- 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.
Cheapest price on 23 Oct
£22
Average ticket price on 23 Oct
£78
Fastest journey on 23 Oct
3 h 24 m
Average journey duration on 23 Oct
3 h 40 m
Trains on 23 Oct
35
Distance
286 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Erfurt to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Erfurt to Cologne will cost around £78 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £22.
To travel from Erfurt to Cologne you need to make at least one change.
ICE 591 · ICE 1612
ICE 273 · IC 2241
ICE 273 · ICE 18
FlixTrain · FlixTrain
FlixTrain+
FlixBus
ICE 750 · ICE 726
ICE 599 · ICE 626
ICE 691 · ICE 622
ICE 595 · ICE 724
ICE 375 · ICE 624Trains from Erfurt to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 286 km distance in 3h 7m.
Distance 286 km |
Average train duration 4h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Erfurt to Cologne.
The table below shows live departures for Erfurt to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Friday 23 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 273 · ICE 18 | On time 2:09 Erfurt Hbf | 5h31 | 7:40 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 273 · IC 2241 | On time 2:09 Erfurt Hbf | 6h57 | 9:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 591 · IC 1049 | On time 5:29 Erfurt Hbf | 5h36 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 591 · ICE 822 | On time 5:29 Erfurt Hbf | 3h45 | 9:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 591 · ICE 1612 | On time 5:29 Erfurt Hbf | 4h03 | 9:32 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1656 · ICE 614 | On time 6:17 Erfurt Hbf | 3h48 | 10:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 277 · ICE 820 | On time 6:29 Erfurt Hbf | 3h45 | 10:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 277 · ICE 1020 | On time 6:29 Erfurt Hbf | 5h36 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 277 · ICE 128 | On time 6:29 Erfurt Hbf | 4h14 | 10:43 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1654 · ICE 612 | On time 8:16 Erfurt Hbf | 3h49 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 750 · ICE 726 | On time 8:50 Erfurt Hbf | 3h24 | 12:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 750 · ICE 126 | On time 8:50 Erfurt Hbf | 3h53 | 12:43 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 750 · ICE 926 | On time 8:50 Erfurt Hbf | 5h16 | 14:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
18664 · ICE 684 · IC 2046 · ICE 109 | On time 9:07 Erfurt Hbf | 5h40 | 14:47 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 595 · ICE 724 | On time 9:30 Erfurt Hbf | 3h44 | 13:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 595 · ICE 1518 | On time 9:30 Erfurt Hbf | 4h03 | 13:33 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 9:47 Erfurt Hbf | 6h58 | 16:45 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 change | |
FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 12:09 Erfurt Hbf | 9h42 | 21:51 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
3658 · ICE 880 · ICE 558 | On time 12:09 Erfurt Hbf | 5h06 | 17:15 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 1650 · ICE 518 | Delayed 12:16 Erfurt Hbf | 3h49 | 14:07 14:07Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 373 · ICE 122 | Delayed 12:27 Erfurt Hbf | 3h57 | 14:43 14:43Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 373 · ICE 628 | On time 12:27 Erfurt Hbf | 3h47 | 16:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 507 · 4620 · ICE 28 · ICE 106 | On time 12:35 Erfurt Hbf | 4h30 | 17:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 507 · 4620 · ICE 28 | On time 12:35 Erfurt Hbf | 5h31 | 18:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 599 · ICE 626 | On time 13:30 Erfurt Hbf | 3h44 | 17:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 599 · ICE 1514 | On time 13:30 Erfurt Hbf | 4h03 | 17:33 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1558 · ICE 516 | Delayed 14:16 Erfurt Hbf | 3h49 | 16:07 16:07Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 375 · ICE 624 | On time 14:29 Erfurt Hbf | 3h45 | 18:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 375 · ICE 1714 | On time 14:29 Erfurt Hbf | 3h56 | 18:25 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 509 · 4624 · ICE 26 | On time 14:35 Erfurt Hbf | 5h31 | 20:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 509 · 4624 · ICE 26 · ICE 104 | On time 14:35 Erfurt Hbf | 4h30 | 19:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 691 · ICE 1512 | On time 15:30 Erfurt Hbf | 4h03 | 19:33 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 691 · ICE 622 | On time 15:30 Erfurt Hbf | 3h44 | 19:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 691 · IC 1649 | On time 15:30 Erfurt Hbf | 5h36 | 21:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.
Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.
Historic old town lanes and squares by the Rhine, packed with colourful houses, churches and viewpoints. Ideal for a classic Cologne stroll.
Long Rhine promenade with bridge, cathedral and river views. Popular for walking, photography and watching boats pass through the city centre.
Lively square in the old town framed by historic buildings and museums. A useful base for sightseeing and one of Cologne’s best-known public spaces.
Rye bread with butter, cheese, ham or sausage, traditionally served in Cologne breweries as a simple local snack with Kölsch.
Hearty dish of black pudding with fried onions and mashed potatoes, a Rhineland classic closely associated with Cologne home cooking.
Slow-cooked horsemeat in a sweet-sour raisin sauce, a historic Rhineland speciality still served in a few traditional Cologne restaurants.
Classic Brauhaus serving Päffgen Kölsch and Rhineland favourites in a bustling, wood-panelled setting popular with locals.
Traditional brewery venue by Heumarkt with house Kölsch and dependable regional cooking in a spacious historic hall.
Long-established restaurant for refined German and Rhineland cooking, with a more formal atmosphere than a typical Brauhaus.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.
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.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf -> Neumarkt, Cologne
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.
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.

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.
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.

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.
There are 14 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.

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.
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.

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.
There are 8 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.

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.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erfurt 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.

Most Erfurt to Cologne trains use the Erfurt Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Erfurt and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Erfurt 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 options include: Istanbul Grill, McDonald's, Masala, Planet Comics
Wi-Fi is available at Erfurt Hbf. ATMs are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Erfurt Hbf. Information desks are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Erfurt Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Krämerbrücke, Intercity Hotel, Pension am Dom, Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior.
Erfurt-Bischleben is 5 km from Erfurt city centre. Public transport options include:
Erfurt-Bischleben 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 options include: Zur Schuhleiste, Bachstelze
Wi-Fi is available at Erfurt-Bischleben. ATMs are available at Erfurt-Bischleben.
Ticket office support is available at Erfurt-Bischleben. Information desks are available at Erfurt-Bischleben.
Luggage storage is available at Erfurt-Bischleben. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Erfurt-Bischleben: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Erfurt-Bischleben: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Erfurt-Bischleben.
Erfurt Nord is 2 km from Erfurt city centre. Public transport options include:
Erfurt Nord 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 options include: McDonald's, Bruzelkiste Tag & Nacht, Pizzeria Vulcano, Bagdad Döner
Wi-Fi is available at Erfurt Nord. ATMs are available at Erfurt Nord.
Ticket office support is available at Erfurt Nord. Information desks are available at Erfurt Nord.
Luggage storage is available at Erfurt Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Erfurt Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Erfurt Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Erfurt Nord.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Lindeneck, Pension Feldschlößchen.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Check train stations information for Erfurt and Cologne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need