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

Thu, Nov 20
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
SNCF TER
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1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
SNCF TER
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Heidelberg to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Nov 20

Cheapest price

€29

Average price

€46

Fastest journey

2 h 41 m

Average duration

2 h 41 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

210 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Heidelberg to Cologne will cost around €46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €29.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Heidelberg for Cologne on Thu, Nov 20, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Nov 20 the direct trains cover the 210 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 41 m .

On Thu, Nov 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 42 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.

Deutsche Bahn
08:10PM3h47
Heidelberg
11:57PMCologne
€291One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:46AM3h20
Heidelberg
10:06AMCologne
€461One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
08:24AM2h42
Heidelberg
11:06AMCologne
€481One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:25AM2h41
Heidelberg
09:06AMCologne
€501One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:24AM2h42
Heidelberg
09:06AMCologne
€561One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Heidelberg to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Heidelberg to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €13, and a train costs an average of €15.

Distance: 210 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€52

Average price

€21

Average price

Cheapest

3h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 47m

Average total duration

3h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Heidelberg to Cologne train times

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

Last updated at 12:13 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn1:55 PM Heidelberg
3h11
5:06 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn2:13 PM Heidelberg
2h53
5:06 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Thursday, November 20
deutsche_bahn6:25 AM Heidelberg
2h41
9:06 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn8:24 AM Heidelberg
2h42
11:06 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn10:25 AM Heidelberg
2h41
1:06 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Heidelberg to Cologne 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.

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Nov 20
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Heidelberg to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Heidelberg to Cologne is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Heidelberg to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Heidelberg to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Heidelberg to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €15 but you can travel from only €13 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 210 km distance in 1h 52m.

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 €13
Distance
210 km
Average train duration
2h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
€15
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
1h 52m
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 €13

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Heidelberg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Heidelberg and Cologne from €13. 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.
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest Price
€24
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

FAQs: Trains from Heidelberg to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Heidelberg 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
Cheap train tickets from Heidelberg to Cologne can start from as little as €18 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Heidelberg to Cologne is €45; 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 Heidelberg and Cologne is on average 2 h 18 min   for the 210 km long journey, but the time it takes to go between Heidelberg and Cologne by train can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Heidelberg to Cologne leaves at 00: 01. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Heidelberg to Cologne leaves at 23: 58.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Heidelberg to Cologne without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn. There are 2 direct trains from Heidelberg to Cologne each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the best Heidelberg to Cologne train to purchase, you can travel safely and comfortably with Deutsche Bahn. However, it's always good to check all possible train providers with services between Heidelberg and Cologne to compare what amenities they may offer.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 58.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Heidelberg Hbf, which is located around 0.9 miles (1.4 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.

A trip to Cologne from Heidelberg is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 18 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Heidelberg to Cologne is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Heidelberg to Cologne including taking a train or coach.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Heidelberg to Cologne

Heidelberg
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Heidelberg is Heidelberg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Heidelberg Hbf for your trip from Heidelberg to Cologne.
Heidelberg 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
Heidelberg Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 69115 Heidelberg
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 19:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Heid´s Grill
  • McDonald's
  • Uuuhmami
  • Taj Mahal
Hotel
Hotel
  • Leonardo Hotel
  • Qube Hotel
  • NH Heidelberg
  • Krokodil
Heidelberg-AltstadtWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
Heidelberg-Altstadt, Am Karlstor 1, 69118 Heidelberg
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Persepolis
  • Zum Brückenaff
  • 'S' Kastanie
  • Choa
Hotel
Hotel
  • Parkhotel Atlantic
  • Hackteufel
  • Goldener Falke
  • Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg
Heidelberg-Kirchheim/RohrbachWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
Heidelberg-Kirchheim/Rohrbach, Hardstraße 1, 69124 Heidelberg-Kirchheim
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Dufke
  • Stettiner Klause
  • Hakim's Imbiss
  • KOLBEZ Cafe
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Rose

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