Cologne to Groningen train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

Tue, Sep 08
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
FlixTrain
WestfalenBahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
FlixTrain
WestfalenBahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Groningen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$52

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$65

Fastest journey on Sep 08

4 h 39 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

6 h 24 m

Trains on Sep 08

3

Distance

256 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Groningen will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 08, we found 3 trains from Cologne to Groningen, including 3 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 256 km distance in an average of 6 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 39 m .

On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 9 h 54 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.

  • FlixTrain
    1:01 PM9h54
    Cologne
    10:55 PMGroningen
    $521One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:46 AM4h39
    Cologne
    1:25 PMGroningen
    $611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:46 AM4h39
    Cologne
    12:25 PMGroningen
    $831One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Groningen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Groningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $49 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 36m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, while a train costs an average of $77.

Distance: 159 miles (256 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$77

Average price

$49

Average price

Cheapest

$71

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 11m

Average total duration

6h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 41m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Cologne to Groningen is a bus with an average price of $49.

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

A bus is $28 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Groningen costing on average $77.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Groningen is by train with an average journey time of 4h 6m.

Other travel options to Groningen take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 41m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Groningen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Groningen 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 $77 compared to roughly $71 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.97. The journey takes 4h 6m versus 3h 41m 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

Cologne to Groningen train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Groningen trains for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn12:50 PM Cologne
4h52
5:42 PM Groningen0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain3:01 PM Cologne
7h54
10:55 PM Groningen0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, September 8
Deutsche Bahn7:46 AM Cologne
4h39
12:25 PM Groningen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:46 AM Cologne
4h39
1:25 PM Groningen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Groningen by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Cologne to Groningen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Cologne to Groningen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Groningen.

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 VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Groningen.
  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Groningen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH, FlixTrain, WestfalenBahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Groningen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Groningen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Groningen

GermanyGermany
NetherlandsNetherlands
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Groningen run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 but you can travel from only $12 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:34, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 3h 31m.

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 $12
Distance
159 miles (256 km)
Average train duration
4h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$25
Trains per day
14
Fastest train
3h 31m
First train
12:34 AM
Last train
11:49 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 $12

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, WestfalenBahn from Cologne to Groningen trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, WestfalenBahn trains will get you between Cologne and Groningen from $12. 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 31m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$25
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name "VIAS" is derived from the Latin word "via" (way) and "S" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
3h 57m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
$25
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

WestfalenBahn

About
WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average WestfalenBahn Duration
4h 21m
Cheapest WestfalenBahn Price
$31
WestfalenBahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Groningen

Things to do in Groningen

Discover the best of Groningen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Groningen trip today.

  • Must visit

Groninger Museum

Leading museum in a bold postmodern building, known for modern art, design, and changing exhibitions beside the station.

  • Recommended

Universiteitsmuseum Groningen

University museum with interactive science and medical exhibits, ideal for learning about research and discovery in Groningen.

  • Recommended

Noorderlicht

Photography gallery presenting contemporary visual culture, documentary work, and thought-provoking exhibitions in the city center.

Euro (€)

Moderate for the Netherlands: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transport is manageable, and student-focused spots help keep daily costs reasonable.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small tips in cafes are optional.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Groningen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Groningen 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 Groningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25, while the average price is around $77.
The train from Cologne to Groningen takes 3h 31m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Groningen is 159 miles (256 km).
The first train from Cologne to Groningen leaves at 12:34 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Groningen leaves at 11:49 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Groningen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Groningen.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Groningen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Groningen station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $12.
The train journey from Cologne to Groningen offers a scenic view of the German countryside, with stretches of lush green landscapes, charming villages, and the picturesque Rhine River valley, making it a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Groningen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 31m and trains run 18 times per day.
In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.
Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Groningen.
Since both Cologne and Groningen 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 Groningen include Leer, Oldenburg, Zwolle, Emden, Arnhem.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Groningen 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Groningen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Bicycle theft is common, so securing bikes with strong locks is essential. Be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis. Always use official taxi services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
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 Cologne to Groningen

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

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Groningen

Which Cologne station do trains to Groningen leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Groningen leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min

Köln Hbf train station facilities and services

Köln Hbf 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: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.

Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre

Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min

Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services

Köln Messe/Deutz 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: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

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