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The cheapest and fastest trains from Paderborn to Cologne
Showing times and prices for 13 Dec
Cheapest price
£19
Average price
£21
Fastest journey
2 h 30 m
Average duration
4 h 9 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Paderborn to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Paderborn to Cologne will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £19.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Paderborn for Cologne every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 4 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 30 m .
The slowest trains will take 6 h 25 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.
05:206h25
Paderborn11:45Cologne
£191One-way
0 changes
08:102h30
Paderborn10:40Cologne
£211One-way
0 changes
07:212h49
Paderborn10:10Cologne
£221One-way
0 changes
06:054h53
Paderborn10:58Cologne
£221One-way
0 changes
08:102h30
Paderborn10:40Cologne
£211One-way
0 changes
07:212h49
Paderborn10:10Cologne
£221One-way
0 changes
06:054h53
Paderborn10:58Cologne
£221One-way
0 changes
05:206h25
Paderborn11:45Cologne
£191One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Paderborn to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Paderborn to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 27m. 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 £14, and a train costs an average of £15.
Distance: 153 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£29 Average Price | £26 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 57m Average total duration Fastest 2h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 43m Average total duration 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 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.
Live departures
Paderborn to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Paderborn to Cologne trains for today, Friday 12 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:37
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RE 26708 · RE 17411 | On time 07:12 Paderborn Hbf | 2h26 | 09:38 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| RB 90012 · RE 26812 | On time 07:21 Paderborn Hbf | 2h51 | 10:12 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| RE 26710 · RE 17413 | On time 08:12 Paderborn Hbf | 2h26 | 10:38 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| RB 90014 · ICE 1052 | Delayed 08:21 Paderborn Hbf | 2h49 | 11:13 11:13Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| RB 90064 · ICE 954 | Delayed 08:51 Paderborn Hbf | 2h24 | 11:16 11:16Cologne Hbf | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Paderborn 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.
Sat
13 Dec
13 Dec
Sun
14 Dec
14 Dec
Mon
15 Dec
15 Dec
Tue
16 Dec
16 Dec
Wed
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18 Dec
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19 Dec
19 Dec
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Paderborn to Cologne
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
No changes and no delayswith snack machineClean train and hygienic toiletGood equipmentDisadvantages
High capacity utilisation and excessive volume on the trainAnnouncements very incomprehensibleNo ticket inspectionThe train had been very full here, so I had to stand. That's why it was also very noisy. Furthermore, the announcements had been very incomprehensible and there was no ticket inspection. At least the train was quite clean and the toilets also looked very hygienic. There was also a snack machine on the train. There was a good wifi connection and plenty of power sockets. The train had not been delayed and I didn't have to change trains to get to my destination. Despite this, the journey was not so nice.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Paderborn to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Paderborn to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £15 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 153 km distance in 2h 17m.
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 £14
Distance 153 km |
Average train duration 2h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price £15 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 17m |
First train 00:12 |
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 £14
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, National Express, Eurobahn from Paderborn to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, National Express, Eurobahn trains will get you between Paderborn and Cologne from £14. 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 47m
Cheapest Price
£14
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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.
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.
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.
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
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Price
£25
National Express frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Eurobahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 21m
Cheapest Price
£26
Eurobahn frequency
8 a day
FAQs: Paderborn to Cologne train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Paderborn 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.
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
A day trip from Paderborn to Cologne is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 17m. However, there are 8 train journeys available per day covering a distance of 153 km.
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.
The train distance from Paderborn to Cologne is 153 km.
The train journey from Paderborn to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Teutoburg Forest and the picturesque River Rhine as you approach Cologne. While it may not be the most scenic train route in Germany, it provides pleasant views of the German countryside.
Booking trains from Paderborn 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 Paderborn to Cologne covers a distance of 153 km and takes approximately 2h 17m. Trains run 8 per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Paderborn and Cologne. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
The cost of a train ticket from Paderborn to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £15, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The first train from Paderborn to Cologne leaves at 0:12.
To get from Paderborn to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
The cheapest way to get from Paderborn to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £14.
The last train from Paderborn to Cologne departs at 23:58.
The train station in Paderborn that goes to Cologne is Paderborn Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
Trains from Paderborn to Cologne run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Paderborn to Cologne.
There is no night train service from Paderborn to Cologne.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Paderborn and Cologne
Paderborn
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Paderborn is Paderborn Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Paderborn Hbf for your trip from Paderborn to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Koya Kitchen
- Café Central
- Moso Sushi & Grill
- Waffel Dream
Hotel
- Haus Irma
- Südhotel
Paderborn-Sennelager
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskThe major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Paderborn.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
More options for your journey from Paderborn to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Paderborn
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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