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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Rotterdam
Showing times and prices for 21 Mar
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$102
Fastest journey
3 h 17 m
Average duration
3 h 29 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
204 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Rotterdam will cost around $102 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $78.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Rotterdam you need to make at least one change.
ICE 1250 · IC 283408:50AM3h20
Cologne Hbf12:10PMRotterdam Centraal
$781One-way
1 change
ICE 1250 · IC 3629 · ICD 184508:50AM3h17
Cologne Hbf12:07PMRotterdam Centraal
$781One-way
2 changes
10608 · 20070 · IC 3540 · ICD 244109:25AM3h19
Cologne Hbf12:44PMRotterdam Centraal
$831One-way
3 changes
10908 · 18928 · 32536 · IC 274209:47AM3h57
Cologne Hbf01:44PMRotterdam Centraal
$871One-way
4 changes
ICE 316 · ECD 954309:43AM3h34
Cologne Hbf01:17PMRotterdam Centraal
$1851One-way
1 change
ICE 1250 · IC 3629 · ICD 184508:50AM3h17
Cologne Hbf12:07PMRotterdam Centraal
$781One-way
2 changes
10608 · 20070 · IC 3540 · ICD 244109:25AM3h19
Cologne Hbf12:44PMRotterdam Centraal
$831One-way
3 changes
ICE 1250 · IC 283408:50AM3h20
Cologne Hbf12:10PMRotterdam Centraal
$781One-way
1 change
ICE 316 · ECD 954309:43AM3h34
Cologne Hbf01:17PMRotterdam Centraal
$1851One-way
1 change
10908 · 18928 · 32536 · IC 274209:47AM3h57
Cologne Hbf01:44PMRotterdam Centraal
$871One-way
4 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cologne to Rotterdam
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $12, and a train costs an average of $38.
Distance: 204 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
$76 Average Price | $24 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 46m Average total duration Fastest 3h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration 5h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Rotterdam train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, Friday, 20 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 10:45 am
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 1250 · IC 2834 | On time 7:50 am Cologne Hbf | 3h20 | 11:10 am Rotterdam Centraal | 1 change | |
| ICE 1250 · IC 3629 · ICD 1845 | On time 7:50 am Cologne Hbf | 3h17 | 11:07 am Rotterdam Centraal | 2 changes | |
| 10608 · 20070 · IC 3540 · ICD 2441 | 8:25 am Cologne Hbf | 3h19 | 11:44 am Rotterdam Centraal | 3 changes | |
| ICE 316 · ECD 9543 | On time 8:43 am Cologne Hbf | 3h34 | 12:17 pm Rotterdam Centraal | 1 change | |
| 10908 · 18928 · 32536 · IC 2742 | 8:47 am Cologne Hbf | 3h57 | 12:44 pm Rotterdam Centraal | 4 changes |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Rotterdam by train or coach
Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Cologne to Rotterdam trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH or Eurostar offer trains services from Cologne to Rotterdam.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Rotterdam.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Rotterdam.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Rotterdam.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Rotterdam.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Rotterdam.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Rotterdam?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Rotterdam is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Rotterdam route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Rotterdam per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Rotterdam.
Trains
from $37Coaches
from $20Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Rotterdam
Germany
Netherlands
Trains from Cologne to Rotterdam run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 but you can travel from only $12 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 204 km distance in 2h 51m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from $12
Distance 204 km |
Average train duration 3h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 51m |
First train 00:05 |
Last train 23:54 |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from $12
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurostar from Cologne to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Rotterdam from $12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Price
$38
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
VIAS Rail GmbH
About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$214
Eurostar frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
FAQs: Cologne to Rotterdam train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Rotterdam by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Rotterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Rotterdam can start from as little as $38 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne to Rotterdam is $76; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Cologne to Rotterdam is 2h 51m to travel the 204 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Cologne to Rotterdam leaves at 12:05 am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Cologne to Rotterdam leaves at 11:54 pm.
There are 8 trains a day from Cologne to Rotterdam which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurostar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
When taking a train from Cologne to Rotterdam, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Eurostar for the best way to get you to Rotterdam. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Cologne and Rotterdam and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Rotterdam from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 51m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cologne to Rotterdam is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Rotterdam including taking a train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Rotterdam
Cologne
Rotterdam
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Rotterdam.
Köln Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Centraal for your journey to Rotterdam from Cologne.
Rotterdam Centraal
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.
Dining
- Smullers
- Albert Heijn to go
- Starbucks
- La Place
- Julia's
- Ekmekci
- LEON
- The Doner Company
- StationsHuiskamer
- De Broodzaak
- & more
Accessibility
- Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Hotel
- Rotterdam Marriott Hotel
- Layin’ Rotterdam Central
- Hostel Ani & Haakien
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Information Desk
- Located inside the central hall.
Public transport options for Rotterdam Centraal
- Subway lines: D, E
- Bus lines: 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 44, 48
- Tram lines: 4, 7, 8, 12, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25
- Train lines: NS Intercity, NS Intercity Direct, NS Sprinter, NS Nachtnet, Thalys, Eurostar
Rotterdam Noord
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- Closed Sunday
Distance to city center
2 km
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station with limited spaces.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Bike Parking
- 100 places, covered
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a simple layout with two platforms and a small waiting area.
Public transport options for Rotterdam Noord
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 4
Rotterdam Alexander
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
Distance to city center
6 kmNumber of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available with free parking options nearby.
Dining
- Restaurant Alexander
- Brasserie Waalhaven
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Alexander
- NH Capelle
- Campanile Rotterdam Oost
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 300 places, covered
Car Rental
- SIXT
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for trains to Utrecht and Rotterdam Central
- Hall 2: metro connections
Public transport options for Rotterdam Alexander
- Metro: Line A, Line B
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Rotterdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rotterdam and Cologne
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