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  3. Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Train

Erfurt Main Station to Cologne train times

Discover detailed train schedules from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne, showcasing the quickest travel time of 3h 28m. With 7 daily departures, the first train leaves at 10:18 and the last at 11:30. Stay informed with real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations for a smooth travel experience.

Average

£131.02

From 09 Sep to 15 Sep

Cheapest

£110.99󰄽

On Tue 09 Sep

  • Tue09 Sep
  • £110.99󰄽
    Wed10 Sep
  • £110.99󰄽
    Thu11 Sep
  • £110.99󰄽
    Fri12 Sep
  • £110.99󰄽
    Sat13 Sep
  • £110.99󰄽
    Sun14 Sep
  • £110.99󰄽
    Mon15 Sep

Erfurt Main Station to Cologne train journey information

Discover DB train schedules from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne, featuring first and last departure times, stop, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a seamless journey.

First train
10:18
Last train
11:30
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
178 miles (286km)
Journey time
3h 28m
Price
From £110.99
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Erfurt Main Station to Cologne train travel guide

Discover the advantages of choosing Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains for your trip from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne. Experience an average journey time of 3h 47m and enjoy the comfort and affordability of ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long is the train ride from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne?

The average duration of a train trip from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne is 3h 47m. For travellers aiming for the shortest travel time, the quickest journey is 3h 28m. To obtain detailed train information, exact timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip effortlessly.

2. Are there direct trains from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne?

Yes, you can take a direct train from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne. Using TrainPal, you can check detailed information on stops, schedules, departure and arrival stations, and train types, including high-speed ICE and regional trains. Look into ticket choices like Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis for the most economical fares.

3. How much is a train ticket from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne?

The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne starts at £110.99, with the average price being around £131.02*. 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. Are there frequent trains from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne?

There are frequent trains from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne, with 7 trains running each day. Enjoy convenient and regular departures throughout the day, ensuring flexible travel options. Check the latest schedules for the most accurate and up-to-date information on train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Erfurt Main Station to Cologne train?

Yes, you can take your bicycle on the train from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne. 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne?

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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne

In Germany, last-minute train tickets from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne can be bought online, at ticket machines, and at station counters. Nonetheless, it is highly advisable to book your train tickets in advance for better availability and pricing. Although it is not necessary, booking early, especially during peak travel periods, can guarantee better seat availability and usually lower prices. By booking early and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and effortless journey.

2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne

In Germany, the peak travel times for trains from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne typically occur during weekday rush hours, roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Furthermore, weekends, particularly Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, along with holidays and school breaks, often see higher demand. It is recommended to book tickets in advance during these times to secure a seat and possibly get lower prices.

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

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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

Refunds for delayed or cancelled trains

  • When your train is delayed by more than 20 minutes, you can switch to another train on the same or a different route, travel later, or take a train without reservations. If you have a local transport ticket, you can upgrade by paying the difference and then claiming the cost back under passenger rights. For any cancellations or delays, you can submit a passenger rights compensation request online through your customer account on DB Navigator or int.bahn.de. Complete the form and send both the form and your ticket to DB headquarters. For more details, visit DB Official Exchanges and cancellation info page.
  • Exchange and cancellation

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    TrainPal offers the cheapest train tickets, listing second and first-class prices. Our journey planner finds the best prices for you, and discount codes add extra savings.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Second-class Super Saver fares start at €17.99, first class at €23.99.

    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

    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+ 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.