Dresden to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE)

Tue, Dec 30
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
Regiojet
Northern Rail (3)
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
Regiojet
Northern Rail (3)
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dresden to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Dec 30

Cheapest price

€70

Average price

€105

Fastest journey

5 h 30 m

Average duration

6 h 10 m

Trains per day

11

Distance

475 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Dresden to Cologne will cost around €105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €70.

Fast trains

Of the 11 trains that leave Dresden for Cologne on Tue, Dec 30, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Dec 30 the direct trains cover the 475 km distance in an average of 6 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 30 m .

On Tue, Dec 30 the slowest trains will take 6 h 48 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
06:53AM6h48
Dresden Hbf
01:41PMCologne Hbf
701One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain
07:00AM6h41
Dresden-Neustadt station
01:41PMCologne Hbf
701One-way
0 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
04:30AM9h11
Dresden, Bf Neustadt
01:41PMCologne Hbf
751One-way
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
04:15AM9h26
Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
01:41PMCologne Hbf
751One-way
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
08:15AM9h28
Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
05:43PMCologne Hbf
801One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Dresden to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dresden to Cologne 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 2h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, and a flight costs an average of €326.

Distance: 475 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€77

Average price

€37

Average price

Cheapest

€466

Average price

7h 54m

Average total duration

7h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 39m

Average total duration

8h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 0m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Dresden to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Dresden to Cologne trains for today, Monday, December 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:08 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn8:53 PM Dresden
7h56
4:49 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, December 30
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus+flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:15 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
9h26
12:41 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus+flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:30 AM Dresden, Bf Neustadt
9h11
12:41 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain5:53 AM Dresden Hbf
6h48
12:41 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain6:00 AM Dresden-Neustadt station
6h41
12:41 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1652 · ICE 610
On time
7:11 AM Dresden Hbf
5h54
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus+flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain7:15 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
9h28
4:43 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus+flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain7:30 AM Dresden, Bf Neustadt
9h13
4:43 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1746
On time
7:44 AM Dresden Hbf
7h05
2:49 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1746 · ICE 611
On time
7:44 AM Dresden Hbf
7h03
2:47 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1746 · ICE 837 · ICE 124
On time
7:44 AM Dresden Hbf
5h59
1:43 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 1746 · ICE 837 · ICE 722
On time
7:44 AM Dresden Hbf
5h30
1:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Dresden 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Dresden to Cologne?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Dresden to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Dresden to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 7h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €21 but you can travel from only €19 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 475 km distance in 5h 56m.

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 €19
Distance
475 km
Average train duration
7h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
€21
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
5h 56m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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 €19

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Dresden to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Dresden and Cologne from €19. 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
6h 47m
Cheapest Price
€38
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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

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
7h 15m
Cheapest Price
€11
FlixTrain frequency
3 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

FAQs: Trains from Dresden to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dresden 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
On average the Dresden to Cologne train time is 7 h 49 min   covering the 475 km long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Dresden to Cologne leaves at 05: 22. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Dresden to Cologne leaves at 22: 14.
There are 4 trains a day from Dresden to Cologne which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
For the journey from Dresden to Cologne you can take a train with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. Be sure to check out all possible train companies that offer services from Dresden to Cologne on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 22: 14.

When departing from Dresden, you have various train station options to start your journey from including Dresden Hbf, Dresden-Neustadt station and Dresden Flughafen. When arriving in Cologne, you can end your route in train stations like Cologne Hbf, Cologne Messe/Deutz and Cologne/Bonn Flughafen.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Dresden Hbf, which is located around 1.9 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre.

The cheapest month to travel from Dresden to Cologne by train is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel to Cologne from Dresden including taking a coach, flight or train.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Dresden to Cologne

Dresden
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Dresden is Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dresden Hauptbahnhof for your trip from Dresden to Cologne.
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4.
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • asiagourmet
  • dean&david
  • Hot Dog King
  • Starbucks
  • Subway
  • BABA Döner
  • Marché
  • backWERK
  • Ditsch
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Kipping
  • Pullman Dresden Newa
  • IntercityHotel Dresden
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
Dresden-NeustadtWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:45 - 20:00
  • Tuesday: 06:45 - 20:00
  • Wednesday: 06:45 - 20:00
  • Thursday: 06:45 - 20:00
  • Friday: 06:45 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Sunday: 07:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • ElbUferei
  • Raskolnikoff
  • Byblos
  • Kantine No. 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden
  • Rothenburger Hof
  • Mezcalero
  • Villa Romantika
Dresden-ReickWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Dining
Dining
  • Suppenküche
  • Eisdiele
  • Restaurant Hurvinek
  • Oskars
Hotel
Hotel
  • Azimut Hotel

More options for your journey from Dresden to Cologne

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