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

Thu 30 Jul
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    13:356h32
    Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)
    20:07Erfurt Hbf
    £351One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnICE 19 · ICE 590
    20:363h51
    Cologne Hbf
    0:27Erfurt Hbf
    £391One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2540 · ICE 590
    18:535h34
    Cologne Hbf
    0:27Erfurt Hbf
    £391One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche Bahn28525 · 4267 · ICE 1659
    17:326h09
    Cologne Hbf
    23:41Erfurt Hbf
    £461One-way
    2 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 821 · ICE 1659
    19:453h56
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    23:41Erfurt Hbf
    £491One-way
    1 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 £21. 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 £21, and a train costs an average of £25.

Distance: 286 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£65

Average Price

£35

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

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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, Wednesday 29 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1747
On time
12:01 Cologne Hbf
5h14
17:15 Erfurt Hbf		0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · ICE 1747
On time
12:11 Cologne Hbf
5h04
17:15 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 726 · ICE 1747
On time
12:18 Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h57
17:15 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 627 · ICE 2588
On time
12:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
16:27 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 2544 · ICE 596
On time
12:53 Cologne Hbf
5h34
18:27 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 107 · ICE 796 · 24230 · 24127
Delayed
11:09 12:54Cologne Hbf
4h40
17:34 Erfurt Hbf		4 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 123 · ICE 1653
Delayed
11:25 13:18Cologne Hbf
4h23
17:41 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 629 · ICE 1653
On time
13:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h56
17:41 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 229 · ICE 834
On time
13:53 Cologne Hbf
5h15
19:08 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 721 · ICE 596
On time
14:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
18:27 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 2157
On time
15:17 Cologne Hbf
5h22
20:39 Erfurt Hbf		0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 125 · ICE 834
On time
15:18 Cologne Hbf
3h50
19:08 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche Bahn28521 · 4265 · ICE 832
On time
15:32 Cologne Hbf
5h36
21:08 Erfurt Hbf		2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 723 · ICE 834
On time
15:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h23
19:08 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 725 · ICE 2584
On time
16:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
20:27 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 2508 · ICE 592
On time
16:53 Cologne Hbf
5h34
22:27 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 127 · ICE 832
On time
17:18 Cologne Hbf
3h50
21:08 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 727 · ICE 1657
On time
17:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h56
21:41 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 317 · ICE 592
Delayed
17:36 18:35Cologne Hbf
3h52
22:27 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 729 · ICE 592
On time
18:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
22:27 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 2572 · ICE 1272 · IC 60409
On time
20:53 Cologne Hbf
5h51
2:44 Erfurt Hbf		2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 617 · IC 60409
On time
21:54 Cologne Hbf
4h50
2:44 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 319 · ICE 1272 · IC 60409
Delayed
21:39 22:38Cologne Hbf
4h06
2:44 Erfurt Hbf		2 changes
Deutsche BahnIC 60403 · ICE 698
On time
23:44 Cologne-Ehrenfeld
6h11
5:55 Erfurt Hbf		1 change
Thursday 30 July
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain8:14 Cologne Hbf
9h31
17:45 Erfurt Hbf1 change

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.

Thu
30 Jul
Fri
31 Jul
Sat
01 Aug
Sun
02 Aug
Mon
03 Aug
Tue
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug

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

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
IconPrice
IconStress-free
Disadvantages
IconDelay
I 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
IconWIFI
Disadvantages
IconPrice
I 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
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Erfurt run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £25 but you can travel from only £21 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 £21
Distance
286 km
Average train duration
5h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
£25
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 £21

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 £21. 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
£36
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.
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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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
£25
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
£60
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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Erfurt can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £65.
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 £21.
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

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

Which Cologne station do trains to Erfurt leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Erfurt 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 · £7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £5 · 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.

More about Köln Hbf
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 · £5

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 Erfurt

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return trains from Erfurt to Cologne
Tickets and more information for trains to Cologne
Tickets and more information for trains to Erfurt

Most popular train connections to Erfurt

Frankfurt am Main to Erfurt train
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to Erfurt Cologne to Erfurt train

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