- 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 15 Oct
£21
Average ticket price on 15 Oct
£38
Fastest journey on 15 Oct
1 h 46 m
Average journey duration on 15 Oct
1 h 47 m
Trains on 15 Oct
26
Distance
210 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Heidelberg to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Heidelberg to Cologne will cost around £38 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £21.
On Thu 15 Oct, we found 26 trains from Heidelberg to Cologne, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 210 km distance in an average of 1 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 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 618
ICE 698 · IC 60402
IC 1947
IC 1645
S3 · 4750 · IC 2241
S3 · ICE 1012
S3 · ICE 1010
S3 · ICE 918
S1 · ICE 1014
S3 · ICE 614Trains from Heidelberg to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 210 km distance in 1h 32m.
Distance 210 km |
Average train duration 2h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 32m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 56 days |
The table below shows live departures for Heidelberg to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday 14 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
S3 · ICE 614 | 8:13 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h52 | 10:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 1049 | 8:24 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h41 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S3 · ICE 1012 | On time 8:43 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h46 | 10:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 1096+ 24510+ ICE 1020 | On time 8:46 Heidelberg Hbf | 3h19 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
19260 · ICE 202 | On time 9:10 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h55 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1670 · ICE 16 | On time 9:18 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h21 | 11:39 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S3 · ICE 612 | 10:13 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h52 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 1947 | On time 10:24 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h41 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S3 · ICE 1010 | On time 10:43 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h46 | 12:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 2090+ 24514+ ICE 926 | 10:46 Heidelberg Hbf | 3h20 | 14:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
19264 · ICE 200 | On time 11:10 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h55 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 798 · 4662 · ICE 314 | On time 11:18 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h21 | 13:39 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
S3 · ICE 610 | 12:13 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h52 | 14:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 1645 | 12:24 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h41 | 15:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S3 · ICE 918 | On time 12:43 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h46 | 14:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 1094+ 24518+ ICE 228 | On time 12:46 Heidelberg Hbf | 3h20 | 16:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
19268 · ICE 108 | On time 13:10 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h55 | 15:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1576 · ICE 14 | On time 13:18 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h21 | 15:39 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S3 · ICE 518 | On time 14:13 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h52 | 16:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 2012 | 14:24 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h42 | 17:06 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S3 · ICE 916 | On time 14:42 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h47 | 16:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
19272 · ICE 106 | On time 15:10 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h55 | 17:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 710 | On time 15:20 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h48 | 18:08 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 710 · ICE 28 | On time 15:20 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h46 | 18:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S2 · ICE 216 · ICE 12 | On time 15:33 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h07 | 17:40 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
S3 · ICE 516 | On time 16:13 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h52 | 18:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 1941 | On time 16:24 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h41 | 19:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S3 · ICE 224 | 16:43 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h00 | 18:43 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1092+ 24526+ ICE 26 | On time 16:46 Heidelberg Hbf | 3h20 | 20:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
19276 · ICE 104 | On time 17:10 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h55 | 19:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1572 · ICE 10 | On time 17:18 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h22 | 19:40 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S3 · ICE 2514 | On time 18:13 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h52 | 20:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 1649 | 18:24 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h42 | 21:06 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
S3 · ICE 912 | On time 18:43 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h46 | 20:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
| Thursday 15 October | |||||
ICE 618 | On time 3:43 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h21 | 6:04 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
15300 · ICE 18 | On time 4:21 Heidelberg Hbf | 3h19 | 7:40 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S3 · 4750 · IC 2241 | On time 5:06 Heidelberg Hbf | 4h00 | 9:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
S3 · ICE 616 | On time 6:02 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h03 | 8:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S1 · ICE 1014 | On time 6:43 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h46 | 8:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 1098+ 24506+ ICE 1022 | On time 6:46 Heidelberg Hbf | 3h20 | 10:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
S7 · ICE 204 | On time 7:09 Heidelberg Hbf | 1h56 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 994 · 4654 · ICE 316 | On time 7:18 Heidelberg Hbf | 2h21 | 9:39 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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
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 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.

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 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.

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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Cologne trains use the Heidelberg Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Heidelberg and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Heidelberg Hbf is 1 km from Heidelberg city centre. Public transport options include:
Heidelberg 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: Heid´s Grill, McDonald's, Uuuhmami, Taj Mahal
Wi-Fi is available at Heidelberg Hbf. ATMs are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Information desks are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Heidelberg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Heidelberg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Leonardo Hotel, Qube Hotel, NH Heidelberg, Krokodil.
Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen is 5 km from Heidelberg city centre. Public transport options include:
Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen 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: Capri, Il Sogno, Pizza Toscana, Rosenkeller
Wi-Fi is available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen. ATMs are available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen.
Ticket office support is available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen. Information desks are available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen.
Luggage storage is available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Heidelberg-Schlierbach/Ziegelhausen.
Nearby hotels include Gästehaus Endrich, Neckartal, Hotel Neckarlux.
Heidelberg-Altstadt is 2 km from Heidelberg city centre. Public transport options include:
Heidelberg-Altstadt 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: Persepolis, Zum Brückenaff, 'S' Kastanie, Choa
Wi-Fi is available at Heidelberg-Altstadt. ATMs are available at Heidelberg-Altstadt.
Ticket office support is available at Heidelberg-Altstadt. Information desks are available at Heidelberg-Altstadt.
Luggage storage is available at Heidelberg-Altstadt. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Heidelberg-Altstadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Heidelberg-Altstadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Heidelberg-Altstadt.
Nearby hotels include Parkhotel Atlantic, Hackteufel, Goldener Falke, Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg.
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