- Recommended
Museo del Vino
Wine and rural culture displays linked to Franciacorta, offering context on the landscape and historic work of the region.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Cologne
Spain
Italy
Take a train from Madrid to Cologne and enjoy the approximately 1247 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 12:50, the last at 21:07.
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 |
First train 12:50 |
Last train 21:07 |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Madrid to Cologne trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Madrid to Cologne.
The train distance from Madrid to Cologne is 1247 km.
The first train from Madrid to Cologne leaves at 12:50.
The last train from Madrid to Cologne departs at 21:07.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Cologne.
Live departures
Madrid to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday 3 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 12:50 Madrid | 22h25 | 11:15 Köln Hbf | 3 changes | |
 | 21:07 Madrid | 24h08 | 21:15 Köln Hbf | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Cologne trainsAVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Cologne. 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 AVE Duration
24h 8m
Cheapest AVE Price
£400
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
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe Viajeros Duration
22h 25m
Cheapest Renfe Viajeros Price
£391
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Madrid and Cologne
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Madrid to Cologne.
There is no night train service from Madrid to Cologne.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Cologne
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.
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.
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.
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.
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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