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The cheapest and fastest trains from Budapest to Cologne
Showing times and prices for 08 Jan
Cheapest price
£88
Average price
£113
Fastest journey
11 h 25 m
Average duration
11 h 31 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
956 km
Cheap tickets
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 £113 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £88.
Fast trains
To travel from Budapest to Cologne you need to make at least 2 changes.
EC 140+
ICE 90 · ICE 620+
DB S608:4011h43
Budapest Keleti20:23Cologne Hbf
£881One-way
3 changes
EC 140+ICE 90 · ICE 62008:4011h34
Budapest Keleti20:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
£881One-way
2 changes
EC 142 · RJX 166 · EC 114 · ICE 52610:4011h36
Budapest Keleti22:16Cologne Hbf
£911One-way
3 changes
RJX 64 · ICE 22 · ICE 52411:4012h00
Budapest Keleti23:40Cologne Hbf
£911One-way
2 changes
RJX 62 · ICE 24 · ICE 10209:4011h25
Budapest Keleti21:05Cologne Hbf
£911One-way
2 changes
RJX 62 · ICE 24 · ICE 10209:4011h25
Budapest Keleti21:05Cologne Hbf
£911One-way
2 changes
RJX 62+ICE 24 · ICE 10209:4011h25
Budapest Keleti21:05Cologne Hbf
£991One-way
2 changes
EC 140+ICE 90 · ICE 62008:4011h34
Budapest Keleti20:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
£881One-way
2 changes
EC 140 · ICE 90 · ICE 62008:4011h34
Budapest Keleti20:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
£1591One-way
2 changes
EC 142 · RJX 166 · EC 114 · ICE 52610:4011h36
Budapest Keleti22:16Cologne Hbf
£911One-way
3 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Budapest to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £48, and a flight costs an average of £43.
Distance: 956 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£125 Average Price | £236 Average Price | £77 Average Price Cheapest |
12h 22m Average total duration 11h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration Fastest 2h 13m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 38m Average total duration 18h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.9 - 5.7kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Budapest to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday 7 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 20:21
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21:25 Budapest | 15h49 | 13:14 Cologne | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 8 January | |||||
| EC 140 · ICE 90 · ICE 620 | On time 07:40 Budapest Keleti | 11h34 | 19:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
| EC 140+ICE 90 · ICE 620+DB S6 | 07:40 Budapest Keleti | 11h43 | 19:23 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
| EC 140+ICE 90 · ICE 620 | On time 07:40 Budapest Keleti | 11h34 | 19:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
| RJX 62+ICE 24 | On time 08:40 Budapest Keleti | 12h58 | 21:38 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| RJX 62 · ICE 24 · ICE 102 | Delayed 08:40 Budapest Keleti | 11h25 | 20:20 20:20Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
| RJX 62+ICE 24 · ICE 102 | Delayed 08:40 Budapest Keleti | 11h25 | 20:20 20:20Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
| RJX 62 · ICE 24 | On time 08:40 Budapest Keleti | 12h58 | 21:38 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| EC 142 · RJX 166 · EC 114 · ICE 526 | On time 09:40 Budapest Keleti | 11h36 | 21:16 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
| EC 142+RJX 166+EC 114+ICE 526 | On time 09:40 Budapest Keleti | 11h36 | 21:16 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
| RJX 64+ICE 22 · ICE 524 | On time 10:40 Budapest Keleti | 12h00 | 22:40 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
| RJX 64 · ICE 22 · ICE 524 | On time 10:40 Budapest Keleti | 12h00 | 22:40 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Budapest to Cologne by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Budapest to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Budapest to Cologne is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Budapest to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Budapest 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 Budapest to Cologne.
Trains
from £52Coaches
from £55Flights
from £138Journey information
Overview: Train from Budapest to Cologne
Hungary
Germany
Trains from Budapest to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 11h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £66 but you can travel from only £43 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 956 km distance in 11h 34m.
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
Flight from £43
Distance 956 km |
Average train duration 11h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £66 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 11h 34m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
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
Flight from £43
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE from Budapest to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE trains will get you between Budapest and Cologne from £43. 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
11h 34m
Cheapest Price
£55
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.
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.
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.
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
ÖBB | ICE
About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
FAQs: Budapest to Cologne train
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.
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.
A day trip from Budapest to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 34m and covers a distance of 956 km. There are 12 trips per day by train.
The cost of a train ticket from Budapest to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £66, while the average price tends to be around £125.
Booking trains from Budapest to Cologne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Budapest to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of Austria and southern Germany, including rolling hills, charming villages, and lush countryside.
The train journey from Budapest to Cologne covers a distance of 956 km and takes approximately 11h 34m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train station in Budapest that goes to Cologne is Budapest Keleti, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The first train from Budapest to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The cheapest way to get from Budapest to Cologne is by flight, costing approximately £43.
Trains from Budapest to Cologne run approximately 12 times per day.
The train distance from Budapest to Cologne is 956 km.
Yes, you can take the train from Budapest to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Budapest to Cologne.
The last train from Budapest to Cologne departs at 23:58.
To get from Budapest to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Budapest to Cologne.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Budapest and Cologne
Budapest
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Budapest is Budapest Keleti. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Budapest Keleti for your trip from Budapest to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
18Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible from Kerepesi út.
Dining
- Rosenstein Restaurant
- Huszar Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Hungaria City Center
- Baross City Hotel
- Royal Park Boutique Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platforms 7-13 for regional trains
- Hall 3: platforms 14-18 for suburban trains
Public transport options for Budapest Keleti
- Metro: Line M2, Line M4
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 24
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Distance to city center
1 kmLockers
- Located in the passenger hall, approaching the entrance near the international checkout to the left.
Dining
- Déli Terasz Söröző
- Ibrahim török büfé
- Vagon Etterem
- Fornetti
- Trio pizza
- Turkish Döner KEBAB
- Déli Mosoly
- Balatonexpressz Étkezőkocsi
- Club D One
- Lokomotív Falatozó
Accessibility
- There are some accessible features including ramps and elevators.
Hotel
- Mercure Budapest Castle Hill
- Christina Residence Budapest
- ibis Budapest Castle Hill
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00-10:00, 10:20-14:00, 14:25- 17:35
Information Desk
- Located in the passenger hall of the train station, next to the international ticket offices.
Public transport options for Budapest-Déli
- Metro lines: M2 (red)
- Tram lines: 17, 56, 56A, 59, 59A, 59B, 61
- Bus lines: 21, 21A, 39, 102, 139, 140, 140A, N960, N990
- Train lines: IC, IR, S (10, 12, 30, 34, 35, 40, 42), Z30
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Etele tér.
Dining
- Restaurant Etele Plaza
- KFC Etele Plaza
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- HUF 200
Hotel
- Hotel Griff
- Hotel Ventura
- Hotel Berlin
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and domestic long-distance trains
- Hall 2: regional and suburban train platforms
- Hall 3: Metro and tram connections
Public transport options for Budapest-Kelenföld
- Metro: Line M4
- Tram: Line 1, Line 19, Line 49
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Budapest.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Budapest
More options for your journey from Budapest to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Budapest
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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