf | 2h16 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 612 | On time 8:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf | 2h16 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 612 · IC 1947 | On time 8:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf | 3h34 | 12:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE) operates all train services from Stuttgart to Cologne. Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE)?
- 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 (ICE,IC,EC,RE) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Stuttgart to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Official reseller: Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE) tickets can only be bought on Omio or Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE)'s website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE) tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE) tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Stuttgart to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Stuttgart to Cologne?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Stuttgart to Cologne

Journey information
Overview: Train from Stuttgart to Cologne
Trains from Stuttgart to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€41) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 178 miles (288 km) distance in 1h 38m.
Distance 178 miles (288 km) |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 (€41) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 38m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Stuttgart to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Stuttgart and Cologne from $21 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
Traveling by train from Stuttgart to Cologne
The train connection between Stuttgart and Cologne is efficient and convenient, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities. Operated by Deutsche Bahn, the journey typically takes around 3 hours with frequent departures throughout the day. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and onboard amenities while taking in scenic views of the German countryside along the way.
Train Connection: Stuttgart to Cologne
Traveling from Stuttgart to Cologne takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. There are up to 8 direct connections available each day, making it a convenient option for travelers. The train departs from Stuttgart Hbf and arrives at several stations in Cologne, including Köln Messe/Deutz, Köln Hbf, and Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Stuttgart to Cologne Train Connection
The first daily train from Stuttgart to Cologne departs at 05:51 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Cologne. The last journey of the day leaves at 09:39 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning in the evening.
Train Tickets Price for Stuttgart to Cologne
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Stuttgart and Cologne is €40. The average ticket price typically hovers around €92, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant German cities.
Exploring the Wonders of Cologne: A Journey Through History, Love, and Art
FAQs: Trains from Stuttgart to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stuttgart 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Stuttgart to Cologne
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 22:00
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
- Luggage lockers are located near the north entrance.
- backWERK
- Ditsch
- Kamps Backstube
- Le Crobag
- Dunkin' Donuts
- min min
- Starbucks
- Yorma's
- Escalators and elevators. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- ARCOTEL Camino Stuttgart
- Mirage City Hotel Stuttgart Zentrum Hbf
- Hotel Motel One Stuttgart-Mitte
- Located on the south side of the station near Platform 1.
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Arnulf-Klett-Platz.
- Restaurant Amici
- Block House Stuttgart
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- €1
- Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin
- Motel One Stuttgart-Hauptbahnhof
- Althoff Hotel am Schlossgarten
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-16 for regional and long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 101-116
- Hall 3: U-Bahn connections
- S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6
- U-Bahn: Lines U5, U6, U7, U12, U15
- Bus: Several lines available
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- 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
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- 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
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
More options for your journey from Stuttgart to Cologne
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