Salzburg to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RB)

Fri, Nov 13
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | Nightjet
ÖBB | ICE
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Salzburg to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 13
Cheapest price on Nov 13
$122
Average ticket price on Nov 13
$147
Fastest journey on Nov 13
6 h 29 m
Average journey duration on Nov 13
6 h 48 m
Trains on Nov 13
9
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 $147 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $122.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Salzburg to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 2047+Bayerische Regiobahn79004
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 612+Bayerische Regiobahn79004
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnRJ 1296 · ICE 1010
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnS 3 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926+Bayerische Regiobahn79008
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnS 3 · ICE 1010+Bayerische Regiobahn79008
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Salzburg to Cologne

AustriaAustria
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Salzburg to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 349 miles (562 km) distance in 5h 36m.

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
349 miles (562 km)
Average train duration
6h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$16
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
5h 36m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
42 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

Frequently asked questions about your Salzburg to Cologne trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Salzburg to Cologne.

Train ticket prices from Salzburg to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $16, while the average price is around $118.
The train from Salzburg to Cologne takes 5h 36m and runs 5 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 ÖBB | Nightjet.

Live departures

Salzburg to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Salzburg to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 2047+Bayerische Regiobahn79004
Delayed
6:28 AM 5:05 AMSalzburg Hbf
8h01
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 612+Bayerische Regiobahn79004
Delayed
6:28 AM 5:05 AMSalzburg Hbf
6h59
12:04 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnRJ 1296 · ICE 1010
On time
5:39 AM Salzburg Hbf
6h50
12:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnS 3 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926+Bayerische Regiobahn790085:47 AM Salzburg Hbf
8h19
2:06 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnS 3 · ICE 1010+Bayerische Regiobahn790085:47 AM Salzburg Hbf
6h42
12:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 212 · ICE 918 · ICE 228
On time
8:00 AM Salzburg Hbf
8h06
4:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 212 · ICE 918
On time
8:00 AM Salzburg Hbf
6h29
2:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 518 · ICE 2012+Bayerische Regiobahn79020
Delayed
10:28 AM 9:05 AMSalzburg Hbf
8h01
5:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 518+Bayerische Regiobahn79020
Delayed
10:28 AM 9:05 AMSalzburg Hbf
6h59
4:04 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Salzburg to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | Nightjet or ÖBB | ICE 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 or ÖBB | ICE 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.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet from Salzburg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet trains will get you between Salzburg and Cologne from $16. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
5h 36m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$16
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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.
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.
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.
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 ÖBB | ICE Duration
6h 27m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
$74
ÖBB | ICE frequency
2 a day
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

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 ÖBB | Nightjet Duration
8h 14m
Cheapest ÖBB | Nightjet Price
$83
ÖBB | Nightjet frequency
4 a day
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Salzburg and Cologne

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Salzburg to Cologne.
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.

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

Museum Ludwig

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

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.

Plan your visit to Cologne

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.

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.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
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.

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.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Salzburg to Cologne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Salzburg to Cologne

Most Salzburg to Cologne trains use the Salzburg Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Salzburg and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Salzburg
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Salzburg station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Salzburg to Cologne leave from Salzburg Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Salzburg city centre at Südtiroler Platz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
Salzburg HbfSüdtiroler Platz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria+43 5 1717WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Salzburg Hbf from Salzburg city centre

Salzburg Hbf is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus22, 23, 25, 170 · 6m · $3 · every ~20 min

Salzburg Hbf train station facilities and services

Salzburg Hbf 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 and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Imlauer, Stieglitz

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Salzburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Salzburg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salzburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salzburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Hbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Europa Salzburg, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre, H+ Hotel Salzburg.

Salzburg Aiglhof5020 Salzburg, AustriaParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Salzburg Aiglhof from Salzburg city centre

Salzburg Aiglhof is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus4, 8 · 9m · $4 · every ~19 min

Salzburg Aiglhof train station facilities and services

Salzburg Aiglhof has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.

Salzburg Taxham Europark5020 Salzburg, AustriaParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Salzburg Taxham Europark from Salzburg city centre

Salzburg Taxham Europark is 3 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe, 25760, 25758, 25756, 25754, 25752, 25736, 25762, 25734, 25732, 25730, 25728, 25738, 25764, 25770, 25726, 25772, 25774, 25776, 25778, 25780, 25782, 25784, 25786, 25788, 25794, 25796, 25766, 25724, 25768, 25720, 25722, 3010, 3012, 5058, 5070, 5072, 5074, 5076, 5078, 5066, 5060, 25710, 25716, 25714, 25712, 25706, 25708, 25702, 25704, 25718, 25790, 5088, 25742, 25740, 5068 · 4m · $10 · every ~7 min
Bus1 · 14m · $4 · every ~10 min
1 · 16m · $5 · every ~10 min
28 · 20m · $5 · every ~6 min
28 · 34m · every ~6 min

Salzburg Taxham Europark train station facilities and services

Salzburg Taxham Europark has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salzburg Taxham Europark: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salzburg Taxham Europark: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.

Train stations for Salzburg to Cologne

Check train stations information for Salzburg and Cologne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Salzburg that goes to Cologne is Salzburg Hbf, which connects to Köln Hbf.

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