1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Dresden
Showing times and prices for 22 Dec
Cheapest price
£71
Average price
£71
Fastest journey
5 h 35 m
Average duration
5 h 35 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
670 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Dresden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Dresden will cost around £71 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £71.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Dresden you need to make at least one change.
05:117h40
Köln Hbf12:51Dresden
£711One-way
0 changes
07:137h35
Köln Messe/deutz Bf14:48Dresden
£711One-way
0 changes
09:257h06
Köln Messe/deutz Bf16:31Dresden
£711One-way
0 changes
11:297h01
Köln Messe/deutz Bf18:30Dresden
£711One-way
0 changes
13:147h16
Köln Messe/deutz Bf20:30Dresden
£711One-way
0 changes
07:555h35
Köln Hbf13:30Dresden
£971One-way
1 change
09:555h35
Köln Hbf15:30Dresden
£971One-way
1 change
11:555h35
Köln Hbf17:30Dresden
£971One-way
1 change
13:555h35
Köln Hbf19:30Dresden
£971One-way
1 change
15:555h35
Köln Hbf21:30Dresden
£971One-way
1 change
Live departures
Cologne to Dresden train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Dresden trains for today, Sunday 21 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:20
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:13 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 7h38 | 14:51 Dresden | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:55 Köln Hbf | 5h35 | 13:30 Dresden | 1 change | |
| 09:20 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 7h10 | 16:30 Dresden | 0 changesdirect | |
| 09:55 Köln Hbf | 5h35 | 15:30 Dresden | 1 change | |
| 11:13 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 7h17 | 18:30 Dresden | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Dresden by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
Mon
22 Dec
22 Dec
Tue
23 Dec
23 Dec
Wed
24 Dec
24 Dec
Thu
25 Dec
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec
26 Dec
Sat
27 Dec
27 Dec
Sun
28 Dec
28 Dec
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Dresden
Italy
Germany
Trains from Cologne to Dresden run on average 12 times per day, taking around 6h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £42 if you book in advance.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:10, the last at 08:10. The fastest train covers the 670 km distance in 5h 35m.
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 670 km |
Average train duration 6h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price £42 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 5h 35m |
First train 08:10 |
Last train 08:10 |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Cologne to Dresden trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne and Dresden from £42. 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
5h 35m
Cheapest Price
£71
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 7m
Cheapest Price
£41
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
FAQs: Cologne to Dresden train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Dresden 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 Dresden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
For a well-rounded experience in Dresden, spending three to four days is ideal. This allows time to explore the historic Old Town, visit the Zwinger Palace, and enjoy the art collections in the museums, along with some leisurely time to stroll along the Elbe River and experience local cuisine.
Booking trains from Cologne to Dresden in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Dresden. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Dresden can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £42, while the average price tends to be around £85.
To get from Cologne to Dresden, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
In Dresden, you can explore the Zwinger Palace, a baroque masterpiece with art collections and gardens, and visit the Frauenkirche, a reconstructed Lutheran church offering panoramic views from its dome. Experience world-class performances at the Semper Opera House, known for its stunning architecture, and discover royal treasures at Dresden Castle, featuring the famous Green Vault. For a scenic stroll, head to Brühl's Terrace along the Elbe River, often called the Balcony of Europe.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Dresden is by train, costing approximately £42.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Dresden.
The train distance from Cologne to Dresden is 670 km.
The train journey from Cologne to Dresden covers a distance of 670 km and takes approximately 5h 35m. Trains run 12 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Dresden leaves at 8:10.
The last train from Cologne to Dresden departs at 8:10.
Trains from Cologne to Dresden run approximately 12 times per day.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Dresden.
A day trip from Cologne to Dresden is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 35m. However, there are 12 trains per day.
The train journey from Cologne to Dresden offers picturesque views of the German countryside, including the scenic Rhine Valley and the charming landscapes of Saxony, making it a visually appealing route.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Dresden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dresden and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Dresden
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
