- 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
$36
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$105
Fastest journey on Sep 08
6 h 29 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
6 h 38 m
Trains on Sep 08
21
Distance
562 km
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 $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 21 trains from Salzburg to Cologne, including 1 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 562 km distance in an average of 6 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 29 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 6 h 54 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.
ICE 210 · ICE 916
RJ 1296 · ICE 726
79004+
ICE 612
79024+
ICE 516 · IC 2041
79004+
ICE 612 · IC 2047
EC 212 · ICE 918
ICE 210 · ICE 916
RJ 1296 · ICE 726
ICE 118 · ICE 224
ICE 118Omio 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 an average ticket price of $62 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 56m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $62, while a flight costs an average of $600.
Distance: 349 miles (562 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$122 Average price | $62 Average price Cheapest | $600 Average price | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 15m Average total duration 6h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 35m Average total duration 11h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 56m Average total duration Fastest 2h 56m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 3.4kg 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 Salzburg to Cologne:
A bus is $60 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Salzburg to Cologne costing on average $122.
A bus is $537 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Salzburg to Cologne costing on average $600.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 45m.
Bus takes on average 11h 5m.
You'll arrive about 7m sooner (6h 45m by train vs 6h 52m by car). Tickets start at around $122 compared to roughly $55 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 Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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 Salzburg 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 512+ 79034 | Delayed 3:28 PM 3:05 PMSalzburg Hbf | 7h00 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 512 · IC 2347+ 79034 | Delayed 3:28 PM 3:05 PMSalzburg Hbf | 8h01 | 11:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
EC 114 · ICE 910 | On time 4:00 PM Salzburg Hbf | 6h30 | 10:30 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 590 · ICE 100+ 79036 | Delayed 4:45 PM 4:05 PMSalzburg Hbf | 7h05 | 11:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 524+ 79036 | Delayed 4:44 PM 4:05 PMSalzburg Hbf | 7h34 | 11:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 618+ 79046 | 9:07 PM Salzburg Hbf | 8h57 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
DB S8+ ICE 618+ NJ 492 | 9:23 PM Salzburg Hbf | 8h41 | 6:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 614+ 79048 | 10:55 PM Salzburg Hbf | 11h10 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
ICE 612 · IC 2047+ 79004 | Delayed 5:28 AM 5:05 AMSalzburg Hbf | 8h01 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 612+ 79004 | Delayed 5:28 AM 5:05 AMSalzburg Hbf | 7h00 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJ 1296 · ICE 726 | On time 5:39 AM Salzburg Hbf | 6h35 | 12:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 690 · ICE 200+ 79010 | Delayed 6:45 AM 6:05 AMSalzburg Hbf | 7h00 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
S 2 · 27086 · 27004 · ICE 690 | On time 6:08 AM Salzburg Hbf | 6h57 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 4 transfers | |
ICE 610+ 79012 | Delayed 7:28 AM 6:46 AMSalzburg Hbf | 7h19 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
R 25798 · ICE 610 · IC 2045+ 79014 | On time 6:54 AM Salzburg Hbf | 8h12 | 3:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
R 25798 · ICE 610+ 79014 | On time 6:54 AM Salzburg Hbf | 7h11 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
EC 212 · ICE 918 | On time 8:00 AM Salzburg Hbf | 6h29 | 2:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
EC 212 · ICE 880 · ICE 228 | On time 8:00 AM Salzburg Hbf | 8h06 | 4:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 518 · ICE 2012+ 79020 | Delayed 9:28 AM 9:05 AMSalzburg Hbf | 8h01 | 5:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 518+ 79020 | Delayed 9:28 AM 9:05 AMSalzburg Hbf | 7h00 | 4:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 210 · ICE 1514 | On time 10:00 AM Salzburg Hbf | 7h33 | 5:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 210 · ICE 916 | On time 10:00 AM Salzburg Hbf | 6h29 | 4:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 516+ 79024 | Delayed 11:28 AM 11:05 AMSalzburg Hbf | 7h00 | 6:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 516 · IC 2041+ 79024 | Delayed 11:28 AM 11:05 AMSalzburg Hbf | 8h01 | 7:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 118 · ICE 26 | On time 12:00 PM Salzburg Hbf | 8h06 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 118 · ICE 224 | On time 12:00 PM Salzburg Hbf | 6h43 | 6:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 118 | On time 12:00 PM Salzburg Hbf | 6h54 | 6:54 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Salzburg to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 45m. 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.
Distance 349 miles (562 km) |
Average train duration 6h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 |
Trains per day 6 |
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 |
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 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.

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.
Salzburg Hbf is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Restaurant Imlauer, Stieglitz
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Salzburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Salzburg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Salzburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Salzburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Hbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Europa Salzburg, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre, H+ Hotel Salzburg.
Salzburg Aiglhof is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Salzburg Aiglhof has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.
ATMs are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.
Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.
Salzburg Taxham Europark is 3 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Salzburg Taxham Europark has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.
ATMs are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.
Available at Salzburg Taxham Europark: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Salzburg Taxham Europark: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Taxham Europark.
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.
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