The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Dresden
Cheapest price
£42
Average price
£81
Fastest journey
5 h 49 m
Average duration
6 h 3 m
Trains per day
18
Distance
475 km
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 £81 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £42.
Of the 18 trains that leave Cologne for Dresden every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 475 km distance in an average of 6 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 49 m .
The slowest trains will take 6 h 21 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.
FlixTrain+
FlixBus16:149h21Cologne Hbf1:35Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)£421One-way1 change
FlixTrain16:146h52Cologne Hbf23:06Dresden Hbf£441One-way0 changes
FlixTrain16:146h46Cologne Hbf23:00Dresden-Neustadt station£441One-way0 changes
ICE 619 · ICE 698 · IC 24490:028h49Cologne Hbf8:51Dresden Hbf£441One-way2 changes
ICE 521 · ICE 696 · IC 24474:286h22Cologne Hbf10:50Dresden Hbf£511One-way2 changes
ICE 219 · ICE 7599:585h49Cologne Messe/Deutz15:47Dresden Hbf£1091One-way1 change
ICE 511 · ICE 15555:485h59Cologne Hbf11:47Dresden Hbf£821One-way1 change
ICE 621 · ICE 7599:456h02Cologne Messe/Deutz15:47Dresden Hbf£1271One-way1 change
ICE 529 · ICE 692 · IC 24438:456h05Cologne Messe/Deutz14:50Dresden Hbf£1271One-way2 changes
ICE 1513 · ICE 692 · IC 24438:296h21Cologne Hbf14:50Dresden Hbf£1271One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Cologne to Dresden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Dresden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £23, and a flight costs an average of £251.
Distance: 475 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£56 Average Price | £36 Average Price Cheapest | £431 Average Price |
7h 25m Average total duration 6h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 36m Average total duration 8h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Dresden train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Dresden trains for today, Thursday 28 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1648 · ICE 1557 | On time 6:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h54 | 13:47 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 845 · IC 2177 | On time 7:26 Cologne Hbf | 7h02 | 14:28 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 513 · ICE 1557 | Delayed 5:59 7:54Cologne Hbf | 5h53 | 13:47 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 8:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h26 | 17:40 Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 8:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h11 | 17:25 Dresden, Neustadt Exit | 1 change | |
ICE 545 · RJ 383 | On time 8:25 Cologne Hbf | 6h42 | 15:07 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1513 · ICE 692 · IC 2443 | On time 8:29 Cologne Hbf | 6h21 | 14:50 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 529 · ICE 692 · IC 2443 | On time 8:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h05 | 14:50 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 11 · ICE 759 | On time 9:25 Cologne Hbf | 6h22 | 15:47 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 847 · IC 2179 | On time 9:26 Cologne Hbf | 7h02 | 16:28 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 621 · ICE 759 | On time 9:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h02 | 15:47 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 219 · ICE 759 | 9:58 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h49 | 15:47 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 547 · RJ 177 | On time 10:24 Cologne Hbf | 6h43 | 17:07 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1515 · ICE 690 · IC 2441 | On time 10:29 Cologne Hbf | 6h22 | 16:51 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 623 · ICE 690 · IC 2441 | On time 10:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h06 | 16:51 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 2013 · ICE 1651 | On time 10:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h53 | 17:46 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 13 · ICE 1651 | On time 11:25 Cologne Hbf | 6h21 | 17:46 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 849 · IC 2271 · 16527 | 11:28 Cologne Hbf | 7h06 | 18:34 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 625 · ICE 1651 | On time 11:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h01 | 17:46 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 12:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h26 | 21:40 Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 12:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h21 | 21:35 Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
ICE 549 · ECE 385 | On time 12:26 Cologne Hbf | 6h41 | 19:07 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1517 · ICE 598 · IC 2049 | On time 12:29 Cologne Hbf | 6h22 | 18:51 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 627 · ICE 598 · IC 2049 | On time 12:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h06 | 18:51 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 123 · ICE 1653 | On time 13:18 Cologne Hbf | 6h28 | 19:46 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 941 · IC 2047 | On time 13:27 Cologne Hbf | 7h24 | 20:51 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 941 · IC 2273 · 16531 | On time 13:27 Cologne Hbf | 7h07 | 20:34 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 629 · ICE 1653 | On time 13:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h01 | 19:46 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 641 · RJ 179 | On time 14:26 Cologne Hbf | 6h41 | 21:07 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1519 · ICE 596 · IC 2047 | On time 14:29 Cologne Hbf | 6h22 | 20:51 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 721 · ICE 596 · IC 2047 | On time 14:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h06 | 20:51 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 125 · ICE 1655 | On time 15:18 Cologne Hbf | 6h28 | 21:46 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 943 · IC 2275 | On time 15:28 Cologne Hbf | 7h00 | 22:28 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 723 · ICE 1655 | On time 15:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h01 | 21:46 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
FlixTrain | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 6h52 | 23:06 Dresden Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 6h46 | 23:00 Dresden-Neustadt station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h21 | 1:35 Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
ICE 1611 · ICE 594 · IC 2045 | On time 16:29 Cologne Hbf | 6h21 | 22:50 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 725 · ICE 594 · IC 2045 | On time 16:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h05 | 22:50 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
| Friday 29 May | |||||
ICE 541 · RJ 173 | On time 4:16 Cologne Hbf | 6h51 | 11:07 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 521 · ICE 696 · IC 2447 | On time 4:28 Cologne Hbf | 6h22 | 10:50 Dresden Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 843 · IC 2175 | On time 5:26 Cologne Hbf | 7h02 | 12:28 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 511 · ICE 1555 | On time 5:48 Cologne Hbf | 5h59 | 11:47 Dresden Hbf | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Dresden 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.
29 May
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Why should you book Cologne to Dresden 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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Dresden.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Dresden.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Dresden.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Dresden?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Dresden

Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Dresden
Trains from Cologne to Dresden run on average 12 times per day, taking around 6h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £30 but you can travel from only £23 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 475 km distance in 6h 46m.
Distance 475 km |
Average train duration 6h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 6h 46m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Dresden trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Dresden from £23. 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.
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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.

popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Dresden
- 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: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
- There are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4.
- Burger King
- asiagourmet
- dean&david
- Hot Dog King
- Starbucks
- Subway
- BABA Döner
- Marché
- backWERK
- Ditsch
- & more
- Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Hotel Kipping
- Pullman Dresden Newa
- IntercityHotel Dresden
- Located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
- Monday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Thursday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Friday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Sunday: 07:00 - 20:00
- ElbUferei
- Raskolnikoff
- Byblos
- Kantine No. 2
- Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden
- Rothenburger Hof
- Mezcalero
- Villa Romantika
- Italienisches Dörfchen
- BrennNessel
- Kahnaletto
- Cafe Friedrichstadt
- Elbflorenz
- Penck Hotel
- Hotel und Restaurant Cafe Friedrichstadt
- Artis
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Dresden
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