Mainz to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB,RE,EC)

Wed 14 Jan
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
ÖBB Nightjet
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
ÖBB Nightjet
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mainz to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 15 Jan

Cheapest price

£25

Average price

£39

Fastest journey

1 h 46 m

Average duration

1 h 46 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

141 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mainz to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Mainz to Cologne will cost around £39 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £25.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Mainz for Cologne every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 1 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 46 m .

The slowest trains will take 1 h 46 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.

Deutsche Bahn
06:201h46
Mainz
08:06Cologne
£251One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
07:201h46
Mainz
09:06Cologne
£381One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
17:201h46
Mainz
19:06Cologne
£421One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
09:201h46
Mainz
11:06Cologne
£441One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
11:201h46
Mainz
13:06Cologne
£451One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Mainz to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mainz to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £8, and a train costs an average of £9.

Distance: 141 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£38

Average Price

£17

Average Price

Cheapest

2h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 44m

Average total duration

2h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Mainz to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday 14 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 04:14
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahn04:35 Mainz
1h47
06:22 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn06:20 Mainz
1h46
08:06 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn07:20 Mainz
1h46
09:06 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn09:20 Mainz
1h46
11:06 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn13:20 Mainz
1h46
15:06 Cologne0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Mainz to Cologne by train or coach

Compare train and coach 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
15 Jan
Fri
16 Jan
Sat
17 Jan
Sun
18 Jan
Mon
19 Jan
Tue
20 Jan
Wed
21 Jan

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

The best time to book your train from Mainz to Cologne is 6 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Mainz to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Mainz 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 Mainz to Cologne.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Mainz to Cologne

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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.
Advantages
IconOn time
IconNo car
IconZeot
Disadvantages
IconNone
This train journey from Mainz to Cologne went super. There were no delays and the train staff were very nice. The wifi worked. The air conditioning worked. I was very satisfied. The journey time was great on the ICE and the train was clean. I would recommend this trip to anyone again. Unfortunately, this is not always the case that the journey works so well.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Mainz to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Mainz to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 but you can travel from only £8 by coach.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 141 km distance in 1h 19m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £8
Distance
141 km
Average train duration
1h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
£9
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 19m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £8

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, ÖBB Nightjet from Mainz to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Mainz 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 Duration
1h 19m
Cheapest Price
£10
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

ÖBB Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
£132
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
£29
TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
11 a day

FAQs: Mainz to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mainz 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Mainz to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £38.
The train journey from Mainz to Cologne covers a distance of 141 km and takes approximately 1h 19m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Mainz to Cologne is 141 km.
The first train from Mainz to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Mainz to Cologne departs at 23:58.
Trains from Mainz to Cologne run approximately 10 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Mainz and Cologne. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, ÖBB Nightjet.
To get from Mainz to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Mainz to Cologne.
The train station in Mainz that goes to Cologne is Mainz Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Mainz to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Mainz 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 Mainz to Cologne offers a scenic experience as it follows the picturesque Rhine Valley, providing views of vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles along the river.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Mainz to Cologne with a travel time of 1h 19m and a distance of 141 km. Trains run 10 times per day.
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 Mainz to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Mainz and Cologne

Mainz
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Mainz is Mainz Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Mainz Hbf for your trip from Mainz to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 21:15
  • Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:15
  • Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:15
  • Thursday: 06:00 - 21:15
  • Friday: 06:00 - 21:15
  • Saturday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Mangal
  • Asia Wok
  • Bistrorante Midi
  • McDonald's
Hotel
Hotel
  • Advena Europa Hotel
  • GuestHouse Mainz
  • Terminus
  • Hotel Moguntia
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald's
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Hans im Glück
  • The Big Easy
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hyatt Regency Mainz
  • Favorite Parkhotel
  • Ibis Hotel Mainz City
  • Hof Ehrenfels
Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim
information

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