LEIPZIG to COLOGNE train from €12 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 06

Cheapest price on Oct 06

€35

Average ticket price on Oct 06

€77

Fastest journey on Oct 06

4 h 25 m

Average journey duration on Oct 06

4 h 40 m

Trains on Oct 06

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 €77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €35.

Fast trains

On Tue, Oct 06, we found 12 trains from Leipzig to Cologne, including 1 direct services.

On Tue, Oct 06 the direct trains cover the 381 km distance in an average of 4 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 25 m .

On Tue, Oct 06 the slowest trains will take 5 h 2 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.

S5 · ICE 273 · ICE 18
12:07 AM7h33
Leipzig Hbf
7:40 AMCologne Hbf
€351One-way
2 transfers
S5 · ICE 273 · IC 2441
12:07 AM8h59
Leipzig Hbf
9:06 AMCologne Hbf
€401One-way
2 transfers
ICE 905 · ICE 1022 · ICE 204
1:07 AM7h58
Leipzig Hbf
9:05 AMCologne Hbf
€501One-way
2 transfers
ICE 501 · ICE 277 · ICE 820
5:41 AM4h33
Leipzig Hbf
10:14 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
€501One-way
2 transfers
IC 60408 · S3 · ICE 618
11:49 PM6h17
Leipzig Hbf
6:06 AMCologne Hbf
€601One-way
2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne

Germany

Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €12 if you book in advance.

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 3h 50m.

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

381 km

Average train duration

4h 59m

Cheapest ticket price

€12

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

3h 50m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:58 PM

Cheapest Month

Jul

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Mon

Best time to book

3 days

Price information

Live departures

Leipzig to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
S5 · ICE 273 · IC 2441	On time 12:07 AM Leipzig Hbf	8h59	9:06 AM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
S5 · ICE 273 · ICE 18	On time 12:07 AM Leipzig Hbf	7h33	7:40 AM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 1656 · ICE 614	On time 5:28 AM Leipzig Hbf	4h37	10:05 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 501 · ICE 277 · ICE 128	On time 5:41 AM Leipzig Hbf	5h02	10:43 AM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
ICE 501 · ICE 277 · ICE 820	On time 5:41 AM Leipzig Hbf	4h33	10:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz	2 transfers
IC 2046 · ICE 952	On time 8:23 AM Leipzig Hbf	5h49	2:12 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
IC 2046	On time 8:23 AM Leipzig Hbf	6h22	2:45 PM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 595 · ICE 1518	On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf	4h44	1:33 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 595 · IC 2045	On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf	6h17	3:06 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 595 · ICE 724	On time 8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf	4h25	1:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz	1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Leipzig to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Leipzig to Cologne.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leipzig 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 to find the best option for your trip from Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from €12. 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

3h 50m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

€18

Deutsche Bahn frequency

8 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

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 FlixTrain Duration

6h 18m

Cheapest FlixTrain Price

€12

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.

Cheap train tickets from Leipzig to Cologne can start from as little as €12 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Leipzig to Cologne is €96; 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 3h 50m to travel the 381 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 Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

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

Yes,there are 1 direct trains a day from Leipzig to Cologne with FlixTrain. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.

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

A trip to Cologne from Leipzig is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 50m 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 Leipzig and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Leipzig to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Leipzig

Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Leipzig station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Leipzig to Cologne leave from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. The station is 1 km from Leipzig city centre at Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany.

Leipzig HauptbahnhofWilly-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany+49 341 9686190 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre

TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 1m · €1 · every ~23 min

BusN3, 89 · 9m · every ~11 min

Tram9 · 8m · every ~11 min

Leipzig Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.

Which Cologne station do trains from Leipzig arrive at?

Trains from Leipzig 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.