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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Erfurt
Showing times and prices for 15 Jun
Cheapest price
£18
Average price
£49
Fastest journey
3 h 52 m
Average duration
4 h 24 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
286 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Erfurt is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Erfurt will cost around £49 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £18.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Erfurt you need to make at least one change.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain13:356h32Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)20:07Erfurt Hbf£181One-way1 change
ICE 27 · ICE 8389:535h15Cologne Hbf15:08Erfurt Hbf£421One-way1 change- ICE 1513 · ICE 9308:294h19Cologne Hbf12:48Erfurt Hbf£441One-way1 change
- ICE 217 · ICE 7599:583h52Cologne Messe/Deutz13:50Erfurt Hbf£631One-way1 change
- ICE 529 · ICE 9308:454h03Cologne Messe/Deutz12:48Erfurt Hbf£631One-way1 change
- ICE 217 · ICE 7599:583h52Cologne Messe/Deutz13:50Erfurt Hbf£631One-way1 change
- ICE 529 · ICE 9308:454h03Cologne Messe/Deutz12:48Erfurt Hbf£631One-way1 change
- ICE 1513 · ICE 9308:294h19Cologne Hbf12:48Erfurt Hbf£441One-way1 change
- ICE 121 · ICE 7599:184h32Cologne Hbf13:50Erfurt Hbf£631One-way1 change
- ICE 27 · ICE 8389:535h15Cologne Hbf15:08Erfurt Hbf£421One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cologne to Erfurt
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Erfurt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £19. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 4h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £19, and a train costs an average of £23.
Distance: 286 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£59 Average Price | £32 Average Price Cheapest |
6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 29m Average total duration Fastest 4h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Erfurt train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Erfurt trains for today, Sunday 14 June. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:14 Cologne | 7h31 | 14:45 Erfurt | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:45 Cologne | 3h42 | 11:27 Erfurt | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:35 Cologne | 6h32 | 18:07 Erfurt | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:35 Cologne | 6h32 | 19:07 Erfurt | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Erfurt by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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
15 Jun
15 Jun
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16 Jun
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21 Jun
Why should you book Cologne to Erfurt trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Erfurt.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Erfurt.
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 Erfurt.
- 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 Erfurt.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Erfurt.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Erfurt
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
PriceStress-freeDisadvantages
DelayI travelled to Erfurt with my wife. We travelled there from Cologne for a city trip. Unfortunately, the train arrived significantly late, which is nothing new with Deutsche Bahn. In addition, the guests travelling with us were very loud and exhausting. However, the train itself made a clean and well-kept impression, whether it was the seating areas or the sanitary facilities. The wifi served its purpose, otherwise everything was great.
Advantages
WIFIDisadvantages
PriceI had to travel to Erfurt for work right at the beginning of the year. I was lucky and caught a fairly new train. It was very clean and the seats weren't dirty either. Another positive thing I noticed was that one of the conductors told a young man to take his feet off the seat. That doesn't happen very often. The price was a little higher this time, but still very good. The wifi on board worked well.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Erfurt
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Erfurt run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £23 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 286 km distance in 3h 42m.
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 £19
Distance 286 km |
Average train duration 5h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price £23 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 42m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:56 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
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 £19
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Erfurt trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Erfurt from £19. 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
3h 42m
Cheapest Price
£33
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
6h 32m
Cheapest Price
£23
FlixTrain frequency
2 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
£54
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day
FAQs: Cologne to Erfurt train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Erfurt 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 Erfurt, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Erfurt can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £23, while the average price tends to be around £59.
The train journey from Cologne to Erfurt covers a distance of 286 km and takes approximately 3h 42m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Erfurt is 286 km.
The first train from Cologne to Erfurt leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Cologne to Erfurt departs at 23:56.
Trains from Cologne to Erfurt run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Erfurt. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To get from Cologne to Erfurt, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Erfurt.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Erfurt is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Erfurt Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Erfurt is by coach, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Cologne to Erfurt 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 Erfurt offers a mix of scenic views, including the picturesque Rhine Valley and rolling hills of Thuringia, making it a pleasant experience for travellers.
A day trip from Cologne to Erfurt is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 42m. However, there are 10 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 286 km.
To fully explore Erfurt's historical sites, charming old town, and cultural attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Erfurt.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Erfurt
Cologne
Erfurt
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Erfurt.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Erfurt is Erfurt Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Erfurt Hbf for your journey to Erfurt from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Tuesday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Wednesday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Thursday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Friday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Saturday: 09:30 - 16:30
- Sunday: 09:30 - 16:30
Dining
- Istanbul Grill
- McDonald's
- Masala
- Planet Comics
Hotel
- Hotel Krämerbrücke
- Intercity Hotel
- Pension am Dom
- Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior
Erfurt-Bischleben
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Zur Schuhleiste
- Bachstelze
Erfurt Ost
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmDining
- Bruzelkiste Tag & Nacht
- Gartenlokal An der Lache
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Erfurt
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erfurt and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Erfurt
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