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  3. Munich to Cologne Central Station Train

Munich to Cologne Central Station train times

Find complete train schedules from Munich to Cologne Central Station, highlighting the fastest travel time of 4h 18m. With 41 daily departures, the first train departs at 00:00 and the last at 21:51. Get real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a seamless journey.

Average

€141.46

From 20 Aug to 26 Aug

Cheapest

€64.72󰄽

On Wed 20 Aug

  • Wed20 Aug
  • €64.72󰄽
    Thu21 Aug
  • €64.72󰄽
    Fri22 Aug
  • €64.72󰄽
    Sat23 Aug
  • €64.72󰄽
    Sun24 Aug
  • €64.72󰄽
    Mon25 Aug
  • €64.72󰄽
    Tue26 Aug

Munich to Cologne Central Station train times

Find detailed train schedules from Munich to Cologne Central Station, where the fastest trip duration is 4h 18m. 41 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:00 and the last at 21:51. Review DB train schedules and fares to stay updated with live information on delays and cancellations for a seamless journey.

Wed

20 Aug

Thu

21 Aug

Fri

22 Aug

Sat

23 Aug

Sun

24 Aug

Mon

25 Aug

Tue

26 Aug

DepartsArrivesStatusDurationOperator

16:18

Munich Central Station

22:12

Cologne Central Station
On time5h 54mDeutsche Bahn
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16:28

Munich Central Station

21:02

Cologne Central Station
On time4h 34mDeutsche Bahn
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16:46

Munich Central Station

21:05

Cologne Central Station
On time4h 19mDeutsche Bahn
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16:58

Munich Central Station

21:55

Cologne Central Station
On time4h 57mDeutsche Bahn
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21:51

Munich Central Station

06:14

Cologne Central Station
On time8h 23mDeutsche Bahn
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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
Distance
283 miles (455km)
Journey time
4h 18m
Price
From €64.72
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Munich to Cologne Central Station train travel guide

Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Munich to Cologne Central Station. Benefit from an average travel time of 4h 38m 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 Munich to Cologne Central Station by train?

The average duration of a train trip from Munich to Cologne Central Station is 4h 38m. For travellers aiming for the shortest travel time, the quickest journey is 4h 18m. To obtain detailed train information, exact timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip effortlessly.

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

Yes, you can take a direct train from Munich to Cologne Central Station. 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. What is the price of a train ticket from Munich to Cologne Central Station?

The minimum fare for a train ticket from Munich to Cologne Central Station is €64.72, with the average expense being around €141.46*. Ticket prices can change depending on the booking time, the train service, and any applicable discounts. Thus, check the most up-to-date prices for the best discounts. Enjoy budget-friendly and versatile travel options.

4. How often do trains run from Munich to Cologne Central Station?

The route from Munich to Cologne Central Station has a daily frequency of 41 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 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.
Combining train and bicycle travel is both sustainable and convenient.

2. What amenities are available on the ICE train from Munich to Cologne Central Station?

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 Good to know

Good to know

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

In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Munich to Cologne Central Station 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 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 can be used on DB trains in Germany, but their use is confined to regional trains within the designated area. Passes such as the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket provide unlimited travel for a full day on regional trains (including RE, RB, and IRE) and certain local public transportation modes, such as buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains. However, they do not apply to long-distance trains including ICE, IC, or EC. Be certain to examine the specific terms and conditions of the regional day pass to confirm it covers the routes you plan to take.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Munich to Cologne Central Station 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 Munich 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 Munich 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 Munich to Cologne Central Station ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

Instant ticket cancellation

  • Purchased your DB train ticket through TrainPal?You can cancel it for free within 3 hours of purchase and up to the day before its validity starts. Enjoy a full refund without any trouble!
  • Exchange and cancellation

    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

    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) 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+ 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.