Utrecht to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,RB)

Sat, 06 Dec
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
ÖBB Nightjet
Intercity
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
ÖBB Nightjet
Intercity
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Utrecht to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 08 Dec

Cheapest price

$68

Average price

$75

Fastest journey

2 h 11 m

Average duration

2 h 49 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

180 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Utrecht to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Utrecht to Cologne will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $68.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Utrecht for Cologne every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 180 km distance in an average of 2 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 11 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 19 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Deutsche BahnICE 123
11:04AM2h11
Utrecht Centraal
01:15PMCologne Hbf
$681One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnIC 3529 · 22613 · RB 10621
09:24AM3h11
Utrecht Centraal
12:35PMCologne Hbf
$741One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnIC 3537 · 22617 · RB 10625
11:24AM3h11
Utrecht Centraal
02:35PMCologne Hbf
$741One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 225
09:01AM2h11
Utrecht Centraal
11:12AMCologne Messe/Deutz
$761One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnIC 3031+VIAS Rail GmbHVIA 21211 · VIA 20019+Deutsche BahnRE 26816
09:53AM3h19
Utrecht Centraal
01:12PMCologne Hbf
$811One-way
3 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Utrecht to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Utrecht to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 39m. 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 $10, and a flight costs an average of $293.

Distance: 180 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

$68

Average Price

$30

Average Price

Cheapest

$740

Average Price

3h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 29m

Average total duration

3h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 21m

Average total duration

6h 21m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Utrecht to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Utrecht to Cologne trains for today, Sunday, 7 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:39 am
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 255
On time
7:13 am Utrecht Centraal
2h50
10:03 am Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnIC 3025 · RE 20075 · RB 10619
On time
7:23 am Utrecht Centraal
3h12
10:35 am Cologne Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnIC 3029 · 22613 · RB 10621
On time
8:23 am Utrecht Centraal
3h12
11:35 am Cologne Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 153
On time
9:27 am Utrecht Centraal
2h54
12:21 pm Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnIC 2935 · IC 3935 · RE 18935 · RE 10917
On time
9:38 am Utrecht Centraal
3h34
1:12 pm Cologne Hbf
3 changes

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Utrecht to Cologne by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach and flight 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.

Sun
07 Dec
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08 Dec
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Utrecht to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Utrecht to Cologne is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Utrecht to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Utrecht to Cologne 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 Utrecht to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Utrecht to Cologne

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Utrecht to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 but you can travel from only $10 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:24. The fastest train covers the 180 km distance in 2h 10m.

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 $10
Distance
180 km
Average train duration
2h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$26
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 10m
First train
00:08
Last train
23:24
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 $10

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, ÖBB Nightjet, Intercity from Utrecht to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, ÖBB Nightjet, Intercity trains will get you between Utrecht and Cologne from $10. 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 12m
Cheapest Price
$31
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.
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.
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.
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
3 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

ÖBB Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
$180
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

Intercity

About
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \Intercity\" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use \"InterCity\" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 9m
Cheapest Price
$56
Intercity frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

Österreichische Bundesbahnen

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 23m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Utrecht to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Utrecht to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Utrecht to Cologne can start from as little as $29 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Utrecht to Cologne is $63; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Utrecht to Cologne train travel time is 2 h 2 min   for the 180 km long route, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Utrecht to Cologne leaves at 12: 09am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Utrecht to Cologne leaves at 11: 39pm.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Utrecht to Cologne without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn or ÖBB Nightjet. There are 2 direct trains from Utrecht to Cologne each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
Take the Utrecht to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn or ÖBB Nightjet. However, it's always good to check out all possible train providers for the route between Utrecht and Cologne as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
Yes, you can take a night train from Utrecht to Cologne with ÖBB Nightjet. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.  

Passengers board the train most frequently from Utrecht Centraal, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located away from the city centre.

A trip to Cologne from Utrecht is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 2 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Utrecht to Cologne by train is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel from Utrecht to Cologne including taking a train, coach or flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Utrecht and Cologne

Utrecht
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Utrecht is Utrecht Overvecht. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Utrecht Overvecht for your trip from Utrecht to Cologne.
Utrecht OvervechtParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Utrecht CentraalWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
16
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Spoorstraat and Jaarbeursplein.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant De Rechtbank
  • Humphrey's Utrecht
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • €0.70
Hotel
Hotel
  • Crowne Plaza Utrecht
  • NH Utrecht
  • Park Plaza Utrecht
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 12,656 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and regional trains
  • Hall 2: domestic intercity and sprinter services
  • Hall 3: tram and bus connections
Public transport options for Utrecht Centraal
  • Tram: Line 22
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Train: Domestic and international connections
Utrecht Leidsche RijnParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike ParkingCar Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km

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