- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, especially strong in Pop Art, Picasso, and postwar European art.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Warsaw to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$112
Fastest journey
11 h 11 m
Average duration
12 h 7 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
981 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Warsaw to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Warsaw to Cologne will cost around $112 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Warsaw to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.
EC 42 · 18397 · IC 60408 · 155013:00 PM15h32Warsaw Central6:32 AMCologne Hbf$731One-way4 transfers- EC 40 · BUS 40040 · ICE 646 · 174095:00 PM16h38Warsaw Central9:38 AMCologne Hbf$731One-way3 transfers
- EC 42 · 33748 · S3 · S413:00 PM14h44Warsaw Central5:44 AMCologne Hbf$851One-way5 transfers
- EC 40 · BUS 40040 · ICE 9565:00 PM17h12Warsaw Central10:12 AMCologne Hbf$971One-way2 transfers
- EC 44 · BUS 40044 · ICE 8421:00 PM11h53Warsaw Central12:53 AMCologne Hbf$1091One-way2 transfers
- EC 46 · BUS 40046 · ICE 85411:00 AM11h11Warsaw Central10:11 PMCologne Hbf$1221One-way2 transfers
- EC 48 · BUS 40048 · ICE 8569:00 AM11h12Warsaw Central8:12 PMCologne Hbf$1701One-way2 transfers
- EIC 1854 · EC 230 · BUS 40230 · ICE 5468:00 AM11h35Warsaw Central7:35 PMCologne Hbf$1701One-way3 transfers
- EC 44 · BUS 40044 · ICE 8421:00 PM11h53Warsaw Central12:53 AMCologne Hbf$1091One-way2 transfers
- EC 42 · 33748 · S3 · S413:00 PM14h44Warsaw Central5:44 AMCologne Hbf$851One-way5 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Warsaw to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Warsaw to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $67. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $67, and a flight costs an average of $296.
Distance: 609 miles (981 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$145 Average price | $89 Average price Cheapest | $710 Average price | $241 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 30m Average total duration 12h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 45m Average total duration 16h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 54m Average total duration Fastest 2h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.0 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions | 2.9 - 5.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Warsaw to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $89 (€73).
This is compared to other travel options from Warsaw to Cologne:
A bus is $56 (€46) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Warsaw to Cologne costing on average $145 (€119).
A bus is $621 (€511) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Warsaw to Cologne costing on average $710 (€584).
The fastest way to travel from Warsaw to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 54m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 0m.
Bus takes on average 16h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Warsaw and Cologne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Warsaw 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 $145 (€119) compared to roughly $241 (€199) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $97 (€80). The journey takes 12h 0m versus 10h 27m 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
Warsaw to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Warsaw to Cologne trains for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 246 · BUS 40246 · ICE 848 · IC 2540 | On time 6:52 AM Warsaw Central | 11h53 | 6:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| EC 246 · BUS 40246 · ICE 848 · ICE 729 | On time 6:52 AM Warsaw Central | 11h50 | 6:42 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3 transfers | |
| EC 48 · BUS 40048 · ICE 856 | On time 8:52 AM Warsaw Central | 11h20 | 8:12 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| EC 46 · BUS 40046 · ICE 854 | On time 10:52 AM Warsaw Central | 11h20 | 10:12 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| EC 44 · BUS 40044 · ICE 852 | On time 12:52 PM Warsaw Central | 11h20 | 12:12 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| EC 42 · 18397 · IC 60408 · ICE 618 | On time 2:52 PM Warsaw Central | 15h12 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| EC 40 · BUS 40040 · ICE 273 · ICE 712 | On time 4:52 PM Warsaw Central | 15h05 | 7:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 16170 · ICE 1650 · ICE 518+ 5672 | 11:44 PM Warsaw Central | 16h21 | 4:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 16170 · IC 2048 · ICE 597 · ICE 720 | 11:44 PM Warsaw Central | 15h30 | 3:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Warsaw 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.
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Why should you book Warsaw to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or PKP Intercity offer trains services from Warsaw to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Warsaw 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 FlixTrain or PKP Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Warsaw 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 Warsaw to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Warsaw to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Warsaw to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Warsaw to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Warsaw to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Warsaw to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Warsaw to Cologne.
Trains
from $66Buses
from $75Flights
from $222Journey information
Overview: Train from Warsaw to Cologne
Poland
Germany
Trains from Warsaw to Cologne run on average 14 times per day, taking around 12h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€50) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 609 miles (981 km) distance in 10h 26m.
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
Distance 609 miles (981 km) |
Average train duration 12h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€50) |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 10h 26m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, PKP Intercity from Warsaw to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, PKP Intercity trains will get you between Warsaw and Cologne from $61 (€50). 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
10h 26m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
PKP Intercity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 34m
Cheapest Price
$137 (€113)
PKP Intercity frequency
6 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.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
One of Germany’s key fine art museums, known for medieval painting, Gothic works, and major Impressionist holdings.
- Recommended
NS-Dokumentationszentrum
Cologne’s documentation center on National Socialism, housed in the former Gestapo headquarters with preserved prison cells.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic Old Town square surrounded by traditional facades and lively pedestrian streets, ideal as a base for central sightseeing.
- Recommended
Heumarkt
Large central square in the Altstadt known for events, open space, and easy access to the Rhine promenade.
- Recommended
Belgian Quarter
Trendy inner-city neighborhood popular for independent shops, street life, and photogenic urban corners beyond the main tourist core.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small Stangen glasses and central to the city’s brewing culture.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
A classic Cologne rye roll with aged Gouda, mustard, and onion. Despite the name, it contains no chicken and is a beloved beer-hall snack.
- Gluten-free
Himmel Un Ääd
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes with apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The name means ‘Heaven and Earth.’
Ox & Klee
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant offering modern tasting menus and polished service for a high-end culinary experience in Cologne.
Päffgen
Historic brewery and restaurant loved for house-brewed Kölsch and authentic local specialties in a rustic traditional atmosphere.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
Well-known casual restaurant famous for oversized schnitzels and hearty German comfort food with a friendly, classic atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Public transport is fair, while central hotels and dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 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 cafes and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is common for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.
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, or on board many buses and trams; card payment is commonly accepted at machines and in the app.
- Validate whether your ticket needs stamping before travel, and keep it ready for inspection throughout the journey.
FAQs: Trains from Warsaw to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Warsaw 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 Warsaw to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€50), while the average price is around $145 (€119).
The train from Warsaw to Cologne takes 10h 26m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Warsaw to Cologne is 609 miles (981 km).
The first train from Warsaw to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Warsaw to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Warsaw to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Warsaw to Cologne.
The train station in Warsaw that goes to Cologne is Warsaw Central, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Warsaw to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $61 (€50).
The train journey from Warsaw to Cologne offers a mix of scenic landscapes, including picturesque views of the Polish countryside, charming villages, and parts of the Rhine Valley as you approach Cologne.
A day trip from Warsaw to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 26m and covers 609 miles (981 km). The trip frequency is 15 per day for trains.
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 Warsaw to Cologne.
Since both Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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.
More options for your journey from Warsaw to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Warsaw
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