- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$31
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$68
Fastest journey on Sep 08
3 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
3 h 55 m
Trains on Sep 08
39
Distance
256 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Groningen to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Groningen to Cologne will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.
It's difficult to get from Groningen to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 572 · IC 60403
IC 774 · IC 3675 · IC 60403
RE 6166 · IC 17963 · 20227 · ICE 207
Bus 72020 · 4439 · ICE 921
RE 6158 · IC 17955 · 20223 · ICE 205
IC 548 · IC 3649 · ICE 127
IC 540 · IC 3641 · ICE 125
IC 556 · IC 3657 · ICE 129
IC 564 · IC 3665 · ICE 221
IC 516 · IC 3617 · ICE 121Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Groningen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $32 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 13m. 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 $32, while a train costs an average of $59.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$59 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest |
5h 13m Average total duration Fastest 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 39m Average total duration 7h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
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 Groningen to Cologne:
A bus is $27 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Groningen to Cologne costing on average $59.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 9m.
The table below shows live departures for Groningen to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RE 6116 · IC 3617 · ICE 121 | On time 5:05 AM Groningen Europapark | 4h08 | 9:13 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 516 · IC 3617 · ICE 121 | On time 5:18 AM Groningen station | 3h55 | 9:13 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RE 6118 · IC 17915 · 20203 · ICE 105 | On time 5:32 AM Groningen station | 5h18 | 10:50 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RE 6118 · IC 17915 · 20203 · ICE 105 | On time 5:35 AM Groningen Europapark | 5h15 | 10:50 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RE 6124 · IC 3625 · ICE 225 | Delayed 7:05 AM Groningen Europapark | 4h06 | 9:14 AM 9:14 AMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RE 6126 · IC 17923 · 20207 · ICE 107 | On time 7:32 AM Groningen station | 5h18 | 12:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RE 6126 · IC 17923 · 20207 · ICE 107 | On time 7:35 AM Groningen Europapark | 5h15 | 12:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RE 6128 · IC 3629+ 20019+ 26816 | 8:05 AM Groningen Europapark | 5h06 | 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
37621 · IC 528 · IC 3629+ 20019 | 8:10 AM Groningen Europapark | 5h01 | 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 4 transfers | |
IC 528 · ICE 123 | On time 8:18 AM Groningen station | 4h56 | 1:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 528 · IC 3629+ 20019+ 26816 | 8:18 AM Groningen station | 4h53 | 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RE 6132 · IC 3633 · ICE 123 | On time 9:05 AM Groningen Europapark | 4h09 | 1:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
37625 · IC 532 · IC 3633 · ICE 123 | On time 9:10 AM Groningen Europapark | 4h04 | 1:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 532 · IC 3633 · ICE 123 | On time 9:18 AM Groningen station | 3h56 | 1:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RE 6134 · IC 17931 · 20211 · ICE 109 | On time 9:32 AM Groningen station | 5h18 | 2:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
RE 6134 · IC 17931 · 20211 · ICE 109 | On time 9:35 AM Groningen Europapark | 5h15 | 2:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 536 · ICE 125 | On time 10:18 AM Groningen station | 4h55 | 3:13 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 536 · IC 3637+ 20023+ 26820 | 10:18 AM Groningen station | 4h53 | 3:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 540 · IC 3641 · ICE 125 | On time 11:18 AM Groningen station | 3h55 | 3:13 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RE 6142 · IC 17939 · 20215 · ICE 201 | 11:32 AM Groningen station | 5h18 | 4:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 544 · IC 3645+ 20027+ 26824 | 12:18 PM Groningen station | 4h53 | 5:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 544 · ICE 127 | 12:18 PM Groningen station | 4h55 | 5:13 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 548 · IC 3649 · ICE 127 | 1:18 PM Groningen station | 3h55 | 5:13 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
RE 6150 · IC 17947 · 20219 · ICE 203 | On time 1:32 PM Groningen station | 5h18 | 6:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 552 · ICE 129 | 2:18 PM Groningen station | 4h55 | 7:13 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 552 · IC 3653+ 20031+ 26828 | 2:18 PM Groningen station | 4h53 | 7:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
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 Groningen to Cologne run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 but you can travel from only $22 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:38, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 3h 53m.
Distance 159 miles (256 km) |
Average train duration 4h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 3h 53m |
First train 12:38 AM |
Last train 11:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Groningen 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 Groningen to Cologne trains use the Groningen to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Groningen and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Groningen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: De Drie Gezusters, Mr. Mofongo
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Groningen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Groningen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Groningen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Groningen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include NH Groningen Hotel, The Student Hotel Groningen, City Hotel Groningen.
Groningen Noord is 1 km from Groningen city centre. Public transport options include:
Groningen Noord has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Groningen Noord.
Available at Groningen Noord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Groningen Noord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen Noord: Ramps.
Groningen Europapark is 1 km from Groningen city centre. Public transport options include:
Groningen Europapark has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Groningen Europapark.
ATMs are available at Groningen Europapark.
Available at Groningen Europapark: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Groningen Europapark: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen Europapark.
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/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.
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.
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