- Must visit
Cité de la dentelle et de la mode de Calais
Major lace and fashion museum in a converted factory, explaining Calais's textile heritage through machinery, dress and design displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Calais
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Oct
Cheapest price on 18 Oct
£221
Average ticket price on 18 Oct
£234
Fastest journey on 18 Oct
6 h 14 m
Average journey duration on 18 Oct
7 h 46 m
Trains on 18 Oct
6
Distance
357 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Calais is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Calais will cost around £234 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £221.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Calais you need to make at least one change.
9462+
K16 (16398)14:437h42Cologne Hbf22:25Calais Ville£2211One-way1 change- 9462+K16 (16372)14:437h56Cologne Hbf22:39Calais Ville£2211One-way1 change
- 9450+K16 (16372)12:3910h00Cologne Hbf22:39Calais Ville£2211One-way1 change
- 9450+K16 (16398)12:399h46Cologne Hbf22:25Calais Ville£2211One-way1 change
- 9450+
7053+
84442112:396h14Cologne Hbf18:53Calais - Fréthun£2601One-way2 changes
- 9450+7053+84442112:396h14Cologne Hbf18:53Calais - Fréthun£2601One-way2 changes
- 9462+7073+84442314:437h10Cologne Hbf21:53Calais - Fréthun£2601One-way2 changes
- 9462+K16 (16398)14:437h42Cologne Hbf22:25Calais Ville£2211One-way1 change
- 9462+K16 (16372)14:437h56Cologne Hbf22:39Calais Ville£2211One-way1 change
- 9450+K16 (16398)12:399h46Cologne Hbf22:25Calais Ville£2211One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Calais
Germany
France
Trains from Cologne to Calais run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:31, the last at 15:41. The fastest train covers the 357 km distance in 2h 54m.
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 5h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 2h 54m |
First train 5:31 |
Last train 15:41 |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Why should you book Cologne to Calais trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 offer trains services from Cologne to Calais.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Calais.
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 Eurostar or SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Calais.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Calais.
Train companies: Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 from Cologne to Calais trainsEurostar, Deutsche Bahn, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 trains will get you between Cologne and Calais from £13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Eurostar Duration
5h 25m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
£30
Eurostar frequency
6 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
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 54m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£13
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
4h 9m
Cheapest SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
£20
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Calais
Things to do in Calais
Discover the best of Calais — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Calais trip today.
- Recommended
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Calais
Fine arts museum with works on Rodin, local history and temporary exhibitions, set near the town hall in central Calais.
- Recommended
Musée Mémoire 39-45
Second World War museum inside a former German naval bunker, presenting occupied Calais through objects, documents and immersive spaces.
- Must visit
Front de Mer de Calais
Long seafront promenade and beach area for walking, sea views and sunsets, popular with visitors and locals in all seasons.
- Recommended
Place d'Armes
Central square lined with historic buildings and cafés, close to the watchtower and old quarter, with a lively local atmosphere.
- Recommended
Parc Saint-Pierre
Landscaped park around the town hall and museum quarter, good for a short walk and close views of major civic landmarks.
Soupe de poissons
A hearty fish soup from the Opal Coast, made with local fish and served with rouille and bread. A classic northern seaside speciality.
- Gluten-free
Moules marinières
Fresh mussels cooked with white wine, cream, garlic or shallots. Widely eaten in coastal Pas-de-Calais and closely tied to local brasseries.
- Gluten-free
Waterzooï de poisson
A rich fish stew from nearby Boulogne-sur-Mer, made with several fish, potatoes and aromatic broth. A signature dish of the wider Côte d’Opale.
Histoire Ancienne
Refined dining room near the seafront with contemporary French cooking, attentive service and a calmer atmosphere.
Au Côte d'Argent
Established seafood restaurant by the port, known for fish, shellfish and a relaxed maritime setting.
La Tourello
Casual crêperie and cider spot offering savoury galettes and sweet crêpes, well suited to an easy meal in town.
Euro (€)
Calais is moderate by French standards, with fairly priced meals and local transport, while hotels can rise in peak ferry and summer periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €55+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for very good restaurant service. Taxis may be rounded up; cafés often just keep the small change.
Imag'in
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Calais Ville -> Théâtre, Calais
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Use the official Imag'in app for real-time bus information and network alerts.
- From Calais Ville, buses 4, 5 and 8 serve central stops including Théâtre and Gare SNCF.
Best day trips from Calais by train
The most popular day trips by train from Calais are Boulogne-sur-Mer, Dunkirk and Lille. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Calais on Omio.
Day trip from Calais to Boulogne-sur-Mer by train
Why visit Boulogne-sur-Mer for the day?
Boulogne-sur-Mer is a Channel port known for its maritime heritage, walled old town and Nausicaá aquarium. The city mixes medieval streets, a working fishing harbour and a broad seafront with a direct, everyday character.
How to get from Calais to Boulogne-sur-Mer by train?
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 32 km distance in 18m.
Day trip from Calais to Dunkirk by train
Why visit Dunkirk for the day?
Dunkirk is a northern French port city best known for the 1940 evacuation in the Second World War. It pairs a broad seafront and working harbour with Flemish character, maritime history and a strong carnival tradition.
How to get from Calais to Dunkirk by train?
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 20:35. The fastest train covers the 38 km distance in 34m.
Day trip from Calais to Lille by train
Why visit Lille for the day?
Lille is a lively northern French city with Flemish character, handsome old streets and a strong student presence. It is known for the Grand'Place, Vieux-Lille and a food scene that blends French and Belgian influences.
How to get from Calais to Lille by train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:29, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 92 km distance in 26m.
FAQs: Cologne to Calais train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Calais 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 Calais, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Calais can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £34.
The train journey from Cologne to Calais covers a distance of 357 km and takes approximately 2h 54m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Calais is 357 km.
The first train from Cologne to Calais leaves at 5:31.
The last train from Cologne to Calais departs at 15:41.
Trains from Cologne to Calais run approximately 9 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Calais.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Calais.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Calais is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Calais - Fréthun.
Booking trains from Cologne to Calais in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cologne to Calais is moderately scenic, featuring views of the Rhine River and charming German villages, transitioning into the rolling landscapes of northern France.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Calais.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Calais
Most Cologne to Calais trains use the Köln Hbf to Calais - Fréthun station pair, with some services arriving at Calais Ville. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Calais train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Calais
Which Cologne station do trains to Calais leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Calais leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 1 km from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · £7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £5 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Which Calais station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Calais most often arrive at Calais - Fréthun. Some services arrive at Calais Ville, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Calais arrival station.
Calais - FréthunGare de Calais-Fréthun, 62185 Fréthun, France+33 892 35 35 35
City-centre transport
Getting to Calais - Fréthun from Calais city centre
Calais - Fréthun is 6 km from Calais city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 8m · £1
Bus427 · 13m · £4
6 · 22m · every ~1 min
Calais - Fréthun train station facilities and services
Calais - Fréthun has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Channel, Restaurant du Golf
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Calais - Fréthun. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Calais - Fréthun. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Calais - Fréthun: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Calais - Fréthun: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Calais - Fréthun: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Calais, Hotel Meurice, Hotel de la Plage.
Calais VillePlace de la Gare, 62100 Calais, France+33 3 21 96 23 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Calais Ville from Calais city centre
Bus3, 2, 6, Atc, Ts37, 13 · 2m · every ~10 min
Calais Ville train station facilities and services
Calais Ville 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 and drink
Food options include: Le Channel, Au Cote d'Argent
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Calais Ville. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Calais Ville. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Calais Ville: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Calais Ville: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Calais Ville: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Meurice, Holiday Inn Calais, Hotel de la Plage.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Calais
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Calais and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Calais
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