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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Cologne
Cheapest price on Sep 05
€40
Average ticket price on Sep 05
€58
Fastest journey on Sep 05
2 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
3 h
Trains on Sep 05
10
Distance
204 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Cologne will cost around €58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €40.
It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Cologne without transferring at least once.
IC 2059 · ICE 1294:05 PM3h06Rotterdam Centraal7:11 PMCologne Hbf€401One-way1 transfer- IC 2051 · ICE 1272:05 PM3h08Rotterdam Centraal5:13 PMCologne Hbf€461One-way1 transfer
- IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 106219:15 AM3h20Rotterdam Centraal12:35 PMCologne Hbf€591One-way3 transfers
- IC 1139 · IC 3537 · 20081 · 1062511:15 AM3h20Rotterdam Centraal2:35 PMCologne Hbf€591One-way3 transfers
- IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · 106291:15 PM3h20Rotterdam Centraal4:35 PMCologne Hbf€591One-way3 transfers
- IC 2843 · ICE 12512:19 PM2h54Rotterdam Centraal3:13 PMCologne Hbf€601One-way1 transfer
- IC 2827 · ICE 2258:19 AM2h55Rotterdam Centraal11:14 AMCologne Hbf€701One-way1 transfer
- IC 2835 · ICE 12310:19 AM2h55Rotterdam Centraal1:14 PMCologne Hbf€701One-way1 transfer
- IC 2059 · ICE 1294:05 PM3h06Rotterdam Centraal7:11 PMCologne Hbf€401One-way1 transfer
- IC 2051 · ICE 1272:05 PM3h08Rotterdam Centraal5:13 PMCologne Hbf€461One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Rotterdam to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 49m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €14, while a train costs an average of €57.
Distance: 204 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€57 Average price | €14 Average price Cheapest | €47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 49m Average total duration Fastest 3h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 44m Average total duration 5h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Rotterdam to Cologne:
A bus is €43 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Cologne costing on average €57.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 14m.
Live departures
Rotterdam to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Cologne trains for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2817 · ICE 121 · ICE 915 | On time 5:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h37 | 9:27 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2817 · ICE 121 | Delayed 5:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h58 | 7:54 AM 7:54 AMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| RE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121 | Delayed 5:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h54 | 7:54 AM 7:54 AMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| RE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121 · ICE 915 | On time 5:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h33 | 9:27 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1119 · IC 3517 · 20071 · 10615 | 6:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 9:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1123 · IC 3521 · 20073 · 10617 | 7:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 10:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 10619 | 8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 11:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621 | 9:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 12:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2035 · ICE 123 | On time 10:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h45 | 1:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 1135 · IC 3533 · 20079 · 10623 | 10:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 1:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ECD 9528 · ICE 315 | On time 10:42 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h33 | 2:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 1139 · IC 3537 · 20081 · 10625 | 11:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 2:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2043 · ICE 125 | On time 12:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h45 | 3:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 1143 · IC 3541 · 20083 · 10627 | 12:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 3:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ECD 9536 · ICE 17 | On time 12:42 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h33 | 4:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · 10629 | 1:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 4:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2051 · ICE 127 | On time 2:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h45 | 5:50 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 1151 · IC 3549 · 20087 · 10631 | 2:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h20 | 5:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam to Cologne by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sep 05
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Why should you book Rotterdam to Cologne trains with Omio?
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 Rotterdam 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Cologne
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €24 but you can travel from only €12 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:14. The fastest train covers the 204 km distance in 2h 51m.
Distance 204 km |
Average train duration 3h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price €24 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 51m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:14 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Rotterdam to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Rotterdam 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
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.
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.
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.
VIAS Rail GmbH
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Rotterdam to Cologne
Most Rotterdam to Cologne trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Rotterdam station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.
Getting to Rotterdam Alexander from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam Alexander is 6 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Rotterdam Alexander train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Alexander 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 Alexander, Brasserie Waalhaven
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Alexander. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rotterdam Alexander. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Alexander: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Alexander: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Alexander: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Alexander, NH Capelle, Campanile Rotterdam Oost.
Getting to Rotterdam Blaak from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam Blaak train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Blaak 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 Fitzgerald, Markthal Rotterdam
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Blaak. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rotterdam Blaak. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Blaak: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Blaak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Blaak: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak, citizenM Rotterdam, Ibis Rotterdam City Centre.
Which Cologne station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz 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: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Most popular train connections from Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Rotterdam
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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