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  3. Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town Train

Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town train times

Find complete train schedules from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town, highlighting the fastest travel time of 1h 57m. With 24 daily departures, the first train departs at 03:56 and the last at 15:10. Get real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a seamless journey.

Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town train journey information

Access detailed DB train information from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town, 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
03:56
Last train
15:10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
131 miles (211km)
Journey time
1h 57m
Price
From £43.68
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town train travel guide

Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town. Benefit from an average travel time of 2h 20m and the convenience of economical ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long does it take to travel from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town by train?

The average duration of a train trip from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town is 2h 20m. For travellers aiming for the shortest travel time, the quickest journey is 1h 57m. To obtain detailed train information, exact timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip effortlessly.

2. Are there direct trains from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town?

No, even if direct train services between Cologne and Heidelberg-Old Town 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-Old Town?

The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town starts at £43.68, with the average price being around £67.75*. 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-Old Town?

The route from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town has a daily frequency of 24 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-Old Town train?

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

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 Good to know

Good to know

1. Do I need to book train tickets in advance for Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town?

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

In Germany, the busiest travel times for trains from Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town 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 to Heidelberg-Old Town

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-Old Town train?

Yes, regional day passes can be used on DB trains in Germany, but they are limited to regional trains within the specified region. Passes like the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket allow for unlimited travel on regional trains (such as RE, RB, and IRE) and some local public transportation, including buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains, for a day. However, they are not valid on long-distance trains such as ICE, IC, or EC. Always verify the specific terms and conditions of the regional day pass to ensure it covers your intended travel routes.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Cologne to Heidelberg-Old Town 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 to Heidelberg-Old Town 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 to Heidelberg-Old Town 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-Old Town ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

  • Super Saver Fare:No exchange or cancellation.
  • Saver Fare: No exchange. Cancel for a €10 fee and receive a voucher refund.
  • Flexible Fare:No exchange. Free cancellation before the start of validity; €19 fee on or after the start date.
  • Regional Day TicketsNo exchange or cancellation.
  • 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

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

    Book early for ICE trains

    Secure lower prices by booking German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early; prices increase closer to travel.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) offers unlimited regional travel in Germany for one day, from €46.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Journey to 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+ enjoy 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.