Heilbronn to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

Mon, Sep 28
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Heilbronn to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 28

Cheapest price on Sep 28

€59

Average ticket price on Sep 28

€72

Fastest journey on Sep 28

3 h 59 m

Average journey duration on Sep 28

4 h 7 m

Trains on Sep 28

3

Distance

257 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Heilbronn to Cologne will cost around €72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €59.

Fast trains

On Mon, Sep 28, we found 3 trains from Heilbronn to Cologne, including 3 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 28 the direct trains cover the 257 km distance in an average of 4 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .

On Mon, Sep 28 the slowest trains will take 4 h 17 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
    7:06 AM3h59
    Heilbronn
    11:05 AMCologne
    €591One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:48 AM4h17
    Heilbronn
    12:05 PMCologne
    €711One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:00 AM4h05
    Heilbronn
    10:05 AMCologne
    €851One-way
    0 transfers

Live departures

Heilbronn to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Heilbronn to Cologne trains for today, Sunday, September 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn15838 · ICE 374 · ICE 612
On time
8:34 AM Heilbronn Hbf
3h31
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf		2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn15838 · ICE 374 · IC 2047
On time
8:34 AM Heilbronn Hbf
4h32
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf		2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn15840 · ICE 200
On time
9:34 AM Heilbronn Hbf
3h31
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Heilbronn 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.

Mon
Sep 28
Tue
Sep 29
Wed
Sep 30
Thu
Oct 01
Fri
Oct 02
Sat
Oct 03
Sun
Oct 04

Why should you book Heilbronn to Cologne trains with Omio?

Intercity as well as Deutsche Bahn or Regional-Express offer trains services from Heilbronn to Cologne.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Intercity?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Heilbronn to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Heilbronn to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €41 but you can travel from only €18 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 257 km distance in 2h 24m.

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 €18
Distance
257 km
Average train duration
3h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
€41
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 24m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
1 day
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 €18

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Intercity, Regional-Express from Heilbronn to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Intercity, Regional-Express trains will get you between Heilbronn and Cologne from €18. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€41
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 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

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \InterCity\" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, \"Intercity\" or \"IC\" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph)."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€73
Intercity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Learn more about Intercity

Regional-Express

About
Regional-Express (RE, or REX in Austria) is a type of regional train service found in Germany, Luxembourg, and Austria. It functions as a semi-fast train, making fewer stops than a Regionalbahn or S-Bahn but more than an Intercity or Intercity Express. RE services typically reach top speeds of 160 km/h, with some reaching 200 km/h on high-speed lines. While initially operated by DB Regio, many lines are now run by various private operators. These trains often use double-deck cars with electric or diesel locomotives.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional-Express Duration
3h 24m
Cheapest Regional-Express Price
€113
Regional-Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Heilbronn to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Heilbronn 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 Heilbronn to Cologne can start from as little as €41 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Heilbronn to Cologne is €101; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Heilbronn to Cologne is 2h 24m to travel the 257 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Heilbronn to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Heilbronn to Cologne leaves at 11:57 PM.
There are 6 trains a day from Heilbronn to Cologne which require at least one change with Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Regional-Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
When taking a train from Heilbronn to Cologne, you can count on Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Regional-Express for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Heilbronn and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Cologne from Heilbronn is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 24m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Heilbronn and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Heilbronn to Cologne

Most Heilbronn to Cologne trains use the Heilbronn Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Heilbronn and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Heilbronn
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Heilbronn station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Heilbronn to Cologne leave from Heilbronn Hbf. The station is 1 km from Heilbronn city centre at Heilbronn Hbf, Bahnhofstr. 30, 74072 Heilbronn.
Heilbronn HbfHeilbronn Hbf, Bahnhofstr. 30, 74072 HeilbronnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Heilbronn Hbf from Heilbronn city centre

Train74378, 80000, 80002, 80006, 80008, 80404, 80430, 80568, 80570, 80572, 80598, 85300, 85302, 85304, 85306, 85308, 85310, 85312, 85314, 85316, 85318, 85320, 85322, 85324, 85326, 85328, 85330, 85332, 85334, 85336, 85338, 85340, 85342, 85344, 85346, 85348, 85350, 85352, 85354, 85356, 85358, 85360, 85362, 85364, 85366, 85368, 85370, 85372, 85374, 85376, 85378, 85380, 85382, 85384, 85386, 85388, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85472, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85486, 85488, 85492, 85494, 85496, 85498, 86146 · 5m · every ~7 min
Bus31, 13, 10, 64, 62, 61, 683 · 4m · every ~14 min

Heilbronn Hbf train station facilities and services

Heilbronn Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: YEDO Heilbronn, Mythos, Vinum, Ratskeller

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Heilbronn Hbf. ATMs are available at Heilbronn Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Heilbronn Hbf. Information desks are available at Heilbronn Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Heilbronn Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heilbronn Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Heilbronn Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heilbronn Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ibis, Hotel Central, Hotel TraumRaum, Insel-Hotel.

Heilbronn, Bahnhofsvorplatz74072 Heilbronn, GermanyAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Heilbronn, Bahnhofsvorplatz from Heilbronn city centre

Train74378, 80000, 80002, 80006, 80008, 80404, 80430, 80568, 80570, 80572, 80598, 85300, 85302, 85304, 85306, 85308, 85310, 85312, 85314, 85316, 85318, 85320, 85322, 85324, 85326, 85328, 85330, 85332, 85334, 85336, 85338, 85340, 85342, 85344, 85346, 85348, 85350, 85352, 85354, 85356, 85358, 85360, 85362, 85364, 85366, 85368, 85370, 85372, 85374, 85376, 85378, 85380, 85382, 85384, 85386, 85388, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85472, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85486, 85488, 85492, 85494, 85496, 85498, 86146 · 5m · every ~7 min
Bus31, 13, 10, 64, 62, 61 · 2m · every ~14 min

Heilbronn, Bahnhofsvorplatz train station facilities and services

Heilbronn, Bahnhofsvorplatz has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heilbronn, Bahnhofsvorplatz.

Heilbronn Harmonie74072 Heilbronn, GermanyParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Heilbronn Harmonie from Heilbronn city centre

Bus682, 42, 41, 33, 32, 31, 11, 620 · 2m · €3 · every ~19 min

Heilbronn Harmonie train station facilities and services

Heilbronn Harmonie has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Heilbronn Harmonie.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Heilbronn Harmonie.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heilbronn Harmonie: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Heilbronn Harmonie: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heilbronn Harmonie.

More options for your journey from Heilbronn to Cologne

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

Buses from Heilbronn to Cologne
Tickets and more information for trains to Cologne
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to CologneHeilbronn to Cologne train

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