- Must visit
Mozart's Birthplace
Historic townhouse museum on Getreidegasse dedicated to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, displaying period rooms, instruments, and biographical exhibits.
Cheapest price
$59
Average price
$118
Fastest journey
6 h 28 m
Average duration
6 h 40 m
Trains per day
11
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 $118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.
Of the 11 trains that leave Cologne for Salzburg on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 562 km distance in an average of 6 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 28 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 6 h 52 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 629 · IC 406
ICE 919 · EC 213
ICE 519+
79039
ICE 27+
24515+
ICE 211
IC 2013 · ICE 517+
79033
ICE 915 · ICE 119
ICE 919 · EC 213
ICE 629 · IC 406
ICE 519+
79039
ICE 515+
79025Omio 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 prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a flight costs an average of $173.
Distance: 349 miles (562 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$144 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $500 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 49m Average total duration 8h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 59m Average total duration 8h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 3h 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 $88 (€72) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Salzburg costing on average $144 (€118).
A bus is $444 (€363) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Salzburg costing on average $500 (€409).
Other travel options to Salzburg take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 19m.
Bus takes on average 8h 29m.
Tickets start at around $144 (€118) compared to roughly $44 (€36) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-99.77 (€-81.72). The journey takes 8h 19m versus 7h 25m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Salzburg trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 1940 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h05 | 4:58 PM Salzburg Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 103 · ICE 2583+ 79023 | Delayed 7:02 AM 8:54 AMCologne Hbf | 6h52 | 3:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 119 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h01 | 3:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 915 · ICE 119 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h28 | 3:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 27 · ICE 211+ 24515 | 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h06 | 5:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 515+ 79025 | Delayed 8:10 AM 9:54 AMCologne Hbf | 6h52 | 4:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69 | On time 9:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h00 | 4:58 PM Salzburg Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 2013 · ICE 517+ 79033 | On time 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h53 | 6:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 225 · ICE 211 | On time 11:18 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h41 | 5:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 29 · ICE 919 · EC 213 | On time 11:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h06 | 7:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 517+ 79033 | On time 11:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h52 | 6:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1644 · ICE 579 · ICE 569 · RJ 1293 | On time 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h08 | 9:01 PM Salzburg Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 919 · EC 213 | On time 1:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h29 | 7:59 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 629 · IC 406 | On time 1:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h41 | 8:26 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 519+ 79039 | On time 1:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h52 | 8:46 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 1946 · ICE 691+ 79045 | On time 2:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h52 | 11:45 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 109 · ICE 599+ 79041 | On time 2:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h48 | 9:42 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 723+ 79043 | On time 3:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 7h00 | 10:45 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 927 · ICE 1013+ 79047 | On time 3:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h49 | 12:42 AM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 611+ 79045 | On time 3:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h51 | 11:45 PM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 201 · ICE 691+ 79045 | On time 4:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h51 | 11:45 PM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 929 · ICE 1015+ 79049 | On time 5:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h54 | 1:47 AM Salzburg Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 613+ 79047 | On time 5:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h48 | 12:42 AM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1015+ 79049 | On time 7:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h17 | 1:47 AM Salzburg Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 615 · S2 · 27077 · 27083 | On time 7:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 10h34 | 6:28 AM Salzburg Hbf | 4 transfers | |
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 8 times per day, taking around 8h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by bus.
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 6h 13m.
Distance 349 miles (562 km) |
Average train duration 8h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€39) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 13m |
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 Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Salzburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Salzburg trip today.
Historic townhouse museum on Getreidegasse dedicated to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, displaying period rooms, instruments, and biographical exhibits.
Baroque museum complex linking the cathedral precinct, state rooms, galleries, and religious collections in the heart of the Old Town.
Major modern and contemporary art museum with two venues, best known for the hilltop Mönchsberg site with strong exhibitions and city views.
Salzburg's most famous shopping street, lined with historic buildings, wrought-iron guild signs, and Mozart's birthplace.
Formal gardens beside Mirabell Palace, celebrated for geometric flowerbeds, statues, and classic fortress views.
Prominent hill above the Old Town with walking routes, viewpoints, and access to the Museum der Moderne terrace.
A classic Salzburg dessert of sweet soufflé-like dumplings, traditionally baked to resemble the city’s surrounding hills. It is one of the most iconic local specialties.
A hearty Alpine dish of small dumplings or noodles tossed with melted cheese and topped with fried onions. Popular across the region and commonly served in Salzburg inns.
Boiled beef served in broth, usually with potatoes, apple-horseradish, and chive sauce. A classic Austrian dish frequently found on traditional Salzburg menus.
Famous historic beer hall with a convivial atmosphere, fresh Märzen beer, and simple traditional Austrian food from adjoining food stalls.
Historic restaurant in the St. Peter district, known for refined Austrian cuisine and elegant dining rooms. A classic choice for traditional Salzburg dining.
Established Austrian inn near the old town, appreciated for schnitzel, dumplings, and classic regional comfort food in a cozy setting.
Prices are high by Austrian standards, especially hotels and dining in the center, but public transport and bakery lunches help keep costs down.
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or leave about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated in cafés; hotel staff may receive EUR 1-2.
Official public transport app
Salzburg Hbf, Salzburg -> Mozartplatz, Salzburg
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need