LEIPZIG to COLOGNE train from £11 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 19 Jul

Cheapest price

£37

Average price

£104

Fastest journey

5 h 10 m

Average duration

5 h 25 m

Trains per day

Distance

381 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 £104 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £37.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Leipzig for Cologne every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 381 km distance in an average of 5 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 10 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 43 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.

FlixTrain+FlixBus
11:049h16
Leipzig Hbf
20:20Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)
£371One-way
1 change
FlixTrain
11:046h39
Leipzig Hbf
17:43Cologne Hbf
£391One-way
0 changes
FlixBus+FlixTrain
4:059h36
Leipzig, Hbf
13:41Cologne Hbf
£431One-way
1 change
FlixBus+FlixTrain
13:008h40
Leipzig, Hbf
21:40Cologne Hbf
£501One-way
1 change
ICE 2551 · ICE 722
8:495h25
Leipzig Hbf
14:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
£1211One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Leipzig to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £16, and a flight costs an average of £215.

Distance: 381 km

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Coach	Flight
£59 Average Price	£28 Average Price Cheapest	£490 Average Price
6h 44m Average total duration Fastest 6h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	7h 7m Average total duration 6h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	10h 14m Average total duration 7h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Leipzig to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Sunday 19 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
FlixBus+FlixTrain	4:05 Leipzig, Hbf	9h36	13:41 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 2551 · ICE 722	On time 8:49 Leipzig Hbf	5h25	14:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz	1 change
ICE 2551 · ICE 14	On time 8:49 Leipzig Hbf	5h43	14:32 Cologne Hbf	1 change
ICE 1652 · ICE 124	On time 9:27 Leipzig Hbf	5h16	14:43 Cologne Hbf	1 change
IC 2430 · ICE 640 · 17421	On time 9:42 Leipzig Hbf	5h56	15:38 Cologne Hbf	2 changes
IC 2430 · ICE 640 · ICE 1033	Delayed 9:42 Leipzig Hbf	5h32	13:35 13:35Cologne Hbf	2 changes
ICE 505 · 4616 · ICE 228 · ICE 108	On time 9:55 Leipzig Hbf	5h10	15:05 Cologne Hbf	3 changes
FlixTrain	11:04 Leipzig Hbf	6h39	17:43 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
FlixTrain+FlixBus	11:04 Leipzig Hbf	9h16	20:20 Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)	1 change
FlixBus+FlixTrain	13:00 Leipzig, Hbf	8h40	21:40 Cologne Hbf	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.

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Why should you book Leipzig to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer 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?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Leipzig to Cologne.
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.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Leipzig to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Leipzig to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Leipzig to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne.

Trains

from £17

Coaches

from £16

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Leipzig 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.

Train details

Deutsche BahnICE, regional express ICE 1656, ICE 128, RE 92nd class

Purpose

Holidays

Month

April

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Purpose

Holidays

Month

April

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Advantages

Wifi available

Punctual

Sufficient seating available

Disadvantages

Nothing

I travelled to Cologne with my husband for a city trip. We had always wanted to see the cathedral. We travelled by train and were even lucky enough to get seats. The wifi worked really well. There was also an on-board restaurant on the ICE trains. But we didn't use it. All the trains were on time and we arrived as planned.

Train details

Deutsche BahnICE 693, 5282nd class

Purpose

Private

Month

May

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Purpose

Private

Month

May

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Advantages

Just in time, the change worked

Comfort and equipment

Cleanliness and hygiene very good

Disadvantages

Toilet defective

Air conditioning did not work

From Leipzig to Cologne I had to change trains in Frankfurt, but this worked out very well due to the punctuality. Neither train was very full either. Although there was a direct train, this would have been a bit more expensive, which is why I chose this connection. Both trains were clean, but the toilet on the first train was faulty. On the same train, the air conditioning wasn't working either, so it was very hot. Otherwise, the cleanliness and hygiene was very good. The seats were very comfortable on both trains and they were fully equipped. I can definitely recommend this connection.

Train details

Deutsche BahnICE 1654 / 7262nd class

Purpose

Business

Month

June

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Purpose

Business

Month

June

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Advantages

Pünkltich

Fast

Centrally located

Disadvantages

Little cleanliness

I travelled from Leipzig to Cologne by train after a conference. I have to change trains in Frankfurt and change ICE trains. Fortunately, everything is on time. The staff are very friendly and there is an on-board bistro, which makes the journey a little more pleasant. Unfortunately, the loo and the train were not very clean. There were enough seats and I didn't have to make a reservation. If Deutsche Bahn is punctual, it's a great alternative to other means of transport.

Train details

Deutsche BahnIC 24422

Purpose

Family

Month

March

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Purpose

Family

Month

March

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Advantages

No changeover

Disadvantages

Delay

Unfortunately, this train journey was not a good experience. The train was late and extremely full. I didn't have a seat at the beginning and had to sit in the aisle. The air was bad and it was noisy in the carriage. The wifi wasn't working and there was no announcement about the delay. I was glad when the journey was finally over.

Train details

Deutsche BahnIC 24402

Purpose

Family

Month

September

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Purpose

Family

Month

September

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Advantages

Personnel

WIFI

Disadvantages

Toilets

My train journey was very satisfactory overall. The train arrived on time, which is always important to me personally. The seats were comfortable enough for me to sit and relax for long periods of time. The wifi worked well for the most part, even if it sometimes wiped out briefly. The staff on board were friendly and helpful, which made the journey more pleasant. One small drawback was the toilets, which could have been cleaner. Nevertheless, I would choose this connection again.

Train details

Deutsche BahnIC 22402nd Class

Purpose

Private

Month

March

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Purpose

Private

Month

March

Extras

Bike, Pet, Reservation

Advantages

No delays, no changes

Affordable ticket and good facilities

Comfort and cleanliness very good

Disadvantages

None

The train from Leipzig to Cologne was relatively under-utilised, so I didn't have to reserve a seat in advance. The journey didn't take long and I didn't have to change trains. The ticket price was also reasonable for the long journey. The seat was very comfortable and had power sockets, internet and a large table. There was also a snack vending machine on the train. The cleanliness was very good and the toilets looked hygienic. The staff were very friendly and carried out a quick check. The train was not delayed, which is why I can fully recommend the journey.

Advantages

Punctuality

Comfort

beautiful view

That was my outward journey. The train arrived on time and I got on. I was greeted nicely by the staff and sat down. My seat was very comfortable and was clean. The wifi was good throughout although it was used by many. Then I went to the toilet and it was clean. I then sat down again and enjoyed the beautiful view. I arrived on time. I can recommend this journey.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne

Germany

Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 6h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 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 381 km distance in 4h 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

381 km

Average train duration

6h 14m

Cheapest ticket price

£11

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

4h 44m

First train

0:01

Last train

23:58

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sept

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Fri

Least Busy Day

Mon

Best time to book

63 days

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from £11. 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 Duration

4h 44m

Cheapest Price

£26

Deutsche Bahn frequency

10 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

FlixTrain

About

FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

6h 39m

Cheapest Price

£11

FlixTrain frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle

Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

4h 25m

Cheapest Price

£84

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

12 a day

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 £11, while the average price tends to be around £59.

The train journey from Leipzig to Cologne covers a distance of 381 km and takes approximately 4h 44m. Trains run 11 per day.

The train distance from Leipzig to Cologne is 381 km.

The first train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 0:01.

The last train from Leipzig to Cologne departs at 23:58.

Trains from Leipzig to Cologne run approximately 11 times per day.

Yes, there is a direct train between Leipzig and Cologne. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by FlixTrain.

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 Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £11.

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 diverse scenery, showcasing rolling hills, charming villages, and sections along the Rhine River, providing travellers with picturesque views throughout the trip.

A day trip from Leipzig to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 44m. However, there are 12 trains available per day. The distance is 381 km.

In Cologne, visitors can explore the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Gothic architecture, and visit the Museum Ludwig for modern art by artists like Picasso and Warhol. A Rhine River Cruise offers scenic views of the city's skyline and landmarks, while the Hohenzollern Bridge is known for love locks and panoramic river views. The Old Town (Altstadt) charms with historic streets and traditional beer halls. Families might enjoy the Cologne Zoo, which is rich in diverse animal species. For culture and entertainment, attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, or discover the Belgian Quarter’s trendy boutiques and cafes. The Cologne Chocolate Museum provides an interactive experience about chocolate history, and the Botanical Gardens Flora showcases beautiful plant species and floral displays.

To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.

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 Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. 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 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre

TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 1m · £0.89 · 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.

More about Leipzig Hauptbahnhof

Leipzig Bayerischer BahnhofLeipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof, Bayrischer Platz 2, 04103 Leipzig Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof from Leipzig city centre

Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof is 1 km from Leipzig city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 3m · £0.89 · every ~23 min

Tram9 · 7m · every ~11 min

Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof train station facilities and services

Leipzig Bayerischer Bahnhof 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.