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  3. Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station Train

Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station train times

Discover detailed train schedules from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station, showcasing the quickest travel time of 3h 35m. With 11 daily departures, the first train leaves at 05:16 and the last at 19:32. Stay informed with real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations for a smooth travel experience.

Average

£139.10

From 04 Nov to 10 Nov

Cheapest

£19.99󰄽

On Tue 04 Nov

  • Tue04 Nov
  • £19.99󰄽
    Wed05 Nov
  • £19.99󰄽
    Thu06 Nov
  • £19.99󰄽
    Fri07 Nov
  • £19.99󰄽
    Sat08 Nov
  • £19.99󰄽
    Sun09 Nov
  • £19.99󰄽
    Mon10 Nov

Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station train times

Look up thorough train timetables from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station, where the fastest journey lasts 3h 35m. 11 trains are operating daily, with the first train departing at 05:16 and the last at 19:32. Check DB train schedules and prices to get real-time updates on any delays and cancellations, ensuring a hassle-free trip.

DepartsArrivesOperator

17:30

Erfurt Main Station
3h 35m, 1 change

21:05

Cologne Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
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18:18

Erfurt Main Station
4h 5m, 2 change

22:23

Cologne Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
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18:33

Erfurt Main Station
6h 42m, 2 change

01:15

Cologne Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
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19:30

Erfurt Main Station
4h 23m, 2 change

23:53

Cologne Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
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19:32

Erfurt Main Station
4h 57m, 1 change

00:29

Cologne Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
Find tickets
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Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station train journey information

Discover DB train schedules from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station, 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
05:16
Last train
19:32
Departure station
Journey time
3h 35m
Distance
178 miles (286km)
Price
From £19.99
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station train travel guide

Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station. Benefit from an average travel time of 4h 23m and the convenience of economical ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average travel time from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station by train is 4h 23m. For those in search of the fastest route, the quickest journey takes 3h 35m. For detailed train information, accurate timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip smoothly.

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

Yes, direct train services from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station are available. With TrainPal, you can access detailed information on stops, times, departure and arrival stations, and train types, such as high-speed ICE and regional trains. To secure the best fares, consider ticket options like Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis.

3. How much does a ticket from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station cost?

The lowest price for a train ticket from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station is £19.99, with the average cost being around £139.10*. 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. Are there frequent trains from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station?

With a daily frequency of 11 trains, the route from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station offers frequent service. This ensures that you can enjoy convenient and efficient departures throughout the day, providing flexibility in your travel plans. Be sure to check the latest timetable for the most accurate and up-to-date train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

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

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

All ICE trains, certain IC trains, and some regional trains offer WiFi. First class on ICE and IC trains feature quieter compartments, comfortable seating, access to first-class lounges, digital newspapers and magazines, and seat reservations for passengers with flexible fares. Priority travel advice is also provided at selected stations. Travel with ease and comfort!

 Good to know

Good to know

1. Do I need to book train tickets in advance for Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station?

In Germany, last-minute train tickets from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station

In Germany, the peak times for train travel from Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station

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 Central Station 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station 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 Erfurt Main Station to Cologne Central Station 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 Central Station 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 Central Station 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

    󰄶

    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

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

    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.