- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Wuppertal to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jul 20
Cheapest price
$9
Average price
$15
Fastest journey
30 m
Average duration
31 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
39 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Wuppertal to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Wuppertal to Cologne will cost around $15 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Wuppertal for Cologne on Mon, Jul 20, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 20 the direct trains cover the 39 km distance in an average of 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 30 m .
On Mon, Jul 20 the slowest trains will take 31 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.
IC 23486:14 AM0h31Wuppertal Hbf6:45 AMCologne Hbf$91One-way0 transfers- IC 254412:15 PM0h30Wuppertal Hbf12:45 PMCologne Hbf$221One-way0 transfers
- IC 254412:15 PM0h30Wuppertal Hbf12:45 PMCologne Hbf$221One-way0 transfers
- IC 23486:14 AM0h31Wuppertal Hbf6:45 AMCologne Hbf$91One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Wuppertal to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Wuppertal to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $23, and a train costs an average of $23.
Distance: 24 miles (39 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$33 Average price Cheapest | $10 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 6m Average total duration Fastest 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Wuppertal to Cologne is a train with an average price of $33 (€27).
The fastest way to travel from Wuppertal to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 36m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Wuppertal and Cologne including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Wuppertal to Cologne 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 16m sooner (36m by train vs 52m by car). Tickets start at around $33 (€27) compared to roughly $10 (€8) 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, FlixTrain.
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
Wuppertal to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Wuppertal to Cologne trains for today, Sunday, July 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 513 | Delayed 5:17 AM 7:14 AMWuppertal Hbf | 0h31 | 5:49 AM 5:49 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 2040 | Delayed 6:18 AM 8:14 AMWuppertal Hbf | 0h31 | 6:51 AM 6:51 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, July 20 | |||||
| IC 2348 | On time 6:14 AM Wuppertal Hbf | 0h31 | 6:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Wuppertal to Cologne by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 Wuppertal to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn and more offer trains services from Wuppertal to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Wuppertal 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, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Eurobahn to find the best option for your trip from Wuppertal 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Wuppertal to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Wuppertal to Cologne.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Wuppertal to Cologne
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
The trip was very pleasant.No delays or anything else.Wifi and power socket were availableDisadvantages
It was a drunk who was shouting.The toilets were not cleanIt was too crowded.The time went quickly and I had my headphones on when it got louder on the train, charger and wifi were also available. Toilets were not so clean, but otherwise I was very satisfied with the ride. The price was bearable so that I still had enough money to stroll around the cathedral in Cologne.
Advantages
QuickComfortableDisadvantages
Not quite cleanMy journey from Wuppertal to Cologne with this train ticket was extremely satisfying. Not only did the journey go smoothly and quickly, but word also height comfort during the journey. The seats were comfortable and the train connection allowed for efficient travel time. Oh, the speed of this connection impressed me.
The train reached Cologne on time and without much major delay, which allowed me to make the most of my time. The fast travel time was particularly beneficial as I would not have to waste any time.
The only small area for improvement would be the cleanliness on the train.
#Although the seats were comfortable, I would have liked the train to be a little cleaner overall. A cleaner train definitely added to overall experience. All in all, this train service was a great choice for my journey from Wuppertal to Cologne. The convenience and speed of travel over bows, the minor inconvenience of cleanliness. I would definitely recommend this train ticket if you are looking for a comfortable and efficient journey between these two cities.
Advantages
Equipment was availableToilets cleanTrain was on timeDisadvantages
Dirty floor and tablesThe train from Wuppertal to Cologne had been very dirty. The floor was full of dirt and the tables were not wiped and full of crumbs. The seats, on the other hand, were comfortable and even had backrests. Power outlets and internet were available and the toilets were acceptable in terms of cleanliness. The staff was friendly and the noise level on the train was pleasant as it was not very busy. The train had been on time and the journey was therefore good.
Advantages
PunctualityCleanlinesswifiDisadvantages
NoneLast week I took the IC from Wuppertal to Cologne after work.
The train left on time and also arrived in Cologne on time, so I got to my connection on time. The wifi connection on the train was good, so I was able to use the half-hour journey to work on open tasks on my laptop. The cleanliness of the train and the toilets was also positive.
I would definitely recommend the ICE journey to others.
Advantages
SpeedDisadvantages
NoneAfter I had already taken the ICE from Cologne to Wuppertal in the morning, the return journey from Wuppertal back to Cologne main station was also very pleasant. The journey takes about 30 minutes and is much faster than travelling the same distance by car. The ICE 2570 was a few minutes late, but it was still very clean and pleasant. Although I didn't have a reserved seat, the train wasn't too crowded and I was able to find a seat.
Advantages
Sockets and internet availableConnections were announcedDisadvantages
Train overcrowdedDelay of 25 minutesVery loud on the trainCorridors were dirtyToilets were overcrowdedNo ticket inspectionThe train from Wuppertal to Cologne had been very full, so I didn't get a seat. As a result, it was also very noisy. Due to the high capacity utilisation, there was no ticket inspection, although there was staff available. However, I liked the fact that connections were constantly announced, as the train was delayed by 25 minutes during the journey. The toilets were very crowded and I didn't find the corridors clean either. At least there was an internet connection and power sockets, which were also located on the walls in the corridors. Otherwise a really terrible journey!
Advantages
Price-performance ratioJourney duration (punctuality)CleanlinessDisadvantages
ComfortMy train ticket from Wuppertal to Cologne was a real bargain!
The price-performance ratio really impressed me.
The journey time was great, the train arrived on time and I was pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness of the train. But to be honest, the comfort left a little to be desired. The seats weren't the most comfortable, that was the only downside.
Nevertheless, if you value value value for money, punctuality and cleanliness and can live with a little less comfort, this train ticket is definitely recommendable. I had a pleasant journey and would book it again.
Advantages
DurationPriceDisadvantages
SeatsI would normally have travelled the route by car, but this time I decided to take the train and I definitely don't regret my decision. It was a very short journey and the price was really fair. The train was also on time. It was a bit of a shame that I didn't have a seat at the beginning, but there was still one available.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Wuppertal to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Wuppertal to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (39 km) distance in 36m.
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 24 miles (39 km) |
Average train duration 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 36m |
First train 12:11 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 63 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, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn from Wuppertal to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn trains will get you between Wuppertal and Cologne from $23 (€19). 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
36m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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.
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
Average Duration
52m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
FlixTrain frequency
1 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
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
56m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€25)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
9 a day
Eurobahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
50m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€25)
Eurobahn frequency
7 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
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.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
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 Wuppertal to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Wuppertal 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 Wuppertal to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $33 (€27).
The train from Wuppertal to Cologne takes 36m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Wuppertal to Cologne leaves at 12:11 AM.
The distance by train from Wuppertal to Cologne is 24 miles (39 km).
The last train from Wuppertal to Cologne leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Wuppertal to Cologne. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Wuppertal to Cologne.
The train station in Wuppertal that goes to Cologne is Wuppertal Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Wuppertal to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
The train journey from Wuppertal to Cologne offers views of the scenic Wupper River Valley, picturesque rolling hills, and characteristic German countryside, making it a visually pleasant experience.
Yes, a day trip from Wuppertal to Cologne is feasible. The journey takes 36m with a distance of 24 miles (39 km). Trains run 3 times per day.
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 Wuppertal to Cologne.
Since both Wuppertal 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 Wuppertal 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.
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.
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.
Most popular train connections from Wuppertal
More options for your journey from Wuppertal to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Wuppertal
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