Train Munich - Cologne prices from $18.37

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Munich to Cologne by train

The journey from Munich to Cologne by train is 283.3 mi and takes 3 h 55 min. There are 832 connections per day, with the first departure at 1:01am and the last at 12:59am. It is possible to travel from Munich to Cologne by train for as little as $18.37 or as much as $180.84. The best price for this journey is $18.37.

Best Price $18.37
Journey Duration 3 h 55 min
Connection per Day 832
Lowest Price $18.37
Highest Price $180.84
First Departure 1:01am
Last Departure 12:59am
Distance 283.3 mi
Departure Munich
Arrival Cologne
Carriers EuroCity, DB - InterCity Express (ICE),

Munich to Cologne Train Times

    Nov 29
    $18.37
    Nov 30
    $49.16
    Dec 01
    $49.85
    Dec 02
    $50.53
    -2°
    Dec 03
    $51.21
    Dec 04
    $34.79
    Dec 05
    $18.37
    Dec 06
    $23.50
    Dec 07
    $28.64
    Dec 08
    $18.37
    Dec 09
    $18.37
    Dec 10
    $18.37
    Dec 11
    $18.37
    Dec 12
    $18.37
    Dec 13
    $18.37
Departure date
Wednesday,Nov 29 2023

Traveling from Munich to Cologne with Virail

What's the best way to get from Munich to Cologne? If you're not sure, don't worry - Virail can help you. The only thing you have to do is enter your planned travel dates, and let Virail's powerful search tool deal with the rest. We'll look at the routes offered by our trusted travel partners to give you all your available options. Whether you want to travel by plane, train, bus, carpool, or something else, we'll find your ideal solution. You can filter your results according to price, departure or arrival time, journey duration, number of connections, one-way or round trip - anything you want. Virail will give you a full, clear picture of how to get from Munich to Cologne, then transfer you to your chosen provider's website to complete your booking.

How much will I pay for train tickets from Munich to Cologne?

The cheapest train tickets from Munich to Cologne cost $18.37. On average, you can expect to spend around $39.11 for your train ticket. Virail will help you find a journey that fits your budget. You can expect prices to vary between different travel providers and methods of transport; often, faster journeys will cost more than slower routes. If your travel dates are flexible, you might be able to find cheaper train tickets, as prices may fluctuate a little from day to day. You may also find lower prices by booking at certain times of day, avoiding rush hour traffic. Another tip for travelers on a tight budget is to look for connecting journeys. Sometimes it can be cheaper to make a change or two along the way, rather than traveling on a direct route from Munich to Cologne.

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Compare prices and tickets from Munich to Cologne

 
Nov 29
Wednesday
$18.37
$15.52
$79.11
More
Nov 30
Thursday
$49.16
$19.68
$192.17
More
Dec 01
Friday
$49.85
$22.69
$177.38
More
Dec 02
Saturday
-2°
$50.53
$25.71
$162.58
More
Dec 03
Sunday
$51.21
$28.73
$147.79
More
Dec 04
Monday
$34.79
$24.62
$119.57
More
Dec 05
Tuesday
$18.37
$20.52
$91.35
$51.32
Cheap tickets from Munich to Cologne
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Munich to Cologne.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Munich to Cologne, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Munich to Cologne.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

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Best time to book Munich to Cologne travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

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Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $18 to $83 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 78% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Munich to Cologne

The cheapest Munich - Cologne train tickets can be found for as low as $31 if you’re lucky, or $42 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $52.

Find the best day to travel to Cologne by train

When travelling to Cologne by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

The ÖBB Nightjet, operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), offers overnight train travel between major European cities, providing a convenient and comfortable way to journey through the night. The Nightjet trains are equipped with sleeping cabins, couchettes, and seats, offering passengers a comfortable and convenient way to travel long distances while they sleep. The service runs throughout Austria and extends to neighboring countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and the Czech Republic.

HLB Hessenbahn is a German railway company that operates regional passenger trains in the state of Hesse. The company was founded in 2005 and is a subsidiary of HLB Basis AG. HLB Hessenbahn operates on several lines in the region, including the Frankfurt-Königstein Railway, the Taunus Railway, and the Main-Lahn Railway. The company also operates the Frankfurt Airport Express, which provides direct connections between Frankfurt Airport and several cities in the region. HLB Hessenbahn is committed to providing safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation services to its passengers.

MittelrheinBahn is a regional train company that operates in the Rhine Valley region of Germany. It is a subsidiary of Transdev, a global transportation company. MittelrheinBahn operates on several routes, including the Koblenz-Mainz line, the Koblenz-Trier line, and the Koblenz-Bingen line. The company's trains are modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and onboard toilets. MittelrheinBahn also offers various ticket options, including single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. The company is committed to providing reliable and efficient service to its passengers, and it plays an important role in connecting communities in the Rhine Valley region.

National Express is a British multinational public transport company that operates bus, and rail services in the UK, Europe, North Africa, and North America. The company was founded in 1972 and has its headquarters in Birmingham, UK. National Express operates a fleet of over 1,600 buses, serving over 900 destinations across the UK. The company also operates rail services in the UK, including the East Anglia franchise.

TGV inOui, which replaces traditional TGV services by offering a contemporary upgrade, is a high-speed train service operated by the French National Railways, SNCF that make it easy to explore around 50 destinations in neighboring countries such as Belgium, Germany, and Spain. TGV inOUI is designed to offer more comfort and flexibility to travelers, with features such as spacious seats, Wi-Fi, and catering services. It connects major cities in France and provides a fast, convenient, and comfortable mode of travel.

Ticket types and facilities from Munich to Cologne

Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by EuroCity, Nightjet and TGV inOui when traveling from Munich to Cologne.

Second Class

With Deutsche Bahn's Eurocity trains, a second-class ticket guarantees you a more affordable journey. Throughout your trip, you can access basic facilities like electrical outlets, air conditioning, and a bar carriage.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class

If you wish to elevate your travel experience in a quieter place with additional services such as adjustable seats, more legroom, catering service, and seat selection, you can opt for the first-class tickets on Deutsche Bahn's Eurocity trains.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Seated carriage

These tickets are ideal for shorter journeys during the day, featuring comfortable seats in air-conditioned carriages.

Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Couchette

These tickets provide a more affordable option for overnight travel, with bunk beds in shared compartments that can accommodate up to 6 passengers.

Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Sleeper cabin

These are the most comfortable Nightjet tickets, featuring single, double, or triple compartments with beds, blankets, and pillows for a good night's sleep.

Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Second Class (The essentials)

For a practical and affordable journey, TGV INOUI has two fares for second class tickets: The Prems Second, an affordable option, and The Second, the classic second class. Both of them can be exchanged and refunded, subject to certain conditions. The Prem's fare tickets are perfect if you're looking for the lowest prices, starting at just 15€ and available for booking up to 4 months in advance.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class (The comfort)

First-class tickets take your journey to the next level, offering enhanced comfort and exclusive benefits, including the option to choose seats in the Quiet Area. Additionally, this ticket offers flexibility for your booking and provides added benefits to Second Class features.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Business Première (The flexibility)

Business Première offers premium advantages like no-cost exchanges or refunds and exclusive amenities including advanced Wi-Fi and access to Grand Voyageur lounges, all while ensuring flexibility in your booking.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Second Class

Deutshce Bahn's second class ensures a comfortable journey with standard seating arrangements with free Wi-Fi, power socket, and. Second class passengers can buy food and drinks from the bar/bistro car or restaurant car.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class

First Class travel with Deutsche Bahn provides a luxurious experience with comfortable seats and many amenities such as spacious seating with personalized on-seat service and exclusive lounge access at major stations. First-class passengers can have their orders delivered to their seats, but if you do not want to wait, you can also dine in the restaurant car or buy food and drinks from the bar/bistro car.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Second Class

On SBB Intercity trains, in addition to basic amenities for Second Class ticket, there's a Family Zone specially designed to offer comfort for families with children. If you get hungry during the journey, you can enjoy tasty meals in the restaurant carriage.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class

In the First Class of SBB Intercity, you can benefit from personal power socket, more comfortable seats, and larger luggage space. Some IC trains also offer quiet zones and business areas.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Facility Description

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

Power sockets
DB's EC trains feature recently updated coaches equipped with power sockets.
WiFi
Deutsche Bahn is progressively adding free WiFi to their EC trains.
Luggage
On DB Eurocity trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
Accessibility
The Mobility Service assists with boarding, disembarking, and train transitions. Additionally, the staff is ready to address any inquiries or provide support to ensure a smooth journey.
Food and drink
On EC trains, dine in the onboard restaurant or grab a quick bite from the bistro. First Class passengers receive complimentary meals at their seat. DB provides diverse, locally-sourced food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Air conditioning
DB's EC trains now boast modernized carriages with air conditioning.
WiFi
Wifi service is currently unavailable on Nighthet.
Quiet zone
Private compartments are available on ÖBB Nightjets. In couchette cars, 1-6 persons (1-3 adults; max. 5 children up to the age of 14) can travel at a low fixed rate. Moreover, for everyone's comfort, there's a quiet time enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Main lights in sleeper and couchette sections should be off during this period.
Power sockets
Apart from standard outlets, the new Nightjet offers USB charging and inductive charging stations.
Luggage
When travelling on an ÖBB Nightjet train, you're allowed to check only one suitcase and one piece of hand luggage. Ensure your luggage is stored in a manner that doesn't inconvenience or obstruct others. Remember the guidelines for luggage storage: Easily stowable items should go in the overhead racks, while bulkier luggage should be placed under the seat or in designated luggage racks. Always keep passageways, doors, and escape routes clear for everyone's safety.
Accessibility
Certain routes offer coaches with wheelchair-friendly compartments and nearby restrooms, accommodating a passenger with a wheelchair and a companion.
Food and drink
Day coach travelers can buy snacks and drinks from onboard staff. Couchette ticket holders get mineral water and a Viennese breakfast. Sleeper cabin passengers enjoy a welcome drink, evening snack, mineral water, and a customized breakfast. Specific dietary requests for Nightjet meals should be emailed at least 72 hours before departure.
Air conditioning
Every compartment in sleeper, couchette, and seating carriages has individual air conditioning controls.
Bicycle
On Nightjets connecting Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, bikes are welcome with a specific ticket and reservation. ÖBB Nightjet also allows items like pushchairs and musical instruments. Use the ÖBB service to transport bikes within Austria. Folding bikes are free if they're within 110 cm x 80 cm x 40 cm. Ensure e-bike batteries are charged, and note bikes can't be on buses during rail interruptions.
WiFi
On TGV INOUI trains, enjoy complimentary WiFi access throughout your journey. Whether you're working, replying to emails, or diving into the TGV INOUI entertainment hub, we've got you covered.
Quiet zone
With a Business Première ticket, step into an exclusive coach designed for comfort. It's your silent sanctuary, ideal for both work and relaxation.
Power sockets
Every seat on TGV inOUI is power-packed! With an outlet at your disposal, you're always charged and ready.
Luggage
On TGV INOUI trains, you can bring as much luggage as your arms and legs can carry, but remember to properly label your own luggage. Handbags and small items are best stored either at feet-level or under the seat; heavier pieces should be placed in an available corner of the car or along its central aisle.
Accessibility
For travelers with mobility concerns, TGV INOUI offers the 'Accès Plus' service. This provides dedicated assistance from the station directly to the train seat. It is advisable for passengers to contact 'Accès Plus' after securing their tickets and ensure arrangements are made at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure.
Food and drink
Travelers on TGV INOUI can look forward to an assortment of food and beverages. The train service presents a curated selection that promises to cater to diverse palates.
Air conditioning
Stay cool and comfortable. All TGV inOUI trains are air-conditioned, ensuring a pleasant journey, irrespective of the weather outside.
Bicycle
Booking required for non-foldable bikes (€10) on select TGV INOUI trains, foldable bikes under 130x90cm can travel as hand luggage on any TGV INOUI train, disassembled bikes can be taken without booking if stored in a bike bag under 130x90cm. Aquatic or snowboards, folded scooters, and musical instruments can be taken as hand luggage if they are in a carrying case under 130 x 90 cm.
WiFi
On ICE trains, enjoy free WiFi and access the ICE portal for movies, TV shows, audiobooks, games, and reading material.
Quiet zone
Seek tranquillity on ICE Frankfurt in Coach 21 (second class) and Coach 28/29 (first class). On ICE 104/105 Basel, it's Coach 31 (second class) and Coach 38/39 (first class).
Power sockets
Stay charged with a power socket available for every two seats on the train.
Luggage
On ICE-trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
Accessibility
For assistance in boarding, changing trains, or other queries, reach out to DB’s Mobility Service. The staff is always ready to assist and ensure a smooth journey.
Food and drink
With ICE, choose between a full menu at the onboard restaurant or quick snacks at the bistro. For First Class passengers, complimentary food and drinks are served directly to your seat. DB's diverse menu, updated quarterly, features local and vegetarian/vegan options.
Air conditioning
ICE trains not only offer air conditioning but are also innovating with eco-friendly systems that both cool and heat using natural refrigerants.
Bicycle
On Deutsche Bahn trains, make sure it's disassembled and snugly packed in a case or cover with your name labeled on it, and you can bring it on board for free. You're also allowed one regular and one hand luggage item. Just ensure your bike doesn't get in the way of other travelers or block aisles. Note: Special bikes aren't permitted, but if you're an international traveler, there's no need to worry about peak-time restrictions.
WiFi
Deutsche Bahn is rolling out free WiFi on their IC trains, with some already offering the service.
Power sockets
All seats in both classes have power sockets on DB IC trains.
Luggage
On IC trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
Accessibility
Deutsche Bahn's Mobility Service provides assistance for boarding, disembarking, and train transfers. Staff are on hand to address questions and ensure a smooth trip.
Food and drink
On the DB IC trains, there's a restaurant for meals or a bistro for snacks. You can eat at the bistro or in your seat. First Class passengers get free food at their seat. The menu changes but always has local food, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Air conditioning
Intercity trains have air-conditioned sections.
Bicycle
For IC trains, a ticket and reservation are required for bicycles, with the reservation cost included. Bikes are typically stored in second class carriages, though your seat may be elsewhere.
Services on board EuroCity, DB - InterCity Express (ICE) and DB - Intercity from Munich to Cologne
Compare services on board when travelling from Munich to Cologne by train.
Facilities EuroCity DB - InterCity Express (ICE) DB - Intercity MittelrheinBahn DB - Regional Express National Express DB - Regionalbahn TGV inOui HLB Hessenbahn Nightjet
Quiet zone
WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle
Sleeper

Munich to Cologne CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
1.9kg
Bus
12.7kg
Flight
508.0kg
Car
49.0kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Munich to Cologne by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Munich and Cologne are 1.9kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Munich and Cologne? By taking the train between Munich and Cologne you will save 506.0kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 10.8kg compared to a bus and 47.1kg compared to a car.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Munich to Cologne?
A train ticket from Munich to Cologne is $59.90. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $18.37.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Munich to Cologne?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Munich to Cologne is $18.37. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Munich and Cologne by train?
Munich to Cologne is 283.3 mi.
How long does the train between Munich and Cologne take?
Munich to Cologne is on average 5 h 38 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 3 h 55 min.
Which companies operate from Munich to Cologne?
The train journey from Munich to Cologne is covered by 10 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: EuroCity, DB - InterCity Express (ICE), DB - Intercity, MittelrheinBahn, DB - Regional Express, National Express, DB - Regionalbahn, TGV inOui, HLB Hessenbahn, Nightjet.
How many train connections per day go from Munich to Cologne?
Munich to Cologne has 832 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Munich to Cologne leave?
The earliest train from Munich to Cologne departs at 1:01am. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Munich to Cologne depart?
The latest train from Munich to Cologne departs at 12:59am. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Munich to Cologne in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $18.37 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
From which stations can I leave from Munich to Cologne?
There are 2 station(s) that you can depart from Munich to go to Cologne. You can go from München Hbf and Munich Central Station (flixtrain) and you can arrive at Köln Messe/deutz Gl.11-12, Köln Hbf, Köln, Hbf (breslauer Platz), Köln Süd, Cologne Central Station (train), Köln, Flughafen, Cologne Mülheim, Deutz Bahnhof Deutz/messe Lanxess Arena, Köln and Mülheim Bahnhof, Köln.
How many direct connections depart from Munich to Cologne?
There are on average 21 direct connection(s) from Munich to go to Cologne.
What's the fastest journey time between Munich to Cologne by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Munich and Cologne is 3 h 55 min.
Is there a direct train from Munich to Cologne?
Yes, there is a direct train between Munich and Cologne.
What are the CO2 emissions for Munich to Cologne by train?
The train journey from Munich to Cologne creates 1.9kg of CO2 emissions.

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