- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
Cheapest price
$9
Average price
$33
Fastest journey
1 h 12 m
Average duration
1 h 12 m
Trains per day
57
Distance
74 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dortmund to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dortmund to Cologne will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Of the 57 trains that leave Dortmund for Cologne on Sat, Jun 20, 50 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 74 km distance in an average of 1 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 12 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 12 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 527
ICE 921
ICE 919
IC 2013
ICE 529
ICE 519
ICE 515
ICE 103
ICE 517
ICE 105Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dortmund to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $8.
Distance: 45 miles (74 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$17 Average price | $10 Average price Cheapest | $17 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 48m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 16m Average total duration 1h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Dortmund to Cologne:
A bus is $7 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dortmund to Cologne costing on average $17 (€14).
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 46m.
Tickets start at around $17 (€14) compared to roughly $17 (€14) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-0.45 (€-0.37). The journey takes 1h 18m versus 1h 16m 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 Dortmund to Cologne 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 527 | On time 6:23 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h19 | 7:42 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 513 | Delayed 4:37 AM 6:36 AMDortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 7:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 529 | On time 7:22 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h20 | 8:42 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 103 | Delayed 5:41 AM 7:36 AMDortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 6:54 AM 6:54 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 915 | On time 8:10 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h17 | 9:27 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 646 | On time 8:15 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h18 | 9:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26706 · ICE 621 | On time 8:21 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h21 | 9:42 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 515 | Delayed 6:51 AM 8:36 AMDortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 8:03 AM 8:03 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 217 | 8:40 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h13 | 9:53 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 946 | On time 9:13 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h22 | 10:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2013 | 9:17 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h23 | 10:40 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26708 · ICE 623 | On time 9:21 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h21 | 10:42 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 105 | On time 9:36 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 10:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26812 | 9:45 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 11:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 240 · 28513 | On time 9:46 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h43 | 11:29 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 644 | Delayed 8:18 AM 10:15 AMDortmund Hbf | 1h18 | 11:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 517 | On time 10:36 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 11:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26814 | 10:45 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 12:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1548 | On time 10:50 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 12:16 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 944 | On time 11:13 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h20 | 12:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26712 · ICE 627 | On time 11:21 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h21 | 12:42 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 107 | On time 11:36 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 12:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26816 | 11:45 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 919 | On time 12:11 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h16 | 1:27 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 642 | On time 12:15 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h19 | 1:34 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 12:27 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h14 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 519 | On time 12:36 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 1:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26818 | 12:45 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 2:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 942 | On time 1:13 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h19 | 2:32 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26716 · ICE 721 | On time 1:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h21 | 2:42 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 109 | On time 1:36 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 2:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26820 | 1:45 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 3:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1011 | On time 2:09 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h18 | 3:27 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 640 | On time 2:15 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h19 | 3:34 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 927 | On time 2:25 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h21 | 3:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 611 | 2:36 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 3:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26822 | 2:45 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 4:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1546 | On time 2:50 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h29 | 4:19 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 940 | On time 3:13 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h20 | 4:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26720 · ICE 725 | On time 3:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h21 | 4:42 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 201 | On time 3:36 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 4:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26824 | 3:45 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 5:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1013 | On time 4:09 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h20 | 5:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 548 | On time 4:15 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h20 | 5:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26722 · ICE 727 | On time 4:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h21 | 5:42 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 4:27 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h16 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 613 | 4:36 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h12 | 5:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26826 | 4:45 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 6:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 8:27 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1h13 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
26842 | 12:45 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 2:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26846 | 1:43 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h30 | 3:13 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26848 | 2:45 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h27 | 4:12 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
26800 | 3:45 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h26 | 5:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 913 | On time 6:10 AM Dortmund Hbf | 1h17 | 7:27 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Dortmund to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) but you can travel from only $7 (€6) by bus.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 45 miles (74 km) distance in 1h 12m.
Distance 45 miles (74 km) |
Average train duration 1h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€7) |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 1h 12m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 70 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
Cologne’s key archaeology museum for Roman heritage, especially famous for the Dionysus mosaic and Roman artifacts from the city.
Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century painting, including one of Germany’s leading Impressionist collections.
Popular riverfront promenade in Deutz with one of the city’s best postcard views toward the cathedral skyline, especially at sunset.
Classic walking area with narrow lanes, traditional houses, churches, and river access, ideal for first-time visitors.
One of the Old Town’s best-known squares, surrounded by historic facades and a lively atmosphere close to major sights.
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a local brauhaus.
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, usually served with black pudding and fried onions. The sweet-savory combination is strongly associated with Rhineland home cooking.
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye bread roll with aged Gouda, butter, mustard, and onions. It is a beloved Kölsch beer snack in traditional Cologne pubs.
An established fine-dining restaurant in central Cologne offering refined modern European cuisine, polished service, and an elegant hotel dining room.
A well-known casual restaurant loved for schnitzel and hearty German comfort food. It has a relaxed, local feel and a strong reputation among visitors and residents.
One of Cologne’s most famous brauhäuser near the cathedral, known for Kölsch and classic Rhineland dishes in a lively traditional atmosphere.
Moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Add EUR 1-2 for taxis, and round up in cafés if table service is provided.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf -> Cologne City Center
The train connection between Dortmund and Cologne is efficient and convenient, making it easy for travelers to explore these vibrant cities. The journey typically takes around 1 hour, with frequent services provided by Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain. Whether you're heading to Cologne's stunning cathedral or enjoying the cultural scene in Dortmund, you can rely on these providers for a comfortable ride.
The train connection between Dortmund and Cologne offers a direct service with a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes. There are approximately 51 connections available each day, providing ample options for travelers. Passengers will depart from Dortmund Hbf and can arrive at several stations in Cologne, including Köln Messe/Deutz, Köln-Mülheim, Köln/Bonn Flughafen, and Köln Hbf.
The first daily train from Dortmund to Cologne departs at 06:09 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Cologne. The last journey of the day leaves at 09:36 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy a full day in this historic destination before returning.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Dortmund and Cologne is €5. The average ticket price typically hovers around €13, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant German cities.
Welcome to Cologne, where history and culture intertwine beautifully! Our first stop is the magnificent Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage site that took over 600 years to complete. This stunning Gothic masterpiece not only serves as a symbol of faith for millions but also boasts unique features like its twin spires reaching nearly 157 meters high, making it one of the tallest cathedrals in Europe.
Next, we’ll stroll across the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, renowned for its breathtaking views of both the cathedral and the Rhine River. This bridge has been an essential transportation link since its completion in 1911 and holds significant historical value as it was rebuilt after being destroyed during World War II. One unique feature you can’t miss are the thousands of love locks attached by couples from around the world—each representing their unbreakable bond!
Finally, we arrive at Museum Ludwig, home to one of Germany's most impressive collections of modern art. Established in 1976 with a focus on contemporary works from artists such as Picasso and Warhol, this museum plays a vital role in promoting artistic dialogue within our city’s vibrant cultural scene. Its striking architecture complements an extensive collection that includes innovative exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge trends—making it truly unique among museums worldwide!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund 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.

Most Dortmund to Cologne trains use the Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Dortmund and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Dortmund 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: Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Dortmund Signal Iduna Park is 2 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:
Dortmund Signal Iduna Park 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: Strobels, Rosenterassen
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. ATMs are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. Information desks are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.
Dortmund-Kurl is 9 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:
Dortmund-Kurl 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: Yve's Eiscafé und mehr, Mamma Mia, Grill Station Husen, Pan Pizza Mo
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund-Kurl. ATMs are available at Dortmund-Kurl.
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund-Kurl. Information desks are available at Dortmund-Kurl.
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund-Kurl. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dortmund-Kurl: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dortmund-Kurl: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund-Kurl.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need