1st Class
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Quiet zone
- WC
Cheapest price on 17 Sept
£22
Average ticket price on 17 Sept
£66
Fastest journey on 17 Sept
3 h 47 m
Average journey duration on 17 Sept
3 h 59 m
Trains on 17 Sept
27
Distance
401 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ingolstadt to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ingolstadt to Cologne will cost around £66 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £22.
On Thu 17 Sept, we found 27 trains from Ingolstadt to Cologne, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 401 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 47 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 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 888 · ICE 1022 · ICE 204
ICE 822
ICE 822 · 4491 · IC 2049
ICE 820 · ICE 1020
ICE 820
ICE 820
ICE 822
4010 · ICE 722
4004 · ICE 726
4014 · ICE 628Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ingolstadt to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £55 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 10m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £55, while a flight costs an average of £135.
Distance: 401 km
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£55 Average Price Cheapest | £56 Average Price | £135 Average Price | £64 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 58m Average total duration 4h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 18m Average total duration 6h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Ingolstadt to Cologne:
A train is £1 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Ingolstadt to Cologne costing on average £56.
A train is £80 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ingolstadt to Cologne costing on average £135.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 28m.
Coach takes on average 6h 48m.
The journey is about 56m faster (4h 28m by train vs 5h 24m by car) and roughly £9 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£55 vs £64). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Ingolstadt to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 888 · ICE 1022 | On time 4:51 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h15 | 10:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 888 · ICE 1022 · ICE 204 | On time 4:51 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h14 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 822 · 4491 · IC 2049 | On time 5:26 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h40 | 11:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 822 | On time 5:26 Ingolstadt Hbf | 3h48 | 9:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 820 · ICE 1020 | On time 6:27 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h38 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 820 | On time 6:27 Ingolstadt Hbf | 3h47 | 10:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 changesdirect | |
4002 · ICE 728 | On time 7:07 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h07 | 11:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
4004 · ICE 726 | On time 8:08 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h06 | 12:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 882 · ICE 926 | On time 8:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h10 | 14:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 882 · ICE 926 · ICE 200 | On time 8:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h09 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
4010 · ICE 722 | On time 10:08 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h06 | 14:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 880 · ICE 228 | On time 10:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h10 | 16:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 880 · ICE 228 · ICE 108 | On time 10:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h09 | 15:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
4014 · ICE 628 | On time 12:08 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h06 | 16:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 788 · ICE 28 · ICE 106 | On time 12:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h09 | 17:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 788 · ICE 28 | On time 12:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h10 | 18:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
86695+ ICE 224 | On time 13:08 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h35 | 18:43 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
4020 · ICE 624 | On time 14:08 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h06 | 18:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
4023 · ICE 514 | On time 14:09 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h56 | 20:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 786 · ICE 26 · ICE 104 | On time 14:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h09 | 19:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 786 · ICE 26 | On time 14:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h10 | 20:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
4026 · ICE 620 | On time 16:08 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h06 | 20:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 784 · ICE 24 | On time 16:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 5h10 | 22:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 784 · ICE 24 · ICE 102 | On time 16:56 Ingolstadt Hbf | 4h09 | 21:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 23:50 Ingolstadt, Nordbahnhof | 13h51 | 13:41 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 23:50 Ingolstadt, Nordbahnhof | 13h52 | 13:42 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, coach and flight 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 Ingolstadt to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 401 km distance in 3h 48m.
Distance 401 km |
Average train duration 4h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price £19 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 48m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:57 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
Compare Deutsche Bahn classes and the amenities included in each one.
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 Ingolstadt 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 Ingolstadt to Cologne trains use the Ingolstadt Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Ingolstadt and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Ingolstadt Hbf is 2 km from Ingolstadt city centre. Public transport options include:
Ingolstadt Hbf 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: Nave Pizzaservice, Pizzeria Romi, China Restaurant Ten Eins, Romeo e Giulietta
Wi-Fi is available at Ingolstadt Hbf. ATMs are available at Ingolstadt Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Ingolstadt Hbf. Information desks are available at Ingolstadt Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Ingolstadt Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ingolstadt Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Ingolstadt Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ingolstadt Hbf.
Ingolstadt Nord is 1 km from Ingolstadt city centre. Public transport options include:
Ingolstadt Nord 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: Michelangelo, Goldener Drache - Schnellrestaurant, Our place, Taj Mahal
Wi-Fi is available at Ingolstadt Nord. ATMs are available at Ingolstadt Nord.
Ticket office support is available at Ingolstadt Nord. Information desks are available at Ingolstadt Nord.
Luggage storage is available at Ingolstadt Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ingolstadt Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Ingolstadt Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ingolstadt Nord.
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