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

Thu 24 Sept
+ Add return
ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
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 Salzburg to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 24 Sept

Cheapest price on 24 Sept

£36

Average ticket price on 24 Sept

£86

Fastest journey on 24 Sept

6 h 29 m

Average journey duration on 24 Sept

6 h 38 m

Trains on 24 Sept

17

Distance

562 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Salzburg to Cologne will cost around £86 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £36.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnRJ 1296 · ICE 726
    5:396h35
    Salzburg Hbf
    12:14Cologne Messe/Deutz
    £361One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnRJX 262 · ICE 516 · IC 2041
    11:008h06
    Salzburg Hbf
    19:06Cologne Hbf
    £511One-way
    2 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 210 · ICE 916
    10:006h29
    Salzburg Hbf
    16:29Cologne Messe/Deutz
    £541One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnRJX 262 · ICE 516
    11:007h05
    Salzburg Hbf
    18:05Cologne Hbf
    £541One-way
    1 change
  • Bayerische Regiobahn79004+Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 2047
    5:058h01
    Salzburg Hbf
    13:06Cologne Hbf
    £561One-way
    2 changes

Live departures

Salzburg to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Salzburg to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Thursday 24 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 612+Bayerische Regiobahn79004
Delayed
5:28 5:05Salzburg Hbf
7h00
12:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 2047+Bayerische Regiobahn79004
Delayed
5:28 5:05Salzburg Hbf
8h01
13:06 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnRJ 1296 · ICE 726
On time
5:39 Salzburg Hbf
6h35
12:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 200+Bayerische Regiobahn79010
Delayed
6:45 6:05Salzburg Hbf
7h00
13:05 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnS 2 · 27086 · 27004 · ICE 690
On time
6:08 Salzburg Hbf
6h57
13:05 Cologne Hbf
4 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 610+Bayerische Regiobahn79012
Delayed
7:28 6:46Salzburg Hbf
7h19
14:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnR 25798 · ICE 610 · IC 2045+Bayerische Regiobahn79014
On time
6:54 Salzburg Hbf
8h12
15:06 Cologne Hbf
3 changes
Deutsche BahnR 25798 · ICE 610+Bayerische Regiobahn79014
On time
6:54 Salzburg Hbf
7h11
14:05 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnEC 212 · ICE 918
On time
8:00 Salzburg Hbf
6h29
14:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
Deutsche BahnEC 212 · ICE 880 · ICE 228
On time
8:00 Salzburg Hbf
8h06
16:06 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 518+Bayerische Regiobahn79020
Delayed
9:28 9:05Salzburg Hbf
7h00
16:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 518 · ICE 2012+Bayerische Regiobahn79020
Delayed
9:28 9:05Salzburg Hbf
8h01
17:06 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 210 · ICE 916
On time
10:00 Salzburg Hbf
6h29
16:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 210 · ICE 1514
On time
10:00 Salzburg Hbf
7h33
17:33 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnRJX 262 · ICE 516
On time
11:00 Salzburg Hbf
7h05
18:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnRJX 262 · ICE 564 · ICE 216 · ICE 12
On time
11:00 Salzburg Hbf
6h40
17:40 Cologne Hbf
3 changes
Deutsche BahnRJX 262 · ICE 516 · IC 2041
On time
11:00 Salzburg Hbf
8h06
19:06 Cologne Hbf
2 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare train, coach 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.

Thu
24 Sept
Fri
25 Sept
Sat
26 Sept
Sun
27 Sept
Mon
28 Sept
Tue
29 Sept
Wed
30 Sept
Thu
01 Oct
Fri
02 Oct
Sat
03 Oct
Sun
04 Oct
Mon
05 Oct
Tue
06 Oct
Wed
07 Oct
Thu
08 Oct
Fri
09 Oct
Sat
10 Oct
Sun
11 Oct
Mon
12 Oct
Tue
13 Oct
Wed
14 Oct

Why should you book Salzburg to Cologne trains with Omio?

ÖBB | ICE as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Salzburg to Cologne.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ÖBB | ICE tickets.

Why book with Omio vs ÖBB | ICE?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ÖBB | ICE, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Salzburg 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 ÖBB | ICE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Salzburg to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Salzburg to Cologne

AustriaAustria
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Salzburg to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £12 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 562 km distance in 5h 36m.

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
562 km
Average train duration
6h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
£12
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
5h 36m
First train
0:01
Last train
23:58
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
42 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE from Salzburg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE trains will get you between Salzburg and Cologne from £12. 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
5h 36m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£12
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

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | ICE Duration
6h 23m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
£57
ÖBB | ICE frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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.

FAQs: Salzburg to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £12, while the average price tends to be around £89.
The train journey from Salzburg to Cologne covers a distance of 562 km and takes approximately 5h 36m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Salzburg to Cologne is 562 km.
The first train from Salzburg to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Salzburg to Cologne departs at 23:58.
Trains from Salzburg to Cologne run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Salzburg to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Salzburg to Cologne.
There is no night train service from Salzburg to Cologne.
The train station in Salzburg that goes to Cologne is Salzburg Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
Booking trains from Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Cologne offers scenic views, especially through the Bavarian countryside and along parts of the Rhine Valley, providing picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
Yes, you can take the train from Salzburg to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Salzburg and Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Salzburg
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Salzburg station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Salzburg to Cologne leave from Salzburg Hbf. The station is 2 km from Salzburg city centre at Südtiroler Platz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
Salzburg HbfSüdtiroler Platz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria+43 5 1717WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Salzburg Hbf from Salzburg city centre

Salzburg Hbf is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus22, 23, 25, 170 · 6m · £2 · every ~20 min

Salzburg Hbf train station facilities and services

Salzburg Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Imlauer, Stieglitz

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Salzburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salzburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salzburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Hbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Europa Salzburg, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre, H+ Hotel Salzburg.

Salzburg Aiglhof5020 Salzburg, AustriaParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Salzburg Aiglhof from Salzburg city centre

Salzburg Aiglhof is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus4, 8 · 9m · £3 · every ~19 min

Salzburg Aiglhof train station facilities and services

Salzburg Aiglhof has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salzburg Aiglhof: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Aiglhof.

Salzburg Mülln-AltstadtMüllner Hauptstraße 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria+43 662 88987ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt from Salzburg city centre

Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus4, 7 · 4m · £3 · every ~20 min

Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt train station facilities and services

Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Mülln-Altstadt: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Schloss Mönchstein, Hotel Villa Carlton, Hotel & Villa Auersperg.

More options for your journey from Salzburg 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