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

Mon, Aug 03
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leiden to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

€61

Average price

€71

Fastest journey

3 h 14 m

Average duration

3 h 55 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

218 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leiden to Cologne will cost around €71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €61.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Leiden to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 3529 · 20077 · 10621
    8:27 AM4h08
    Leiden Centraal
    12:35 PMCologne Hbf
    611One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3537 · 20081 · 10625
    10:27 AM4h08
    Leiden Centraal
    2:35 PMCologne Hbf
    611One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3521 · 20073 · 10617
    6:27 AM4h08
    Leiden Centraal
    10:35 AMCologne Hbf
    611One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3227 · 26814+VIAS Rail GmbH20017
    8:08 AM4h03
    Leiden Centraal
    12:11 PMCologne Hbf
    701One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3235 · 26818+VIAS Rail GmbH20021
    10:09 AM4h02
    Leiden Centraal
    2:11 PMCologne Hbf
    701One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Leiden to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leiden to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 31m. 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 €14, and a flight costs an average of €178.

Distance: 218 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€61

Average price

€18

Average price

Cheapest

€467

Average price

4h 1m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 33m

Average total duration

5h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 50m

Average total duration

7h 50m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Leiden to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Leiden to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 3521 · 20073 · 106176:27 AM Leiden Centraal
4h08
10:35 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3227 · 26814+VIAS Rail GmbH200178:08 AM Leiden Centraal
4h03
12:11 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3529 · 20077 · 106218:27 AM Leiden Centraal
4h08
12:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3535 · ICE 123
On time
9:57 AM Leiden Centraal
3h14
1:11 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 3235 · 26818+VIAS Rail GmbH2002110:09 AM Leiden Centraal
4h02
2:11 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3537 · 20081 · 1062510:27 AM Leiden Centraal
4h08
2:35 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leiden 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
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09

Why should you book Leiden to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Leiden to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leiden 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 VIAS Rail GmbH or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Leiden 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 Leiden to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Leiden to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leiden to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leiden to Cologne

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Leiden to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €25 but you can travel from only €14 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 218 km distance in 3h 18m.

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
218 km
Average train duration
3h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
€25
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 18m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
10:15 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 days
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, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Leiden to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Leiden and Cologne 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
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
€31
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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
€89
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
10 a day

FAQs: Trains from Leiden to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leiden 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 Leiden to Cologne can start from as little as €25 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Leiden to Cologne is €61; 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 Leiden to Cologne is 3h 18m to travel the 218 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 Leiden to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Leiden to Cologne leaves at 10:15 PM.
There are 6 trains a day from Leiden to Cologne which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
When taking a train from Leiden to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Leiden and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Cologne from Leiden is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 18m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Leiden to Cologne is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leiden and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Leiden to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Leiden
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Leiden station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Leiden to Cologne leave from Leiden Centraal. The station is 1 km from Leiden city centre at Stationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands.
Leiden CentraalStationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Leiden Centraal from Leiden city centre

Leiden Centraal is 1 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus45 · 6m · €2 · every ~7 min
54, 1, 2, 3, 4, 169 · 7m · €3 · every ~24 min
54, 56, 3, 4 · 9m · €4 · every ~16 min

Leiden Centraal train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant De Bruine Boon, Grand Café Van Buuren

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leiden Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Leiden Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leiden Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leiden Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leiden Centraal: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ibis Leiden Centre, Golden Tulip Leiden Centre, City Hotel Nieuw Minerva.

Leiden LammenschansCentral Facility Building, 2311 VV Leiden, NetherlandsParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Leiden Lammenschans from Leiden city centre

Leiden Lammenschans is 1 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus1, 2 · 4m · €3 · every ~7 min

Leiden Lammenschans train station facilities and services

Leiden Lammenschans has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Leiden Lammenschans.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Leiden Lammenschans.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leiden Lammenschans: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leiden Lammenschans: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leiden Lammenschans.

De VinkAlexandrine Tinneplein 110, 112, 2331 PP Leiden, NetherlandsParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to De Vink from Leiden city centre

De Vink is 2 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSprinter · 3m · €1 · every ~7 min
Bus54 · 10m · €3 · every ~3 min
54, 1, 2, 4 · 30m · €5 · every ~14 min

De Vink train station facilities and services

De Vink has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at De Vink.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at De Vink.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at De Vink: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at De Vink: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at De Vink.

Most popular train connections from Leiden

More options for your journey from Leiden to Cologne

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

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