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

Fri, Nov 07
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Nov 08

Cheapest price

$93

Average price

$111

Fastest journey

4 h 24 m

Average duration

4 h 53 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

381 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leipzig to Cologne will cost around $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $93.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Leipzig to Cologne without transferring at least once.

Deutsche BahnIC 2048 · ICE 950
10:34AM5h38
Leipzig Hbf
04:12PMCologne Hbf
$931One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2430 · ICE 650
09:42AM5h33
Leipzig Hbf
03:15PMCologne Hbf
$931One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2046 · ICE 952
08:38AM5h34
Leipzig Hbf
02:12PMCologne Hbf
$991One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 793 · ICE 108
10:41AM4h24
Leipzig Hbf
03:05PMCologne Hbf
$991One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 791 · ICE 200
08:41AM4h24
Leipzig Hbf
01:05PMCologne Hbf
$1131One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Leipzig to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, and a flight costs an average of €394.

Distance: 236 miles (381 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€88

Average price

€32

Average price

Cheapest

€519

Average price

6h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 10m

Average total duration

6h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 34m

Average total duration

7h 34m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

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

Leipzig to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Cologne trains for today, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:17 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnIC 2046 · ICE 952
Delayed
7:38 AM Leipzig Hbf
5h34
1:23 PM 1:23 PMCologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 791 · ICE 200
On time
7:41 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h24
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1652 · ICE 610
On time
8:33 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h32
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 2048 · ICE 950
Delayed
9:34 AM Leipzig Hbf
5h38
3:23 PM 3:23 PMCologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 793 · ICE 108
On time
9:41 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h24
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leipzig to Cologne by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Leipzig to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Leipzig to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Leipzig to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Cologne.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Leipzig to Cologne

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
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.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE, regional express ICE 1656, ICE 128, RE 92nd class
Purpose
Holidays
Month
April
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Holidays
Month
April
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
IconWifi available
IconPunctual
IconSufficient seating available
Disadvantages
IconNothing
I travelled to Cologne with my husband for a city trip. We had always wanted to see the cathedral. We travelled by train and were even lucky enough to get seats. The wifi worked really well. There was also an on-board restaurant on the ICE trains. But we didn't use it. All the trains were on time and we arrived as planned.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE 693, 5282nd class
Purpose
Private
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Private
Month
May
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
IconJust in time, the change worked
IconComfort and equipment
IconCleanliness and hygiene very good
Disadvantages
IconToilet defective
IconAir conditioning did not work
From Leipzig to Cologne I had to change trains in Frankfurt, but this worked out very well due to the punctuality. Neither train was very full either. Although there was a direct train, this would have been a bit more expensive, which is why I chose this connection. Both trains were clean, but the toilet on the first train was faulty. On the same train, the air conditioning wasn't working either, so it was very hot. Otherwise, the cleanliness and hygiene was very good. The seats were very comfortable on both trains and they were fully equipped. I can definitely recommend this connection.
Train details
Deutsche BahnICE 1654 / 7262nd class
Purpose
Business
Month
June
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Business
Month
June
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
IconPünkltich
IconFast
IconCentrally located
Disadvantages
IconLittle cleanliness
I travelled from Leipzig to Cologne by train after a conference. I have to change trains in Frankfurt and change ICE trains. Fortunately, everything is on time. The staff are very friendly and there is an on-board bistro, which makes the journey a little more pleasant. Unfortunately, the loo and the train were not very clean. There were enough seats and I didn't have to make a reservation. If Deutsche Bahn is punctual, it's a great alternative to other means of transport.
Train details
Deutsche BahnIC 24422
Purpose
Family
Month
March
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Purpose
Family
Month
March
Extras
Bike, Pet, Reservation
Advantages
IconNo changeover
Disadvantages
IconDelay
Unfortunately, this train journey was not a good experience. The train was late and extremely full. I didn't have a seat at the beginning and had to sit in the aisle. The air was bad and it was noisy in the carriage. The wifi wasn't working and there was no announcement about the delay. I was glad when the journey was finally over.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
IconPersonnel
IconWIFI
Disadvantages
IconToilets
My train journey was very satisfactory overall. The train arrived on time, which is always important to me personally. The seats were comfortable enough for me to sit and relax for long periods of time. The wifi worked well for the most part, even if it sometimes wiped out briefly. The staff on board were friendly and helpful, which made the journey more pleasant. One small drawback was the toilets, which could have been cleaner. Nevertheless, I would choose this connection again.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
IconNo delays, no changes
IconAffordable ticket and good facilities
IconComfort and cleanliness very good
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train from Leipzig to Cologne was relatively under-utilised, so I didn't have to reserve a seat in advance. The journey didn't take long and I didn't have to change trains. The ticket price was also reasonable for the long journey. The seat was very comfortable and had power sockets, internet and a large table. There was also a snack vending machine on the train. The cleanliness was very good and the toilets looked hygienic. The staff were very friendly and carried out a quick check. The train was not delayed, which is why I can fully recommend the journey.
Train details
Purpose
Month
Purpose
Month
Advantages
IconClean train
Disadvantages
IconDelay
IconNo on-board bistro open
IconSeat reservation was cancelled because there were new/fewer compartments
The train was clean. But we had to start late and there was a change of carriage numbers, so our seat reservation was affected. Paying over €300 in total for a journey from Leipzig to Cologne is not a good option when you consider how much you would pay for the journey by car. I have travelled the route 3 times so far and have always been disappointed
Advantages
IconPunctuality
IconComfort
Iconbeautiful view
That was my outward journey. The train arrived on time and I got on. I was greeted nicely by the staff and sat down. My seat was very comfortable and was clean. The wifi was good throughout although it was used by many. Then I went to the toilet and it was clean. I then sat down again and enjoyed the beautiful view. I arrived on time. I can recommend this journey.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leipzig to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train
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
Bus from $27 (€22)
Distance
236 miles (381 km)
Average train duration
6h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$31 (€25)
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
4h 24m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Leipzig to Cologne start from as low as $31 (€25) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $108 (€88) depending on the train type and class.
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
Bus from $27 (€22)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Leipzig to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Leipzig and Cologne from $27 (€22). 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
4h 26m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 4m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Leipzig to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leipzig 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
A day trip from Leipzig to Cologne is not feasible with a travel duration of 4h 24m each way. However, there are 12 train trips available per day for this 236 miles (381 km) journey.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
The train journey from Leipzig to Cologne offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the scenic Rhine Valley, charming villages, and rolling hills, making it a pleasant experience, although not the most dramatically scenic route in Germany.
The distance by train from Leipzig to Cologne is 236 miles (381 km).
The first train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Leipzig to Cologne.
The last train from Leipzig to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Leipzig to Cologne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Train ticket prices from Leipzig to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31 (€25), while the average price is around $108 (€88).
The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train from Leipzig to Cologne takes 4h 24m and runs 12 per day.
The train station in Leipzig that goes to Cologne is Leipzig Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leipzig to Cologne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Leipzig to Cologne

Leipzig
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Leipzig is Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof for your trip from Leipzig to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
23
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Willy-Brandt-Platz.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Zchocolat
  • Vapiano Leipzig
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • €1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof
  • a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
  • IntercityHotel Leipzig
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Sixt
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-13 for long-distance and regional trains
  • Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 14-23
  • Hall 3: shopping and dining area
Public transit options for Leipzig Hauptbahnhof
  • Tram: Lines 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15
  • S-Bahn: Lines S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S5X, S6
  • Bus: Several lines available
Leipzig-ConnewitzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Dining
Dining
  • TD Imbiss
  • Bistro Cleopatra
  • Bistro mit Internet
  • Calla Pizza
Leipzig-EngelsdorfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
7 km
Dining
Dining
  • Athos
  • Zur Standuhr
  • Fortuna Klause
  • Zappendorfer Wurstmacher
Leipzig MDRWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • La mia pizza
  • Eis fichte MCL
  • Pata Negra
  • Shams Bistro
Leipzig MarktWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
Dining
Dining
  • China White
  • Cafe Barbakane
  • X-Maza
  • Vodkaria
Hotel
Hotel
  • Seaside Park
  • Pentahotel Leipzig
  • Victors Residenzhotel
  • Marriott

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