Sparpreis tickets
Saver Fare
Super Sparpreis tickets
Super Saver Fare
Flexpreis tickets
Flexible Fare
Best Price Promise
If you find trains for a cheaper price elsewhere, let us know and we'll refund the difference*
Book Cheaper Tickets
Save more with a variety of promo codes. Book on the TrainPal app with no booking fees.
Efficient Customer Service
24/7 fast customer service with prompt responses to your queries
Fast Change and Refund
Seamless rail travel with easy changes and refunds for peace of mind.
Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) train times
Discover detailed train schedules from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main), showcasing the quickest travel time of 1h 3m. With 74 daily departures, the first train leaves at 03:21 and the last at 23:55. Stay informed with real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations for a smooth travel experience.
Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) train times
Look up thorough train timetables from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main), where the fastest journey lasts 1h 3m. 74 trains are operating daily, with the first train departing at 03:21 and the last at 23:55. Check DB train schedules and prices to get real-time updates on any delays and cancellations, ensuring a hassle-free trip.
Thu
31 Jul
Fri
01 Aug
Sat
02 Aug
Sun
03 Aug
Mon
04 Aug
Tue
05 Aug
Wed
06 Aug
| Departs | Arrives | Status | Duration | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
18:55 Cologne Central Station | 20:13 Frankfurt (Main) Central Station | On time | 1h 18m | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets | |
18:55 Cologne Central Station | 20:18 Frankfurt (Main) South | On time | 1h 23m | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets | |
19:28 Cologne Central Station | 20:31 Frankfurt (Main) Central Station | On time | 1h 3m | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets | |
19:33 Cologne Fair/Deutz Platform 11-12 | 20:48 Frankfurt (Main) Central Station | On time | 1h 15m | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets | |
19:53 Cologne Central Station | 22:13 Frankfurt (Main) Central Station | On time | 2h 20m | Deutsche Bahn | Find tickets |
View More Trains
Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) train journey information
Discover DB train schedules from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main), 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
03:21
Last train
23:55
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
94 miles (152km)
Journey time
1h 3m
Price
From £16.37
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn
Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) train travel guide
Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main). Benefit from an average travel time of 1h 18m and the convenience of economical ICE or regional train tickets.
Planning and booking
1. How long is the train journey from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main)?
The average travel time from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) on a train is 1h 18m. For those seeking the quickest option, the fastest travel time is 1h 3m. 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 Frankfurt (Main)?
No, even if there are no direct trains from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main). 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 Cologne to Frankfurt (Main)?
The lowest price for a train ticket from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) is £16.37, with the average cost being around £55.39*. 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 to Frankfurt (Main)?
There are frequent trains from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main), with 74 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
1. Can I bring my bike on the Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) train?
Yes, you can carry your bike on the train from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main). Remember to book your bike ticket and reserve a space in advance to ensure an effortless journey.
Key Points:
- Train Types: Bikes are allowed on local transport (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) as well as long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
- Advance Booking: Book your bike ticket, reserve a space, and avoid peak times.
- Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, while local transport bike day tickets range from €6 to €6.50.
- Check Local Regulations:Specific regulations for bike transport vary by region.
- Properly Park Bike:Place your bike in the designated area as required.
2. Is Wi-Fi available on the ICE train from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main)?
k.train.de.a2b.check.des2_2
Good to know
1. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main)
In Germany, last-minute train tickets from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) are available for purchase online, at ticket machines, and station counters. Nonetheless, it is highly recommended to book your train tickets in advance for better availability and pricing. It is not mandatory, but especially during peak travel periods, booking in advance can guarantee better seat availability and typically lower prices. Make your travel arrangements stress-free by booking early and enjoying the benefits of planning ahead.
2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main)
In Germany, the peak travel times for trains from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) 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 Cologne to Frankfurt (Main)
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 to Frankfurt (Main) 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 Frankfurt (Main) route?
Yes, a Eurail Pass can be used on DB trains in Germany. This pass is accepted on most DB services, including InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) trains. However, please note that for certain high-speed or overnight trains, seat reservations may be required and could involve extra charges. Be sure to verify the specific requirements for each train and make any necessary seat reservations to ensure a hassle-free journey.
6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) 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 Cologne to Frankfurt (Main) ticket prices
Exchange and cancellation
Refunds for delayed or cancelled trains
How to buy cheap DB train tickets
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
Second-class Super Saver fares start at €17.99, first class at €23.99.
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
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.
More train routes
* The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.
New user welcome pack