FRANKFURT AM MAIN to COLOGNE train from £6 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 30 Sept

Cheapest price on 30 Sept

£15

Average ticket price on 30 Sept

£51

Fastest journey on 30 Sept

48 m

Average journey duration on 30 Sept

50 m

Trains on 30 Sept

Distance

153 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main 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 am Main to Cologne will cost around £51 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £15.

Fast trains

On Wed 30 Sept, we found 74 trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne, including 60 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 48 m .

The slowest trains will take 52 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 222
5:341h09
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
6:43Cologne Hbf
£151One-way
0 changes
ICE 826
5:411h33
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
7:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
£151One-way
0 changes
ICE 826
5:561h18
Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
7:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
£151One-way
0 changes
ICE 222
5:470h56
Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
6:43Cologne Hbf
£151One-way
0 changes
ICE 618
4:561h23
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
6:19Cologne Hbf
£201One-way
0 changes

Live departures

Frankfurt am Main to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 30 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
ICE 618	On time 4:56 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h23	6:19 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 618	On time 5:14 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h05	6:19 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 222	On time 5:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h09	6:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 826	On time 5:41 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h33	7:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 222	On time 5:47 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h56	6:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 826	On time 5:56 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h18	7:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 18	On time 6:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h06	7:40 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
IC 2441	On time 6:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h23	9:06 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
IC 2441 · ICE 616	On time 6:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	8:05 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 18	On time 6:48 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	7:40 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
IC 2441	On time 6:58 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	2h08	9:06 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
29508 · ICE 1014	On time 7:09 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h20	8:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz	1 change
ICE 824	On time 7:22 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	8:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 220	On time 7:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h09	8:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1014	On time 7:41 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h48	8:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 1022 · ICE 204	On time 7:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	9:05 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 220	On time 7:46 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h57	8:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1022	On time 7:59 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	2h07	10:06 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 822	On time 8:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h06	9:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 204	On time 8:11 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h54	9:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1612	On time 8:12 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h20	9:32 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 822	On time 8:22 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	9:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 1612	On time 8:26 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h06	9:32 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 316	On time 8:33 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h06	9:39 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
4491 · IC 2049	On time 8:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h28	11:06 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 1656 · ICE 614	On time 8:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	10:05 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 316	On time 8:48 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h51	9:39 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 820	On time 9:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h06	10:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
4254 · ICE 1012	On time 9:09 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h20	10:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz	1 change
ICE 614	On time 9:10 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h55	10:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 820	On time 9:22 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	10:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 128	On time 9:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h09	10:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1012	On time 9:41 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h48	10:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 1020 · ICE 202	On time 9:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	11:05 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 1020	On time 9:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h22	12:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 128	On time 9:46 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h57	10:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1020	On time 9:59 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	2h06	12:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 728	On time 10:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h06	11:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 202	On time 10:11 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h54	11:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1610	On time 10:11 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	11:33 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 728	On time 10:22 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	11:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 1610	On time 10:26 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h07	11:33 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 16	On time 10:34 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h05	11:39 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1714	On time 17:03 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	18:25 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 624	On time 17:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h06	18:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 516	On time 17:10 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h55	18:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 1714	On time 17:17 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h08	18:25 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
S8 · ICE 224	On time 17:17 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h26	18:43 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 624	On time 17:22 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	18:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
29528 · ICE 118	On time 17:24 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h30	18:54 Cologne Messe/Deutz	1 change
ICE 26 · ICE 104	On time 17:41 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h24	19:05 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 26	On time 17:41 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h25	20:06 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 224	On time 17:48 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h55	18:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 118	On time 17:53 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h01	18:54 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 26	On time 17:59 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	2h07	20:06 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 622	On time 18:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h06	19:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 1512	On time 18:11 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	19:33 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 104	On time 18:11 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h54	19:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 622	On time 18:22 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	19:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 1512	On time 18:26 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h07	19:33 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 10	On time 18:33 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h07	19:40 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 24 · 10446	On time 19:59 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	2h13	22:12 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 528	On time 20:07 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h07	21:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 102	On time 20:11 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h54	21:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 318	On time 20:14 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h25	21:39 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 528	On time 20:22 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h52	21:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
ICE 318	On time 20:29 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	1h10	21:39 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
S8 · IC 2347	On time 20:30 Frankfurt am Main Flughafen	2h36	23:06 Cologne Hbf	1 change
4759 · IC 2347	On time 20:38 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h28	23:06 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 1554 · ICE 512	On time 20:43 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h22	22:05 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 526	On time 21:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	1h08	22:16 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 512	On time 21:10 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	0h55	22:05 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
This is the last train of the day.

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Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne.

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Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

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Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Frankfurt am Main to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne.

Trains

from £9

Coaches

from £7

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne

The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.

Advantages

Quick

On time

Clean

Comfortable

WIFI

Disadvantages

Price

Travelling by train from Frankfurt to Cologne is usually a pleasant way to travel comfortably and quickly. The route is well developed and the trains are usually clean and comfortable. However, the price of a train journey from Frankfurt to Cologne can be relatively high, depending on the season and when you book. If you don't book early, you may have to pay a higher price. Nevertheless, the train journey also offers some advantages over other means of transport, such as the possibility to work or relax during the journey. In addition, the journey is more environmentally friendly than travelling by car or plane. Overall, I would say that a train journey from Frankfurt to Cologne is a good choice if you appreciate comfort and convenience and are also prepared to pay a little more for it.

Advantages

Very comfortable and clean

The staff was very nice and helpful

The volume was very pleasant

Disadvantages

We had to stop in between, but this was not the fault of the train.

The train journey from Frankfurt to Cologne was very pleasant overall. The interior was modern and comfortable, with comfortable seats and well-functioning air conditioning. The wifi was very fast. The cleanliness of the train was of a high standard. And there was enough space for luggage. The service on board was excellent, the staff was friendly and helpful. Overall, it was a very pleasant trip that I would recommend to anyone. The price-performance ratio is very good. I did not have to change trains and the train was very punctual. There were also plenty of power sockets.

Advantages

Environmentally conscious

Fastest connection

Disadvantages

Dirty

Unpunctual

Of course, the train was delayed again. Fortunately, we booked the tickets cheaper via Lufthansa. So the price-performance ratio was OK. What was unfortunately not OK was the toilet during the journey. Unfortunately smelly and dirty. The wifi is hardly usable on the journey, so I had to fall back on my data volume throughout. At least there were enough power outlets to charge your smartphone. The ticket inspector was also very friendly this time. It was actually very quiet on the journey. But that was also due to the time of day.

Advantages

Punctuality

Disadvantages

Very full

I wanted to visit my girlfriend and the ICE got me from A to B very quickly, which would have taken much longer by bus. The train was unfortunately very crowded and therefore a bit noisy, but we were on time and all in all it was a pleasant journey.

Advantages

Clean toilets, fresh food

Disadvantages

The journey took longer than it should have done

The train came on time and left when it was supposed to. There was one staff member who I really want to mention because she was so ultra nice. She treated me so well. She always asked if I needed anything, if I was okay and so on. The wifi was good. I can recommend it because the staff were very nice and it was very cheap. My seat was comfortable and I had access to electricity. The toilets were also clean and hygienic.

Advantages

WIFI

On time

good service

Disadvantages

Utilised

We took the ICE from Frankfurt to Cologne. The train had wifi and sockets to power our mobile phones. The staff were very friendly despite the busy train. The toilets were clean and the bistro had plenty to choose from. The train was right on time and we arrived in Cologne on time.

Advantages

Cheaper than having your own car

Disadvantages

none

Another 1st class trip for the price of 2nd class with the ICE- BahnCard 1st class 25% thanks. The BahnCard has already paid for itself in 2 months. On the train, as always, very courteous train crew biscuits and chocolate as a nice treat. All in all, faster and more comfortable and safer than in a car, in my opinion.

Advantages

Very good service

Disadvantages

Train was too late

On my journey I came across this train ticket and I think it was one of the best decisions of my life.I was in 2nd class and had wifi.I could charge my mobile phone,laptop etc as I had a power socket.My seat in 2nd class was very comfortable as I could also lie down. The train was on time. The staff were very nice. I ordered a croissant for dinner, which tasted very good. It was very quiet on the train. Great value for money. I can only recommend it. It was the best train ride of my life.

Advantages

Nice staff

Disadvantages

Too late

It was a great train ride as the staff were very nice. I had wifi on the train and I had my own power socket. My seat was very comfortable. It was very quiet on the train. If you needed food, you could get it. The staff were really nice and you could order a lot of things and we were told a lot of things, like when we were arriving etc. It was very clean. It was very clean. The toilets were also very clean. Unfortunately, the train was a bit late, but that's not too bad because it's great value for money. I can recommend it to everyone. Great train ride!

Advantages

Flexibility

Disadvantages

Delays

So to rate this train journey(s) correctly is actually almost impossible. I travel the Frankfurt - Cologne route and back regularly and the journey has different surprises every time. In addition, Corona, holidays, public holidays and also the weather influence the journey a lot. I have awarded a total of 3 stars and they are very benevolent, as there was not one journey that was not at least 5 minutes late. A small plus point at this stage is at least that the trains are relatively clean and the toilets are usable again. I'd rather not talk about the service, which leaves a lot to be desired.

Advantages

Service

Comfort

Booking

Disadvantages

Punctuality

Cleanliness

Train binding

The journey from Frankfurt to Cologne was a pleasant one. Although the train arrived late, the delay was made up for. The space with a power socket and a restaurant on board was very useful. Unfortunately, we were not informed about subsequent connections.

Advantages

Personnel

Service

Comfort

Disadvantages

Reimbursement

Punctuality

Toilets

The train from Frankfurt to Cologne could have been a pleasant journey. However, it is regrettable that the train was very late and no refund was possible. However, there was a restaurant on the train with drinks and snacks, as well as a power socket connected to the seat, and it is also possible to reserve a seat.

Advantages

Comfort

Speed

Personnel

Disadvantages

Punctuality

Time management

Price

The journey with Deutsche Bahn was fine despite the delay and missed connections. I had wifi and a power socket for my mobile phone on the journey. It was very quiet, the atmosphere was relaxed and there were drinks and food on board. The toilets were clean. However, the price was very expensive without a Bahncard.

Advantages

Punctuality

Friendly staff

Cleanliness

Disadvantages

None

After visiting a few friends at the weekend, I had to return home. As I had booked early, I got very good conditions. The price-performance ratio was excellent. We weren't even 5 minutes late and the train was extremely clean.

Advantages

Very quick and easy booking

Favourable

No change

Disadvantages

Poor wifi

Dirty toilets

What I really liked about this journey was that the ticket was very easy to book. I also liked that it was very reasonably priced. Another thing I liked was that I didn't have to change trains and reached my destination in no time at all. However, I didn't like the fact that the wifi didn't work well, as it didn't allow me to watch films during the journey. I also didn't like the fact that the toilets were dirty.

Advantages

Few passengers

There was WIFI

Disadvantages

WC effect

The journey was ok. Thank goodness it didn't take long, as I arrived in Cologne in time for a meeting. It wasn't overcrowded as usual. The Wi-Fi worked perfectly, but unfortunately the toilet was closed for some reason.

Advantages

Volume

Hygiene

Disadvantages

Catering

WIFI

The train journey from Frankfurt to Cologne ICE 16 went smoothly and the train arrived relatively punctually. The noise level on the train was very extreme. On the other hand, there were no complaints about hygiene and cleanliness. Unfortunately, the wifi didn't work at all and was difficult to connect to. Unfortunately, I didn't like the catering so much this time.

Advantages

Online Ticket

Disadvantages

Frankfurt main station is disgusting

First of all, Frankfurt's railway station is a disaster, it's dirty, it stinks and there are homeless people everywhere. The train journey, on the other hand, was good as always. There were no delays. The staff were friendly and the noise level was pleasantly quiet. The train itself was clean, but as always, the toilet facilities could do with a clean. I travel a lot on ICE trains and on the whole I can never complain.

Advantages

Short journey duration

Good service

Disadvantages

None

Travelling by ICE train from Frankfurt to Cologne was a fascinating experience. The train was incredibly fast and reached Cologne without any delays. The air conditioning was working on board, which contributed to a pleasant indoor climate. The staff were all friendly and polite, and you even got coffee at your seat. It was also clean and the train was in a modern and technically perfect condition.

Advantages

Service

Disadvantages

Comfort

All in all, the journey was definitely not bad, but there were only a few shortcomings that bothered me. Firstly, I have to say that I was very pleased that the train was on time. But there is definitely room for improvement in terms of comfort. A slightly more comfortable seat would solve the problem. Overall, I can still recommend it

Advantages

Convenience

Price

Disadvantages

Frankfurt railway station

I travelled by train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne. The station in Frankfurt was very run-down, which really shocked me. As far as the connection itself is concerned, I can only report positive things. The train arrived at the station on time and there were no disruptions during the rest of the journey. The train was in good condition. The wifi and charging facilities were also available.

Advantages

Punctuality

Cleanliness

Disadvantages

None

The train journey from Frankfurt to Cologne was wonderful. The train was on time, clean and comfortable. The seats were comfortable and the staff were friendly and helpful. The journey also offered great views of the countryside, although I didn't enjoy them much as I was able to work through the wifi on board. I can definitely recommend the train route and would use it again at any time.

Advantages

Fast drive

Nice service

Disadvantages

Smelled funny on the train

As I often travel by ICE, this journey was a real miracle. The journey went by without any problems or delays. Nobody on the train was noisy and the service was very nice. I got through my 2.5 hour journey very quickly and arrived in Cologne with a positive feeling.

Advantages

Fast driving route

Disadvantages

Delay

I was supposed to take the ICE 810 from Frankfurt to Cologne. However, it was already so late before departure that we were allowed to take an alternative connection. So we travelled with an earlier connection on the route. It is a pleasure to travel on the high-speed line between Frankfurt and Cologne, from the moment you enter the section of line you are no longer standing (due to construction work, overhaul, etc.), but rushing through the countryside. The railway's wifi and train portal are great. The only downer was the delay on our original connection.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne

Germany

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne run on average 57 times per day, taking around 1h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 but you can travel from only £6 by coach.

There are 48 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 153 km distance in 45m.

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 £6

Distance

153 km

Average train duration

1h 15m

Cheapest ticket price

£6

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

45m

First train

0:01

Last train

23:58

Cheapest Month

Aug

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Apr - Jun

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Thu

Best time to book

21 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Coach from £6

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne from £6. 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

45m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

£6

Deutsche Bahn frequency

88 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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

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

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne

Many trains run from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne throughout the week at all hours of the day. Passengers can expect a travel time which lasts around one hour to a little over four hours depending on the speed of the train and the number of changes involved. Service on this route is offered every day throughout the year. Although very early morning trains are available Monday to Saturday, service begins slightly later on a Sunday.

Which train companies travel from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne}?

The train service between these two cities in Germany is operated by the national railway company, Deutsche Bahn. With an extensive railway network throughout the country, Deutsche Bahn offers reliable service between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne on a regular basis. Onboard services include wifi, comfortable seats and the option to reserve seats.

How long is the train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne?

Direct trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne generally take a little over one hour to one and a half hours, depending of the speed of the train. Journeys with a change required take around one hour twenty minutes to over four hours, depending on the number of changes involved and the wait time at connecting stations.

How many trains are there from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne?

Between 50 to 70 trains depart between these two cities every day. Passengers can purchase tickets for journeys in the morning, afternoon and well into the night. With approximately three departures per hour, passengers are sure to find a train to suit their needs.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne?

Departure train station:Trains depart from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, which is the city's main railway station. With links to the S-bahn and U-bath, passengers can easily travel onwards, including links to the airport. Station facilities include numerous places to shop and eat, wifi, and luggage lockers.

Arrival train stations: The arrival stations include the main railway station Cologne Hauptbahnhof, and the station Cologne Messe/Deutz. However, Cologne Messe/Deutz is a junction station which is located only a few hundred metres from the Hauptbahnhof station, so both are a convenient choice for passengers.

FAQs: Frankfurt am Main to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main 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.

The cost of a train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £36.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne covers a distance of 153 km and takes approximately 45m. Trains run 57 per day.

The train distance from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne is 153 km.

The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne leaves at 0:01.

The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne departs at 23:58.

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne run approximately 57 times per day.

Yes, there is a direct train between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne. The service operates 48 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.

There is no night train service from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne.

The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Cologne is Frankfurt Airport long-distance station, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.

Booking trains from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Cologne is moderately scenic, featuring views of the Rhine River, charming villages, and rolling hills, especially on routes passing through the Rhine Valley.

Yes, you can take the train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Frankfurt am Main and Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main

Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne leave from Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. The station is 11 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Frankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · £2

Trn · 12m · £3

S8, S9 · 19m · £3 · every ~5 min

BusS8e · 28m · £5

X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min

61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Käfer's, McDonald's, Asia Snack Box

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, Hilton Frankfurt Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport.

Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · £0.90 · every ~51 min

BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min

Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · £3 · every ~38 min

SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · £3 · every ~39 min

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services

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.