The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Amsterdam
Cheapest price
£27
Average price
£68
Fastest journey
2 h 43 m
Average duration
2 h 43 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
214 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Amsterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Amsterdam will cost around £68 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £27.
Of the 12 trains that leave Cologne for Amsterdam every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 2 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 43 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.
IC 60402 · IC 284225:473h17Cologne Hbf9:04Amsterdam Centraal£271One-way1 change
IC 60402 · IC 35245:473h15Cologne Hbf9:02Amsterdam Zuid£271One-way1 change
IC 604025:473h18Cologne Hbf9:05Amsterdam Centraal£271One-way0 changes
26801 · S8 · Bus RE13 · IC 35223:494h43Cologne Hbf8:32Amsterdam Zuid£541One-way3 changes
ICE 222 · IC 35266:492h43Cologne Hbf9:32Amsterdam Zuid£691One-way1 change
ICE 220 · IC 35348:492h43Cologne Hbf11:32Amsterdam Zuid£731One-way1 change
ICE 128 · IC 354210:492h43Cologne Hbf13:32Amsterdam Zuid£1141One-way1 change
ICE 126 · IC 355012:492h43Cologne Hbf15:32Amsterdam Zuid£851One-way1 change
ICE 222 · IC 35266:492h43Cologne Hbf9:32Amsterdam Zuid£691One-way1 change
ICE 12612:492h45Cologne Hbf15:34Amsterdam Centraal£891One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Amsterdam
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Amsterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £14, and a flight costs an average of £137.
Distance: 214 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£61 Average Price | £25 Average Price Cheapest | £411 Average Price |
4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 3h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration 5h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 1m Average total duration 12h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Amsterdam train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Amsterdam trains for today, Sunday 17 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 60402 | Delayed 3:47 6:01Cologne Hbf | 4h24 | 7:05 7:05Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 158 | On time 10:50 Cologne Hbf | 3h08 | 13:58 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
10612 · 20074 · IC 3548 · IC 3046 | 11:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h40 | 15:05 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
10612 · 20074 · IC 3548 | 11:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h52 | 15:17 Amsterdam Centraal | 2 changes | |
10912 · 18936 · 32544 · IC 2750 | 11:47 Cologne Hbf | 4h03 | 15:50 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
ICE 156 | On time 12:50 Cologne Hbf | 3h08 | 15:58 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
10616 · 20078 · IC 3556 · IC 3054 | 13:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h40 | 17:05 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
10616 · 20078 · IC 3556 | 13:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h52 | 17:17 Amsterdam Centraal | 2 changes | |
10916 · 18944 · 32552 · IC 2758 | 13:47 Cologne Hbf | 4h03 | 17:50 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
ICE 154 | On time 14:50 Cologne Hbf | 3h08 | 17:58 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
10620 · 20082 · IC 3564 | 15:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h52 | 19:17 Amsterdam Centraal | 2 changes | |
10620 · 20082 · IC 3564 · IC 3062 | 15:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h40 | 19:05 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
10920 · 18952 · 32560 · IC 2766 | 15:47 Cologne Hbf | 4h03 | 19:50 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
ICE 152 | On time 16:50 Cologne Hbf | 3h08 | 19:58 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
10624 · 20086 · IC 3572 · IC 3070 | 17:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h40 | 21:05 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
10624 · 20086 · IC 3572 | 17:25 Cologne Hbf | 3h52 | 21:17 Amsterdam Centraal | 2 changes | |
10924 · 18960 · 32568 · IC 2774 | 17:47 Cologne Hbf | 4h03 | 21:50 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
ICE 1254 | On time 18:50 Cologne Hbf | 3h04 | 21:54 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
26828 · 18966 · 32574 · IC 2980 | 19:15 Cologne Hbf | 4h05 | 23:20 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
10628 · Bus RE13 · IC 3582 · IC 3080 | 19:25 Cologne Hbf | 4h12 | 23:37 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
26830 · 18970 · 32578 · IC 2984 | 20:15 Cologne Hbf | 4h05 | 0:20 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
26830 · 18970 · IC 2986 | 20:15 Cologne Hbf | 4h35 | 0:50 Amsterdam Centraal | 2 changes | |
10630 · Bus RE13 · IC 3586 · IC 2986 | 20:25 Cologne Hbf | 4h25 | 0:50 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
28532 · 10235 · 20236 · IC 1714 | 20:31 Cologne Hbf | 10h12 | 6:43 Amsterdam Zuid | 4 changes | |
28534 · Bus RE19X · IC 3114 | 21:31 Cologne Hbf | 9h16 | 6:47 Amsterdam Zuid | 2 changes | |
28534 · Bus RE19X · IC 3012 | 21:31 Cologne Hbf | 9h26 | 6:57 Amsterdam Centraal | 2 changes | |
26837 · Bus RE19X · IC 3012+ 20040 | 21:49 Cologne Hbf | 9h08 | 6:57 Amsterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
| Monday 18 May | |||||
26801 · S8 · Bus RE13 · IC 3522 | 3:49 Cologne Hbf | 4h43 | 8:32 Amsterdam Zuid | 3 changes | |
IC 60402 · IC 28422 | 5:47 Cologne Hbf | 3h17 | 9:04 Amsterdam Centraal | 1 change | |
IC 60402 · IC 3524 | 5:47 Cologne Hbf | 3h15 | 9:02 Amsterdam Zuid | 1 change | |
IC 60402 | 5:47 Cologne Hbf | 3h18 | 9:05 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 222 · IC 3526 | On time 6:49 Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 9:32 Amsterdam Zuid | 1 change | |
ICE 222 | On time 6:49 Cologne Hbf | 2h45 | 9:34 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 220 · IC 3534 | On time 8:49 Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 11:32 Amsterdam Zuid | 1 change | |
ICE 220 | On time 8:49 Cologne Hbf | 3h01 | 11:50 Amsterdam Centraal | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Amsterdam by train, coach or flight
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Why should you book Cologne to Amsterdam 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, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Amsterdam.
- 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 Cologne to Amsterdam.
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, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Amsterdam.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Amsterdam.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Amsterdam?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Amsterdam

Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Amsterdam
Trains from Cologne to Amsterdam run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 214 km distance in 2h 39m.
Distance 214 km |
Average train duration 3h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 39m |
First train 0:10 |
Last train 23:42 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Amsterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Amsterdam from £14. 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
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Trains from Cologne to Amsterdam
With eight daily direct departures, over three dozen connecting services and a similar timetable operating throughout the week, travelling by train from Cologne to Amsterdam is straightforward. Direct routes take approximately two hours 45 minutes while connecting routes can take up to nine and a half hours. All departures are from Cologne Hbf with services terminating at Amsterdam Centraal.
Which train companies travel from Cologne to Amsterdam?
All trains to Amsterdam from Cologne are operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB). DB is Germany's national rail carrier and the world's largest provider of passenger services. Deutsche Bahn trains are modern with comfortable carriages and facilities that include luggage space, power outlets, WiFi and onboard catering.
How long is the train from Cologne to Amsterdam?
Direct trains between the two cities take just two hours and 45 minutes to complete the journey while other routes can take up to nine and a half hours depending on the number of connections required and waiting times at transfer stations. Connections are made at stations that include Dusseldorf, Venlo, Utrecht Centraal, Arnhem and Duisberg.
How many trains are there from Cologne to Amsterdam?
There are over three dozen train departures a day on services from Cologne to Amsterdam. Eight of these routes are direct. Services start in the early hours of the morning. There are then at least two departures an hour until the late evening with some evening departures arriving in Amsterdam the following morning. A similar timetable operates seven days a week.
What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Cologne to Amsterdam?
Departure train station: All trains from Cologne to Amsterdam depart from Cologne Hbf. This large station is within walking distance of Cologne's historic attractions. It is also linked to the city and its suburbs by S-Bahn trains and local buses. Among the facilities at Cologne Hbf are car parking, a taxi rank, left luggage storage, WiFi, shops and food outlets.
Arrival train station: All services to Amsterdam from Cologne arrive at the large and busy Amsterdam Centraal Station. This is right in the city centre and within easy walking distance of cultural and historic attractions. Its local transport network includes water and local buses, trams, trains and taxis. Station facilities include car and bicycle parking, WiFi, left luggage storage, shops and food outlets.
FAQs: Cologne to Amsterdam train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Amsterdam
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- 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
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- 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
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- Mon - Sun: 05:50 - 20:59
- Free WiFi in all station areas.
- Located on the ground floor near the front entrance in the eastern walkway, near the stairs to platform 2. Open daily from 07:00 to 01:00.
- De Broodzaak
- Kyoto Sushi & Grill
- Starbucks
- The Doner Company
- Wagamama
- Wurst & Schnitzelhaus
- Smullers
- Burger King
- Grand Café First Class
- Burgerij
- & many more
- The station is fully accessible, including lifts to the platforms.
- NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace
- Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam
- Art’otel Amsterdam
- Located in a small white building in front of the station's main entrance and at various points in the main passenger hall.
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Parnassusweg.
- Restaurant As
- Gustavino
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- €0.50
- NH Amsterdam Zuid
- citizenM Amsterdam South
- Crowne Plaza Amsterdam South
- Located in the main hall
- 1500 places, covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to Belgium, Germany, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: metro and tram connections
- Metro: Line 50, Line 51
- Tram: Line 5, Line 25
- Bus: Several lines available
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access is available via Orlyplein.
- Restaurant Helden
- Grand Café Hermes
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- €0.70
- Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam - Sloterdijk
- Mercure Hotel Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station
- MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West
- Located in the main hall
- 500 places, partially covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to Belgium, Germany, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: metro and local train platforms
- Hall 3: tram connections
- Metro: Line 50, Line 51
- Tram: Line 19
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Cologne
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