Darmstadt to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Fri 16 Oct
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Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
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Great Western Railway
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Darmstadt to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 16 Oct

Cheapest price on 16 Oct

£49

Average ticket price on 16 Oct

£56

Fastest journey on 16 Oct

1 h 32 m

Average journey duration on 16 Oct

1 h 47 m

Trains on 16 Oct

5

Distance

169 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Darmstadt to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Darmstadt to Cologne will cost around £56 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £49.

Fast trains

To travel from Darmstadt to Cologne you need to make at least one change.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 2502 · ICE 820
    8:401h34
    Darmstadt Hbf
    10:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
    £491One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche Bahn4654 · ICE 316
    8:071h32
    Darmstadt Hbf
    9:39Cologne Hbf
    £501One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1049+Hessische Landesbahn24508
    8:382h27
    Darmstadt Hbf
    11:05Cologne Hbf
    £541One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche Bahn15400 · ICE 18
    6:001h40
    Darmstadt Hbf
    7:40Cologne Hbf
    £611One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche Bahn15302 · ICE 824
    6:301h44
    Darmstadt Hbf
    8:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
    £651One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Darmstadt to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Darmstadt to Cologne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 169 km distance in 1h 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 £9
Distance
169 km
Average train duration
1h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
£16
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
1h 22m
First train
0:01
Last train
23:57
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
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 £9

Live departures

Darmstadt to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Darmstadt to Cologne trains for today, Thursday 15 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn4654 · ICE 316
On time
8:07 Darmstadt Hbf
1h32
9:39 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 1049+Hessische Landesbahn24508
Delayed
7:20 8:38Darmstadt Hbf
2h27
11:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 2502 · ICE 820
On time
8:40 Darmstadt Hbf
1h34
10:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
Friday 16 October
Deutsche Bahn15400 · ICE 18
On time
6:00 Darmstadt Hbf
1h40
7:40 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn15302 · ICE 824
On time
6:30 Darmstadt Hbf
1h44
8:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Darmstadt to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Darmstadt to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Darmstadt to Cologne.

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 VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Darmstadt to Cologne.
  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Darmstadt to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Darmstadt to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Darmstadt to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Darmstadt to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Darmstadt and Cologne from £9. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
1h 22m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£16
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
3h 29m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
£46
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.

  • Recommended

Museum Schnütgen

Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.

Best day trips from Cologne by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cologne are Bonn, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Koblenz and Dortmund. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cologne on Omio.

A view of Bonn

Day trip from Cologne to Bonn by train

Why visit Bonn for the day?

Bonn is best known as Beethoven’s birthplace and the former capital of West Germany. Set on the Rhine, it feels calm and cultured, with museums, leafy neighbourhoods and a strong university presence.

How to get from Cologne to Bonn by train?

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 19m.

A view of Düsseldorf

Day trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train

Why visit Düsseldorf for the day?

Düsseldorf is known for fashion, contemporary art and its lively Altstadt on the Rhine. Sleek shopping streets, traditional breweries and bold modern architecture give it a polished yet sociable character.

How to get from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train?

There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 14m.

A view of Aachen

Day trip from Cologne to Aachen by train

Why visit Aachen for the day?

Aachen is best known for its cathedral and its close ties to Charlemagne and imperial history. Near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, it feels compact, youthful and international, with thermal spa traditions and a busy university scene.

How to get from Cologne to Aachen by train?

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 63 km distance in 31m.

A view of Koblenz

Day trip from Cologne to Koblenz by train

Why visit Koblenz for the day?

Koblenz sits at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle, with a historic centre shaped by Roman beginnings and river trade. It is known for the Deutsches Eck and Ehrenbreitstein, while vineyards and waterfront views give it a calm, lived-in feel.

How to get from Cologne to Koblenz by train?

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 78 km distance in 44m.

A view of Dortmund

Day trip from Cologne to Dortmund by train

Why visit Dortmund for the day?

Dortmund is a Ruhr city known for football, brewing heritage and its industrial roots. Former worksites, parks and modern cultural venues give it a practical, lively character.

How to get from Cologne to Dortmund by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 74 km distance in 57m.

FAQs: Darmstadt to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Darmstadt to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Darmstadt to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £51.
The train journey from Darmstadt to Cologne covers a distance of 169 km and takes approximately 1h 22m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Darmstadt to Cologne is 169 km.
The first train from Darmstadt to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Darmstadt to Cologne departs at 23:57.
Trains from Darmstadt to Cologne run approximately 4 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Darmstadt to Cologne.
There is no night train service from Darmstadt to Cologne.
The train station in Darmstadt that goes to Cologne is Darmstadt Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
Booking trains from Darmstadt to Cologne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Darmstadt to Cologne offers picturesque views of the German countryside, including stretches along the Rhine River, vineyards, and charming villages, providing a pleasant and scenic experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Darmstadt to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Darmstadt and Cologne

Most Darmstadt to Cologne trains use the Darmstadt Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Darmstadt and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Darmstadt
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Darmstadt station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Darmstadt to Cologne leave from Darmstadt Hbf. The station is 1 km from Darmstadt city centre at Darmstadt Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 20, 64293 Darmstadt.
Darmstadt HbfDarmstadt Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 20, 64293 DarmstadtWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Darmstadt Hbf from Darmstadt city centre

Darmstadt Hbf is 1 km from Darmstadt city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6, Re60, Rb68, Rb67 · 1h 3m · £24 · every ~9 min
BusAir · 1h 26m · every ~5 min
X15 · 1h 55m · every ~2 min
S8x, S9x, S8e · 2h 9m · every ~8 min

Darmstadt Hbf train station facilities and services

Darmstadt 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: McDonald's, Casa Algarve, Ristorante Mare e Monti, Rößler Eck

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Darmstadt Hbf. ATMs are available at Darmstadt Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Darmstadt Hbf. Information desks are available at Darmstadt Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Darmstadt Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Darmstadt Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Darmstadt Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Darmstadt Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Aspire Victory.

Darmstadt-ArheilgenDarmstadt-Arheilgen, Weiterstädter-Str. 1, 64291 DarmstadtWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Darmstadt-Arheilgen from Darmstadt city centre

Darmstadt-Arheilgen is 4 km from Darmstadt city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 3m · £1 · every ~5 min
Busn71 · 11m
Tram8, 6 · 26m · £3 · every ~12 min

Darmstadt-Arheilgen train station facilities and services

Darmstadt-Arheilgen 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: Arheilgen Pizza und Kebab, Eisboutique DaCarlo, Zum Storchen, Zur Krone

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen. ATMs are available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen. Information desks are available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Darmstadt-Arheilgen.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Arheilger Hof, KM, Weißer Schwan Hotel - Restaurant.

More options for your journey from Darmstadt to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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