- Must visit
Mozart's Birthplace
Birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, displaying family items, instruments, and context on his early Salzburg years.
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$43
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$128
Fastest journey on Sep 08
6 h 28 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
6 h 54 m
Trains on Sep 08
23
Distance
562 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Salzburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Salzburg will cost around $128 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 23 trains from Cologne to Salzburg, including 1 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 562 km distance in an average of 6 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 28 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 7 h 18 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.
ICE 619+
79007
ICE 523+
967
ICE 523+
965
S19 · ICE 511+
967
S11 · ICE 911+
967
ICE 915 · ICE 119
ICE 103 · ICE 593+
79023
ICE 515+
79025
ICE 119
ICE 521+
79013Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Salzburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $68 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 44m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $68, while a flight costs an average of $499.
Distance: 349 miles (562 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$107 Average price | $68 Average price Cheapest | $499 Average price | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 11m Average total duration 6h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 29m Average total duration 10h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 44m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Salzburg:
A bus is $39 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Salzburg costing on average $107.
A bus is $430 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Salzburg costing on average $499.
Other travel options to Salzburg take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 41m.
Bus takes on average 10h 59m.
You'll arrive about 44m sooner (6h 41m by train vs 7h 25m by car). Tickets start at around $107 compared to roughly $45 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, ÖBB | Nightjet.
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.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Salzburg trains for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 920 · 26701 · ICE 581 · RJX 65 | Delayed 12:13 AM 2:09 AMCologne Hbf | 10h49 | 11:03 AM 11:03 AMSalzburg Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 519+ 79039 | Delayed 11:58 AM 1:54 PMCologne Hbf | 6h52 | 8:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
S19 · ICE 827+ 965 | 3:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 10h07 | 1:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S19 · ICE 827+ 967 | 3:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 14h07 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 827+ 79011 | On time 3:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h25 | 10:46 AM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
26848 · ICE 521+ 967 | 4:08 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 13h13 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
26848 · ICE 521+ 965 | 4:08 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 9h13 | 1:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 521+ 79013 | On time 4:28 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h18 | 11:46 AM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S11 · ICE 911+ 965 | 5:11 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h10 | 1:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S11 · ICE 911+ 967 | 5:11 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h10 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 523+ 965 | On time 5:20 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h01 | 1:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 523+ 967 | On time 5:20 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 12h01 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
S19 · ICE 511+ 967 | 5:37 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 11h44 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S19 · ICE 511+ 965 | 5:37 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h44 | 1:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S6 · IC 2040 · ICE 515+ 967 | 8:41 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h40 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 529+ 967 | On time 8:47 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 8h34 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2040 · ICE 515+ 79025 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h53 | 4:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 103 · ICE 593+ 79023 | On time 8:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h50 | 3:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 119 | On time 9:00 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h00 | 4:00 PM Salzburg Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119 | On time 9:32 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h28 | 4:00 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915+ 967 | On time 9:32 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h49 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 621+ 967 | On time 9:47 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h34 | 5:21 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 515+ 79025 | On time 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h52 | 4:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, 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.
Trains from Cologne to Salzburg run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 349 miles (562 km) distance in 5h 41m.
Distance 349 miles (562 km) |
Average train duration 6h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 41m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 4 days |
Discover the best of Salzburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Salzburg trip today.
Birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, displaying family items, instruments, and context on his early Salzburg years.
Science center with interactive exhibits on physics, biology, and technology; excellent for families and curious adults.
Historic residence rooms and state apartments illustrating the power and taste of Salzburg’s prince-archbishops.
Salzburg’s famous old shopping lane with wrought-iron guild signs, historic houses, and direct links to Mozart’s birthplace.
Formal gardens and walking area by Mirabell Palace, admired for baroque design, statues, and fortress views.
Tree-lined viewpoint hill with forest paths, old fortifications, and sweeping vistas over the Old Town and fortress.
Salzburg’s famous soufflé-like dessert of sweetened egg whites, baked and torn into pieces, then dusted with sugar. A classic from Hotel Sacher traditions.
A rustic farmer’s breakfast of pan-fried potatoes, onions, and meat, usually topped with a fried egg. Popular in Alpine inns across Salzburg state.
Thin slices of boiled beef in broth, usually served with horseradish, root vegetables, and potatoes. A classic Austrian dish common in Salzburg taverns.
Well-known fine dining restaurant focused on modern Austrian cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and polished service in an intimate setting.
Historic beer hall and monastery brewery known for Märzen beer, simple Austrian dishes, and lively communal tables in a classic Salzburg setting.
Traditional tavern near the old town serving schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and regional classics in elegant historic rooms with a refined local feel.
Moderate for Western Europe; hotels rise in peak season, dining is mid-priced, and public transport is reasonable for tourists.
Service is often included, but rounding up is customary. Tip restaurants about 5-10%, round up in cafes, and round up taxi fares.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Salzburg 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 Salzburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Salzburg trains use the Köln Hbf to Salzburg Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Salzburg Aiglhof. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Salzburg train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Salzburg Hbf is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Salzburg Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Imlauer, Stieglitz
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Salzburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Salzburg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Salzburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Salzburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Hbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Europa Salzburg, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre, H+ Hotel Salzburg.
Salzburg Taxham Europark is 3 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Salzburg Taxham Europark has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.
ATMs are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.
Available at Salzburg Taxham Europark: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Salzburg Taxham Europark: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.
Salzburg Aiglhof is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Salzburg Aiglhof has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.
ATMs are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.
Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.
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