1st Class
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Quiet zone
- WC
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept
Cheapest price on 17 Sept
£85
Average ticket price on 17 Sept
£90
Fastest journey on 17 Sept
4 h 25 m
Average journey duration on 17 Sept
4 h 25 m
Trains on 17 Sept
15
Distance
665 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leipzig to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leipzig to Cologne will cost around £90 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £85.
Fast trains
To travel from Leipzig to Cologne you need to make at least one change.
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5:416h57Leipzig12:38Köln Hbf£851One-way1 change- 5:284h46Leipzig10:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 6:494h25Leipzig11:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 7:274h47Leipzig12:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 8:494h25Leipzig13:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 6:494h25Leipzig11:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 8:494h25Leipzig13:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 10:494h25Leipzig15:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 12:494h25Leipzig17:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
- 16:494h25Leipzig21:14Köln Messe/deutz Bf£901One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Leipzig to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £11 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 45m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £11, while a flight costs an average of £111.
Distance: 665 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£11 Average Price Cheapest | £111 Average Price | £105 Average Price | £63 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 18m Average total duration 9h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 13h 50m Average total duration 13h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Leipzig to Cologne is a train with an average price of £11.
This is compared to other travel options from Leipzig to Cologne:
A train is £94 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average £105.
A train is £100 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leipzig to Cologne costing on average £111.
The fastest way to travel from Leipzig to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 45m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 48m.
Coach takes on average 13h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leipzig and Cologne including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 9m faster (9h 48m by train vs 9h 57m by car) and roughly £52 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£11 vs £63). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Leipzig to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday 16 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22:58 Leipzig | 8h16 | 7:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| Thursday 17 September | |||||
| 5:28 Leipzig | 4h46 | 10:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 5:41 Leipzig | 6h57 | 12:38 Köln Hbf | 1 change | |
| 6:49 Leipzig | 4h25 | 11:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 7:27 Leipzig | 4h47 | 12:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 8:49 Leipzig | 4h25 | 13:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 9:27 Leipzig | 4h47 | 14:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 10:49 Leipzig | 4h25 | 15:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 11:27 Leipzig | 4h47 | 16:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 12:49 Leipzig | 4h25 | 17:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 13:27 Leipzig | 4h47 | 18:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 14:48 Leipzig | 4h26 | 19:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 15:27 Leipzig | 4h47 | 20:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 16:49 Leipzig | 4h25 | 21:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
| 17:27 Leipzig | 4h47 | 22:14 Köln Messe/deutz Bf | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leipzig to Cologne by train, coach or flight
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.
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Why should you book Leipzig to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Leipzig to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leipzig to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leipzig to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leipzig to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne
Germany
Italy
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:44, the last at 14:40. The fastest train covers the 665 km distance in 9h 44m.
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
Distance 665 km |
Average train duration 9h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 9h 44m |
First train 6:44 |
Last train 14:40 |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from £8. 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
9h 44m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£8
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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.
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.
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.
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from £8. 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
9h 44m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£8
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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.
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.
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.
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
What's included in each class
Compare Deutsche Bahn classes and the amenities included in each one.
2nd Class
- Power plugs
- WC
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.
- Recommended
Museo del Vino
Wine and rural culture displays linked to Franciacorta, offering context on the landscape and historic work of the region.
Museo Comunale
Local museum presenting the area’s history, traditions and everyday life. A useful introduction to Cologne and nearby Franciacorta.
Galleria d'Arte
Small art space with temporary exhibitions by local and regional artists, suited to visitors seeking a quieter cultural stop.
- Recommended
Piazza Garibaldi
The main square is the social heart of Cologne, lined with civic buildings and ideal for a short walk and people-watching.
- Recommended
Centro Storico di Cologne
Historic central streets with churches, shops and everyday town life, best explored on foot for a sense of local character.
Parco Comunale
Green area for an easy stroll and a quieter pause from the centre, popular with locals for relaxation and short walks.
Canederli
Canederli are bread dumplings from Alpine northern Italy, often served in broth or with butter. They reflect Tyrolean influence and are a classic regional comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Speck Alto Adige
Speck is lightly smoked, cured ham from Alto Adige. It is prized for its balance of mountain smoking and Mediterranean air-drying traditions.
- Vegetarian
Schlutzkrapfen
Schlutzkrapfen are half-moon pasta filled traditionally with spinach and ricotta, usually dressed with butter and chives. They are a hallmark of South Tyrolean home cooking.
Wirtshaus Vögele
Traditional South Tyrolean restaurant known for dumplings, schnitzel and local wine in a warm, rustic setting.
Restaurant Zur Kaiserkron
Historic venue serving regional dishes and seasonal specialities with a refined but relaxed atmosphere.
Batzenhäusl
Long-established local favourite for South Tyrolean classics, pasta and hearty mains in a casual traditional dining room.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: hotels and dining in the centre cost more than smaller cities, but public transport and casual meals stay manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or simple cafés.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafés.
FAQs: Leipzig to Cologne train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £11.
The train journey from Leipzig to Cologne covers a distance of 665 km and takes approximately 9h 44m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Leipzig to Cologne is 665 km.
The first train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 6:44.
The last train from Leipzig to Cologne departs at 14:40.
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Leipzig to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Leipzig to Cologne.
To get from Leipzig to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Leipzig to Cologne.
The train station in Leipzig that goes to Cologne is Leipzig Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne station.
The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne offers picturesque views, especially as it winds through the Thuringian Forest and along the Rhine River, showcasing Germany's natural beauty and charming landscapes.
A day trip from Leipzig to Cologne is not feasible as the journey duration is 9h 44m. However, there are 3 train journeys per day. The distance between these cities is 665 km.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Cologne is typically sufficient to explore major attractions like the Cologne Cathedral, the Old Town, and the Museum Ludwig, while also allowing time to enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Leipzig to Cologne.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Leipzig and Cologne
Most Leipzig to Cologne trains use the Leipzig Hauptbahnhof to Cologne station pair. Use this guide to compare Leipzig and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leipzig
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Which Leipzig station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne leave from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. The station is 1 km from Leipzig city centre at Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany.
Leipzig HauptbahnhofWilly-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany+49 341 9686190
City-centre transport
Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre
TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 1m · £0.90 · every ~23 min
BusN3, 89 · 9m · every ~11 min
Tram9 · 8m · every ~11 min
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.
Which Cologne station do trains from Leipzig arrive at?
Trains from Leipzig to Cologne arrive at Cologne. Cologne is 1 km from Cologne city centre.
Cologne25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Cologne from Cologne city centre
TrainRe · 17m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · £4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · £4
Cologne train station facilities and services
Cologne has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cologne.
Most popular train connections from Leipzig
More options for your journey from Leipzig to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Leipzig
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