Stockholm to Cologne train with SJ

Sat, Jun 20
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SJ
Deutsche Bahn
Snälltåget
Regionale
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SJ
Deutsche Bahn
Snälltåget
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stockholm to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$85

Average price

$108

Fastest journey

17 h 1 m

Average duration

20 h 6 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

1168 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stockholm to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Stockholm to Cologne will cost around $108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Stockholm to Cologne without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Deutsche BahnR 1097 · ICL 50067 · ECE 1199 · ICE 103
    10:53 AM21h55
    Stockholm Central Station
    8:48 AMCologne Hbf
    $851One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnR 1069 · ECE 397 · ICE 619+SJX2 523
    6:48 AM17h01
    Stockholm Central Station
    11:49 PMCologne Hbf
    $1101One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnR 1105 · ICL 50071 · IC 5767 · 11195
    11:25 AM21h23
    Stockholm Central Station
    8:48 AMCologne Hbf
    $1291One-way
    6 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Stockholm to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stockholm to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $81. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.2 - 2.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $81, and a flight costs an average of $26.

Distance: 725 miles (1168 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

$110

Average price

Cheapest

$277

Average price

$140

Average price

16h 19m

Average total duration

15h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 41m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

23h 51m

Average total duration

23h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

-

CO2 emissions

3.5 - 7.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.2 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
SJ

Most popular train company

Malta Air

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

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 Stockholm to Cologne is a train with an average price of $110 (€90).

This is compared to other travel options from Stockholm to Cologne:

A train is $30 (€25) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Stockholm to Cologne costing on average $140 (€115).

A train is $167 (€137) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Stockholm to Cologne costing on average $277 (€227).

The fastest way to travel from Stockholm to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 41m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 15h 49m.

Bus takes on average 23h 21m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Stockholm and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Stockholm to Cologne among Omio's users.

Live departures

Stockholm to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Stockholm to Cologne trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SJX2 523+Deutsche BahnR 1069 · ECE 397 · ICE 619
On time
7:22 AM Stockholm Central Station
16h36
11:58 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
SJX2 525+Deutsche BahnR 1073 · ICL 50055 · IC 5763
On time
8:23 AM Stockholm Central Station
19h07
3:30 AM Cologne Hbf
5 transfers
SJX2 527+Deutsche BahnR 1083 · ECE 399 · ICE 921
On time
9:19 AM Stockholm Central Station
18h11
3:30 AM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
SJX2 531+Deutsche BahnR 1097 · ICL 50067 · ECE 1199
On time
11:20 AM Stockholm Central Station
21h28
8:48 AM Cologne Hbf
4 transfers
SJX2 531+Deutsche BahnR 1097 · ICL 50067 · ECE 119911:20 AM Stockholm Central Station
21h09
8:29 AM Cologne Hbf7 transfers
SJX2 533+Deutsche BahnR 1105 · ICL 50071 · IC 5767
On time
12:23 PM Stockholm Central Station
20h25
8:48 AM Cologne Hbf
6 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Stockholm 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 Stockholm to Cologne trains with Omio?

SJ as well as Deutsche Bahn or Snälltåget offer trains services from Stockholm to Cologne.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SJ tickets.

Why book with Omio vs SJ?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SJ, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Snälltåget to find the best option for your trip from Stockholm 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 SJ with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Stockholm to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Stockholm to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Stockholm to Cologne is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Stockholm to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Stockholm 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 Stockholm to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Stockholm to Cologne

SwedenSweden
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Stockholm to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 15h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $81 (€67) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 725 miles (1168 km) distance in 16h 43m.

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
Flight from $26 (€21)
Distance
725 miles (1168 km)
Average train duration
15h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$81 (€67)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
16h 43m
First train
12:11 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
56 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
Flight from $26 (€21)

Train companies: SJ, Deutsche Bahn, Snälltåget from Stockholm to Cologne trainsSJ, Deutsche Bahn, Snälltåget trains will get you between Stockholm and Cologne from $26 (€21). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

SJ

About
SJ is a Swedish train company that offers a wide range of services to its passengers. It operates high-speed trains, regional trains, and night trains, all of which are comfortable and reliable. The high-speed trains, X2000, are the fastest way to travel between cities, while the regional trains, Pågatåg, are perfect for shorter trips. The night trains, SJ Nattåg, offer a comfortable way to travel overnight. SJ offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and SJ Prio tickets, which offer discounts for frequent travelers. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a café car. The most popular routes for SJ are between Stockholm and Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö, and Stockholm and Uppsala.
Luggage & cancellation policy
SJ frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on long-distance trains, bistro car with snacks and drinks, at-seat service in 1st class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee in 2nd class, included in 1st class ticket
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets free in carrier, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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
19h 29m
Cheapest Price
$146 (€120)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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

Snälltåget

About
Snälltåget is a Swedish train company that offers a range of services to its passengers. It operates a fleet of modern trains, including the X2000, which is the fastest train in Sweden, and the InterCity, which is a comfortable and reliable train. The company also offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes for Snälltåget are between Stockholm and Gothenburg, Malmö and Gothenburg, and Stockholm and Malmö.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17h 19m
Cheapest Price
$177 (€145)
Snälltåget frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to refund policy
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation is mandatory and included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone

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

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Stockholm to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stockholm 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
Train ticket prices from Stockholm to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $81 (€67), while the average price is around $110 (€90).
The train from Stockholm to Cologne takes 16h 43m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Stockholm to Cologne leaves at 12:11 AM.
The distance by train from Stockholm to Cologne is 725 miles (1168 km).
The last train from Stockholm to Cologne leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Stockholm to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Stockholm to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Stockholm to Cologne.
The train station in Stockholm that goes to Cologne is Stockholm Central Station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Stockholm to Cologne is by flight, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
Yes, the train journey from Stockholm to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Swedish countryside with its lush forests and lakes, and the picturesque landscapes of Denmark and northern Germany, showcasing a mix of charming towns, rolling hills, and rivers.
A day trip from Stockholm to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 16h 43m and covers 725 miles (1168 km). There are 2 trips per day for trains.
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 Stockholm to Cologne.
Since both Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm to Cologne

Stockholm
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Stockholm is Stockholm Centralstation. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Stockholm Centralstation for your trip from Stockholm to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • The station WiFi is called "All Station Guests" and is free to use
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located near the bus terminal as well as in the upper level between Blueberry Tunnelgången and Kronans Apotek
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Caffe Ritazza
  • Blueberry Tunnelgången
  • Espresso House
  • Holy Monkey
  • Icha Icha
  • Starbucks
  • Upper Crust
  • Sushi Yama
  • O'Learys
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Facilities include elevators, escalators, ramps and barrier-free toilets. Personalized special assistance can be requested to escort or assist passengers
Hotel
Hotel
  • Freys Hotel
  • Nordic Light Hotel
  • Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information center for visitors, travelers and tourists is located in Centralhallen
Public transit options for Stockholm Centralstation
  • Metro lines: 10, 11, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19
  • Bus lines: 53, 54, 516, 812C, 813C, Flygbussarna
  • Tram lines: 7
  • Train lines: Dala Line, Northern Main Line, East Coast Line, SJ X2000, 40, 41, 42X, 43, 43X, 44, Arlanda Express, FLX

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