- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$135
Fastest journey
4 h 25 m
Average duration
4 h 41 m
Trains per day
38
Distance
381 km
Cheap tickets
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 $135 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
Of the 38 trains that leave Leipzig for Cologne 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 381 km distance in an average of 4 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 25 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 46 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.
FlixTrain+
FlixBus11:04 AM9h16Leipzig Hbf8:20 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$521One-way1 transfer- FlixTrain11:04 AM6h39Leipzig Hbf5:43 PMCologne Hbf$781One-way0 transfers
ICE 601 · 4628 · ICE 243:55 PM6h20Leipzig Hbf10:15 PMCologne Hbf$961One-way2 transfers- ICE 601 · 4628 · ICE 24 · ICE 1023:55 PM5h10Leipzig Hbf9:05 PMCologne Hbf$1011One-way3 transfers
- IC 2440 · ICE 84812:53 PM5h40Leipzig Hbf6:33 PMCologne Hbf$1021One-way1 transfer
- ICE 2595 · ICE 7248:49 AM4h25Leipzig Hbf1:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$1631One-way1 transfer
- ICE 2595 · ICE 15188:49 AM4h44Leipzig Hbf1:33 PMCologne Hbf$1411One-way1 transfer
- ICE 837 · ICE 72010:28 AM4h46Leipzig Hbf3:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$1631One-way1 transfer
- ICE 931 · ICE 6222:28 PM4h46Leipzig Hbf7:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$1411One-way1 transfer
- ICE 839 · ICE 62612:28 PM4h46Leipzig Hbf5:14 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$1411One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Leipzig to Cologne
Omio 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 prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $294.
Distance: 236 miles (381 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$80 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $670 Average price | $85 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 44m Average total duration Fastest 6h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 7m Average total duration 6h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 14m Average total duration 7h 14m Onboard + 3h 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 |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Leipzig to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $38 (€31).
This is compared to other travel options from Leipzig to Cologne:
A bus is $43 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average $80 (€66).
A bus is $632 (€518) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average $670 (€549).
The fastest way to travel from Leipzig to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 6h 14m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 37m.
Flight takes on average 7h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leipzig and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with FlixTrain.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Leipzig to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 905 · ICE 1022 · ICE 204 | Delayed 12:04 AM 2:04 AMLeipzig Hbf | 7h01 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 806 · ICE 642 | On time 7:16 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h18 | 1:34 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1654 · ICE 126 | On time 7:27 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h16 | 12:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1654 · ICE 726 | On time 7:27 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h47 | 12:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 503 · 4612 · ICE 926 · ICE 200 | On time 7:55 AM Leipzig Hbf | 5h10 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 503 · 4612 · ICE 926 | On time 7:55 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h10 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 2595 · 4495 · ICE 1645 | On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h16 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 2595 · ICE 724 | On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h25 | 1:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 2595 · ICE 1518 | On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf | 4h44 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixTrain+FlixBus | 11:04 AM Leipzig Hbf | 9h16 | 8:20 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixTrain | 11:04 AM Leipzig Hbf | 6h39 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 1:00 PM Leipzig, Hbf | 8h40 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 4:05 AM Leipzig, Hbf | 9h36 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leipzig to Cologne by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Why should you book Leipzig to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Leipzig to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leipzig to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Leipzig to Cologne.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leipzig to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leipzig to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Leipzig to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Leipzig to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Leipzig to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Leipzig to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Leipzig to Cologne.
Trains
from $24Buses
from $22ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Leipzig to Cologne
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE, regional express ICE 1656, ICE 128, RE 92nd class
Purpose
Holidays
Month
April
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Holidays
Month
April
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
Wifi availablePunctualSufficient seating availableDisadvantages
NothingI travelled to Cologne with my husband for a city trip. We had always wanted to see the cathedral. We travelled by train and were even lucky enough to get seats. The wifi worked really well. There was also an on-board restaurant on the ICE trains. But we didn't use it. All the trains were on time and we arrived as planned.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE 693, 5282nd class
Purpose
Private
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Private
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
Just in time, the change workedComfort and equipmentCleanliness and hygiene very goodDisadvantages
Toilet defectiveAir conditioning did not workFrom Leipzig to Cologne I had to change trains in Frankfurt, but this worked out very well due to the punctuality. Neither train was very full either. Although there was a direct train, this would have been a bit more expensive, which is why I chose this connection. Both trains were clean, but the toilet on the first train was faulty. On the same train, the air conditioning wasn't working either, so it was very hot. Otherwise, the cleanliness and hygiene was very good. The seats were very comfortable on both trains and they were fully equipped. I can definitely recommend this connection.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE 1654 / 7262nd class
Purpose
Business
Month
June
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Business
Month
June
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
PünkltichFastCentrally locatedDisadvantages
Little cleanlinessI travelled from Leipzig to Cologne by train after a conference.
I have to change trains in Frankfurt and change ICE trains. Fortunately, everything is on time. The staff are very friendly and there is an on-board bistro, which makes the journey a little more pleasant.
Unfortunately, the loo and the train were not very clean. There were enough seats and I didn't have to make a reservation.
If Deutsche Bahn is punctual, it's a great alternative to other means of transport.
Train details
Deutsche BahnIC 24422
Purpose
Family
Month
March
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Family
Month
March
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
No changeoverDisadvantages
DelayUnfortunately, this train journey was not a good experience. The train was late and extremely full. I didn't have a seat at the beginning and had to sit in the aisle. The air was bad and it was noisy in the carriage. The wifi wasn't working and there was no announcement about the delay. I was glad when the journey was finally over.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
PersonnelWIFIDisadvantages
ToiletsMy train journey was very satisfactory overall. The train arrived on time, which is always important to me personally. The seats were comfortable enough for me to sit and relax for long periods of time. The wifi worked well for the most part, even if it sometimes wiped out briefly. The staff on board were friendly and helpful, which made the journey more pleasant. One small drawback was the toilets, which could have been cleaner. Nevertheless, I would choose this connection again.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
No delays, no changesAffordable ticket and good facilitiesComfort and cleanliness very goodDisadvantages
NoneThe train from Leipzig to Cologne was relatively under-utilised, so I didn't have to reserve a seat in advance. The journey didn't take long and I didn't have to change trains. The ticket price was also reasonable for the long journey. The seat was very comfortable and had power sockets, internet and a large table. There was also a snack vending machine on the train. The cleanliness was very good and the toilets looked hygienic. The staff were very friendly and carried out a quick check. The train was not delayed, which is why I can fully recommend the journey.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
Clean trainDisadvantages
DelayNo on-board bistro openSeat reservation was cancelled because there were new/fewer compartmentsThe train was clean. But we had to start late and there was a change of carriage numbers, so our seat reservation was affected. Paying over €300 in total for a journey from Leipzig to Cologne is not a good option when you consider how much you would pay for the journey by car. I have travelled the route 3 times so far and have always been disappointed
Advantages
PunctualityComfortbeautiful viewThat was my outward journey. The train arrived on time and I got on. I was greeted nicely by the staff and sat down. My seat was very comfortable and was clean. The wifi was good throughout although it was used by many. Then I went to the toilet and it was clean. I then sat down again and enjoyed the beautiful view. I arrived on time. I can recommend this journey.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 6h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 (€12) 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 4h 44m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 236 miles (381 km) |
Average train duration 6h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $15 (€12) |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 44m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 63 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from $15 (€12). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 44m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 39m
Cheapest Price
$15 (€12)
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
$115 (€94)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Cologne
Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
- Must visit
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Cologne’s key archaeology museum for Roman heritage, especially famous for the Dionysus mosaic and Roman artifacts from the city.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century painting, including one of Germany’s leading Impressionist collections.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular riverfront promenade in Deutz with one of the city’s best postcard views toward the cathedral skyline, especially at sunset.
- Must visit
Cologne Old Town
Classic walking area with narrow lanes, traditional houses, churches, and river access, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
One of the Old Town’s best-known squares, surrounded by historic facades and a lively atmosphere close to major sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
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.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
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.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
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.
Hanse Stube
An established fine-dining restaurant in central Cologne offering refined modern European cuisine, polished service, and an elegant hotel dining room.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
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.
Früh am Dom
One of Cologne’s most famous brauhäuser near the cathedral, known for Kölsch and classic Rhineland dishes in a lively traditional atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or currywurst.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
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.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Hbf -> Cologne City Center
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tickets can be bought in the KVB-App and at station machines before boarding.
- Card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not always on board buses and trams, so buy your ticket in advance.
FAQs: Trains from Leipzig to Cologne
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.
Train ticket prices from Leipzig to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15 (€12), while the average price is around $80 (€66).
The train from Leipzig to Cologne takes 4h 44m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Leipzig to Cologne is 236 miles (381 km).
The first train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Leipzig to Cologne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leipzig to Cologne.
The train station in Leipzig that goes to Cologne is Leipzig Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Leipzig to Cologne offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the scenic Rhine Valley, charming villages, and rolling hills, making it a pleasant experience, although not the most dramatically scenic route in Germany.
A day trip from Leipzig to Cologne is not feasible with a travel duration of 4h 44m each way. However, there are 12 train trips available per day for this 236 miles (381 km) journey.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Leipzig to Cologne.
Since both Leipzig and Cologne are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Leipzig to Cologne
Leipzig
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Leipzig is Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof for your trip from Leipzig to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
23Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Willy-Brandt-Platz
Dining
- Restaurant Zchocolat
- Vapiano Leipzig
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
- a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Leipzig
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-13 for long-distance and regional trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 14-23
- Hall 3: shopping and dining area
Public transit options for Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- Tram: Lines 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15
- S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S5X, S6
- Bus: Several lines available
Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- El-Amir
- Pata Negra
- Shams Bistro
- China White
Hotel
- Dorint Hotel Leipzig
- Adagio
- SchlafGut AppartementHotel
- Gwuni Mopera
Leipzig Markt
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Dining
- China White
- Cafe Barbakane
- X-Maza
- Vodkaria
Hotel
- Seaside Park
- Pentahotel Leipzig
- Victors Residenzhotel
- Marriott
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Leipzig.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Leipzig
More options for your journey from Leipzig to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Leipzig
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