Zella-Mehlis to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn

Tue, Oct 20
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 20

Cheapest price on Oct 20

€85

Average ticket price on Oct 20

€85

Fastest journey on Oct 20

5 h 49 m

Average journey duration on Oct 20

5 h 49 m

Trains on Oct 20

1

Distance

263 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne will cost around €85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €85.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 20, we found 1 trains from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne, including 1 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 20 the direct trains cover the 263 km distance in an average of 5 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 49 m .

On Tue, Oct 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 49 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 Bahn
    7:16 AM5h49
    Zella-Mehlis
    1:05 PMCologne
    €851One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €85 but you can travel from only €34 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 16:44. The fastest train covers the 163 miles (263 km) distance in 3h 58m.

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 €34
Distance
163 miles (263 km)
Average train duration
4h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
€85
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
3h 58m
First train
5:20 AM
Last train
4:44 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 €34

Live departures

Zella-Mehlis to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Zella-Mehlis to Cologne trains for today, Monday, October 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)12:16 PM Zella-mehlis
4h58
5:14 PM Cologne1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)2:16 PM Zella-mehlis
4h58
7:14 PM Cologne1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)4:16 PM Zella-mehlis
4h58
9:14 PM Cologne1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)8:18 PM Zella-mehlis
12h56
9:14 AM Cologne1 transfer
Tuesday, October 20
Deutsche Bahn7:16 AM Zella-Mehlis
5h49
1:05 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Zella-Mehlis to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

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Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zella-Mehlis and Cologne from €34. 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
3h 58m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€85
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

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 Zella-Mehlis to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zella-Mehlis 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 Zella-Mehlis to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €85, while the average price is around €124.
The train from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne takes 3h 58m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne is 163 miles (263 km).
The first train from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne leaves at 5:20 AM.
The last train from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne leaves at 4:44 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne.
Yes, there is a night train from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne.
The train station in Zella-Mehlis that goes to Cologne is Zella-Mehlis station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The train journey from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Thuringian Forest and the rolling landscapes of western Germany, providing a mix of natural and urban vistas along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Zella-Mehlis 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.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Zella-Mehlis
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Zella-Mehlis station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Zella-Mehlis to Cologne leave from Zella-Mehlis. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Zella-Mehlis city centre at Zella-Mehlis, Suhler Str. 2, 98544 Zella-Mehlis.
Zella-MehlisZella-Mehlis, Suhler Str. 2, 98544 Zella-MehlisWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Zella-Mehlis from Zella-Mehlis city centre

Zella-Mehlis is 1 km from Zella-Mehlis city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus31, 449, 447, 423, 422, 400 · 3m · every ~6 min

Zella-Mehlis train station facilities and services

Zella-Mehlis has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Hotel Stadt Suhl, Toschis Station, Zum Schotten, El Greco

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Zella-Mehlis. ATMs are available at Zella-Mehlis.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Zella-Mehlis. Information desks are available at Zella-Mehlis.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Zella-Mehlis. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Zella-Mehlis: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Zella-Mehlis: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zella-Mehlis.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Stadt Suhl.

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