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Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Cologne by train
Compare train 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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06 May
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Why should you book Madrid to Cologne trains with Omio?
AVE as well as iryo offer trains services from Madrid to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs AVE?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of iryo to find the best option for your trip from Madrid 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.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of iryo to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Cologne
Spain
Italy
Trains from Madrid to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 18h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £393 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:40, the last at 13:00. The fastest train covers the 1247 km distance in 14h 50m.
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 1247 km |
Average train duration 18h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £393 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 14h 50m |
First train 6:40 |
Last train 13:00 |
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: AVE, iryo from Madrid to Cologne trainsAVE, iryo trains will get you between Madrid and Cologne from £393. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
22h 26m
Cheapest Price
£393
AVE frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
iryo
About
iryo is a new brand from railway operator ILSA operating in Spain since 2022. iryo uses Frecciarossa 1000 trains which are modern, can travel at up to 360km/h and have a minimal environmental impact. iryo’s Frecciarossa trains have different classes, all of which come with free unlimited WiFi, power sockets, toilets and an onboard entertainment portal where you can watch films and TV series. The main classes are: Infinita Class, Singular Café Class, Singular Class, Inicial Class. These new trains take 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel between Madrid and Barcelona. They depart from Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants stations, and stop in Zaragoza along the way. iryo services also cover Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Alicante, Córdoba, Seville and Málaga.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 50m
Cheapest Price
£395
iryo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (36x56x26cm) and 1 handbag (36x30x10cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead compartments and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with Mediterranean cuisine, at-seat service in both classes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Large dogs need paid ticket
Quiet zone
FAQs: Madrid to Cologne train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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 Madrid to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £393, while the average price tends to be around £394.
The train journey from Madrid to Cologne covers a distance of 1247 km and takes approximately 14h 50m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Madrid to Cologne is 1247 km.
The first train from Madrid to Cologne leaves at 6:40.
The last train from Madrid to Cologne departs at 13:00.
Trains from Madrid to Cologne run approximately 2 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Madrid to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Cologne.
To travel from Madrid to Cologne, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Madrid to Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £393.
Booking trains from Madrid 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 Madrid to Cologne offers a mix of scenery, with the initial part showcasing the diverse landscapes of Spain, including rolling hills and vineyards, while the route through France and Belgium features picturesque countryside and charming small towns.
A day trip from Madrid to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 14h 50m. There are 2 trains per day, and the distance is 1247 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 Madrid to Cologne.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Madrid
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