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The cheapest and fastest trains from Salzburg to Cologne
Showing times and prices for May 04
Cheapest price
$91
Average price
$126
Fastest journey
6 h 14 m
Average duration
7 h
Trains per day
5
Distance
562 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Salzburg to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Salzburg to Cologne will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Salzburg for Cologne on Mon, May 04, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 04 the direct trains cover the 562 km distance in an average of 7 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 14 m .
On Mon, May 04 the slowest trains will take 7 h 56 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.
7:00 AM6h14Salzburg1:14 PMCologne$911One-way0 transfers- 7:33 AM6h32Salzburg2:05 PMCologne$961One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 AM8h01Salzburg4:06 PMCologne$1471One-way0 transfers
- 9:08 AM7h56Salzburg5:04 PMCologne$1481One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM7h44Salzburg3:44 PMCologne$1481One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM6h14Salzburg1:14 PMCologne$911One-way0 transfers
- 7:33 AM6h32Salzburg2:05 PMCologne$961One-way0 transfers
- 11:08 AM6h35Salzburg5:43 PMCologne$1831One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM7h44Salzburg3:44 PMCologne$1481One-way0 transfers
- 9:08 AM7h56Salzburg5:04 PMCologne$1481One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Salzburg to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Salzburg to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 13m. 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 $37, and a flight costs an average of $179.
Distance: 349 miles (562 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$153 Average price | $59 Average price Cheapest | $675 Average price |
8h 21m Average total duration 7h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 8m Average total duration 11h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 13m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Salzburg to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Salzburg to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Monday, May 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 2:55 AM Salzburg | 8h10 | 11:05 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:00 AM Salzburg | 6h14 | 1:14 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:00 AM Salzburg | 7h44 | 3:44 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:08 AM Salzburg | 7h56 | 5:04 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:08 AM Salzburg | 6h35 | 5:43 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Salzburg to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Salzburg 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 ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Salzburg 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 Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Salzburg to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Salzburg to Cologne is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Salzburg to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Cologne.
Trains
from $44Buses
from $42Flights
from $131Journey information
Overview: Train from Salzburg to Cologne
Austria
Germany
Trains from Salzburg to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 7h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) but you can travel from only $37 (€29) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 349 miles (562 km) distance in 6h 5m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€29)
Distance 349 miles (562 km) |
Average train duration 7h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€38) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 6h 5m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 84 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€29)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Salzburg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Salzburg and Cologne from $37 (€29). 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
6h 5m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
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
ÖBB | Nightjet
About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 10m
Cheapest Price
$130 (€104)
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
ÖBB | ICE
About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 44m
Cheapest Price
$139 (€111)
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 54m
Cheapest Price
$119 (€95)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Trains from Salzburg to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€38), while the average price is around $153 (€123).
The train from Salzburg to Cologne takes 6h 5m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Salzburg to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Salzburg to Cologne is 349 miles (562 km).
The last train from Salzburg to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Salzburg to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Yes, there is a night train from Salzburg to Cologne.
The train station in Salzburg that goes to Cologne is Salzburg Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Salzburg to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€29).
Yes, the train journey from Salzburg to Cologne is scenic, offering views of the Austrian Alps, picturesque countryside, and beautiful river valleys, particularly the section along the Rhine River.
A day trip from Salzburg to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 5m one way and covers 349 miles (562 km). There are 8 train trips per day.
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 Salzburg to Cologne.
Since both Salzburg 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 Salzburg 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.
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 Salzburg to Cologne
Salzburg
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Salzburg is Salzburg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Salzburg Hbf for your trip from Salzburg 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
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
11Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible from Südtiroler Platz.
Dining
- Restaurant Imlauer
- Stieglitz
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Hotel Europa Salzburg
- Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre
- H+ Hotel Salzburg
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for ÖBB and Westbahn trains
- Hall 2: platforms 6-11 for regional and international trains
Public transit options for Salzburg Hbf
- Bus: Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 25
- S-Bahn: Line S3
- Trolleybus: Lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike ParkingSalzburg Aiglhof
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingThe 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 Salzburg.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike 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 Salzburg
More options for your journey from Salzburg to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Salzburg
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