Cologne to Paderborn train with Deutsche Bahn (RE,RB,IC,ICE)

Thu, Dec 04
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Deutsche Bahn
National Express
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Paderborn

Showing times and prices for Dec 05

Cheapest price

€35

Average price

€54

Fastest journey

2 h 23 m

Average duration

2 h 41 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

153 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Paderborn will cost around €54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €35.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Cologne for Paderborn on Fri, Dec 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Dec 05 the direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 2 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 23 m .

On Fri, Dec 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 2 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.

FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
04:14PM8h01
Cologne Hbf
12:15AMPaderborn, Maspernplatz-West
€351One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1223
08:24AM2h23
Cologne Messe/Deutz
10:47AMPaderborn Hbf
€351One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnRE 26811 · RB 90017
08:49AM2h51
Cologne Hbf
11:40AMPaderborn Hbf
€471One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2155
09:19AM2h27
Cologne Hbf
11:46AMPaderborn Hbf
€601One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2204 · ICE 757 · RB 90019
09:38AM3h02
Cologne Hbf
12:40PMPaderborn Hbf
€731One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Paderborn

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Paderborn among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €15, and a bus costs an average of €14.

Distance: 153 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€27

Average price

Cheapest

€28

Average price

2h 51m

Average total duration

2h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 34m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cologne to Paderborn train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Paderborn trains for today, Thursday, December 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:12 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 1223
Delayed
7:24 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h23
9:48 AM 9:48 AMPaderborn Hbf		0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnRE 26811 · RB 90017
On time
7:49 AM Cologne Hbf
2h51
10:40 AM Paderborn Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 2155
On time
8:19 AM Cologne Hbf
2h27
10:46 AM Paderborn Hbf		0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 847 · RB 90067
On time
8:26 AM Cologne Hbf
2h44
11:10 AM Paderborn Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 2204 · ICE 757 · RB 90019
On time
8:38 AM Cologne Hbf
3h02
11:40 AM Paderborn Hbf		2 transfers
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus3:01 PM Cologne Hbf
8h14
11:15 PM Paderborn, Maspernplatz-West1 transfer
Friday, December 5
deutsche_bahn4:21 AM Cologne
2h25
6:46 AM Paderborn0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Paderborn by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Fri
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Paderborn

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Paderborn run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €15 but you can travel from only €14 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 153 km distance in 2h 21m.

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 €14
Distance
153 km
Average train duration
2h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
€15
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 21m
First train
00:15
Last train
23:40
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 €14

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, National Express, FlixTrain from Cologne to Paderborn trainsDeutsche Bahn, National Express, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne and Paderborn from €14. 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
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
€13
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 44m
Cheapest Price
€14
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 57m
Cheapest Price
€43
National Express frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Paderborn

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Paderborn 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 Paderborn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Paderborn can start from as little as €15 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne to Paderborn is €28; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The train time between Cologne and Paderborn is on average 2 h 23 min   for the 152 km long journey, but the time it takes to go from Cologne to Paderborn by train can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cologne to Paderborn leaves at 00: 11. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Cologne to Paderborn leaves at 23: 37.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Cologne to Paderborn without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn. There is 1 direct train from Cologne to Paderborn each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the trip from Cologne to Paderborn you can take a train with Deutsche Bahn or National Express. Be sure to check out all possible train providers that offer services to Paderborn from Cologne on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 37.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Cologne Hbf, which is located around 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Paderborn Hbf, located 1.4 miles (2.3 km) away from the city centre.

A trip to Paderborn from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 23 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cologne to Paderborn is November.
You have options as you can travel to Paderborn from Cologne 2 different ways: train or coach.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Paderborn

Cologne
Paderborn
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Paderborn.
Köln HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln-EhrenfeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Köln-Ehrenfeld, Stammstr. 1, 50968 Köln
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
  • Burger King
  • Café Franck
  • Eichendorf
Hotel
Hotel
  • Kölnotel
  • Black Hotels
Köln-Mülheim WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Köln-Mülheim, Montanusstr., 51065 Köln-Mülheim
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
  • Tuesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
  • Wednesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
  • Thursday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
  • Friday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Zum Piccolo
  • Kolpinghaus
  • Pizzeria Marco Polo
  • Grill Stube
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Europa
  • Hotel Geisler
  • The niu Mill

More options for your journey from Cologne to Paderborn

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Tickets and more information for trains to Cologne

Most popular train connections to Paderborn

Train Düsseldorf - Paderborn
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyCologne to Paderborn train

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