- 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 29 Aug
£20
Average ticket price on 29 Aug
£46
Fastest journey on 29 Aug
1 h 5 m
Average journey duration on 29 Aug
1 h 5 m
Trains on 29 Aug
41
Distance
152 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne will cost around £46 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £20.
On Sat 29 Aug, we found 41 trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne, including 16 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 152 km distance in an average of 1 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 6 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.
ICE 1714 · ICE 624
ICE 1714
ICE 28
4757 · IC 2041
ICE 1514
ICE 16
ICE 314
ICE 14
ICE 316
ICE 12Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £9 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 19m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £9, while a train costs an average of £20.
Distance: 152 km
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£20 Average Price | £9 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 4m Average total duration 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1612 | On time 8:12 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h20 | 9:32 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 316 | On time 8:33 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h06 | 9:39 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
4491 · IC 2549 | On time 8:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h28 | 11:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 128 | On time 8:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h08 | 9:46 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S8 · ICE 820 | On time 8:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h35 | 10:22 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 2520 | On time 8:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h35 | 10:22 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1656 · ICE 1012 | On time 9:17 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h12 | 10:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
S9 · ICE 202 | On time 9:32 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h33 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 728 | On time 9:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h27 | 11:14 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1610 | On time 10:11 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 11:33 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 16 | On time 10:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h05 | 11:39 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 126 | Delayed 8:37 10:36Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h10 | 11:46 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
4493 · IC 2547 | On time 10:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h28 | 13:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 726 | On time 10:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h35 | 12:22 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1654 · ICE 1010 | On time 11:12 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h17 | 12:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
S9 · ICE 200 | On time 11:32 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h33 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 926 · 10428 | Delayed 9:54 11:43Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h29 | 14:12 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 724 | On time 11:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h33 | 13:20 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1518 | 12:11 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 13:33 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 314 | On time 12:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h05 | 13:39 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 124 | On time 12:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h08 | 13:46 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
4495 · IC 2545 | On time 12:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h28 | 15:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 722 | On time 12:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h36 | 14:23 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 2532 | On time 12:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h36 | 14:23 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1652 · ICE 918 | On time 13:13 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h16 | 14:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 228 · 10434 | On time 13:41 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h31 | 16:12 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 228 · ICE 108 | On time 13:41 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h24 | 15:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 720 | On time 13:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h35 | 15:22 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1516 | On time 14:11 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 15:33 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 14 | On time 14:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h05 | 15:39 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 122 | On time 14:39 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h07 | 15:46 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S8 · ICE 628 | On time 14:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h36 | 16:23 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1650 · ICE 916 | On time 15:18 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h11 | 16:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
S9 · ICE 106 | On time 15:32 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h33 | 17:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 28 | 15:41 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h25 | 18:06 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S8 · ICE 626 | On time 15:47 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h33 | 17:20 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1514 | On time 16:11 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 17:33 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 12 | On time 16:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h06 | 17:40 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
4757 · IC 2041 | On time 16:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 2h28 | 19:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1714 · ICE 624 | On time 17:03 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h20 | 18:23 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1714 | On time 17:03 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf | 1h22 | 18:25 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and coach 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.

Trains from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne run on average 25 times per day, taking around 1h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.
There are 18 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:11, the last at 22:19. The fastest train covers the 152 km distance in 1h 6m.
Distance 152 km |
Average train duration 1h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 25 |
Direct trains 18 |
Fastest train 1h 6m |
First train 1:11 |
Last train 22:19 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 days |
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
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf 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 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Cologne trains use the Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
Frankfurt (Main) 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, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need