The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Leipzig
Cheapest price
€24
Average price
€84
Fastest journey
4 h 46 m
Average duration
4 h 49 m
Trains per day
22
Distance
381 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Leipzig is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Leipzig will cost around €84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €24.
Of the 22 trains that leave Cologne for Leipzig 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 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 46 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 58 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 941 · IC 20471:27 PM6h07Cologne Hbf7:34 PMLeipzig Hbf€241One-way1 transfer
FlixBus+
FlixTrain9:25 AM9h24Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)6:49 PMLeipzig Hbf€411One-way1 transfer
ICE 629 · ICE 16531:45 PM4h47Cologne Messe/Deutz6:32 PMLeipzig Hbf€461One-way1 transfer
ICE 123 · ICE 16531:18 PM5h14Cologne Hbf6:32 PMLeipzig Hbf€461One-way1 transfer
FlixTrain12:14 PM6h35Cologne Hbf6:49 PMLeipzig Hbf€581One-way0 transfers
ICE 529 · ICE 9308:45 AM4h46Cologne Messe/Deutz1:31 PMLeipzig Hbf€1001One-way1 transfer
ICE 527 · ICE 25977:45 AM4h46Cologne Messe/Deutz12:31 PMLeipzig Hbf€701One-way1 transfer
ICE 621 · ICE 7599:45 AM4h46Cologne Messe/Deutz2:31 PMLeipzig Hbf€661One-way1 transfer
ICE 629 · ICE 16531:45 PM4h47Cologne Messe/Deutz6:32 PMLeipzig Hbf€461One-way1 transfer
ICE 1713 · ICE 25977:33 AM4h58Cologne Hbf12:31 PMLeipzig Hbf€701One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Leipzig
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Leipzig among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 5m. 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 €19, and a flight costs an average of €317.
Distance: 381 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€74 Average price | €32 Average price Cheapest | €616 Average price |
6h 30m Average total duration 6h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 11m Average total duration 6h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - 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
Cologne to Leipzig train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Leipzig trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 129 · ICE 889 | Delayed 5:29 PM 7:18 PMCologne Hbf | 5h14 | 12:32 AM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 821 · ICE 889 | On time 7:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h47 | 12:32 AM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
ICE 543 · IC 2035 · 16115 | On time 6:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h14 | 12:39 PM Leipzig Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1648 · 29507 · ICE 930 | On time 6:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h38 | 1:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 1713 · ICE 2597 | On time 7:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h58 | 12:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 527 · ICE 2597 | On time 7:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h46 | 12:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 11 · ICE 930 | On time 8:19 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h12 | 1:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 529 · ICE 930 | On time 8:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h46 | 1:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 1940 · 29511 · ICE 838 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h38 | 3:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 508 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h10 | 2:04 PM Leipzig Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 2298 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h10 | 2:04 PM Leipzig Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 508 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h06 | 2:04 PM Leipzig Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 2298 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h06 | 2:04 PM Leipzig Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 121 · ICE 759 | On time 9:18 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h13 | 2:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 9:25 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 9h24 | 6:49 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 847 · IC 2441 | On time 9:26 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 3:36 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 621 · ICE 759 | On time 9:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h46 | 2:31 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 27 · ICE 838 · ICE 506 | On time 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h11 | 4:04 PM Leipzig Hbf | 2 transfers | |
FlixTrain | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h35 | 6:49 PM Leipzig Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 549 · IC 2431 · 16127 | On time 12:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h13 | 6:39 PM Leipzig Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 107 · ICE 29 · 4617 · ICE 504 | On time 12:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h10 | 6:04 PM Leipzig Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 123 · ICE 1653 | On time 1:18 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h14 | 6:32 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 941 · IC 2047 | On time 1:27 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 7:34 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 629 · ICE 1653 | On time 1:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h47 | 6:32 PM Leipzig Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Leipzig 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.
Jun 20
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Jul 01
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Why should you book Cologne to Leipzig trains with Omio?
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 Cologne to Leipzig.
- 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 Cologne to Leipzig.
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 Cologne to Leipzig.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Leipzig?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Leipzig
Trains from Cologne to Leipzig run on average 12 times per day, taking around 6h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €18 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 381 km distance in 4h 19m.
Distance 381 km |
Average train duration 6h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price €18 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 19m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 49 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Leipzig trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Leipzig from €18. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Leipzig
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Leipzig 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 Leipzig, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Leipzig
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
- There are luggage lockers in the station
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
- 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
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- 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
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Willy-Brandt-Platz
- Restaurant Zchocolat
- Vapiano Leipzig
- Outside the main entrance
- Elevators, ramps
- €1
- Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
- a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Leipzig
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- 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
- 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
- China White
- Cafe Barbakane
- X-Maza
- Vodkaria
- Seaside Park
- Pentahotel Leipzig
- Victors Residenzhotel
- Marriott
- Dönerhaus
- Grand Canyon
- Graf Zeppelin
- Glücksboot Asia-Erlebnisgastronomie
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Leipzig
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