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Munich to Cologne Central Station train times
Explore comprehensive train schedules from Munich to Cologne Central Station, featuring the fastest travel time of 4h 19m. With 53 daily departures, catch the first train at 00:00 and the last one at 21:51. Stay updated with real-time information on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a hassle-free journey.
Average
£127.94
From 19 Nov to 25 Nov
Cheapest
£18.36
On Sun 23 Nov
Munich to Cologne Central Station train times
The journey from Munich to Cologne Central Station on the fastest train takes 4h 19m, with an average travel time of 4h 52m. 53 trains run every day. With the first at 00:00 and the last at 21:51. Stay updated on DB train schedules and pricing with real-time updates on delays and cancellations for a trouble-free travel experience.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
18:27 Munich Central Station | 4h 42m, 1 change | 23:09 Cologne Main Station (Breslauer Platz) | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets |
18:46 Munich Central Station | 4h 36m, 2 change | 23:22 Cologne Central Station | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets |
19:27 Munich Central Station | 4h 55m, 1 change | 00:22 Cologne Central Station | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets |
19:27 Munich Central Station | 5h 5m, 1 change | 00:32 Cologne Main Station (Breslauer Platz) | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets |
21:51 Munich Central Station | 8h 18m, 3 change | 06:09 Dom/Hauptbahnhof, Köln | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets |
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Munich to Cologne Central Station train journey information
Access detailed DB train information from Munich to Cologne Central Station, 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
00:00
Last train
21:51
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
4h 19m
Distance
283 miles (455km)
Price
From £18.36
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn
Munich to Cologne Central Station train travel guide
Discover the advantages of choosing Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains for your trip from Munich to Cologne Central Station. Experience an average journey time of 4h 52m and enjoy the comfort and affordability of ICE or regional train tickets.
Planning and booking
1. How long is the train ride from Munich to Cologne Central Station?
The average travel time from Munich to Cologne Central Station on a train is 4h 52m. For those seeking the quickest option, the fastest travel time is 4h 19m. To get more detailed train information, precise timings, and schedules, explore TrainPal and plan your trip effectively.
2. Are there direct trains from Munich to Cologne Central Station?
No, even if there are no direct trains from Munich to Cologne Central Station. However, TrainPal can assist you in finding the optimal routes by providing detailed information on schedules, costs, and transfer options. Plan your journey effortlessly with the extensive travel information offered by TrainPal.
3. What is the price of a train ticket from Munich to Cologne Central Station?
The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Munich to Cologne Central Station starts at £18.36, with the average price being around £127.94*. 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 Munich to Cologne Central Station?
The route from Munich to Cologne Central Station has a daily frequency of 53 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
1. Can I bring my bike on the Munich to Cologne Central Station train?
Yes, you can bring your bicycle on the train from Munich to Cologne Central Station. Be sure to book your bicycle ticket and parking space ahead of time to guarantee a hassle-free trip.
Key Points:
- Train Types: Bicycles are permitted on local transportation (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) together with long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
- Advance Booking:Reserve bicycle tickets, and parking space, and avoid busy periods.
- Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, and local transit bicycle day tickets vary from €6 to €6.50.
- Check Local Regulations: Bike transport regulations differ by region.
- Properly Park Bicycle: Place your bike in the allocated area as instructed.
2. What amenities are available on trains from Munich to Cologne Central Station?
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
1. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Munich to Cologne Central Station
In Germany, last-minute train tickets from Munich to Cologne Central Station 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 Munich to Cologne Central Station
In Germany, the peak travel times for trains from Munich to Cologne Central Station 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 Munich to Cologne Central Station
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 Munich to Cologne Central Station 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 Munich to Cologne Central Station 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 Munich to Cologne Central Station by train?
Domestic Travel Within Germany:
- Passport: For domestic travel on DB trains in Germany, no passport is needed. However, it's recommended to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, especially if your ticket requires identification.
- Visa: With legal residency in Germany, you can travel domestically on DB trains without a visa.
International Travel:
- Passport: When using DB trains for international travel, such as trips to neighbouring countries, you will need a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents.
-
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 Munich to Cologne Central Station ticket prices
Exchange and cancellation
| Train fare types | EXchange | Cancellation |
|---|---|---|
| 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
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
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
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.
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