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

Sat 21 Mar
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VIAS Rail GmbH
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 21 Mar

Cheapest price

£59

Average price

£83

Fastest journey

3 h 20 m

Average duration

3 h 24 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

204 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Cologne will cost around £83 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £59.

Fast trains

To travel from Rotterdam to Cologne you need to make at least one change.

Deutsche BahnIC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621
09:153h20
Rotterdam Centraal
12:35Cologne Hbf
£591One-way
3 changes
Deutsche BahnIC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 10619
08:153h20
Rotterdam Centraal
11:35Cologne Hbf
£591One-way
3 changes
Deutsche BahnECD 9520 · ICE 15
08:423h33
Rotterdam Centraal
12:15Cologne Hbf
£1311One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Rotterdam to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 15m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £9, and a flight costs an average of £388.

Distance: 204 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£55

Average Price

£17

Average Price

Cheapest

£543

Average Price

3h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 36m

Average total duration

5h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 5m

Average total duration

6h 5m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Rotterdam to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Cologne trains for today, Friday 20 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:19
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnIC 2843 · ICE 125
On time
11:20 Rotterdam Centraal
2h58
14:18 Cologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnECD 9536 · ICE 17
On time
11:42 Rotterdam Centraal
3h33
15:15 Cologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · 1062912:15 Rotterdam Centraal
3h20
15:35 Cologne Hbf3 changes
Saturday 21 March
deutsche_bahnIC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 1061907:15 Rotterdam Centraal
3h20
10:35 Cologne Hbf3 changes
deutsche_bahnECD 9520 · ICE 1507:42 Rotterdam Centraal
3h33
11:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 1062108:15 Rotterdam Centraal
3h20
11:35 Cologne Hbf3 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam to Cologne by coach, train or flight

Compare coach, train and flight 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.

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Why should you book Rotterdam to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Rotterdam to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Cologne.

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

The best time to book your train from Rotterdam to Cologne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Rotterdam to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Cologne

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:14. The fastest train covers the 204 km distance in 2h 58m.

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 £9
Distance
204 km
Average train duration
3h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
£19
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 58m
First train
00:05
Last train
23:14
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 £9

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Rotterdam to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Rotterdam and Cologne from £9. 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
2h 58m
Cheapest Price
£19
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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 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

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne

Every day, approximately 21 trains from Rotterdam to Cologne depart. Passengers will benefit from a quick journey across over 500 miles, with an average journey time of only 4 hours. Those who would like to reach Cologne even faster can choose a service with 1 transfer, which arrives in the city in 3 hours and 33 minutes. In general, the majority of services on this line have 3 changes. As this is a cross-country service, all passengers should carry their passport or internationally recognized identification onboard, as there likely will be border checks. 

Rotterdam to Cologne train times: daily departures

Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne depart from 6:00 a.m. each morning until 2:00 a.m. each night. There are approximately 21 trains a day from Rotterdam to Cologne. There are no direct services on this line, but there are never more than 3 transfers.  Passengers who wish to catch a faster service can board a journey with only one transfer, which departs 8 times between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. 

How long is the journey by train from Rotterdam to Cologne?

Rotterdam is 504 miles from Cologne. Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne take 4 hours on average and typically have 3 transfers. However, passengers can choose to take a faster service which only has 1 transfer, and which only takes 3 hours and 33 minutes. This service departs from Rotterdam 8 times a day. 

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Rotterdam to Cologne?

Departure station: All trains from Rotterdam to Cologne depart from Rotterdam Centraal Station in the heart of Rotterdam city center. 

Arrival stations: Trains to Cologne arrive at Cologne Hauptbahnhof or Cologne Messe/Deutz. Cologne Hauptbahnhof is in Cologne city center, whereas Cologne Messe/Deutz is one mile from the city center, away across the Deutzer Bridge. 

Which train companies travel from Rotterdam to Cologne?

Deutsche Bahn provides high-speed trains from Rotterdam to Cologne. Deutsche Bahn is the German-owned rail company that operates throughout Europe. 

Deutsche Bahn Rotterdam to Cologne

Deutsche Bahn operates these high-speed trains from Rotterdam to Cologne. Passengers can board a Deutsche Bahn service from 6:00 a.m. each morning until 2:00 a.m. every night. Every train requires a transfer, with the majority of trains requiring that passengers change 3 times. However, each day there are 8 services which only require one change, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 pm. The average journey time takes 4 hours and 10 minutes, but the services with only 1 transfer take only 3 hours and 33 minutes. 

Rotterdam to Cologne​ trains: services on board

Deutsche Bahn trains from Rotterdam to Cologne have first-class tickets and second-class tickets. First-class tickets are frequently affordable and provide passengers with great legroom, plus complimentary refreshments. There are ample luggage storage facilities on Deutsche Bahn trains, with designated luggage holding bays in close proximity to all carriages. Passengers will find space to store smaller bags above and below their seats. Deutsche Bahn trains are wholly accessible to travelers with limited mobility, but they are advised to call in advance with their specific access requirements.  All carriage interiors are modern and comfortable, with free WiFi available in all areas of the train. 

How to find cheap train tickets from Rotterdam to Cologne​?​

Passengers can find cheap trains from Rotterdam to Cologne by booking tickets in advance. Booking approximately 8 weeks before departure dates can help you secure the cheapest deals. A good thing to bear in mind is to look 2 days either side of your departure date. If you don't need to travel on one day in particular, this can be a great way to secure cheap tickets. If there is only one day you can travel on, look at different times across the day to secure the cheapest deal, as prices often vary across the day. 

FAQs: Rotterdam to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £55.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Cologne covers a distance of 204 km and takes approximately 2h 58m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Rotterdam to Cologne is 204 km.
The first train from Rotterdam to Cologne leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Rotterdam to Cologne departs at 23:14.
Trains from Rotterdam to Cologne run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Cologne.
To get from Rotterdam to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Rotterdam to Cologne.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Cologne is Rotterdam Centraal, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Cologne offers pleasant views of the Dutch countryside, passing through picturesque towns and along sections of the Rhine River, making it a moderately scenic route.
A day trip from Rotterdam to Cologne is not feasible due to the travel time of 2h 58m. However, there are 6 trains per day for this route.
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 Rotterdam to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Rotterdam and Cologne

Rotterdam
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Centraal for your trip from Rotterdam to Cologne.
Rotterdam CentraalWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.
Dining
Dining
  • Smullers
  • Albert Heijn to go
  • Starbucks
  • La Place
  • Julia's
  • Ekmekci
  • LEON
  • The Doner Company
  • StationsHuiskamer
  • De Broodzaak
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Rotterdam Marriott Hotel
  • Layin’ Rotterdam Central
  • Hostel Ani & Haakien
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located inside the central hall.
Public transport options for Rotterdam Centraal
  • Subway lines: D, E
  • Bus lines: 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 44, 48
  • Tram lines: 4, 7, 8, 12, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25
  • Train lines: NS Intercity, NS Intercity Direct, NS Sprinter, NS Nachtnet, Thalys, Eurostar
Rotterdam NoordParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
address
Address
Bergweg 273, 3037 EM Rotterdam, Netherlands
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
  • Closed Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available near the station with limited spaces.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • €0.50
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 100 places, covered
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a simple layout with two platforms and a small waiting area.
Public transport options for Rotterdam Noord
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Tram: Line 4
Rotterdam AlexanderWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
address
Address
Kleine Beer 601, Rotterdam, 3067 ZW, Netherlands
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
4
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with free parking options nearby.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Alexander
  • Brasserie Waalhaven
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • €0.70
Hotel
Hotel
  • Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Alexander
  • NH Capelle
  • Campanile Rotterdam Oost
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 300 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • SIXT
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for trains to Utrecht and Rotterdam Central
  • Hall 2: metro connections
Public transport options for Rotterdam Alexander
  • Metro: Line A, Line B
  • Bus: Several lines available

More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Cologne

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