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  3. Cologne to Heidelberg Train

Cologne to Heidelberg train times

Discover detailed train schedules from Cologne to Heidelberg, showcasing the quickest travel time of 1h 50m. With 5 daily departures, the first train leaves at 08:53 and the last at 09:53. Stay informed with real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations for a smooth travel experience.

Cologne to Heidelberg train journey information

Access detailed DB train information from Cologne to Heidelberg, including departure and arrival times, stops, distance, journey duration, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a hassle-free trip.

First train
08:53
Last train
09:53
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
130 miles (210km)
Journey time
1h 50m
Price
From £20.75
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Cologne to Heidelberg train travel guide

Travelling from Cologne to Heidelberg with Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains is both efficient and comfortable. The average travel time is 2h 43m, 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 to Heidelberg by train?

The average travel time from Cologne to Heidelberg on a train is 2h 43m. For those seeking the quickest option, the fastest travel time is 1h 50m. To get more detailed train information, precise timings, and schedules, explore TrainPal and plan your trip effectively.

2. Are there direct trains from Cologne to Heidelberg?

No, even if direct train services between Cologne and Heidelberg 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 is a train ticket from Cologne to Heidelberg?

The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Cologne to Heidelberg starts at £20.75, with the average price being around £37.30*. Ticket prices fluctuate based on when you book, the type of train service, and any discounts that may be available. Hence, check the latest prices to secure the best discounts. Enjoy economical and flexible travel choices.

4. How often do trains run from Cologne to Heidelberg?

The route from Cologne to Heidelberg has a daily frequency of 5 trains, ensuring frequent service. This allows you to enjoy convenient and efficient departures throughout the day, giving you flexibility in your travel plans. Refer to the most recent schedules for the most precise and current information on train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Cologne to Heidelberg train?

Yes, you can take your bicycle on the train from Cologne to Heidelberg. 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 to Heidelberg?

All ICE trains, some IC trains, and certain regional trains offer WiFi. First class on ICE and IC trains provide quieter spaces, comfortable seating, access to first-class lounges, digital newspapers and magazines, and seat reservations for passengers with flexible fares. Experience travel with ease and comfort!

 Good to know

Good to know

1. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne to Heidelberg

In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne to Heidelberg 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 to Heidelberg

In Germany, the peak times for train travel from Cologne to Heidelberg are generally during weekday rush hours, roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Moreover, weekends, particularly Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, along with holidays and school vacations, often experience increased demand. Booking tickets ahead of time during these periods is recommended to ensure a seat and potentially get better prices.

3. How early should I arrive at the station for my train from Cologne to Heidelberg

For a trouble-free travel experience, it is often recommended to reach the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. This provides you with enough time to locate your platform, pass through any crowds, and resolve last-minute tasks such as finding your seat or purchasing snacks. If you are not familiar with the station or if it is especially large, consider arriving even earlier to ensure a smooth beginning to your trip.

4. Can I use a regional day pass for the Cologne to Heidelberg 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 to Heidelberg route?

Yes, you can utilise a Eurail Pass on DB trains within Germany. The pass is valid on most DB trains, such as InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) services. Nonetheless, for some high-speed or overnight trains, you might need to reserve a seat in advance, which could come with an extra fee. Check the particular train requirements and make the required reservations to guarantee a smooth trip.

6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Cologne to Heidelberg by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: Travelling within Germany on DB trains doesn't require a passport. However, it's advisable to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, particularly if identification is required for your ticket.
  • Visa: Having legal residency in Germany allows you to travel on DB trains within the country without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: For international journeys on DB trains, including trips to neighbouring countries, a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents are required.
  • Visa:
    • 1) Schengen Area: For travel to or from a Schengen Area country, separate visas for each Schengen Zone country are generally unnecessary if you have a valid Schengen visa or are from a visa-exempt nation.
    • 2) Non-Schengen Countries: Travel to or from a non-Schengen country might require a visa, depending on the specific entry requirements of that country.

Confirm the entry and travel criteria for your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Consulting the embassies or consulates will yield the most precise and up-to-date information.

Find cheap Cologne to Heidelberg 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 to Heidelberg 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

    Discover the cheapest train tickets with TrainPal. Compare second and first-class prices, and use our journey planner for the best deals. Save more with discount codes.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Super Saver tickets begin at €17.99 for second class and €23.99 for first class.

    Book early for ICE trains

    Book German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early for lower prices, as they increase closer to the departure date.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Starting at €46, the Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) provides unlimited travel on regional trains for one day.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Discover destinations in Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares from €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.

    Group travel for 6+ people

    Group of six or more? DB offers super saver fares from €8.90, and European fares 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.