- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Cheapest price on 07 Oct
£34
Average ticket price on 07 Oct
£137
Fastest journey on 07 Oct
11 h 49 m
Average journey duration on 07 Oct
12 h 6 m
Trains on 07 Oct
23
Distance
956 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Budapest to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Cologne will cost around £137 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £34.
To travel from Budapest to Cologne you need to make at least one change.
RJX 68 · ICE 618
R 4626 · RJX 68 · ICE 618
RJX 66 · ICE 698 · IC 60402
R 4626 · RJX 68 · ICE 618
RJX 68 · ICE 618
R 4632 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 1214
EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 1214 · ICE 912
RJX19976+
ICE 1214 · ICE 912+
EC 140
RJX19976+
ICE 1214 · ICE 912+
DB S19
RJX 62+
ICE 512Trains from Budapest to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 11h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £34 but you can travel from only £30 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 956 km distance in 10h 4m.
Distance 956 km |
Average train duration 11h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price £34 |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 10h 4m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 56 days |
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday 6 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
R 4636 · EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 1014 | 16:40 Budapest-Deli | 15h49 | 8:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4 changes | |
R 4636 · EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 888 | 16:40 Budapest-Deli | 17h26 | 10:06 Cologne Hbf | 5 changes | |
R 4636 · EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 1014 | 16:40 Budapest-Deli | 15h49 | 8:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4 changes | |
R 4636 · EC 148 · RJX 19972 · ICE 888 | 16:40 Budapest-Deli | 17h26 | 10:06 Cologne Hbf | 5 changes | |
| Wednesday 7 October | |||||
EC 140+ RJX19976+ ICE 116 · ICE 318 | On time 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h09 | 21:39 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 140+ RJX19976+ ICE 1214 · ICE 912 | On time 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 11h59 | 20:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3 changes | |
EC 140+ RJX19976+ ICE 1214 · ICE 912 | 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h09 | 20:39 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 · ICE 318 | On time 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h09 | 21:39 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 1214 · ICE 912 | On time 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 11h59 | 20:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3 changes | |
EC 140+ RJX 62+ ICE 512+ IC 642 | 8:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h34 | 22:04 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
R 4632 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 1214 | On time 8:40 Budapest-Deli | 11h49 | 20:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4 changes | |
R 4632 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 | On time 8:40 Budapest-Deli | 12h59 | 21:39 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
R 4632 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 | 8:40 Budapest-Deli | 13h26 | 22:06 Cologne Hbf | 5 changes | |
RJX 62+ ICE 512 | 9:30 Budapest Keleti | 12h34 | 22:04 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
RJX 62+ EC 114+ ICE 910 · ICE 22 | 9:30 Budapest Keleti | 14h36 | 0:06 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
RJX 62+ EC 114+ ICE 910+ IC 644 | 9:30 Budapest Keleti | 13h00 | 22:30 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
RJX 62+ EC 114+ ICE 782 · ICE 22 | 9:30 Budapest Keleti | 14h36 | 0:06 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
RJX 66 · ICE 698 · IC 60402 | On time 13:30 Budapest Keleti | 16h14 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
RJX 66 · ICE 698 · IC 60402 | On time 13:30 Budapest Keleti | 16h14 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
RJX 66+ ICE 698+ IC 60402 | On time 13:30 Budapest Keleti | 16h14 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
R 3416+ EC 146+ RJX19970 · RE5 | On time 14:20 Budapest Keleti | 15h24 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 5 changes | |
EC 146+ RJX 68+ ICE 618+ IC 744 | 14:55 Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 15h09 | 6:04 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
EC 146+ RJX19970 · RE5+ ICE 698 | On time 14:55 Budapest-Kelenfoeld | 14h49 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
RJX 68 · ICE 618 | On time 15:30 Budapest Keleti | 14h34 | 6:04 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
RJX 68 · ICE 618 | On time 15:30 Budapest Keleti | 14h36 | 6:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
R 4626 · RJX 68 · ICE 618 | On time 15:40 Budapest-Deli | 14h24 | 6:04 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
R 4626 · RJX 68 · ICE 618 | On time 15:40 Budapest-Deli | 14h26 | 6:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.
Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.
Historic old town lanes and squares by the Rhine, packed with colourful houses, churches and viewpoints. Ideal for a classic Cologne stroll.
Long Rhine promenade with bridge, cathedral and river views. Popular for walking, photography and watching boats pass through the city centre.
Lively square in the old town framed by historic buildings and museums. A useful base for sightseeing and one of Cologne’s best-known public spaces.
Rye bread with butter, cheese, ham or sausage, traditionally served in Cologne breweries as a simple local snack with Kölsch.
Hearty dish of black pudding with fried onions and mashed potatoes, a Rhineland classic closely associated with Cologne home cooking.
Slow-cooked horsemeat in a sweet-sour raisin sauce, a historic Rhineland speciality still served in a few traditional Cologne restaurants.
Classic Brauhaus serving Päffgen Kölsch and Rhineland favourites in a bustling, wood-panelled setting popular with locals.
Traditional brewery venue by Heumarkt with house Kölsch and dependable regional cooking in a spacious historic hall.
Long-established restaurant for refined German and Rhineland cooking, with a more formal atmosphere than a typical Brauhaus.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.
Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf -> Neumarkt, Cologne
The most popular day trips by train from Cologne are Bonn, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Koblenz and Dortmund. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cologne on Omio.

Bonn is best known as Beethoven’s birthplace and the former capital of West Germany. Set on the Rhine, it feels calm and cultured, with museums, leafy neighbourhoods and a strong university presence.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 19m.

Düsseldorf is known for fashion, contemporary art and its lively Altstadt on the Rhine. Sleek shopping streets, traditional breweries and bold modern architecture give it a polished yet sociable character.
There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 14m.

Aachen is best known for its cathedral and its close ties to Charlemagne and imperial history. Near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, it feels compact, youthful and international, with thermal spa traditions and a busy university scene.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 63 km distance in 31m.

Koblenz sits at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle, with a historic centre shaped by Roman beginnings and river trade. It is known for the Deutsches Eck and Ehrenbreitstein, while vineyards and waterfront views give it a calm, lived-in feel.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 78 km distance in 44m.

Dortmund is a Ruhr city known for football, brewing heritage and its industrial roots. Former worksites, parks and modern cultural venues give it a practical, lively character.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 74 km distance in 57m.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest 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.

Most Budapest to Cologne trains use the Budapest Keleti to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Budapest and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Budapest Keleti is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest Keleti 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 options include: Rosenstein Restaurant, Huszar Restaurant
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Budapest Keleti. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Budapest Keleti. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Budapest Keleti: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest Keleti: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest Keleti: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hungaria City Center, Baross City Hotel, Royal Park Boutique Hotel.
Budapest-Déli is 1 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest-Déli has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Déli Terasz Söröző, Ibrahim török büfé, Vagon Etterem, Fornetti, Trio pizza, Turkish Döner KEBAB, Déli Mosoly, Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi, Club D One, Lokomotív Falatozó
ATMs are aTM machines are located on the ground floor inside the main hall.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35. Information desks are located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Luggage storage is located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Available at Budapest-Déli: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest-Déli: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Déli: There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Nearby hotels include Mercure Budapest Castle Hill, Christina Residence Budapest, ibis Budapest Castle Hill.
Budapest-Kelenföld is 3 km from Budapest city centre. Public transport options include:
Budapest-Kelenföld 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 options include: Restaurant Etele Plaza, KFC Etele Plaza
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Budapest-Kelenföld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Budapest-Kelenföld: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Griff, Hotel Ventura, Hotel Berlin.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need