Wels to Cologne train with ÖBB | ICE

Sun, Sep 20
+ Add return
ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Nightjet
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Nightjet
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Wels to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$66

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$151

Fastest journey on Sep 20

7 h 43 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

7 h 54 m

Trains on Sep 20

17

Distance

596 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Wels to Cologne will cost around $151 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $66.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Wels to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.

  • ÖBB | Euro City (EC)EC 1218+ÖBB | ICEICE 516
    9:03 AM9h02
    Wels Hbf
    6:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $661One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 848 · EC 212 · ICE 918
    6:46 AM7h43
    Wels Hbf
    2:29 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    $841One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 848 · EC 212 · ICE 880 · ICE 228
    6:46 AM9h20
    Wels Hbf
    4:06 PMCologne Hbf
    $951One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 540 · RJX 260 · ICE 518
    7:46 AM8h19
    Wels Hbf
    4:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $1081One-way
    2 transfers
  • ÖBB | Euro City (EC)EC 212+ÖBB | ICEICE 918 · ICE 228+ÖBB | InterCityIC 848
    6:46 AM9h20
    Wels Hbf
    4:06 PMCologne Hbf
    $1181One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Wels to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Wels to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $72 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 7m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, while a flight costs an average of $902.

Distance: 370 miles (596 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$178

Average price

$902

Average price

$72

Average price

Cheapest

$160

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 41m

Average total duration

7h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 7m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

12h 56m

Average total duration

12h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 25m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

ÖBB | ICE

Most popular train company

Lufthansa

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Wels to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $72.

This is compared to other travel options from Wels to Cologne:

A bus is $106 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Wels to Cologne costing on average $178.

A bus is $830 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Wels to Cologne costing on average $902.

The fastest way to travel from Wels to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 7m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 11m.

Bus takes on average 12h 26m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Wels and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Wels 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 $178 compared to roughly $160 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-17.57. The journey takes 7h 11m versus 6h 25m 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

Wels to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Wels to Cologne trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ÖBB | InterCityIC 545+ÖBBRJX19910+ÖBB | ICEICE 210 · ICE 15148:16 AM Wels Hbf
9h17
5:33 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 545+ÖBBRJX19910+ÖBB | ICEICE 210 · ICE 9168:16 AM Wels Hbf
8h23
4:39 PM Cologne Hbf4 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 545+ÖBBRJX19910+ÖBB | ICEICE 210 · ICE 9168:16 AM Wels Hbf
8h13
4:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz3 transfers
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)EC 1218+ÖBB | ICEICE 5169:03 AM Wels Hbf
9h02
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Sunday, September 20
ÖBB | NightjetNJ 19946 · NJ 236+ÖBB | InterCityIC 204712:43 AM Wels Hbf
12h23
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Wels 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Wels to Cologne trains with Omio?

ÖBB | ICE as well as ÖBB | InterCity or Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Wels to Cologne.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ÖBB | ICE tickets.

Why book with Omio vs ÖBB | ICE?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ÖBB | ICE, but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB | InterCity or Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Wels 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 ÖBB | ICE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Wels to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Wels to Cologne

AustriaAustria
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Wels to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 7h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 but you can travel from only $48 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 370 miles (596 km) distance in 5h 52m.

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 $48
Distance
370 miles (596 km)
Average train duration
7h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$57
Trains per day
12
Fastest train
5h 52m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
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 $48

Train companies: ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | InterCity from Wels to Cologne trainsÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | InterCity trains will get you between Wels and Cologne from $48. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | ICE Duration
5h 52m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
$77
ÖBB | ICE frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

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
6h 6m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$57
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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

ÖBB | InterCity

About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | InterCity Duration
8h 28m
Cheapest ÖBB | InterCity Price
$256
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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 Wels to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Wels 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 Wels to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57, while the average price is around $178.
The train from Wels to Cologne takes 5h 52m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Wels to Cologne is 370 miles (596 km).
The first train from Wels to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Wels to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Wels to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Wels to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Wels to Cologne.
The train station in Wels that goes to Cologne is Wels Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Wels to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $48.
The train journey from Wels to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Austrian countryside and the beautiful Rhine Valley, known for its river landscapes, vineyards, and charming villages.
A day trip from Wels to Cologne is not feasible due to the travel time of 5h 52m. However, there are 18 train journeys available per day for this route, covering a distance of 370 miles (596 km).
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 Wels to Cologne.
Since both Wels 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Wels 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Wels to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Wels
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Wels station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Wels to Cologne leave from Wels Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Wels city centre at Bahnhofstraße 10, 4600 Wels, Austria.
Wels HbfBahnhofstraße 10, 4600 Wels, Austria+43 5 1717WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Wels Hbf from Wels city centre

Bus3 · 4m · $4 · every ~5 min

Wels Hbf train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Gasthaus zur Linde, Restaurant Loewenzahn

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Wels Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Wels Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Wels Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Wels Hbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Wels Hbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Ploberger, Boutique Hotel Hauser, Hotel Bayrischer Hof.

More options for your journey from Wels to Cologne

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

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