- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its Picasso collection and important Pop Art holdings.
Cheapest price
$62
Average price
$262
Fastest journey
8 h 46 m
Average duration
8 h 46 m
Trains per day
54
Distance
743 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Vienna to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Vienna to Cologne will cost around $262 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $62.
Of the 54 trains that leave Vienna 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 743 km distance in an average of 8 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 46 m .
On Wed, Jun 03 the slowest trains will take 8 h 46 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 20 · ICE 618
RJX 68 · ICE 618
ICE 610+
RJ 820 · RJ 668 · RJ 1298
ICE 610+
RJ 820+
REX 2+
RJ 1298
RJX 766 · ICE 116 · ICE 912
RJX 262 · ICE 626
RJX 62 · ICE 528
RJX 60+
ICE 622
ICE 626+
RJX 262
ICE 528+
RJX 62Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Vienna to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a flight costs an average of $78.
Distance: 461 miles (743 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$166 Average price | $237 Average price | $79 Average price Cheapest | $198 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 24m Average total duration 9h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 48m Average total duration 11h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Vienna to Cologne:
A bus is $87 (€70) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Vienna to Cologne costing on average $166 (€134).
A bus is $158 (€128) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Vienna to Cologne costing on average $237 (€191).
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 54m.
Bus takes on average 11h 18m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Vienna to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1228 | Delayed 6:13 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h53 | 2:09 PM 2:09 PMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1228 · ICE 108 | On time 6:13 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h52 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1228 | Delayed 6:13 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h53 | 2:09 PM 2:09 PMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJX 260 · ICE 518 | On time 6:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h42 | 4:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 260 · ICE 720 | On time 6:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h46 | 3:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
RJX 260+ ICE 720+ DB S6 | On time 6:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h55 | 3:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 260+ ICE 518 | On time 6:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h42 | 4:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 260+ ICE 720 | On time 6:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h46 | 3:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
IC 542+ RE5+ ICE 916 | On time 6:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h36 | 4:33 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
IC 542+ RE5+ ICE 916+ RB24 | 6:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h46 | 4:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 916 · ICE 28+ RE5+ IC 542 | Delayed 10:20 AM 6:57 AMVienna Hbf | 11h09 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJX 160 · ICE 210 · ICE 916 | On time 7:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h05 | 4:33 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
RJX 160 · RE5+ ICE 916+ RB24 | 7:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h15 | 4:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJX 160 · RE5+ ICE 916 | On time 7:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h05 | 4:33 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
RJX 262 · ICE 626 | On time 8:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h46 | 5:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
RJX 262 · ICE 516 | On time 8:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h42 | 6:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 262+ ICE 626+ DB S6 | On time 8:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h55 | 5:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 262+ ICE 626 | On time 8:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h46 | 5:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
RJX 262+ ICE 516 | On time 8:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h42 | 6:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 546+ RE5+ ICE 224 | On time 8:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h47 | 6:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 162 · ICE 118 · ICE 224 | On time 9:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h16 | 6:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 224+ RJX 162 · RE5 | Delayed 12:20 PM 9:28 AMVienna Hbf | 9h16 | 6:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1224 · ICE 104 | On time 10:13 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h52 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1224 | On time 10:13 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h52 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1224 | On time 10:13 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h52 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJX 60 · ICE 514 | On time 10:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h37 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 60+ ICE 594 · ICE 104 | On time 10:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 8h37 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 514+ RJX 60 | Delayed 1:28 PM 10:28 AMVienna Hbf | 9h37 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 640+ ICE 116 · ICE 912 | Delayed 10:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h32 | 6:33 PM 6:33 PMCologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
ICE 116 · ICE 784 · ICE 24+ IC 640 | 10:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 11h08 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 116 · ICE 912+ IC 640+ DB S19 | 10:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h42 | 8:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJX 766 · ICE 116 · ICE 912 | Delayed 11:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h01 | 6:33 PM 6:33 PMCologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
RJX 766+ ICE 116 · ICE 912+ DB S19 | 11:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h11 | 8:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 116 · ICE 912+ RJX 766 | 11:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h01 | 8:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
RJX 62 · ICE 512 | On time 12:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h37 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 62 · ICE 592 · ICE 102 | On time 12:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 8h37 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 62 · ICE 528 | On time 12:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 8h46 | 9:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
RJX 62+ ICE 512 | On time 12:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h37 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 62+ ICE 528+ RB38 | On time 12:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 8h58 | 9:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 62+ ICE 592 · ICE 102 | On time 12:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 8h37 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 62+ ICE 528 | On time 12:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 8h46 | 9:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 910+ IC 644+ EC 114 | Delayed 4:19 PM 12:57 PMVienna Hbf | 9h38 | 10:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 644+ EC 114+ ICE 910 | Delayed 12:57 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h33 | 8:35 PM 8:35 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 166 · EC 114 · ICE 910 | Delayed 1:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h02 | 8:35 PM 8:35 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 166 · EC 114 · ICE 910 | On time 1:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h07 | 10:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 566+ EC 114+ ICE 910 | Delayed 1:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h02 | 8:35 PM 8:35 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 910+ EC 114+ RJX 166 | Delayed 4:19 PM 1:28 PMVienna Hbf | 9h07 | 10:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1220 | On time 2:13 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h53 | 12:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1220 · ICE 100 | On time 2:13 PM Vienna Hbf | 8h57 | 11:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1220 | On time 2:13 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h53 | 12:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
RJX 64 · ICE 590 · ICE 100 | On time 2:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 8h42 | 11:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 64 · ICE 524 | On time 2:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h11 | 11:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 510+ RJX 864 · RE5 | 2:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 9h47 | 12:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 524+ RJX 64 | Delayed 4:44 PM 2:28 PMVienna Hbf | 9h11 | 11:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 740+ RJX 66+ ICE 990+ IC 60402 | On time 3:57 PM Vienna Hbf | 13h47 | 5:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJX 66 · ICE 908 · ICE 699 · IC 60402 | On time 4:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 13h16 | 5:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJX 66+ ICE 990+ IC 60402 | On time 4:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 13h16 | 5:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 20 · ICE 618 | On time 5:13 PM Vienna Hbf | 13h06 | 6:19 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 618+ RJX 68+ IC 744 | Delayed 9:25 PM 5:57 PMVienna Hbf | 12h22 | 6:19 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RJX 68 · ICE 618 | On time 6:28 PM Vienna Hbf | 11h51 | 6:19 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 618+ RJX 68 | Delayed 9:25 PM 6:28 PMVienna Hbf | 11h51 | 6:19 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
NJ 468 | 6:36 PM Vienna Hbf | 12h23 | 6:59 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
NJ 40490 | 7:36 PM Vienna Hbf | 11h58 | 7:34 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, June 3 | |||||
RJ 820 · RJ 668 · RJ 1298+ ICE 610 | 12:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 13h42 | 2:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJ 820+ REX 2+ RJ 1298+ ICE 610 | 12:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 13h42 | 2:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 848+ EC 212+ ICE 918+ RB24 | 4:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h45 | 2:42 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 848+ EC 212+ ICE 918 | 4:57 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h36 | 2:33 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
RJX 368+ EC 212+ ICE 918+ RB24 | 5:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h14 | 2:42 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RJX 368+ EC 212+ ICE 918 | 5:28 AM Vienna Hbf | 9h05 | 2:33 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Vienna to Cologne run on average 13 times per day, taking around 9h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 (€50) but you can travel from only $52 (€42) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 461 miles (743 km) distance in 8h 37m.
Distance 461 miles (743 km) |
Average train duration 9h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 (€50) |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 8h 37m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its Picasso collection and important Pop Art holdings.
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.
Leading fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque and 19th-century European painting in Cologne's historic center.
The city's most visited walking area, with narrow lanes, churches, colorful houses and easy access to major sights.
Popular riverside walking route with postcard views of the cathedral, bridges and skyline, especially lively near sunset.
Historic square in the Old Town surrounded by traditional facades, busy pedestrian activity and classic Cologne atmosphere.
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.
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.
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.
A celebrated fine-dining restaurant in Cologne known for creative modern tasting menus and polished service, ideal for a higher-end culinary experience.
A well-known casual restaurant famous for schnitzel and generous portions, with a friendly, old-school Cologne neighborhood feel.
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.
Moderate by German standards: supermarkets and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
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.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf, Cologne -> Cologne Cathedral, Cologne
Traveling between Vienna and Cologne is a seamless experience, thanks to the efficient train connections offered by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, and ÖBB | Nightjet. With comfortable seating and scenic views along the route, you can enjoy a relaxing journey as you traverse through picturesque landscapes. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, these providers ensure that your travel needs are met with punctuality and convenience.
Traveling from Vienna to Cologne takes approximately 8 hours. There are 4 direct connections available each day, making it convenient for travelers. The journey departs from either Wien Hauptbahnhof or Wien Meidling Bahnhof and arrives at Köln-Ehrenfeld, Köln Hbf, or Köln Messe/Deutz.
The first daily train from Vienna to Cologne departs at 05:13, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore. The last journey of the day leaves at 21:28, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their evening in either city before heading back.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Vienna to Cologne is €50. The average ticket price typically hovers around €144, making it a good option to book in advance or look out for special deals.
Welcome to Cologne, where history and culture intertwine beautifully! Our first stop is the magnificent Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage site that took over 600 years to complete. This stunning Gothic masterpiece not only serves as a symbol of resilience for the city but also boasts remarkable features like its intricate stained glass windows and towering spires that reach an impressive height of 157 meters.
Next, we’ll stroll across the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, renowned for its breathtaking views of both the cathedral and the Rhine River. This bridge holds significant historical value as it has been a vital transportation link since its completion in 1911; today, it's famous for being adorned with thousands of love locks left by couples from around the world. As you walk along this vibrant thoroughfare, take note of how it seamlessly blends modern engineering with romantic charm.
Finally, we'll visit Museum Ludwig, home to one of Europe’s most extensive collections of modern art. Established in 1976 through generous donations from Peter Ludwig and his wife Irene, this museum showcases works by legendary artists such as Picasso and Warhol while emphasizing contemporary movements like Pop Art. With its striking architecture and thought-provoking exhibitions housed within these walls, Museum Ludwig invites you on an inspiring journey through artistic innovation right here in Cologne.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Vienna 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.

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