The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Leipzig
Cheapest price
£32
Average price
£87
Fastest journey
4 h 19 m
Average duration
4 h 20 m
Trains per day
31
Distance
381 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Leipzig is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Leipzig will cost around £87 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £32.
To travel from Cologne to Leipzig you need to make at least 2 changes.
FlixTrain+
FlixBus16:149h11Cologne Hbf1:25Leipzig, Hbf£321One-way1 change
FlixTrain+
FlixBus16:149h01Cologne Hbf1:15Leipzig, Merkurpromenade (Messe)£331One-way1 change
ICE 1517 · ICE 59812:294h40Cologne Hbf17:09Leipzig Hbf£421One-way1 change
ICE 1644 · 4492 · ICE 59612:536h16Cologne Hbf19:09Leipzig Hbf£461One-way2 changes
ICE 543 · IC 2035 · IC 22356:255h49Cologne Hbf12:14Leipzig Hbf£491One-way2 changes
ICE 621 · ICE 930 · ICE 5089:454h19Cologne Messe/Deutz14:04Leipzig Hbf£1221One-way2 changes
ICE 527 · ICE 932 · ICE 6007:454h19Cologne Messe/Deutz12:04Leipzig Hbf£641One-way2 changes
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · ICE 6928:544h19Cologne Hbf13:13Leipzig Hbf£1091One-way2 changes
ICE 723 · ICE 834 · ICE 50215:454h19Cologne Messe/Deutz20:04Leipzig Hbf£1221One-way2 changes
ICE 201 · ICE 927 · ICE 59416:544h23Cologne Hbf21:17Leipzig Hbf£1091One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Leipzig
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Leipzig among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 5m. 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 £17, and a flight costs an average of £288.
Distance: 381 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£68 Average Price | £29 Average Price Cheapest | £560 Average Price |
6h 30m Average total duration 6h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 11m Average total duration 6h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Leipzig train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Leipzig trains for tomorrow, Monday 1 June. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1221 · ICE 932 · ICE 600 | Delayed 5:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h11 | 10:06 10:06Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 543 · IC 2035 · IC 2235 | On time 6:25 Cologne Hbf | 5h49 | 12:14 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 1648 · ICE 1557 | On time 6:53 Cologne Hbf | 5h38 | 12:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1713 · ICE 932 · ICE 600 | Delayed 7:33 Cologne Hbf | 4h31 | 10:06 10:06Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 527 · ICE 932 · ICE 600 | Delayed 7:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h19 | 10:06 10:06Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 513 · ICE 1557 | On time 7:54 Cologne Hbf | 4h37 | 12:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 545 · IC 2037 | On time 8:25 Cologne Hbf | 5h50 | 14:15 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1513 · ICE 692 | On time 8:29 Cologne Hbf | 4h44 | 13:13 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 103 · ICE 25 · ICE 692 | On time 8:54 Cologne Hbf | 4h19 | 13:13 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 11 · ICE 759 | On time 9:25 Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 14:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 11 · ICE 930 · ICE 508 | Delayed 9:25 Cologne Hbf | 4h39 | 12:06 12:06Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 621 · ICE 759 | On time 9:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h46 | 14:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 621 · ICE 930 · ICE 508 | Delayed 9:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h19 | 12:06 12:06Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 12:14 Cologne Hbf | 8h57 | 21:11 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 549 · IC 2431 · IC 2239 | On time 12:26 Cologne Hbf | 5h49 | 18:15 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 1517 · ICE 598 | Delayed 12:29 Cologne Hbf | 4h40 | 15:14 15:14Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 627 · ICE 598 | Delayed 12:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h24 | 15:14 15:14Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1644 · 4492 · ICE 596 | Delayed 12:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h16 | 17:21 17:21Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 123 · ICE 1653 | On time 13:18 Cologne Hbf | 5h13 | 18:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 123 · 15520 · ICE 9591 · ICE 504 | On time 13:18 Cologne Hbf | 4h46 | 18:04 Leipzig Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 941 · IC 2047 | On time 13:27 Cologne Hbf | 5h50 | 19:17 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 629 · ICE 1653 | On time 13:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h46 | 18:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 723 · ICE 834 · ICE 502 | On time 15:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h19 | 20:04 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 723 · ICE 1655 | On time 15:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h46 | 20:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 927 · ICE 594 | On time 15:53 Cologne Hbf | 5h24 | 21:17 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h11 | 1:25 Leipzig, Hbf | 1 change | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h01 | 1:15 Leipzig, Merkurpromenade (Messe) | 1 change | |
ICE 643 · IC 2435 | On time 16:26 Cologne Hbf | 5h49 | 22:15 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1611 · ICE 594 | On time 16:29 Cologne Hbf | 4h48 | 21:17 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 1948 · 29695 · ICE 592 | On time 16:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h16 | 23:09 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 201 · ICE 927 · ICE 594 | On time 16:54 Cologne Hbf | 4h23 | 21:17 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Leipzig 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.
01 Jun
02 Jun
03 Jun
04 Jun
05 Jun
06 Jun
07 Jun
08 Jun
09 Jun
10 Jun
11 Jun
12 Jun
13 Jun
14 Jun
15 Jun
16 Jun
17 Jun
18 Jun
19 Jun
20 Jun
21 Jun
Why should you book Cologne to Leipzig trains with Omio?
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 Leipzig.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Leipzig.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Leipzig.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Leipzig?
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Leipzig

Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Leipzig
Trains from Cologne to Leipzig run on average 12 times per day, taking around 6h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 381 km distance in 4h 19m.
Distance 381 km |
Average train duration 6h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price £16 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 19m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 49 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Leipzig trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Leipzig from £16. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
FAQs: Cologne to Leipzig train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Leipzig 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 Leipzig, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Leipzig
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- 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
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- 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
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Willy-Brandt-Platz.
- Restaurant Zchocolat
- Vapiano Leipzig
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- €1
- Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
- a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Leipzig
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-13 for long-distance and regional trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 14-23
- Hall 3: shopping and dining area
- Tram: Lines 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15
- S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S5X, S6
- Bus: Several lines available
- China White
- Cafe Barbakane
- X-Maza
- Vodkaria
- Seaside Park
- Pentahotel Leipzig
- Victors Residenzhotel
- Marriott
- China White
- Cafe Barbakane
- X-Maza
- Vodkaria
- Seaside Park
- Dorint Hotel Leipzig
- Marriott
- Capri by Fraser
More options for your journey from Cologne to Leipzig
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

