Aachen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RB,RE)

Tue 02 Dec
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
National Express
Eurostar
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
National Express
Eurostar
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Aachen to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 02 Dec

Cheapest price

£18

Average price

£18

Fastest journey

36 m

Average duration

36 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

63 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Aachen to Cologne will cost around £18 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £18.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Aachen for Cologne every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 63 km distance in an average of 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 36 m .

The slowest trains will take 36 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 13
09:390h36
Aachen Hbf
10:15Cologne Hbf
£181One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Aachen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Aachen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £3, and a train costs an average of £6.

Distance: 63 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£22

Average Price

£7

Average Price

Cheapest

1h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 31m

Average total duration

1h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Aachen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Aachen to Cologne trains for today, Monday 1 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:10
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahn11:39 Aachen
0h36
12:15 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn15:39 Aachen
0h36
16:15 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn15:56 Aachen
0h36
16:32 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn17:39 Aachen
0h36
18:15 Cologne0 changesdirect
Tuesday 2 December
deutsche_bahnICE 13
On time
08:39 Aachen Hbf
0h36
09:15 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Aachen to Cologne by train or coach

Compare train and coach 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Aachen to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Aachen to Cologne is 4 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Aachen to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Aachen 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 Aachen to Cologne.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Aachen to Cologne

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconComfort
I travelled from Aachen main station to Cologne main station on 23.5.2023 with the ICE 19. The journey was very comfortable, the cleanliness on board very good and on time. The price-performance ratio per journey was very reasonable and I was significantly faster than if I had taken the car for the comparable distance.
Advantages
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconNone
Yesterday I travelled from Aachen main station to Cologne main station with the ICE 19. The journey was quite pleasant and took just 25 minutes. The train was on time both on departure and arrival and the conductor was very polite. Hygiene on the train was good as everything was clean. I also got a seat, even though I didn't have a seat reservation. The price of the ticket was just €25, so it was highly recommended in terms of value for money.
Advantages
IconSpeed
Disadvantages
IconPunctuality
On the journey yesterday from Aachen main station to Cologne main station with the ICE 19, the comfort and hygiene was very pleasant, but unfortunately the train was 5-7 minutes late when it left Aachen. You can still live with this short delay, nevertheless it would have been nicer if the ICE had been on time, nevertheless the journey was much faster with a duration of about 30 minutes than if you had taken the car for the same distance.
Advantages
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconEquipment
My ICE journey from Aachen to Cologne was very pleasant! The seats and also the noise level were very pleasant. The hygienic condition in the ICE was also satisfactory. Only the equipment, the wifi was not good. Unfortunately, the connection broke down very often. We did not have to deal with delays!
Advantages
IconStaff
Disadvantages
IconTravel
Some time ago, I took the train from Aachen to Cologne. Unfortunately, the journey was a bit complicated... We had to deal with a long delay due to bad weather... But the staff was very helpful and obliging. The price was also okay. The facilities on the train were good, the wifi worked the whole way.... The seats were also reasonably comfortable
Advantages
IconPrice
Disadvantages
IconComfort
IconStaff
Some time ago I travelled from Aachen to Cologne. The train journey was unfortunately a bit problematic and complicated in some places. The journey was very tiring and uncomfortable due to the very high volume and atmosphere in the ICE. The staff were also not very friendly. The price, however, was very good and surprised me positively.
Advantages
IconOn time of the train
Disadvantages
IconPrice
IconInterior
When I was on the train, I didn't feel very comfortable because there were crumbs on the seats. There was no wifi but there was a power socket. The only service I saw was the ticket inspector. I think the price was too high for a short journey, but the train arrived on time at Cologne Central Station. I didn't go to the toilet, as it was only a short journey.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconToilets
The train journey was very uncomfortable. The wifi was very bad and I didn't have a power socket. The seats were comfortable but it was very noisy. I didn't have any food either. The staff were nice and I had no reservation options. And I was not given any information either. The toilets were very dirty. I fortunately did not have to change trains, but the train was on time. The price-quality ratio was ok.
Advantages
Iconquiet
Iconrapid travel
I was waiting for the train at the station and the train arrived just in time. The train was very clean inside. People got on and off very carefully. It was warm inside. I sat down in my seat and ordered something for myself as soon as I ordered something. The thing came quickly. People were very calm and happy. This ride deserves 5 stars and is highly recommended. Besides, this was my outward journey.
Advantages
Iconvery favourable
IconHeaters were on
Disadvantages
IconDelay
A very cheap journey in 2nd class. The price alone is a reason to rate the trip with 5 stars, as it only cost me €15.70. I was very happy with the price. Not everything went perfectly, but for such a good price, you really can't expect much. But there were also many things I liked, namely that it was clean on the train and the toilets were clean. The wifi was good. The staff were nice. Unfortunately, my train was late, but it didn't matter as it was only a few minutes. Despite the slight delay, I'll pass on the trip.
Advantages
IconPersonnel
IconPunctuality
IconNeed to change
IconPrice
Disadvantages
IconWifi connection
IconHygiene
IconBooking options
The train journey from Aachen to Cologne was pleasant overall. The staff were friendly and the punctuality of the train contributed to a smooth journey. The number of changes was low, which made the journey easier. The price was felt to be reasonable, but there were some aspects that could be improved. The wifi connection on the train was rather poor and there was a lack of cleanliness in the WCs. The reservation options could be optimised. Despite these small suggestions for improvement, the overall experience was positive, characterised by friendly staff, punctuality and an overall smooth journey from Cologne to Aachen.
Advantages
IconPunctual
Disadvantages
IconNothing
It was a very unusual journey. The train left Aachen on time and also arrived in Cologne on time. In my opinion, the hygiene could not have been better. The service was also really very good. One important point of criticism is the price-performance ratio, which I consider to be perfect. I give the trip 5 stars and recommend it to others.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Aachen to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Aachen to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 but you can travel from only £3 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:21, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 63 km distance in 36m.

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
Coach from £3
Distance
63 km
Average train duration
43m
Cheapest ticket price
£6
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
36m
First train
00:21
Last train
23:47
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
Coach from £3

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, National Express, Eurostar from Aachen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, National Express, Eurostar trains will get you between Aachen and Cologne from £3. 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
36m
Cheapest Price
£17
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
44m
Cheapest Price
£5
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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
38m
Cheapest Price
£54
Eurostar frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
47m
Cheapest Price
£15
National Express frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

Österreichische Bundesbahnen

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
40m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Aachen to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Aachen 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
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
In Cologne, visitors can explore the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Gothic architecture, and visit the Museum Ludwig for modern art by artists like Picasso and Warhol. A Rhine River Cruise offers scenic views of the city's skyline and landmarks, while the Hohenzollern Bridge is known for love locks and panoramic river views. The Old Town (Altstadt) charms with historic streets and traditional beer halls. Families might enjoy the Cologne Zoo, which is rich in diverse animal species. For culture and entertainment, attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, or discover the Belgian Quarter’s trendy boutiques and cafes. The Cologne Chocolate Museum provides an interactive experience about chocolate history, and the Botanical Gardens Flora showcases beautiful plant species and floral displays.
The cost of a train ticket from Aachen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £22.
The train journey from Aachen to Cologne offers pleasant views of the German countryside, with glimpses of rolling hills and charming villages, although it is primarily focused on efficiency rather than scenic vistas.
Yes, a day trip from Aachen to Cologne is feasible. The journey takes 36m, covers 63 km, and has a frequency of 2 per day for trains.
The cheapest way to get from Aachen to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £3.
The train distance from Aachen to Cologne is 63 km.
Booking trains from Aachen to Cologne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The last train from Aachen to Cologne departs at 23:47.
The train journey from Aachen to Cologne covers a distance of 63 km and takes approximately 36m. Trains run 2 per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Aachen and Cologne. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, National Express, Eurostar.
The train station in Aachen that goes to Cologne is Aachen Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The first train from Aachen to Cologne leaves at 0:21.
Trains from Aachen to Cologne run approximately 2 times per day.
There is no night train service from Aachen to Cologne.
Yes, you can take the train from Aachen to Cologne.
To get from Aachen to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Aachen and Cologne

Aachen
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Aachen is Aachen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Aachen Hbf for your trip from Aachen to Cologne.
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Friday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald's
  • Louisiana
  • Dakashi sushi
  • Zitalia
Hotel
Hotel
  • Bestprice Hotel
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
Dining
Dining
  • Chico Mendes
  • Pizzeria Pont Pascha
  • Vielharmonie
  • Polonia
Aachen-Rothe ErdeWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost 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
  • Eiscafé am Elsassplatz
  • Kennedy Grill
  • Közde Kebap
  • Imbiss & Kneipe
  • Zeppelin Eck
EilendorfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost 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
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Vesuvio
  • Nikolaus Grill
  • Imbiss Thessaloniki
  • Akropolis Grill
Aachen SchanzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost 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
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Liège
  • La Becasse
  • Pizzeria Mondo
  • Bäckerei Mannebach

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