- 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
$24
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$78
Fastest journey on Sep 08
4 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
4 h 22 m
Trains on Sep 08
27
Distance
381 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leipzig to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leipzig to Cologne will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 27 trains from Leipzig to Cologne, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 381 km distance in an average of 4 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 15 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 4 h 25 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.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
S5 · 16342 · 80340 · ICE 646
ICE 1746 · ICE 611
IC 2048
ICE 503 · ICE 750 · ICE 726
ICE 1746 · ICE 837 · ICE 722
ICE 503 · ICE 750 · ICE 726
ICE 595 · ICE 724
ICE 597 · ICE 720
ICE 593 · ICE 728Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $40 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 5m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, while a flight costs an average of $654.
Distance: 236 miles (381 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $654 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 29m Average total duration 4h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 35m Average total duration 8h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 5m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - 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 Leipzig to Cologne:
A bus is $79 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average $119.
A bus is $614 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average $654.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 59m.
Bus takes on average 8h 5m.
You'll arrive about 34m sooner (4h 59m by train vs 5h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $119 compared to roughly $87 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 FlixTrain.
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 Leipzig to Cologne 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 509 · ICE 931 · ICE 26 | Delayed 11:57 AM 1:55 PMLeipzig Hbf | 6h11 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 509 · ICE 931 · ICE 624 | Delayed 11:57 AM 1:55 PMLeipzig Hbf | 4h19 | 4:27 PM 4:27 PMCologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
S5 · 16342 · 80340 · ICE 646 | On time 12:07 AM Leipzig Hbf | 9h08 | 9:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 4 transfers | |
ICE 1656 · ICE 614 | On time 5:28 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h37 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2434 · ICE 654 | On time 5:46 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h28 | 11:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2044 · ICE 954 | On time 6:40 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h42 | 12:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2044 | On time 6:40 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h05 | 12:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 593 · ICE 728 | On time 6:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h25 | 11:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 593 · ICE 1610 | On time 6:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h44 | 11:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2238 · IC 2432 · ICE 652 | On time 7:42 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h33 | 1:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 503 · ICE 750 · ICE 726 | On time 7:55 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h19 | 12:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
ICE 503 · ICE 750 · ICE 126 | On time 7:55 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h48 | 12:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2046 | On time 8:41 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h04 | 2:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2046 · ICE 952 | On time 8:41 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h41 | 2:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 595 · IC 2045 | On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h17 | 3:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 595 · ICE 724 | On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h25 | 1:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 595 · ICE 1518 | On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h44 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1652 · ICE 610 | On time 9:27 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h38 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2430 · ICE 650 | On time 9:42 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h33 | 3:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1746 · ICE 837 · ICE 722 | On time 9:59 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h15 | 2:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1746 · ICE 611 | On time 9:59 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h47 | 3:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1746 · ICE 837 · ICE 124 | On time 9:59 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h44 | 2:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2048 | On time 10:41 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h04 | 4:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2048 · ICE 950 | On time 10:41 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h40 | 4:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 597 · ICE 1516 | On time 10:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h44 | 3:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 597 · ICE 2012 | On time 10:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h17 | 5:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 597 · ICE 720 | On time 10:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h25 | 3:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 1:00 PM Leipzig, Hbf | 8h55 | 9:55 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 236 miles (381 km) distance in 3h 50m.
Distance 236 miles (381 km) |
Average train duration 4h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $15 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 50m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne trains use the Leipzig Hauptbahnhof to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Leipzig and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof 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 Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.
Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof is 1 km from Leipzig city centre. Public transport options include:
Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof 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: El-Amir, Pata Negra, Shams Bistro, China White
Wi-Fi is available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof. ATMs are available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof.
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof. Information desks are available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof.
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof.
Nearby hotels include Dorint Hotel Leipzig, Adagio, SchlafGut AppartementHotel, Gwuni Mopera.
Leipzig Markt 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: China White, Cafe Barbakane, X-Maza, Vodkaria
Wi-Fi is available at Leipzig Markt. ATMs are available at Leipzig Markt.
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Markt. Information desks are available at Leipzig Markt.
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Markt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Leipzig Markt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Leipzig Markt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Markt.
Nearby hotels include Seaside Park, Pentahotel Leipzig, Victors Residenzhotel, Marriott.
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