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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Heidelberg
Showing times and prices for 03 Mar
Cheapest price
£25
Average price
£40
Fastest journey
1 h 55 m
Average duration
2 h 53 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
210 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Heidelberg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Heidelberg will cost around £40 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £25.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Heidelberg every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 210 km distance in an average of 2 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 55 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 26 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.
05:522h41
Cologne08:33Heidelberg
£251One-way
0 changes
07:083h26
Cologne10:34Heidelberg
£351One-way
0 changes
05:491h55
Cologne07:44Heidelberg
£391One-way
0 changes
08:533h23
Cologne12:16Heidelberg
£421One-way
0 changes
07:533h01
Cologne10:54Heidelberg
£601One-way
0 changes
05:491h55
Cologne07:44Heidelberg
£391One-way
0 changes
05:522h41
Cologne08:33Heidelberg
£251One-way
0 changes
07:533h01
Cologne10:54Heidelberg
£601One-way
0 changes
08:533h23
Cologne12:16Heidelberg
£421One-way
0 changes
07:083h26
Cologne10:34Heidelberg
£351One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cologne to Heidelberg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Heidelberg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 34m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £13, and a train costs an average of £15.
Distance: 210 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£39 Average Price | £18 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 48m Average total duration 3h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Heidelberg train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Heidelberg trains for today, Monday 2 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 10:33
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13:07 Cologne | 3h27 | 16:34 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:53 Cologne | 2h41 | 16:34 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 3 March | |||||
| 05:49 Cologne | 1h55 | 07:44 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| 05:52 Cologne | 2h41 | 08:33 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:08 Cologne | 3h26 | 10:34 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| 07:53 Cologne | 3h01 | 10:54 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:53 Cologne | 3h23 | 12:16 Heidelberg | 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 Heidelberg 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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Heidelberg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Intercity offer trains services from Cologne to Heidelberg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Heidelberg.
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 Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Heidelberg.
- 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 Heidelberg.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Heidelberg.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Heidelberg.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Heidelberg?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Heidelberg is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Heidelberg route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Heidelberg per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Heidelberg.
Trains
from £29Coaches
from £11ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Heidelberg
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.
Train details
Deutsche BahnIntercity 20132nd Class
Purpose
Private
Month
August
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Private
Month
August
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
No changes for my journeyElectricityPeace and quietPunctualBeautiful route in the Rhine ValleyDisadvantages
Noisy fellow travellersOld wagonsNo service (catering)I travelled from Cologne to Heidelberg in the late morning on Saturday, 16.8.25 on an Intercity train as part of my journey. The best thing was that there were no changes and the journey time of less than 3 hours was really great - electricity to charge my mobile phone was particularly handy! The wifi was a bit slow but I didn't use the sanitary facilities. The seats are comfortable for relaxing and have plenty of legroom. However, sleeping is rather difficult. The ticket cost a total of €65.49, although only this section would cost significantly less (approx. €50). This is acceptable, especially for my spontaneous booking 2 days earlier.
Train details
DBIC 20462
Purpose
Family
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Family
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
ModernDisadvantages
WIFIA solid train journey on a modern IC. I didn't have to change trains and relax. Wifi was stable, but not very fast. The on-board staff were very polite and actively helped with connections. Price is also very fair. I can recommend it.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Heidelberg
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Heidelberg run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £15 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 210 km distance in 2h 22m.
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 £13
Distance 210 km |
Average train duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £15 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 22m |
First train 00:04 |
Last train 23:57 |
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 £13
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Intercity from Cologne to Heidelberg trainsDeutsche Bahn, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Heidelberg from £13. 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
2h 22m
Cheapest Price
£15
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 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
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
8h 43m
Cheapest Price
£64
Intercity frequency
1 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
FAQs: Cologne to Heidelberg train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Heidelberg can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £15, while the average price tends to be around £39.
The train journey from Cologne to Heidelberg covers a distance of 210 km and takes approximately 2h 22m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Heidelberg is 210 km.
The first train from Cologne to Heidelberg leaves at 0:04.
The last train from Cologne to Heidelberg departs at 23:57.
Trains from Cologne to Heidelberg run approximately 10 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Heidelberg. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
To get from Cologne to Heidelberg, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Heidelberg.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Heidelberg is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Heidelberg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Heidelberg is by coach, costing approximately £13.
Booking trains from Cologne to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg offers a pleasant view, featuring picturesque landscapes including the rolling hills of the Rhineland and the scenic stretches along the Rhine River, making it an enjoyable experience for travellers.
Yes, a day trip from Cologne to Heidelberg is feasible. The journey takes 2h 22m and covers 210 km. There are 11 train trips per day.
In Heidelberg, you can visit the historic Heidelberg Castle for panoramic views and explore the German Pharmacy Museum within its grounds. Stroll down the vibrant Hauptstrasse, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets. Take a boat tour on the Neckar River for scenic views, or enjoy a wine tasting tour in the nearby Baden vineyards. Don't miss the iconic Old Bridge and a walk along the Philosopher's Walk for stunning vistas. Experience the city's academic heritage at Heidelberg University and visit the Gothic Church of the Holy Spirit in the Old Town. The family-friendly Heidelberg Zoo is also worth a visit.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Heidelberg allows visitors to explore the Old Town, visit Heidelberg Castle, and enjoy the Philosopher's Walk, providing a well-rounded experience of the city's main attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Heidelberg.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Heidelberg
Cologne
Heidelberg
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 Heidelberg.
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 Heidelberg is Heidelberg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Heidelberg Hbf for your journey to Heidelberg from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 19:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Heid´s Grill
- McDonald's
- Uuuhmami
- Taj Mahal
Hotel
- Leonardo Hotel
- Qube Hotel
- NH Heidelberg
- Krokodil
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Persepolis
- Zum Brückenaff
- 'S' Kastanie
- Choa
Hotel
- Parkhotel Atlantic
- Hackteufel
- Goldener Falke
- Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg
Heidelberg-Kirchheim/Rohrbach
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Restaurant Dufke
- Stettiner Klause
- Hakim's Imbiss
- KOLBEZ Cafe
Hotel
- Hotel Rose
More options for your journey from Cologne to Heidelberg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Heidelberg and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Heidelberg
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