Utrecht to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Wed, Oct 14
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Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
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VIAS Rail GmbH
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Utrecht to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 14

Cheapest price on Oct 14

$34

Average ticket price on Oct 14

$66

Fastest journey on Oct 14

2 h 16 m

Average journey duration on Oct 14

2 h 30 m

Trains on Oct 14

12

Distance

180 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Utrecht to Cologne will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.

Fast trains

On Wed, Oct 14, we found 12 trains from Utrecht to Cologne, including 4 direct services.

On Wed, Oct 14 the direct trains cover the 180 km distance in an average of 2 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 16 m .

On Wed, Oct 14 the slowest trains will take 3 h 11 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 125
    1:04 PM2h16
    Utrecht Centraal
    3:20 PMCologne Hbf
    $341One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 121
    7:04 AM2h20
    Utrecht Centraal
    9:24 AMCologne Hbf
    $431One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3529 · 20077 · 10621
    9:24 AM3h11
    Utrecht Centraal
    12:35 PMCologne Hbf
    $671One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3537 · 20081 · 10625
    11:24 AM3h11
    Utrecht Centraal
    2:35 PMCologne Hbf
    $671One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3521 · 20073 · 10617
    7:24 AM3h11
    Utrecht Centraal
    10:35 AMCologne Hbf
    $671One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Utrecht to Cologne

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Utrecht to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€20) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 111 miles (180 km) distance in 2h 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 $17 (€14)
Distance
111 miles (180 km)
Average train duration
2h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
$24 (€20)
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 4m
First train
12:07 AM
Last train
11:25 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
42 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 $17 (€14)

Live departures

Utrecht to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Utrecht to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 225
Delayed
9:02 AM Utrecht Centraal
2h23
9:30 AM 9:30 AMCologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3227 · 28515+VIAS Rail GmbH200179:06 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h23
12:29 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3529 · 20077 · 106219:24 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
12:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3931 · 18931 · 109179:44 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h28
1:12 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 123
Delayed
11:02 AM Utrecht Centraal
2h22
11:31 AM 11:31 AMCologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3235 · 28519+VIAS Rail GmbH2002111:06 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h23
2:29 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3537 · 20081 · 1062511:24 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
2:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3939 · 18939 · 1092111:44 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h27
3:11 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 125
On time
1:04 PM Utrecht Centraal
2h16
3:20 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3243 · 28523+VIAS Rail GmbH200251:07 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h23
4:30 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3545 · 20085 · 106291:24 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
4:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3947 · 18947 · 109251:44 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h26
5:10 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1273:04 PM Utrecht Centraal
2h16
5:20 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3251 · 28527+VIAS Rail GmbH200293:07 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h23
6:30 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3553 · 20089 · 106333:24 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
6:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3955 · 18955 · 109293:44 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h28
7:12 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 129
Delayed
5:04 PM Utrecht Centraal
2h14
5:23 PM 5:23 PMCologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3259 · 28531+VIAS Rail GmbH200335:07 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h22
8:29 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3561 · 20093 · 106375:24 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
8:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2217:04 PM Utrecht Centraal
2h16
9:20 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3267 · 28535+VIAS Rail GmbH200377:07 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h23
10:30 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3569 · 20097 · 106417:24 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
10:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3573 · 20099 · 106438:24 PM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
11:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 60403 · 26838
On time
9:32 PM Utrecht Centraal
2h40
12:12 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 3079 · S1 · 26844+VIAS Rail GmbH200439:54 PM Utrecht Centraal
4h17
2:11 AM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2981 · 32589 · 18981 · S1910:09 PM Utrecht Centraal
5h33
3:42 AM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3585 · 20065 · 1060911:24 PM Utrecht Centraal
7h10
6:34 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Wednesday, October 14
Deutsche BahnICE 121
On time
7:04 AM Utrecht Centraal
2h20
9:24 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3521 · 20073 · 106177:24 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h11
10:35 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3923 · 18923 · 109137:44 AM Utrecht Centraal
3h27
11:11 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Utrecht to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Utrecht to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Utrecht 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 Utrecht 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Utrecht 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 Utrecht to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Utrecht to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Utrecht to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Utrecht and Cologne from $17 (€14). 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
2h 4m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$24 (€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

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
2h 39m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
$24 (€20)
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 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.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

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

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

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

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 Utrecht to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Utrecht 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Utrecht to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€20), while the average price is around $68 (€57).
The train from Utrecht to Cologne takes 2h 4m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Utrecht to Cologne leaves at 12:07 AM.
The distance by train from Utrecht to Cologne is 111 miles (180 km).
The last train from Utrecht to Cologne leaves at 11:25 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Utrecht to Cologne. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Utrecht to Cologne.
The train station in Utrecht that goes to Cologne is Utrecht Centraal, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The train journey from Utrecht to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it follows the Rhine River, passes through picturesque countryside, and offers glimpses of charming towns and landscapes along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Utrecht 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 Utrecht to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Utrecht
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Utrecht station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Utrecht to Cologne leave from Utrecht Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Utrecht city centre at Stationsplein 7, 3511 ED Utrecht, Netherlands.
Utrecht CentraalStationsplein 7, 3511 ED Utrecht, Netherlands+31 30 235 7822WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Utrecht Centraal from Utrecht city centre

Bus350, 2, 5, 8, 18, 28, 55, 73 · 9m · $4 · every ~13 min

Utrecht Centraal train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant De Rechtbank, Humphrey's Utrecht

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Utrecht Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Utrecht Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Utrecht Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Utrecht Centraal: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Crowne Plaza Utrecht, NH Utrecht, Park Plaza Utrecht.

Utrecht Leidsche Rijn3542 AK Utrecht, NetherlandsParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Utrecht Leidsche Rijn from Utrecht city centre

Utrecht Leidsche Rijn is 3 km from Utrecht city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSprinter · 4m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus28 · 9m · $4 · every ~11 min
5, 73 · 25m · $4 · every ~12 min

Utrecht Leidsche Rijn train station facilities and services

Utrecht Leidsche Rijn has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Utrecht Leidsche Rijn.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Utrecht Leidsche Rijn.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Utrecht Leidsche Rijn: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Utrecht Leidsche Rijn: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Utrecht Leidsche Rijn.

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