Cologne to Darmstadt train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Wed 14 Oct
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Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Intercity
Regional
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Intercity
Regional
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Darmstadt

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct

Cheapest price on 14 Oct

£34

Average ticket price on 14 Oct

£40

Fastest journey on 14 Oct

1 h 41 m

Average journey duration on 14 Oct

2 h 36 m

Trains on 14 Oct

4

Distance

169 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Darmstadt will cost around £40 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £34.

Fast trains

On Wed 14 Oct, we found 4 trains from Cologne to Darmstadt, including 4 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 169 km distance in an average of 2 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 41 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 8 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 Bahn
    7:532h28
    Cologne
    10:21Darmstadt
    £341One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:423h08
    Cologne
    9:50Darmstadt
    £371One-way
    0 changes
  • Regional
    4:423h05
    Cologne
    7:47Darmstadt
    £441One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:191h41
    Cologne
    8:00Darmstadt
    £461One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Darmstadt

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Darmstadt run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:13, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 169 km distance in 1h 23m.

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 £9
Distance
169 km
Average train duration
1h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
£16
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
1h 23m
First train
0:13
Last train
23:57
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 £9

Live departures

Cologne to Darmstadt train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Darmstadt trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 14 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Regional4:42 Cologne
3h05
7:47 Darmstadt0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn6:19 Cologne
1h41
8:00 Darmstadt0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn6:42 Cologne
3h08
9:50 Darmstadt0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn7:53 Cologne
2h28
10:21 Darmstadt0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cologne to Darmstadt trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH, Intercity, Regional and more offer trains services from Cologne to Darmstadt.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Darmstadt.

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, Intercity or Regional to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Darmstadt.
  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Darmstadt.

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, Intercity or Regional to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Darmstadt.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Darmstadt.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Darmstadt

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
IconVery fast and reliable
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train connection from Cologne to Darmstadt was very pleasant and satisfactory. The punctuality of the train was excellent, the train arrived and departed on time. The cleanliness of the train was average, the floors and seats were very well maintained and clean, but the windows could do with some extra cleaning. The toilets were well equipped and well maintained. I reached my destination on time and was very happy with this train service, so I am happy to recommend it.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconComfortable
Disadvantages
IconSanitary facilities
I travelled from Cologne to Darmstadt by train. I had to change trains twice on my journey. All trains arrived on time, so there were no connection problems. There were also no delays or disruptions during the rest of the journey. The trains were in good general condition. The wifi provided worked very well and reliably, as did the power sockets, which were very handy for charging smartphones. Unfortunately, the sanitary facilities were not particularly clean.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Regional, Intercity, VIAS Rail GmbH from Cologne to Darmstadt trainsDeutsche Bahn, Regional, Intercity, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Cologne and Darmstadt from £9. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
1h 23m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£16
Deutsche Bahn frequency
38 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

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \InterCity\" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, \"Intercity\" or \"IC\" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph)."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
2h 27m
Cheapest Intercity Price
£38
Intercity frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
£27
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Regional

About
The term \Regional\" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, \"Regionalbahn\" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional Duration
3h 22m
Cheapest Regional Price
£51
Regional frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

Complete guide to Darmstadt

Things to do in Darmstadt

Discover the best of Darmstadt — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Darmstadt trip today.

  • Must visit

Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt

Major state museum with art, natural history and cultural collections, ranging from medieval works to modern design and zoological displays.

  • Must visit

Museum Künstlerkolonie

Museum on the Mathildenhöhe site presenting Art Nouveau architecture, design and the history of the artists' colony in restored exhibition spaces.

  • Recommended

Centralstation

Art gallery and cultural venue in a former industrial building, known for changing exhibitions, photography and events near the city centre.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are fairly priced, and local transport is reasonable. Costs are usually lower than Frankfurt but above smaller towns.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is normal in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafés.

Best day trips from Darmstadt by train

The most popular day trips by train from Darmstadt are Frankfurt am Main, Heidelberg, Mainz, Wiesbaden and Mannheim. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Darmstadt on Omio.

A view of Frankfurt am Main

Day trip from Darmstadt to Frankfurt am Main by train

Why visit Frankfurt am Main for the day?

Frankfurt am Main pairs Germany’s best-known skyline with a rebuilt old town and a broad stretch of museums along the Main. Known as a financial hub and trade fair city, it also has apple wine taverns and a distinctly international feel.

How to get from Darmstadt to Frankfurt am Main by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 27 km distance in 14m.

A view of Heidelberg

Day trip from Darmstadt to Heidelberg by train

Why visit Heidelberg for the day?

Heidelberg is a historic university city on the River Neckar, known for its baroque Altstadt and Heidelberg Castle. A large student population keeps the city lively, while riverside views and the Philosophenweg reflect its Romantic past.

How to get from Darmstadt to Heidelberg by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 52 km distance in 32m.

A view of Mainz

Day trip from Darmstadt to Mainz by train

Why visit Mainz for the day?

Mainz on the Rhine is known for its Roman past, Gutenberg heritage and relaxed wine culture. Its old town, cathedral and riverside give the state capital a lively but easy-going feel.

How to get from Darmstadt to Mainz by train?

The earliest train runs at 01:42, the last at 22:14. The fastest train covers the 29 km distance in 50m.

A view of Wiesbaden

Day trip from Darmstadt to Wiesbaden by train

Why visit Wiesbaden for the day?

Wiesbaden is known for its thermal springs, stately architecture and refined spa-town character. Set near the Rhine, it blends leafy parks, elegant squares and a calm, affluent atmosphere.

How to get from Darmstadt to Wiesbaden by train?

The earliest train runs at 01:53, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 37 km distance in 48m.

A view of Mannheim

Day trip from Darmstadt to Mannheim by train

Why visit Mannheim for the day?

Mannheim is known for its grid-plan centre, industrial heritage and confident cultural life. The Baroque palace, the Wasserturm and a strong music scene give the city a practical yet distinctive character.

How to get from Darmstadt to Mannheim by train?

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 43 km distance in 42m.

FAQs: Cologne to Darmstadt train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Darmstadt 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 Darmstadt, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Darmstadt can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £62.
The train journey from Cologne to Darmstadt covers a distance of 169 km and takes approximately 1h 23m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Darmstadt is 169 km.
The first train from Cologne to Darmstadt leaves at 0:13.
The last train from Cologne to Darmstadt departs at 23:57.
Trains from Cologne to Darmstadt run approximately 4 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Darmstadt.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Darmstadt.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Darmstadt is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Darmstadt Hbf.
Booking trains from Cologne to Darmstadt 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 Darmstadt offers a pleasant view, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhineland, with glimpses of charming towns and the scenic Rhine River along parts of the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Darmstadt.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Darmstadt

Most Cologne to Darmstadt trains use the Köln Hbf to Darmstadt Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Darmstadt-Eberstadt. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Darmstadt 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 Darmstadt

Which Cologne station do trains to Darmstadt leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Darmstadt leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 1 km from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · £6 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £4 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £4 · 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.

Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre

Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 12m · £3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · £2 · every ~52 min

Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services

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 and drink

Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · £4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · £4

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

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 and drink

Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

More options for your journey from Cologne to Darmstadt

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