- 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.
Cheapest price on 29 Aug
£27
Average ticket price on 29 Aug
£51
Fastest journey on 29 Aug
2 h 8 m
Average journey duration on 29 Aug
2 h 10 m
Trains on 29 Aug
22
Distance
141 km
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 £51 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £27.
On Sat 29 Aug, we found 22 trains from Mainz to Cologne, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 8 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 11 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.
ICE 78 · ICE 826
S6 · IC 60402
Bus S8X · ICE 722
Bus S8X · ICE 18
Bus S8X · ICE 618
Bus S8X · ICE 316
Bus S8X · ICE 18
4251 · ICE 824
Bus RE2 · ICE 1012
Bus RE2 · ICE 918Omio 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 an average ticket price of £10 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 18m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £10, while a train costs an average of £27.
Distance: 141 km
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£27 Average Price | £10 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 18m Average total duration Fastest 1h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 48m Average total duration 2h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Cologne trains for today, Friday 28 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 229 · ICE 2516 | Delayed 13:50 15:42Mainz Hbf | 1h37 | 17:19 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 229 · ICE 106 | Delayed 13:50 15:42Mainz Hbf | 1h23 | 15:15 15:15Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 10 | On time 18:02 Mainz Hbf | 1h38 | 19:40 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
33624 | 18:03 Mainz Hbf | 2h59 | 21:02 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
4265 · ICE 514 | On time 18:10 Mainz Hbf | 1h55 | 20:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
4265 · ICE 120 | On time 18:10 Mainz Hbf | 1h36 | 19:46 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 26 · 10442 | 18:19 Mainz Hbf | 1h53 | 20:12 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 120 | On time 18:32 Mainz Hbf | 1h41 | 20:13 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S8 · ICE 620 | Delayed 18:32 Mainz Hbf | 1h42 | 18:53 18:53Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 713 · ICE 912 | On time 18:56 Mainz Hbf | 1h33 | 20:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
IC 2349 | On time 19:20 Mainz Hbf | 1h46 | 21:06 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 929 · ICE 102 | On time 19:42 Mainz Hbf | 1h23 | 21:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
33628 | 20:03 Mainz Hbf | 2h59 | 23:02 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
4267 · ICE 512 | On time 20:10 Mainz Hbf | 1h55 | 22:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| Saturday 29 August | |||||
33636 · 25402 | 0:05 Mainz Hbf | 2h57 | 3:02 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
S6 · IC 60402 | Delayed 0:08 Mainz Hbf | 5h36 | 3:44 3:44Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
29592 · 25412 · 28506 | 1:40 Mainz Hbf | 5h48 | 7:28 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
Bus S8X · ICE 618 | Delayed 3:31 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h33 | 4:04 4:04Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 78 · ICE 826 | On time 4:57 Mainz Hbf | 2h19 | 7:16 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Bus S8X · ICE 18 | On time 5:31 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h09 | 7:40 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Bus S8X · ICE 616 | On time 5:46 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h19 | 8:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
33600 | 5:47 Mainz Hbf | 3h14 | 9:01 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
4251 · ICE 824 | On time 6:16 Mainz Hbf | 2h09 | 8:25 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Bus RE2 · ICE 1014 | On time 6:18 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h11 | 8:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
Bus S8X · ICE 204 | On time 6:46 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h19 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
33602 | 7:01 Mainz Hbf | 3h01 | 10:02 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
Bus S8X · ICE 822 | On time 7:01 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h22 | 9:23 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Bus RE2 · ICE 1612 | On time 7:18 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h14 | 9:32 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Bus S8X · ICE 316 | On time 7:31 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h08 | 9:39 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
33604 | 8:02 Mainz Hbf | 3h00 | 11:02 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
Bus RE2 · ICE 820 | On time 8:09 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h13 | 10:22 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Bus RE2 · ICE 2520 | On time 8:09 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h13 | 10:22 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Bus RE2 · ICE 1012 | On time 8:18 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h11 | 10:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
Bus S8X · ICE 722 | On time 12:01 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h22 | 14:23 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
33612 | 12:02 Mainz Hbf | 3h00 | 15:02 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
Bus RE2 · ICE 918 | On time 12:18 Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim | 2h11 | 14:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Mainz to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 48m. 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 41m.
Distance 141 km |
Average train duration 1h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 41m |
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 |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.
Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.
Historic old town lanes and squares by the Rhine, packed with colourful houses, churches and viewpoints. Ideal for a classic Cologne stroll.
Long Rhine promenade with bridge, cathedral and river views. Popular for walking, photography and watching boats pass through the city centre.
Lively square in the old town framed by historic buildings and museums. A useful base for sightseeing and one of Cologne’s best-known public spaces.
Rye bread with butter, cheese, ham or sausage, traditionally served in Cologne breweries as a simple local snack with Kölsch.
Hearty dish of black pudding with fried onions and mashed potatoes, a Rhineland classic closely associated with Cologne home cooking.
Slow-cooked horsemeat in a sweet-sour raisin sauce, a historic Rhineland speciality still served in a few traditional Cologne restaurants.
Classic Brauhaus serving Päffgen Kölsch and Rhineland favourites in a bustling, wood-panelled setting popular with locals.
Traditional brewery venue by Heumarkt with house Kölsch and dependable regional cooking in a spacious historic hall.
Long-established restaurant for refined German and Rhineland cooking, with a more formal atmosphere than a typical Brauhaus.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.
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.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf -> Neumarkt, Cologne
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.

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.
Mainz Hbf is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Mangal, Asia Wok, Bistrorante Midi, McDonald's
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Hbf. ATMs are available at Mainz Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Hbf. Information desks are available at Mainz Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Mainz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Mainz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Advena Europa Hotel, GuestHouse Mainz, Terminus, Hotel Moguntia.
Mainz Römisches Theater is 1 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: McDonald's, Cafe Extrablatt, Hans im Glück, The Big Easy
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. ATMs are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Information desks are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Regency Mainz, Favorite Parkhotel, Ibis Hotel Mainz City, Hof Ehrenfels.
Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several restaurants available on-site.
Free Wi-Fi available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs located near ticket office.
Ticket office support is available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim.
Available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim: Wheelchair accessible with elevators.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln 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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz 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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need