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

Mon 16 Mar
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Deutsche Bahn
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
Intercity
Great Western Rail
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1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
Intercity
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Erfurt

Showing times and prices for 16 Mar

Cheapest price

£45

Average price

£84

Fastest journey

3 h 23 m

Average duration

3 h 23 m

Trains per day

32

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 £84 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £45.

Fast trains

Of the 32 trains that leave Cologne for Erfurt every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 286 km distance in an average of 3 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 23 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 23 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.

Deutsche BahnIC 2157
15:175h22
Cologne Hbf
20:39Erfurt Hbf
£451One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnIC 2157 · ICE 594
15:175h10
Cologne Hbf
20:27Erfurt Hbf
£551One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 927 · ICE 832
15:535h15
Cologne Hbf
21:08Erfurt Hbf
£551One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 1948 · ICE 592
16:535h34
Cologne Hbf
22:27Erfurt Hbf
£641One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 1611 · ICE 594
16:293h58
Cologne Hbf
20:27Erfurt Hbf
£731One-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 £20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 13m. 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 £20, and a train costs an average of £17.

Distance: 286 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£52

Average Price

£30

Average Price

Cheapest

4h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 29m

Average total duration

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 tomorrow, Sunday 15 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 18:34
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 1513 · ICE 692
On time
07:29 Cologne Hbf
3h58
11:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2155
On time
08:17 Cologne Hbf
5h25
13:42 Erfurt Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnIC 2155 · ICE 690
On time
08:17 Cologne Hbf
5h10
13:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 121 · ICE 930
On time
08:28 Cologne Hbf
3h40
12:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 621 · ICE 930
On time
08:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h23
12:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1225 · ICE 838
On time
08:53 Cologne Hbf
5h15
14:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1515 · ICE 690
On time
09:29 Cologne Hbf
3h58
13:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 623 · ICE 690
On time
09:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
13:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2013 · ICE 598
On time
09:53 Cologne Hbf
5h34
15:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 202 · IC 2049 · ICE 589 · 26111
On time
10:11 Cologne Hbf
5h39
15:50 Erfurt Hbf
3 changes
deutsche_bahn28513 · 4261 · ICE 9591
Delayed
10:32 Cologne Hbf
5h36
16:20 16:20Erfurt Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 625 · ICE 838
On time
10:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h23
14:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1747
On time
11:01 Cologne Hbf
5h14
16:15 Erfurt Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 726 · ICE 1747
On time
11:18 Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h57
16:15 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1517 · ICE 598
On time
11:29 Cologne Hbf
3h58
15:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 627 · ICE 598
On time
11:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
15:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1644 · ICE 596
On time
11:53 Cologne Hbf
5h34
17:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 123 · ICE 9591
Delayed
12:28 Cologne Hbf
3h40
16:20 16:20Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 629 · ICE 9591
Delayed
12:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h23
16:20 16:20Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1229 · ICE 834
On time
12:53 Cologne Hbf
5h15
18:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1519 · ICE 596
On time
13:29 Cologne Hbf
3h58
17:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 721 · ICE 596
On time
13:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
17:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2157
On time
14:17 Cologne Hbf
5h22
19:39 Erfurt Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnIC 2157 · ICE 594
On time
14:17 Cologne Hbf
5h10
19:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 125 · ICE 834
On time
14:28 Cologne Hbf
3h40
18:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 723 · ICE 834
On time
14:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h23
18:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 927 · ICE 832
On time
14:53 Cologne Hbf
5h15
20:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1611 · ICE 594
On time
15:29 Cologne Hbf
3h58
19:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 725 · ICE 594
On time
15:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h42
19:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 1948 · ICE 592
On time
15:53 Cologne Hbf
5h34
21:27 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 127 · ICE 832
On time
16:28 Cologne Hbf
3h40
20:08 Erfurt Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 727 · ICE 832
On time
16:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h23
20:08 Erfurt 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 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
16 Mar
Tue
17 Mar
Wed
18 Mar
Thu
19 Mar
Fri
20 Mar
Sat
21 Mar
Sun
22 Mar

Why should you book Cologne to Erfurt trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Österreichische Bundesbahnen or Intercity 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 Österreichische Bundesbahnen or Intercity 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Österreichische Bundesbahnen or Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Erfurt.
  • 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 9 times per day, taking around 4h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.

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 31m.

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
286 km
Average train duration
4h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
£17
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 31m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:56
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, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, Intercity from Cologne to Erfurt trainsDeutsche Bahn, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Erfurt from £17. 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 31m
Cheapest Price
£17
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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

Intercity

About
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \Intercity\" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use \"InterCity\" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
£77
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

Österreichische Bundesbahnen

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 46m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 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 £17, while the average price tends to be around £52.
The train journey from Cologne to Erfurt covers a distance of 286 km and takes approximately 3h 31m. Trains run 9 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 9 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Erfurt. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Österreichische Bundesbahnen.
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 train, costing approximately £17.
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 31m. 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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln Messe/DeutzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps

More options for your journey from Cologne to Erfurt

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Most popular train connections to Erfurt

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