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

Tue 13 Oct
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Mainz to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct

Cheapest price on 13 Oct

£16

Average ticket price on 13 Oct

£37

Fastest journey on 13 Oct

1 h 23 m

Average journey duration on 13 Oct

1 h 30 m

Trains on 13 Oct

13

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 £37 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £16.

Fast trains

On Tue 13 Oct, we found 13 trains from Mainz to Cologne, including 4 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 1 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 23 m .

The slowest trains will take 1 h 37 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 BahnIC 2241
    7:171h49
    Mainz Hbf
    9:06Cologne Hbf
    £161One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1049
    9:201h45
    Mainz Hbf
    11:05Cologne Hbf
    £181One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1020
    10:201h45
    Mainz Hbf
    12:05Cologne Hbf
    £201One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 23 · ICE 204
    7:401h25
    Mainz Hbf
    9:05Cologne Hbf
    £251One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 202
    9:421h23
    Mainz Hbf
    11:05Cologne Hbf
    £251One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Mainz to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Mainz to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.

There are 2 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 4m.

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
141 km
Average train duration
1h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
£6
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
1h 4m
First train
0:01
Last train
23:58
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 days
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

Live departures

Mainz to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2241
On time
7:17 Mainz Hbf
1h49
9:06 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 23 · ICE 204
On time
7:40 Mainz Hbf
1h25
9:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn4253 · ICE 1612
On time
7:44 Mainz Hbf
1h48
9:32 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn4253 · ICE 822
On time
7:44 Mainz Hbf
1h30
9:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
Deutsche BahnS8 · ICE 316
On time
8:02 Mainz Hbf
1h37
9:39 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 1022
On time
8:20 Mainz Hbf
1h46
10:06 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn29247 · ICE 614
On time
8:27 Mainz Hbf
1h38
10:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnS8 · ICE 820
On time
8:32 Mainz Hbf
1h42
10:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
Deutsche BahnS8 · ICE 128
On time
9:02 Mainz Hbf
1h41
10:43 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 1049
On time
9:20 Mainz Hbf
1h45
11:05 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 202
On time
9:42 Mainz Hbf
1h23
11:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnS8 · ICE 16
On time
10:02 Mainz Hbf
1h37
11:39 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 1020
On time
10:20 Mainz Hbf
1h45
12:05 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Mainz to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Mainz to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mainz 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 VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Mainz 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Mainz to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Mainz to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Mainz to Cologne.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Mainz to Cologne

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
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.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Mainz to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Mainz and Cologne from £6. 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
1h 4m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£6
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
£18
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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.

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.

  • Recommended

Museum Schnütgen

Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.

Best day trips from Cologne by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cologne are Bonn, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Koblenz and Dortmund. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cologne on Omio.

A view of Bonn

Day trip from Cologne to Bonn by train

Why visit Bonn for the day?

Bonn is best known as Beethoven’s birthplace and the former capital of West Germany. Set on the Rhine, it feels calm and cultured, with museums, leafy neighbourhoods and a strong university presence.

How to get from Cologne to Bonn by train?

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 19m.

A view of Düsseldorf

Day trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train

Why visit Düsseldorf for the day?

Düsseldorf is known for fashion, contemporary art and its lively Altstadt on the Rhine. Sleek shopping streets, traditional breweries and bold modern architecture give it a polished yet sociable character.

How to get from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train?

There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 14m.

A view of Aachen

Day trip from Cologne to Aachen by train

Why visit Aachen for the day?

Aachen is best known for its cathedral and its close ties to Charlemagne and imperial history. Near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, it feels compact, youthful and international, with thermal spa traditions and a busy university scene.

How to get from Cologne to Aachen by train?

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 63 km distance in 31m.

A view of Koblenz

Day trip from Cologne to Koblenz by train

Why visit Koblenz for the day?

Koblenz sits at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle, with a historic centre shaped by Roman beginnings and river trade. It is known for the Deutsches Eck and Ehrenbreitstein, while vineyards and waterfront views give it a calm, lived-in feel.

How to get from Cologne to Koblenz by train?

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 78 km distance in 44m.

A view of Dortmund

Day trip from Cologne to Dortmund by train

Why visit Dortmund for the day?

Dortmund is a Ruhr city known for football, brewing heritage and its industrial roots. Former worksites, parks and modern cultural venues give it a practical, lively character.

How to get from Cologne to Dortmund by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 74 km distance in 57m.

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 £6, while the average price tends to be around £51.
The train journey from Mainz to Cologne covers a distance of 141 km and takes approximately 1h 4m. Trains run 8 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 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Mainz and Cologne. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
There is no night train service from Mainz to Cologne.
The train station in Mainz that goes to Cologne is Mainz Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
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 take the train from Mainz to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Mainz and Cologne

Most Mainz to Cologne trains use the Mainz Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Mainz and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Mainz
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Mainz station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Mainz to Cologne leave from Mainz Hbf. The station is 2 km from Mainz city centre at Mainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz.
Mainz HbfMainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 MainzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Mainz Hbf from Mainz city centre

Mainz Hbf is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus92, 76, 62 · 9m · every ~13 min
93, 76, 65, 64 · 12m · every ~6 min
Tram52, 50 · 12m · every ~11 min

Mainz Hbf train station facilities and services

Mainz Hbf 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.

Food and drink

Food options include: Mangal, Asia Wok, Bistrorante Midi, McDonald's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Hbf. ATMs are available at Mainz Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Mainz Hbf. Information desks are available at Mainz Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Mainz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Mainz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Mainz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Advena Europa Hotel, GuestHouse Mainz, Terminus, Hotel Moguntia.

Bahnstrecke Mainz–MannheimMainz, GermanyWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim from Mainz city centre

Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus92, 62 · 8m · every ~8 min
660S · 18m
93, 76, 65, 64 · 31m · every ~6 min
Tram52 · 17m · every ~6 min

Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim train station facilities and services

Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Several restaurants available on-site.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs located near ticket office.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim: Wheelchair accessible with elevators.

Mainz Römisches TheaterMainz Römisches Theater, Holzhofstr. 1a, 55116 MainzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Mainz Römisches Theater from Mainz city centre

Mainz Römisches Theater is 1 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus93, 66, 65, 64 · 3m · every ~10 min
93, 66, 65, 64 · 7m · every ~10 min

Mainz Römisches Theater train station facilities and services

Mainz Römisches Theater 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.

Food and drink

Food options include: McDonald's, Cafe Extrablatt, Hans im Glück, The Big Easy

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. ATMs are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Information desks are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hyatt Regency Mainz, Favorite Parkhotel, Ibis Hotel Mainz City, Hof Ehrenfels.

More options for your journey from Mainz to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone