Ulm to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Thu, Sep 17
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ulm to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17

Cheapest price on Sep 17

€74

Average ticket price on Sep 17

€118

Fastest journey on Sep 17

2 h 56 m

Average journey duration on Sep 17

3 h 23 m

Trains on Sep 17

7

Distance

357 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ulm to Cologne will cost around €118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €74.

Fast trains

On Thu, Sep 17, we found 7 trains from Ulm to Cologne, including 3 direct services.

On Thu, Sep 17 the direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 3 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 56 m .

On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest trains will take 4 h 19 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 2047
    8:47 AM4h19
    Ulm Hbf
    1:06 PMCologne Hbf
    741One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 612
    8:47 AM3h18
    Ulm Hbf
    12:05 PMCologne Hbf
    1001One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 614 · IC 2049
    6:47 AM4h19
    Ulm Hbf
    11:06 AMCologne Hbf
    1041One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1012 · ICE 1020
    7:33 AM4h32
    Ulm Hbf
    12:05 PMCologne Hbf
    1181One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 614
    6:47 AM3h18
    Ulm Hbf
    10:05 AMCologne Hbf
    1341One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Ulm to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ulm to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €31 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 10m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €31, while a flight costs an average of €147.

Distance: 357 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

€53

Average price

€31

Average price

Cheapest

€147

Average price

€67

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 6m

Average total duration

3h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 28m

Average total duration

5h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 10m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

4h 58m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Ulm to Cologne is a bus with an average price of €31.

This is compared to other travel options from Ulm to Cologne:

A bus is €23 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ulm to Cologne costing on average €53.

A bus is €116 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ulm to Cologne costing on average €147.

The fastest way to travel from Ulm to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 36m.

Bus takes on average 5h 58m.

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

Live departures

Ulm to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Ulm to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 614
On time
6:47 AM Ulm Hbf
3h18
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 614 · IC 2049
On time
6:47 AM Ulm Hbf
4h19
11:06 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1012 · ICE 1020
On time
7:33 AM Ulm Hbf
4h32
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1012
On time
7:33 AM Ulm Hbf
2h56
10:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 692 · ICE 202
On time
7:59 AM Ulm Hbf
3h06
11:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 612
On time
8:47 AM Ulm Hbf
3h18
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 2047
On time
8:47 AM Ulm Hbf
4h19
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ulm 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.

Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23

Why should you book Ulm to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Ulm to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ulm 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Ulm 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 Ulm 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 Ulm to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ulm to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Ulm to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €19 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 357 km distance in 2h 56m.

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
357 km
Average train duration
3h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
€19
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 56m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
14 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Ulm to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Ulm and Cologne from €19. 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
2h 56m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€19
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
2h 56m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
€70
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day

FAQs: Trains from Ulm to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ulm 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 Ulm to Cologne can start from as little as €19 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Ulm to Cologne is €53; 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 Ulm to Cologne is 2h 56m to travel the 357 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 Ulm to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Ulm to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes,there are 3 direct trains a day from Ulm to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Ulm to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Ulm and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Cologne from Ulm is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 56m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Ulm to Cologne is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Ulm and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Ulm to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Ulm
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Ulm station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Ulm to Cologne leave from Ulm Hbf. The station is 1 km from Ulm city centre at Ulm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm.
Ulm HbfUlm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 UlmWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Ulm Hbf from Ulm city centre

Bus46 · 9m · €3 · every ~1 min
Tram1 · 3m · €3 · every ~11 min

Ulm Hbf train station facilities and services

Ulm 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: Café Schmizz, Blauflesch, Wilder Mann, Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Hbf. ATMs are available at Ulm Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Ulm Hbf. Information desks are available at Ulm Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Ulm Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ulm Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Ulm Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Bäumle, InterCityHotel Ulm, Lehrertal Garni.

Ulm OstUlm Ost, An der Brenzbahn, 89073 UlmWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Ulm Ost from Ulm city centre

TrainRs51 · 2m · €2
BusE, 7 · 6m · €3 · every ~6 min

Ulm Ost train station facilities and services

Ulm Ost 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: Bodhi, Schwarze Henne, Café Schmizz, Kornhäusle

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Ost. ATMs are available at Ulm Ost.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Ulm Ost. Information desks are available at Ulm Ost.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Ulm Ost. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ulm Ost: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Ulm Ost: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Ost.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Hotel Comfor, Bäumle, Stern.

Most popular train connections from Ulm

More options for your journey from Ulm to Cologne

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

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