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

Fri, Nov 21
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Deutsche Bahn
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Regionale
SNCF TER
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Nov 21

Cheapest price

€157

Average price

€179

Fastest journey

4 h 24 m

Average duration

5 h 33 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

381 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leipzig to Cologne will cost around €179 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €157.

Fast trains

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

Deutsche BahnIC 2044 · ICE 944 · ICE 627
06:38AM6h04
Leipzig Hbf
12:42PMCologne Messe/Deutz
1571One-way
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2046 · ICE 942 · ICE 109
08:34AM6h13
Leipzig Hbf
02:47PMCologne Messe/Deutz
1751One-way
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 791 · ICE 200
08:41AM4h24
Leipzig Hbf
01:05PMCologne Messe/Deutz
1871One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1654 · ICE 612
07:33AM4h35
Leipzig Hbf
12:08PMCologne Messe/Deutz
1871One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1701 · RE 3654 · ICE 886 · ICE 652
06:48AM6h27
Leipzig Hbf
01:15PMCologne Messe/Deutz
1901One-way
3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Leipzig to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, and a flight costs an average of €394.

Distance: 381 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€88

Average price

€32

Average price

Cheapest

€519

Average price

6h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 10m

Average total duration

6h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 34m

Average total duration

7h 34m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

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

Leipzig to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, November 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:47 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn8:55 PM Leipzig
7h08
4:03 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Friday, November 21
deutsche_bahnIC 2044 · ICE 944 · ICE 627
On time
5:38 AM Leipzig Hbf
6h04
11:42 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 1701 · RE 3654 · ICE 886 · ICE 652
On time
5:48 AM Leipzig Hbf
6h27
12:15 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
3 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 1654 · ICE 612
On time
6:33 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h35
11:08 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 2046 · ICE 942 · ICE 109
On time
7:34 AM Leipzig Hbf
6h13
1:47 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 791 · ICE 200
On time
7:41 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h24
12:05 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leipzig 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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Nov 21
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Dec 11

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

The best time to book your train from Leipzig to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Leipzig to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 6h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €25 but you can travel from only €22 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 381 km distance in 4h 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 €22
Distance
381 km
Average train duration
6h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
€25
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
4h 24m
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 €22

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from €22. 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
4h 26m
Cheapest Price
€36
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 4m
Cheapest Price
€29
FlixTrain frequency
1 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 Leipzig to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne can start from as little as €18 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Leipzig to Cologne is €56; 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 Leipzig to Cologne is 4 h 27 min   to travel the 380 km long trip, with around there are 13 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 00: 02. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 23: 57.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Leipzig to Cologne without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn. There is 1 direct train from Leipzig to Cologne each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
When taking a train from Leipzig to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train providers who offer a service from Leipzig to Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 57.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Leipzig Hbf, which is located around 0.9 miles (1.5 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 Leipzig is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 27 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Leipzig to Cologne is July.
You have options as you can travel from Leipzig to Cologne 3 different ways: train, coach or flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Leipzig to Cologne

Leipzig
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Leipzig is Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof for your trip from Leipzig to Cologne.
Leipzig HauptbahnhofWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
23
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Willy-Brandt-Platz.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Zchocolat
  • Vapiano Leipzig
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • €1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
  • a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
  • IntercityHotel Leipzig
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Sixt
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-13 for long-distance and regional trains
  • Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 14-23
  • Hall 3: shopping and dining area
Public transit options for Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
  • Tram: Lines 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15
  • S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S5X, S6
  • Bus: Several lines available
Leipzig-ConnewitzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
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
  • TD Imbiss
  • Bistro Cleopatra
  • Bistro mit Internet
  • Calla Pizza
Leipzig-EngelsdorfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
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
7 km
Dining
Dining
  • Athos
  • Zur Standuhr
  • Fortuna Klause
  • Zappendorfer Wurstmacher
Leipzig MDRWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
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
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • La mia pizza
  • Eis fichte MCL
  • Pata Negra
  • Shams Bistro
Leipzig MarktWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
Dining
Dining
  • China White
  • Cafe Barbakane
  • X-Maza
  • Vodkaria
Hotel
Hotel
  • Seaside Park
  • Pentahotel Leipzig
  • Victors Residenzhotel
  • Marriott

More options for your journey from Leipzig to Cologne

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