KRAKÓW to COLOGNE train from €42 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kraków to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jul 22

Cheapest price

€40

Average price

€49

Fastest journey

13 h 45 m

Average duration

16 h 39 m

Trains per day

Distance

923 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Kraków to Cologne will cost around €49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €40.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Kraków to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.

TLK 38106 · EC 40 · BUS 40040 · ICE 1540
2:11 PM16h02
Kraków Główny
6:13 AMCologne Hbf
€401One-way
3 transfers
IC 134 · IC 2032 · ICE 542
9:50 AM13h45
Kraków Główny
11:35 PMCologne Hbf
€401One-way
2 transfers
IC 3716+KD 69157+5688+16536
2:30 PM19h36
Kraków Główny
10:06 AMCologne Hbf
€481One-way
5 transfers
IC 3716+KD 69157+5688+16536
2:30 PM18h35
Kraków Główny
9:05 AMCologne Hbf
€481One-way
6 transfers
IC 3716 · TLK 38106 · R 80411 · 5186
2:30 PM19h04
Kraków Główny
9:34 AMCologne Hbf
€481One-way
6 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Kraków to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kraków to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €49, and a flight costs an average of €118.

Distance: 923 km

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight
€80 Average price	€72 Average price Cheapest	€461 Average price
14h 19m Average total duration 13h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	17h 58m Average total duration 17h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	5h 19m Average total duration Fastest 2h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.9 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions	2.8 - 5.5kg 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

Kraków to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Kraków to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
IC 3830 · IC 1644 · R 5318 · RJ 478	4:43 PM Kraków Główny	17h29	10:12 AM Cologne Hbf	5 transfers
Wednesday, July 22
IC 134 · IC 2032 · ICE 542	On time 9:50 AM Kraków Główny	13h45	11:35 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
IC 205 · EC 1210 · ICE 618	10:17 AM Kraków Główny	19h47	6:04 AM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
EC 58 · BUS 40058 · ICE 1107 · ICE 699	On time 11:53 AM Kraków Główny	17h51	5:44 AM Cologne Hbf	4 transfers
IC 3812+KD 69577+5686 · 20854	On time 12:41 PM Kraków Główny	17h03	5:44 AM Cologne Hbf	6 transfers
TLK 38106 · EC 40 · BUS 40040 · ICE 1540	On time 2:11 PM Kraków Główny	16h02	6:13 AM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 3716+KD 69157+5688+16536	On time 2:30 PM Kraków Główny	19h36	10:06 AM Cologne Hbf	5 transfers
IC 3716+KD 69157+5688+16536	On time 2:30 PM Kraków Główny	18h35	9:05 AM Cologne Hbf	6 transfers
IC 3716 · TLK 38106 · R 80411 · 5186	On time 2:30 PM Kraków Główny	19h04	9:34 AM Cologne Hbf	6 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Kraków 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.

Tue
Jul 21

Wed
Jul 22

Thu
Jul 23

Fri
Jul 24

Sat
Jul 25

Sun
Jul 26

Mon
Jul 27

Why should you book Kraków to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or PKP Intercity offer trains services from Kraków to Cologne.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kraków to Cologne.

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 PKP Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Kraków 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kraków to Cologne.

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 Kraków to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Kraków to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Kraków to Cologne is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Kraków to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Kraków 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 Kraków to Cologne.

Trains

from €38

Buses

from €59

Journey information

Overview: Train from Kraków to Cologne

Poland

Germany

Trains from Kraków to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 13h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €42 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 923 km distance in 12h 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

Distance

923 km

Average train duration

13h 49m

Cheapest ticket price

€42

Trains per day

Fastest train

12h 21m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:58 PM

Cheapest Month

Oct

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Fri

Least Busy Day

Thu

Best time to book

56 days

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, PKP Intercity from Kraków to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, PKP Intercity trains will get you between Kraków and Cologne from €42. 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

12h 21m

Cheapest Price

€42

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

FlixTrain frequency

2 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

PKP Intercity

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

12h 26m

Cheapest Price

€114

PKP Intercity frequency

2 a day

FAQs: Trains from Kraków to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kraków 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.

Cheap train tickets from Kraków to Cologne can start from as little as €42 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Kraków to Cologne is €80; 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 Kraków to Cologne is 12h 21m to travel the 923 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 Kraków to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The latest train from Kraków to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.

There are 10 trains a day from Kraków to Cologne which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, PKP Intercity. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.

When taking a train from Kraków to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, PKP Intercity for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Kraków and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

A trip to Cologne from Kraków is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 12h 21m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.

The cheapest month for a train from Kraków to Cologne is October.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Kraków and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Kraków to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Kraków

Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Kraków station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Kraków to Cologne leave from Kraków Główny. The station is 1 km from Kraków city centre at Pawia 5a, 31-154 Kraków, Poland.

Kraków GłównyPawia 5a, 31-154 Kraków, Poland+48 12 393 22 22 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Kraków Główny from Kraków city centre

Kraków Główny is 1 km from Kraków city centre. Public transport options include:

BusA1, A14, A40, A44, A56, A64 · 7m · €1 · every ~14 min

Tram3, 69 · 4m · every ~13 min

Kraków Główny train station facilities and services

Kraków Główny has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restauracja Browar Lubicz, Bistro Bene by Tomasz Leśniak

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Kraków Główny. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Kraków Główny. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kraków Główny: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Kraków Główny: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kraków Główny: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto, PURO Kraków Stare Miasto, Vienna House Andel's Cracow.

Which Cologne station do trains from Kraków arrive at?

Trains from Kraków to Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf. Some services arrive at Köln Messe/Deutz, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.

Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 16m · €7 · every ~3 min

BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m

Subway16 · 46m · €5 · every ~9 min

18, 16 · 51m · €5 · every ~14 min

Köln Hbf train station facilities and services

Köln 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.