- Must visit
Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum
A long-running local museum with displays on crime and justice from the Middle Ages to modern times, presented in a historic setting.
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ICE 25 · 57215 · 588997:534h58Cologne Hbf12:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£701One-way2 changes- ICE 101 · ICE 23 · 57211 · 588956:543h57Cologne Hbf10:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£751One-way3 changes
- ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 588998:583h53Cologne Messe/Deutz12:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£871One-way3 changes
- ICE 527 · 57153 · 588977:454h06Cologne Messe/Deutz11:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£981One-way2 changes
- ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 588998:543h57Cologne Hbf12:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£1011One-way3 changes
- ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 588998:583h53Cologne Messe/Deutz12:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£871One-way3 changes
- ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 588998:543h57Cologne Hbf12:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£1011One-way3 changes
- ICE 101 · ICE 23 · 57211 · 588956:543h57Cologne Hbf10:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£751One-way3 changes
- ICE 527 · 57153 · 588977:454h06Cologne Messe/Deutz11:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£981One-way2 changes
- ICE 25 · 57215 · 588997:534h58Cologne Hbf12:51Rothenburg ob der Tauber station£701One-way2 changes
Live departures
Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains for tomorrow, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 101 · ICE 23 · 57211 · 58895 | On time 6:54 Cologne Hbf | 3h57 | 10:51 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 changes | |
| ICE 527 · 57153 · 58897 | On time 7:45 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h06 | 11:51 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 changes | |
| ICE 25 · 57215 · 58899 | On time 7:53 Cologne Hbf | 4h58 | 12:51 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 changes | |
| ICE 103 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 58899 | On time 8:54 Cologne Hbf | 3h57 | 12:51 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 changes | |
| ICE 119 · ICE 25 · 57215 · 58899 | On time 8:58 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h53 | 12:51 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 changes |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber by train
Compare train 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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03 Aug
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Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £27 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:44, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 288 km distance in 3h 57m.
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 288 km |
Average train duration 4h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £27 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 57m |
First train 4:44 |
Last train 23:42 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber from £27. 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 57m
Cheapest Price
£27
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 6m
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Discover the best of Rothenburg ob der Tauber — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rothenburg ob der Tauber trip today.
- Recommended
RothenburgMuseum
The former Dominican convent houses Rothenburg’s city museum, covering local history, art and everyday life across the centuries.
- Recommended
Historiengewölbe mit Staatsverlies
A compact museum dedicated to the town’s annual master draught festival, with exhibits that explain the tradition and its story.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
The central square framed by historic façades, the town hall and busy pedestrian lanes; a practical starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Stadtmauer
A walkable section of preserved medieval walls with towers and changing views over rooftops, streets and the valley beyond.
- Recommended
Herrngasse
A traditional street lined with half-timbered houses and shops, popular for photos yet still pleasant for a slower old town stroll.
- Vegetarian
Schneeballen
Schneeballen are Rothenburg’s signature pastry: strips of shortcrust dough fried into a ball and dusted with sugar or chocolate. A classic old Franconian festive treat.
Fränkische Bratwürste
Franconian sausages are grilled pork sausages, often served with sauerkraut or potato salad. They are a staple across Franconia and common in Rothenburg taverns.
Fränkischer Schweinebraten
This hearty Franconian pork shoulder is slow-roasted with a dark beer gravy, often served with dumplings and red cabbage. It is a traditional Sunday and inn dish.
Restaurant Alter Keller
Long-established restaurant known for Franconian specialities, seasonal dishes and elegant rooms inside a historic building.
Zur Höll
Historic tavern in the old town serving classic Franconian dishes, local wine and a traditional, cosy atmosphere.
Konditorei Walter Friedel
Famous bakery and café for fresh Schneeballen and coffee, ideal for trying Rothenburg’s best-known sweet speciality.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels in the old town can be pricey, but dining is reasonable and the compact centre keeps local transport costs low.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a simple meal or snack.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.20 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Round up in cafés and taxis, and tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Tell the amount when paying rather than leaving coins on the table.
VGN Fahrplan & Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Rothenburg ob der Tauber station -> Marktplatz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Distance
- 1.1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber station is on Bahnhofstrasse, while the city centre is the Marktplatz in the Altstadt; walking is usually the simplest option.
- Use the official VGN app for local timetables and tickets. Confirm current fares in the app or on the VGN website before travel.
FAQs: Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £27, while the average price tends to be around £58.
The train journey from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber covers a distance of 288 km and takes approximately 3h 57m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is 288 km.
The first train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 4:44.
The last train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber departs at 23:42.
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
To travel from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Rothenburg ob der Tauber station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by train, costing approximately £27.
Booking trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers scenic views, including picturesque countryside landscapes, charming Bavarian villages, and rolling hills, making it a pleasant experience for travellers.
A day trip from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 57m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day.
In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you can explore the Old Town with its well-preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Experience the Night Watchman Tour, a guided evening walk filled with historical insights. Visit the Rothenburg Christmas Market for festive cheer and traditional stalls. Enjoy a Franconian meal at a local restaurant, and take a scenic bike ride along the picturesque Tauber Valley. Must-see sights include the Rothenburg Town Walls for panoramic views, the iconic Plönlein street corner, St. Jakob's Church with its famous Holy Blood altarpiece, the striking Rothenburg Town Hall, and the intriguing Medieval Crime and Justice Museum.
A stay of 1 to 2 days is recommended to explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber fully, allowing time to visit its medieval old town, stroll along the city walls, and enjoy local attractions such as the Christmas Museum and the Crime Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Most Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains use the Köln Hbf to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Which Cologne station do trains to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 1 km from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
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 · £6 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £4 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £4 · 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.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
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 Köln
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 · £4
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber most often arrive at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Some services arrive at Schweinsdorf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Rothenburg ob der Tauber arrival station.
Rothenburg ob der TauberRothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
City-centre transport
Getting to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre
Bus854 · 5m · £3
Rothenburg ob der Tauber train station facilities and services
Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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: Gusto Kaffeemanufaktur & Spezialitäten, Imbiss Heller, Brothaus Café im Schlachthof, Pizzeria & Eis-Café Roma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ATMs are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Information desks are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schranne, Villa Mittermeier, Hotel Hornburg Garni, Glocke.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to Rothenburg ob der Tauber Cologne to Rothenburg ob der Tauber train
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