Cologne to Milan train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC)

Tue, Sep 08
+ Add return
Trenitalia
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Trenitalia
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Milan

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$0.00

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$238

Fastest journey on Sep 08

8 h 46 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

8 h 53 m

Trains on Sep 08

12

Distance

630 km

Cheap tickets

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

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Milan without transferring at least 4 times.

  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    7:30 AM8h47
    Cologne
    4:17 PMMilan
    Find prices
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    1:30 PM8h47
    Cologne
    10:17 PMMilan
    Find prices
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    7:30 PM14h47
    Cologne
    10:17 AMMilan
    Find prices
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    9:58 AM9h19
    Cologne
    7:17 PMMilan
    $3101One-way
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    3:30 PM15h47
    Cologne
    7:17 AMMilan
    $3101One-way
    5 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Milan

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Milan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $87 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 58m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.6 - 1.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $87, while a flight costs an average of $443.

Distance: 391 miles (630 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$225

Average price

$443

Average price

$87

Average price

Cheapest

$238

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 19m

Average total duration

8h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 58m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

15h 40m

Average total duration

15h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 4m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

-

CO2 emissions

1.9 - 3.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.6 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

ITA

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

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 Cologne to Milan is a bus with an average price of $87.

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

A bus is $139 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Milan costing on average $225.

A bus is $356 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Milan costing on average $443.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Milan is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 58m.

Other travel options to Milan take longer:

Train takes on average 8h 49m.

Bus takes on average 15h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Milan including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Milan among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 15m faster (8h 49m by train vs 9h 4m by car) and roughly $12 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($225 vs $238). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Milan train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Milan trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)7:30 AM Cologne
8h47
4:17 PM Milan5 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)7:30 AM Cologne
9h47
5:17 PM Milan4 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)9:31 AM Cologne
8h46
6:17 PM Milan4 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)9:58 AM Cologne
9h19
7:17 PM Milan5 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)9:58 AM Cologne
10h19
8:17 PM Milan4 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Milan 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.

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Why should you book Cologne to Milan trains with Omio?

Trenitalia as well as Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Cologne to Milan.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Milan.

Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Milan.
  • 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Milan.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Milan.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Milan.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Milan

GermanyGermany
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Milan run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $111 but you can travel from only $21 by flight.

The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 391 miles (630 km) distance in 8h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $21
Distance
391 miles (630 km)
Average train duration
8h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$111
Trains per day
1
Fastest train
8h 36m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
10:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Tue
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
Flight from $21

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Milan trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Milan from $21. 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
8h 36m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$111
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 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 Milan

Things to do in Milan

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

  • Must visit

Pinacoteca di Brera

One of Italy’s top art museums, featuring masterpieces by Mantegna, Bellini, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Piero della Francesca.

  • Must visit

Fondazione Prada

This contemporary art museum near Porta Romana presents rotating exhibitions in a striking former industrial distillery complex.

  • Must visit

Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci

Italy’s leading science museum is set in a former monastery and features Leonardo galleries, trains, aircraft, and a submarine.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Western Europe. Hotels and central dining can be pricey, but transit is affordable and budget meals, aperitivo deals, and local cafes help keep daily costs reasonable.

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
€1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. Service may be included. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% for good restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.

Traveling by train from Cologne to Milan

The train connection between Cologne and Milan offers a convenient and scenic way to travel across Europe. Passengers can choose from several providers, including Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia, and FlixTrain. With comfortable seating and onboard amenities, the journey allows travelers to relax while enjoying picturesque views of the countryside along the route. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this rail link provides an efficient option for exploring these vibrant cities.

Train Connection: Cologne to Milan

Traveling from Cologne to Milan takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes, with a total of 4 connections available each day. The journey is not direct, requiring at least one transfer along the way.

Cologne to Milan Train Connection

The first daily train from Cologne to Milan departs at 06:55, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities. The last journey of the day leaves at 20:55, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their adventures before returning in the evening.

Train Tickets Price for Cologne and Milan

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Cologne and Milan is €30. This fare offers a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities while enjoying scenic views along the way.

Exploring Milan: A Journey Through History and Culture

Welcome to the magnificent Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that took nearly six centuries to complete. Its intricate façade and towering spires not only symbolize Milan's rich history but also serve as a testament to the city's artistic ambition during the Renaissance. As you step inside, be sure to admire its breathtaking stained glass windows and climb up for panoramic views of the city from its rooftop.

Next, we find ourselves in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping malls that opened in 1867. This architectural marvel features an elegant glass dome and mosaic floors that reflect both luxury and Italian craftsmanship at their finest. It's not just a shopping destination; it's a cultural hub where fashion meets art—perfect for indulging in some people-watching while sipping on authentic Italian espresso.

Finally, let’s explore Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), which dates back to the 15th century when it was built by Francesco Sforza as a fortress for his family. Today, this historic castle houses several museums showcasing everything from ancient artifacts to works by Michelangelo himself—a true treasure trove of culture! Strolling through its expansive grounds offers visitors insight into Milan's storied past while providing picturesque spots perfect for capturing memories.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Milan

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Milan can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $111, while the average price is around $225.
The train from Cologne to Milan runs once a day and takes approximately 8h 36m.
The first train from Cologne to Milan leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Milan is 391 miles (630 km).
The last train from Cologne to Milan leaves at 10:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Milan.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Milan.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Milan.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Milan is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Milan Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Milan is by flight, with a cost of around $21.
The train journey from Cologne to Milan is scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley's vineyards and castles, the Swiss Alps' dramatic landscapes, and picturesque Italian countryside as you approach Milan.
A day trip from Cologne to Milan is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 36m, covering a distance of 391 miles (630 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Milan, you can visit the iconic Duomo di Milano for its stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic views, explore Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and stroll through the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its luxury boutiques. Discover the grand Sforza Castle, which houses various museums and art collections, and relax in the serene Sempione Park near the city center.
To fully experience Milan's key attractions, including the Duomo, The Last Supper, and shopping in the fashion district, plan for around 3 to 4 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Milan.
Since both Cologne and Milan 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 Milan include Como, Varenna, Turin, Bergamo, Genoa.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Milan 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Milan, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation, popular tourist sites, and busy shopping streets such as Corso Buenos Aires. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets or phones, and fake charity collectors near landmarks. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and to confirm fares beforehand. Staying alert and securing valuables can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Milan

Most Cologne to Milan trains use the Köln Hbf to Milano Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Milan 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 Milan

Which Cologne station do trains to Milan leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Milan 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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