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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Leipzig
Cheapest price
£39
Average price
£101
Fastest journey
4 h 24 m
Average duration
5 h 3 m
Trains per day
23
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 £101 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.
Of the 23 trains that leave Cologne for Leipzig 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 381 km distance in an average of 5 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 24 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 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.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain9:259h56Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)19:21Leipzig Hbf£391One-way1 change- FlixTrain12:147h07Cologne Hbf19:21Leipzig Hbf£421One-way0 changes
ICE 557 · IC 203910:445h31Cologne Hbf16:15Leipzig Hbf£501One-way1 change- ICE 174712:016h00Cologne Hbf18:01Leipzig Hbf£581One-way0 changes
- ICE 726 · ICE 174712:185h43Cologne Messe/Deutz18:01Leipzig Hbf£581One-way1 change
- ICE 623 · ICE 69010:454h24Cologne Messe/Deutz15:09Leipzig Hbf£3111One-way1 change
- ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 5088:585h06Cologne Messe/Deutz14:04Leipzig Hbf£1331One-way3 changes
- ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 5088:545h10Cologne Hbf14:04Leipzig Hbf£1331One-way3 changes
- ICE 107 · ICE 29 · 4617 · ICE 50412:545h10Cologne Hbf18:04Leipzig Hbf£1061One-way3 changes
- ICE 527 · ICE 3767:455h26Cologne Messe/Deutz13:11Leipzig Hbf£1211One-way1 change
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 £282.
Distance: 381 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£66 Average Price | £29 Average Price Cheapest | £548 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 today, Thursday 16 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 555 · IC 2037 | On time 8:44 Cologne Hbf | 5h31 | 14:15 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 555 · ICE 377 | On time 8:44 Cologne Hbf | 5h58 | 14:42 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 508 | On time 8:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h10 | 14:04 Leipzig Hbf | 3 changes | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 25 · ICE 759 | On time 8:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h37 | 14:31 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 4609 · ICE 508 | On time 8:58 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h06 | 14:04 Leipzig Hbf | 3 changes | |
| ICE 119 · ICE 25 · ICE 759 | On time 8:58 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h33 | 14:31 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 11 · ICE 759 | Delayed 7:22 9:07Cologne Hbf | 5h24 | 14:31 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| IC 2441 | On time 9:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h06 | 15:17 Leipzig Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 9:25 Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 9h24 | 18:49 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 9:25 Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 9h56 | 19:21 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 857 · IC 2441 | On time 9:45 Cologne Hbf | 5h32 | 15:17 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 27 · 4613 · ICE 506 | On time 9:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h11 | 16:04 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 557 · IC 2039 | On time 10:44 Cologne Hbf | 5h31 | 16:15 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 623 · ICE 506 | On time 10:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h19 | 16:04 Leipzig Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 105 · ICE 27 · ICE 1651 | On time 10:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h37 | 16:31 Leipzig Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 105 · ICE 27 · 4613 · ICE 506 | On time 10:54 Cologne Hbf | 5h10 | 16:04 Leipzig Hbf | 3 changes | |
| FlixTrain | 12:14 Cologne Hbf | 6h35 | 18:49 Leipzig Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 12:14 Cologne Hbf | 7h07 | 19:21 Leipzig Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain+FlixBus | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h01 | 1:15 Leipzig, Merkurpromenade (Messe) | 1 change | |
| FlixTrain+FlixBus | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h11 | 1:25 Leipzig, Hbf | 1 change | |
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.
17 Jul
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01 Aug
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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
Fast ridePriceNice staff
WIFIDelaysToiletsGood organisation in case of delayPower sockets on the squareHardly any reception on the routesomewhat unhygienic toiletsComfortCleanlinessHygieneJourney information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Leipzig
GermanyGermany
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
Most Cologne to Leipzig trains use the Köln Hbf to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof station pair, with some services arriving at Leipzig Markt. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Leipzig train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Leipzig leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Which Leipzig station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.
Getting to Leipzig Markt from Leipzig city centre
Leipzig Markt train station facilities and services
Leipzig Markt 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: China White, Cafe Barbakane, X-Maza, Vodkaria
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leipzig Markt. ATMs are available at Leipzig Markt.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Markt. Information desks are available at Leipzig Markt.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Markt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leipzig Markt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leipzig Markt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Markt.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Seaside Park, Pentahotel Leipzig, Victors Residenzhotel, Marriott.
Getting to Leipzig Messe from Leipzig city centre
Leipzig Messe is 6 km from Leipzig city centre. Public transport options include:
Leipzig Messe train station facilities and services
Leipzig Messe 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: Dönerhaus, Grand Canyon, Graf Zeppelin, Glücksboot Asia-Erlebnisgastronomie
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leipzig Messe. ATMs are available at Leipzig Messe.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Messe. Information desks are available at Leipzig Messe.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Messe. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leipzig Messe: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leipzig Messe: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Messe.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Leipzig
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leipzig and Cologne
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