Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Thu, Jun 04
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Showing times and prices for Jun 04

Cheapest price

$50

Average price

$101

Fastest journey

3 h 2 m

Average duration

3 h 8 m

Trains per day

39

Distance

357 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.

Fast trains

Of the 39 trains that leave Ulm Hbf for Cologne Hbf on Thu, Jun 04, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jun 04 the direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 3 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 2 m .

On Thu, Jun 04 the slowest trains will take 3 h 10 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 910 · ICE 1220
    7:33 PM4h41
    Ulm Hbf
    12:14 AMCologne Hbf
    $501One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 510 · ICE 920
    8:47 PM5h07
    Ulm Hbf
    1:54 AMCologne Hbf
    $501One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 698 · IC 60402
    12:01 AM5h43
    Ulm Hbf
    5:44 AMCologne Hbf
    $571One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 592 · IC 2347
    6:01 PM5h15
    Ulm Hbf
    11:16 PMCologne Hbf
    $571One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 510
    8:47 PM3h28
    Ulm Hbf
    12:15 AMCologne Hbf
    $591One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $90.

Distance: 221 miles (357 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$93

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$252

Average price

$77

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 9m

Average total duration

3h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 41m

Average total duration

6h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 26m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf is a bus with an average price of $37 (€30).

This is compared to other travel options from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf:

A bus is $56 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average $93 (€75).

A bus is $214 (€173) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average $252 (€203).

The fastest way to travel from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.

Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 39m.

Bus takes on average 6h 11m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Ulm Hbf and Cologne Hbf including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 47m sooner (3h 39m by train vs 4h 26m by car). Tickets start at around $93 (€75) compared to roughly $77 (€63) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Wednesday, June 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 2518
Delayed
11:16 PM 1:16 AMUlm Hbf
5h03
4:22 AM 4:22 AMCologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1014 · S11
On time
5:39 AM Ulm Hbf
3h54
9:33 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1014 · ICE 9578 · ICE 1049
On time
5:39 AM Ulm Hbf
5h36
11:15 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 614
On time
6:47 AM Ulm Hbf
3h22
10:09 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1012 · 10415
On time
7:33 AM Ulm Hbf
3h10
10:43 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1012 · ICE 1020
On time
7:33 AM Ulm Hbf
4h32
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 692 · ICE 16
On time
7:59 AM Ulm Hbf
3h40
11:39 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 692 · IC 1947
On time
7:59 AM Ulm Hbf
5h07
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 612
On time
8:47 AM Ulm Hbf
3h18
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1010 · ICE 926
On time
9:33 AM Ulm Hbf
4h32
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1010 · 10421
On time
9:33 AM Ulm Hbf
3h10
12:43 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 314
On time
10:01 AM Ulm Hbf
3h38
1:39 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 1645
On time
10:01 AM Ulm Hbf
5h07
3:08 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 61010:47 AM Ulm Hbf
3h23
2:10 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 918 · ICE 1228
On time
11:33 AM Ulm Hbf
4h33
4:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 918 · 10427
On time
11:33 AM Ulm Hbf
3h09
2:42 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 598 · ICE 14
On time
12:01 PM Ulm Hbf
3h38
3:39 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 566 · IC 2012
On time
12:20 PM Ulm Hbf
4h46
5:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 518
On time
12:47 PM Ulm Hbf
3h23
4:10 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 916 · ICE 28
On time
1:33 PM Ulm Hbf
4h33
6:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 916 · 10435
On time
1:33 PM Ulm Hbf
3h10
4:43 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 596 · ICE 12
On time
2:01 PM Ulm Hbf
3h39
5:40 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 596 · IC 1941
On time
2:01 PM Ulm Hbf
5h04
7:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 596 · ICE 106
On time
2:01 PM Ulm Hbf
3h04
5:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 516
On time
2:47 PM Ulm Hbf
3h18
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 224 · ICE 1224
On time
3:33 PM Ulm Hbf
4h32
8:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 224
On time
3:33 PM Ulm Hbf
3h10
6:43 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 594 · ICE 10
On time
4:01 PM Ulm Hbf
3h39
7:40 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 562 · ICE 1649
On time
4:20 PM Ulm Hbf
4h46
9:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 514
On time
4:47 PM Ulm Hbf
3h18
8:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 912 · 10447
On time
5:33 PM Ulm Hbf
3h10
8:43 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 912 · ICE 24
On time
5:33 PM Ulm Hbf
4h32
10:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 592 · IC 2347
On time
6:01 PM Ulm Hbf
5h05
11:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 512
On time
6:47 PM Ulm Hbf
3h18
10:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 910
On time
7:33 PM Ulm Hbf
3h02
10:35 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 698 · IC 60402
Delayed
12:01 AM Ulm Hbf
5h43
3:44 AM 3:44 AMCologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 6181:16 AM Ulm Hbf
5h06
6:22 AM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 25181:16 AM Ulm Hbf
5h06
6:22 AM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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.

Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09

Why should you book Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

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 Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:23, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 221 miles (357 km) distance in 3h 4m.

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 $25 (€20)
Distance
221 miles (357 km)
Average train duration
3h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€20)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 4m
First train
4:23 AM
Last train
11:32 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 $25 (€20)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Ulm Hbf and Cologne Hbf from $25 (€20). 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
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€65)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
11 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$259 (€209)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

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

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and one of Germany’s strongest 20th-century collections.

  • Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century European painting, offering one of Cologne’s key classical art collections.

  • Recommended

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Cologne’s leading museum for Roman heritage, with mosaics, archaeology, and finds from the city’s ancient past. Parts of the collection may be shown in temporary venues during works.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
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. Round up in cafés and taxis. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.

FAQs: Trains from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $93 (€75).
The train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 3h 4m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 4:23 AM.
The distance by train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 221 miles (357 km).
The last train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 11:32 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Ulm Hbf to Köln Hbf offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Swabian Alps and alongside the Rhine River, providing picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the route.
Yes, a day trip from Ulm Hbf to Köln Hbf is feasible with a journey time of 3h 4m, a distance of 221 miles (357 km), and six trains available per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Since both Ulm Hbf and Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Venlo.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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.
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 Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Ulm
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Ulm is Ulm Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ulm Hbf for your trip from Ulm to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 08:00 - 19:00
Dining
Dining
  • Café Schmizz
  • Blauflesch
  • Wilder Mann
  • Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Neuthor
  • Bäumle
  • InterCityHotel Ulm
  • Lehrertal Garni

More options for your journey from Ulm Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Ulm Hbf

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