- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
National museum covering science, design, world cultures and Scottish history. Excellent for varied collections and a dramatic central hall.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 31 Aug
Cheapest price on 31 Aug
£498
Average ticket price on 31 Aug
£535
Fastest journey on 31 Aug
9 h 25 m
Average journey duration on 31 Aug
9 h 29 m
Trains on 31 Aug
7
Distance
1473 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Edinburgh will cost around £535 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £498.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Edinburgh you need to make at least 3 changes.
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13:429h25Köln Hbf23:07Edinburgh£4981One-way3 changes- 21:0218h08Köln Hbf15:10Edinburgh£4981One-way3 changes
6:399h28Köln Hbf16:07Edinburgh£5501One-way3 changes- 8:399h30Köln Hbf18:09Edinburgh£5501One-way3 changes
- 10:399h26Köln Hbf20:05Edinburgh£5501One-way3 changes
- 13:429h25Köln Hbf23:07Edinburgh£4981One-way3 changes
- 10:399h26Köln Hbf20:05Edinburgh£5501One-way3 changes
- 6:399h28Köln Hbf16:07Edinburgh£5501One-way3 changes
- 8:399h30Köln Hbf18:09Edinburgh£5501One-way3 changes
- 12:399h35Köln Hbf22:14Edinburgh£5501One-way3 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of £104 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 40m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of £104, while a train costs an average of £535.
Distance: 1473 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£535 Average Price | £104 Average Price Cheapest | £121 Average Price |
12h 44m Average total duration 12h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 40h 30m Average total duration 40h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cologne to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Edinburgh trains for today, Sunday 30 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18:44 Köln Hbf | 16h24 | 11:08 Edinburgh | 3 changes | |
| 21:42 Köln Hbf | 17h28 | 15:10 Edinburgh | 3 changes | |
| Monday 31 August | |||||
| 6:39 Köln Hbf | 9h28 | 16:07 Edinburgh | 3 changes | |
| 8:39 Köln Hbf | 9h30 | 18:09 Edinburgh | 3 changes | |
| 10:39 Köln Hbf | 9h26 | 20:05 Edinburgh | 3 changes | |
| 12:39 Köln Hbf | 9h35 | 22:14 Edinburgh | 3 changes | |
| 13:42 Köln Hbf | 9h25 | 23:07 Edinburgh | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Edinburgh by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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.
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31 Aug
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06 Sept
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Why should you book Cologne to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) as well as Eurostar offer trains services from Cologne to Edinburgh.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Edinburgh.
- 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 Intercity (DB IC) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Edinburgh
Italy
United Kingdom
Trains from Cologne to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 12h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £498 but you can travel from only £91 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 21:42. The fastest train covers the 1473 km distance in 9h 25m.
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
Flight from £91
Distance 1473 km |
Average train duration 12h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price £498 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 9h 25m |
First train 6:39 |
Last train 21:42 |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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
Flight from £91
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar from Cologne to Edinburgh trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Edinburgh from £91. 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
9h 26m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
£550
Eurostar frequency
4 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 Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
9h 25m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
£498
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
Scottish National Gallery
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance to the late nineteenth century, beside Princes Street Gardens.
- Recommended
Fruitmarket
Contemporary art gallery in a converted schoolhouse, known for thoughtful exhibitions by Scottish and international artists near the Royal Mile.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, shops and public buildings. Ideal for first-time visitors on foot.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano with popular walking routes and broad views over the city and coast. A rewarding outdoor escape close to the centre.
- Recommended
Princes Street Gardens
Large public gardens below the castle, good for a break between Old and New Town sights, with monuments, lawns and seasonal planting.
- Gluten-free
Cullen skink
A rich Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, closely associated with east coast cooking and widely enjoyed in Edinburgh.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding of sheep’s offal, oats and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties at Burns suppers.
- Vegetarian
Cranachan
A classic Scottish dessert of raspberries, whipped cream, honey and toasted oats, often linked with soft fruit from eastern Scotland.
The Kitchin
Elegant dining room serving refined Scottish tasting menus focused on seasonal produce in a calm central setting.
Whiski Rooms
Popular traditional restaurant near the Castle, specialising in haggis, game and hearty Scottish comfort food.
The Cafe Royal
Stylish brasserie and oyster bar with Scottish seafood, shellfish and classic dishes in a grand city-centre space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Rooms and dining are pricier in peak season, but buses are affordable and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs usually do not expect tips.
Bus & Tram
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Edinburgh Waverley -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless works on trams with Tap On, Tap Off. Use the same card or device all day to benefit from the city day cap of £5.70.
- On trams, buy, validate or activate your ticket before boarding. If you use contactless on trams, remember to tap off when you leave.
FAQs: Cologne to Edinburgh train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £498, while the average price tends to be around £535.
The train journey from Cologne to Edinburgh covers a distance of 1473 km and takes approximately 9h 25m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Edinburgh is 1473 km.
The first train from Cologne to Edinburgh leaves at 6:39.
The last train from Cologne to Edinburgh departs at 21:42.
Trains from Cologne to Edinburgh run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Cologne to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Edinburgh.
To get from Cologne to Edinburgh, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Edinburgh is by flight, costing approximately £91.
Booking trains from Cologne to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Travellers will enjoy views of the Rhine River and the rolling landscapes of the German countryside. As the train progresses through the Netherlands and Belgium, passengers can observe charming towns and lush greenery. Upon crossing into the UK, the route through northern England and into Scotland showcases picturesque landscapes, including the scenic East Coast Main Line with views of the North Sea.
A day trip from Cologne to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 25m. There are 6 trips per day for trains.
In Edinburgh, you can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket with its pubs, shops, and street performances, or enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults. Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for beautiful landscapes. Discover hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market. Must-see sights include Edinburgh Castle, offering panoramic views and housing the Crown Jewels, Arthur's Seat for hiking and city views, The Royal Mile lined with shops and landmarks, Holyrood Palace with its stunning gardens, and the National Museum of Scotland showcasing diverse exhibits.
To fully experience Edinburgh's historic sites, cultural attractions, and local cuisine, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Edinburgh.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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