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  3. Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) Train

Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) train journey information

Find detailed DB train schedules from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale), including first and last departure times, stops, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a smooth journey.

First train
08:55
Last train
10:53
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
194 miles (312km)
Journey time
4h 47m
Price
From £25.80
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) train travel guide

Travelling from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) with Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains is both efficient and comfortable. The average travel time is 5h 49m, and you can enjoy affordable ICE train tickets or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long does it take to travel from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) by train?

The average travel time from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) on a train is 5h 49m. For those seeking the quickest option, the fastest travel time is 4h 47m. To get more detailed train information, precise timings, and schedules, explore TrainPal and plan your trip effectively.

2. Are there direct trains from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale)?

No, even if direct train services between Cologne Central Station and Saalfeld (Saale) are not accessible. Nevertheless, TrainPal can help you find the best routes. It provides detailed timings, costs, and transfer information, making it easy to plan your journey.

3. How much does a ticket from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) cost?

The lowest price for a train ticket from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) is £25.80, with the average cost being around £45.86*. Ticket prices can change based on booking time, train service, and available discounts. Therefore, check the latest prices for the best discounts. Enjoy cost-effective and flexible travel choices.

4. How often do trains run from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale)?

With a daily frequency of 5 trains, the route from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) offers frequent service. This ensures that you can enjoy convenient and efficient departures throughout the day, providing flexibility in your travel plans. Be sure to check the latest timetable for the most accurate and up-to-date train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) train?

Yes, you can take your bicycle on the train from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale). Make sure to reserve your bicycle ticket and parking spot in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

Key Points:

  • Train Types: Bicycles are permitted on local transportation, including Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn, in addition to long-distance transport like Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T.
  • Advance Booking:Book your bicycle ticket, secure a parking spot, and steer clear of peak hours.
  • Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, while daily bike tickets for local transportation cost between €6 and €6.50.
  • Check Local Regulations:The regulations for transporting bikes vary by region.
  • Properly Park Bicycle:Put your bike in the designated spot as directed.
Using both train and bike for travel is environmentally friendly and convenient.

2. What amenities are available on trains from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale)?

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 Good to know

Good to know

1. Do I need to book train tickets in advance for Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale)?

In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) online, at ticket machines, and at station counters. However, it is strongly advised to book your train tickets ahead of time for better availability and pricing. While it is not required, booking in advance, especially during busy travel periods, can ensure better seat availability and often lower prices. Plan ahead to secure your journey effortlessly and benefit from the advantages of early reservations.

2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale)

In Germany, the busiest travel times for trains from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) are typically during weekday rush hours, which are roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Additionally, weekends, especially Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, as well as holidays and school breaks, tend to see higher demand. It is advisable to book tickets in advance during these periods to secure a seat and possibly obtain lower prices.

3. How early should I arrive at the station for my train from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale)

For a stress-free travel experience, it is typically advised to arrive at the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you plenty of time to find your platform, navigate through any crowds, and address any last-minute concerns like finding your seat or getting snacks. If you are unfamiliar with the station or it is quite large, arriving even earlier is a good idea to ensure a smooth start to your journey.

4. Can I use a regional day pass for the Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) train?

Yes, regional day passes are valid on DB trains in Germany, but they are confined to regional trains within the specified region. Passes like the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket offer unlimited travel for a day on regional trains (such as RE, RB, and IRE) and some local public transportation, including buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains. However, they do not apply to long-distance trains like ICE, IC, or EC. Make sure to check the exact terms and conditions of the regional day pass to ensure it applies to your intended travel routes.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) route?

Yes, a Eurail Pass can be used on DB trains in Germany. The pass is applicable on most DB services, such as InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) trains. However, for some high-speed or night trains, a seat reservation may be needed in advance, which might incur an additional fee. Verify the specific train requirements and arrange the necessary seat reservations to ensure a seamless travel experience.

6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: You don't need a passport to travel on DB trains within Germany. However, it is recommended to bring a valid ID, such as an ID card or driving licence, especially if your flight tickets require proof of identity.
  • Visa: If you have legal residency in Germany, you can travel on DB trains within Germany without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: If you are using DB trains for international journeys, like traveling to neighbouring countries, you will require a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents.
  • Visa:
    • 1) Schengen Area: Travelling to or from a Schengen Area country usually doesn't require separate visas for each Schengen Zone country if you hold a valid Schengen visa or come from a visa-exempt nation.
    • 2) Non-Schengen Countries: When travelling to or from a non-Schengen country, you might require a visa based on that country's specific entry requirements.

Check the specific entry and travel regulations for your nationality and intended destinations. Contact the embassies or consulates for the most precise and latest information.

Find cheap Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) ticket prices

Sparpreis tickets

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Saver Fare

Super Sparpreis tickets

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Super Saver Fare

Flexpreis tickets

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Flexible Fare
 Find cheap Cologne Central Station to Saalfeld (Saale) ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

  • Super Saver Fare: No exchanges or cancellations permitted.
  • Saver Fare: Non-exchangeable. Cancellations are subject to a €10 fee, with a refund issued as a voucher.
  • Flexible Fare: Non-exchangeable. Free cancellation before the validity period begins; a €19 fee applies if cancelled on or after the start date.
  • Regional Day Tickets: No exchanges or cancellations permitted.
  • Train fare typesEXchangeCancellation
    Super saver fare󱕤󱕤
    Saver fare󱕤 €10 cancellation fee, refund as a voucher
    Flexible fare󱕤

    - Cancel for free before the first day of validity

    - Cancelling on or after the first day of validity costs €19

    Regional day ticket in Germany󱕤󱕤

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    Find affordable train tickets with TrainPal. We list second and first-class prices, and our journey planner secures the best deals. Use discount codes for extra savings.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Super Saver fares start at €17.99 for second class and €23.99 for first class.

    Book early for ICE trains

    For lower prices, book German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early, as prices rise near the departure date.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) starts at €46, offering unlimited rides on regional trains for one day.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Explore Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares starting at €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.

    Group travel for 6+ people

    Groups of six+ get super saver fares in Germany from €8.90, and in Europe from €13.90 per person.

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    * The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.