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    About the train journey from Cologne to Aachen

    Want to travel from Cologne to Aachen by train? Start your journey with us.

    The train from Cologne to Aachen usually takes 13 hours 13 minutes on average to travel 645 km, although the quickest services can take as little as 11 hours 6 minutes. You can expect to find 19 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren't any direct services running between Cologne and Aachen, you'll need to make 3 changes on your way to Aachen. You can choose to travel with Eurostar, Frecciarossa or ICE to get to Aachen. As the main rail operators on this route, their trains offer modern comfortable seating and plenty of space for luggage as standard.

    To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Cologne to Aachen in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

    Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Aachen, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

    Cologne to Aachen by train

    First train

    12:20 am

    Last train

    9:40 pm

    Departure station

    Cologne

    Arrival station

    Aachen

    Journey time

    From 11h 6m

    Distance

    401 miles (645 km)

    Frequency

    19 trains per day

    Changes

    3 changes

    Train and bus operators

    BlaBlaCar Bus, Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Flixbus, FlixTrain, SNCF Voyageurs, Trenitalia, Trenord

    What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Cologne to Aachen?

    Want to know more about your journey from Cologne to Aachen? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

    How do I get from Cologne to Aachen?

    You can travel from Cologne to Aachen by train in about 13 hours and 13 minutes. With around 19 trains available on this route each day, taking the train is easy. Find out more about times, tickets and prices using our Journey Planner.

    How long is the train trip from Cologne to Aachen?

    On average, the train trip from Cologne to Aachen takes around 13 hours and 13 minutes, with 19 trains per day. The duration may vary slightly depending on the specific train and any potential delays. Use our Journey Planner to check out more information.

    Can you take a high-speed train from Cologne to Aachen?

    Yes, you can travel on a high-speed train between Cologne and Aachen. The fastest journeys can take 11 hours and 6 minutes on Frecciarossa and Eurostar trains. High-speed trains often offer more comfort, different classes and services on board: check out the classes and onboard services available!

    What is the fastest train from Cologne to Aachen?

    The fastest trains from Cologne to Aachen can cover the distance of 401 miles (645 km) in as little as 11 hours and 6 minutes.

    What are the train times from Cologne to Aachen?

    Check out the next trains departing from Cologne to Aachen for Tuesday Dec 23rd 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
    DepartsArrivesDuration
    6:59 am7:07 pm12h 8m, 4 changes
    7:40 am7:07 pm11h 27m, 5 changes
    7:40 am8:07 pm12h 27m, 4 changes
    7:40 am9:16 pm13h 36m, 3 changes
    8:40 am8:07 pm11h 27m, 7 changes
    8:40 am9:07 pm12h 27m, 4 changes
    9:40 am10:07 pm12h 27m, 5 changes
    11:40 am11:40 pm12h 0m, 5 changes
    12:40 pm12:42 am12h 2m, 7 changes
    2:40 pm6:07 am15h 27m, 3 changes

    Frecciarossa, Trenitalia, Deutsche Bahn and Eurostar trains from Cologne to Aachen

    You can travel from Cologne to Aachen on Frecciarossa, Trenitalia, Deutsche Bahn and Eurostar trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

    Frecciarossa trains are Trenitalia's flagship high-speed trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). The "red arrow" trains are distinguished by their comfort, their ultra-modern design and their reduced impact on the environment. All Frecciarossa trains are equipped with a food carriage, a free WiFi connection and four levels of service – Standard, Premium (with drinks and snacks served on arrival), Business (with drinks and snacks plus larger seats) and Executive (with Fast Track, access to FrecciaClub lounges in train selected stations, and gourmet meals served to your seat). From December 2021, you can also travel with Frecciarossa from Milan to Paris via Turin, Modane and Chambéry. The trains are operated by Trenitalia France and have 4 levels of service - Standard, Business, Executive and Meeting Room - and two types of carriages: Silence Area, for those who want to travel in total tranquillity, and Allegro Area, for those who want to chat with their fellow passengers.

    Trenitalia is the national railway company of Italy, with a fleet including high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca), Intercity and Intercity night trains and regional trains. Trenitalia offers discounts and special promotions on selected routes, two types of discounted tickets for young people under 30 and people over 60.

    PhotoJoachimKohlerBremen, under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

    The Deutsche Bahn Group is owned by the German State and controls the majority of rail traffic in Germany as well as in many border regions of the country. Every year, Deutsche Bahn transports several million passengers and many stations in Germany are served exclusively by DB trains, including the ICE, IC and EC fleet.

    PhotoEurostar, under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

    Eurostar is the exclusive high-speed train service that links London to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and the rest of Europe at speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). Eurostar also runs trains on more routes between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. All Eurostar trains have modern, comfortable facilities, plenty of room for baggage, and onboard food and beverage car. There are three comfort classes on offer – Eurostar Standard, Eurostar Plus (equivalent to Premium Economy, with light refreshments served), and Eurostar Premier (equivalent to First or Business Class, with flexible travel options, priority boarding, lounge access and delicious food and drink included).

    What Eurostar, Frecciarossa, Trenord and Trenitalia Eurocity classes are there from Cologne to Aachen?

    Compare the different travel classes offered by Eurostar, Frecciarossa, Trenord and Trenitalia Eurocity when traveling from Cologne to Aachen.

    What are the onboard services on Eurostar, Frecciarossa, Trenord and Trenitalia Eurocity?

    Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Cologne to Aachen.

    LuggageLuggageWhat baggage limits are there?

    Although there's no weight limit for your baggage on Eurostar trains, you must be able to carry your bags safely by yourself.

    Each bag must be clearly labeled and must be no longer than 33.4 inches (for trains to and from the United Kingdom) or no larger than 29.5 x 20.8 x 11.8 inches (for trains in Europe).

    RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?

    Are you traveling to or from the United Kingdom? In Eurostar Standard, choose from a wide selection of drinks and snacks at the Eurostar Café, the onboard bar car in the middle of the train. Cards and cash (Euros or pounds) are accepted. If you're traveling in Eurostar Plus, a light meal and a drink will be served at your seat.
    Travel in Eurostar Premier and you'll be treated to a gourmet meal, as well as a continuous drinks service throughout your journey.

    For all other Eurostar trains (red trains, formerly Thalys), head to the bar car and choose from a wide range of hot and cold drinks as well as savory and sweet snacks.
    In Eurostar Premier on European routes, you'll get a free meal served directly to your seat.

    WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

    Eurostar doesn't have an onboard entertainment portal. However, there is free WiFi available, as well as UK and EU power outlets at your seat so you can charge your devices while traveling.

    ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?
    • Kids of all ages need their passport to travel with Eurostar.
    • Children under 4 can travel free on Eurostar trains, as long as they're sitting on an accompanying adult's lap. Alternatively, you can book them their own seat with a child ticket.
    • If you're alone with kids, you can pre-book assistance so that a member of Eurostar staff can help you during your journey.
    • Kids under 12 must travel with someone over 16, while those aged 12-15 can travel alone if they have an unaccompanied minor form (excluding direct trains to/from the Netherlands).
    • 16 to 17-year-olds can travel alone if they meet all legal requirements.
    • You'll find changing tables on all Eurostar trains, as well as family-oriented seating (4 seats facing one another) where available.
    ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?

    Generally, Eurostar trains running to and from the United Kingdom can't transport fully assembled bikes - though on certain trains between London and Brussels, you may be able to book a bike space by contacting Eurostar. You can, however, take a foldable bike on board Eurostar trains to and from the UK provided that it's no more than 33.4 inches long and it fits in a protective bag that covers the whole bicycle. Folded bikes are treated as standard baggage.

    For all other Eurostar trains in Europe, a limited number of non-foldable bikes can be brought on board, provided that the wheels are taken off and the whole bicycle is stored in a suitable cover (max. size 53.1 x 33.4 x 11.8 inches). Foldable bicycles are also permitted and count towards standard baggage limits.

    PetPetCan I bring pets on board?

    The rules around traveling with your pets depend on whether you're traveling across the Channel or not, so check before you travel:

    Eurostar trains to and from the United Kingdom:

    • Pets are not permitted on board.
    • Guide dogs and assistance dogs can travel, but they must be accompanied by their owner. You must also reserve a ticket for your assistance dog at least 48 hours before travel, by filling out Eurostar's contact form.

    Trains in the rest of Europe:

    • Small dogs and other pets weighing less than 13 lbs (6 kg) can travel for free. They must travel in a cage or carrier (max. dimensions 17.7 x 11.8 x 9.8 inches).
    • If your dog is larger than this, you must buy them a dog ticket (generally the price is fixed at €30, around $32), and the dog must travel on your lap or on the ground, on a lead and with a muzzle.
    • Guide dogs and assistance dogs, whatever their size, travel for free.
    WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

    If you need help getting on or off the train, you should contact Eurostar directly before your trip. To use Eurostar's special assistance program, fill in this contact form at least 48 hours before your journey so that the team can help you.

    If you're traveling on trains to/from the United Kingdom:

    • Arrive at least one hour before your train's scheduled departure time, then head to the Eurostar Assist desk or ask a member of staff.
    • If you have a wheelchair, you must reserve a wheelchair space in either Eurostar Plus or Eurostar Premier - you'll only pay for a Eurostar Standard ticket. Someone can travel with you at a discounted rate.

    If you're traveling on red trains in the rest of Europe:

    • Wheelchair users travel in Eurostar Premier on routes in Europe.
    • Wheelchairs can be transported as long as they're no bigger than 27.5 inches long and 47.2 inches high. The wheelchair's turning circle must be no larger than 59 inches in diameter. The combined weight of the wheelchair, passenger and any baggage must not exceed 661 lbs (300 kg).
    • Please note that combustion engine-powered wheelchairs are not permitted on board. However, electric wheelchairs are allowed.
    InfoInfoWhat else do I need to know?

    Specific restrictions for trains to/from the United Kingdom:

    Liquids:

    • There's no restriction on liquids. However, there are restrictions on alcohol: you can take 4 bottles/cans of beer or 1 bottle of wine per person to enjoy on the journey; large bottles of spirits are not permitted. If you're traveling with large quantities of alcohol, you should contact a courier service.

     

    Sports equipment:

    • You can travel with a golf bag as long as it's no larger than 47.2 x 13.7 x 13.7 inches.
    • You can bring tents or other shelters if they're stored in bags or cases less than 33.4 inches long.
    • Camping gas or butane bottles are not permitted on board.
    • Camping utensils or tools such as pocket knives and Swiss army knives are permitted provided the blades are less than 3 inches long. Folding knives where the blade locks into place are prohibited.
    • You can bring bats, snooker or pool cues and darts on board if they're stored in a protective case.
    LuggageLuggageWhat baggage limits are there?
    • You can take your bags on board Frecciarossa trains free of charge.
    • In most cases, there are no baggage size limits. You’ll need to make sure that your baggage is compatible with the space available on board.
    RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?
    • You can go to the FrecciaBistrò café-bar counter located in the middle part of the train to get snacks, main courses, and drinks.
    • You can also order your favorite meal from the comfort of your seat – go to the entertainment portal called FRECCIAPlay and use the EasyBistrò service or ask a member of staff.
    • If you travel in Premium Class, you’ll get a total of 4 food / beverage products is offered on board, including: sweet or savoury snack, welcome drink, small water bottle, 1 wet wipe.
    • Travelers in Business Class receive a food box containing 7 fresh food & beverage products differentiated according to the time of day, plus Illy expresso coffee.
    • If you travel in Executive Class, you’ll get unlimited drinks plus food from a rotating monthly menu where some meals were ideated by the renowned Michelin star chef Carlo Cracco.
    WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?
    • You’ll find free WiFi on all Frecciarossa trains. Connect to their entertainment portal called FRECCIAPlay and choose from a wide selection of movies, TV series, live news, eBooks, games, music, and podcasts.
    • You can also use the FRECCIAPlay portal to get the latest updates on your journey, as well as book other services that will help you reach your destination.
    ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?
    • Kids under 4 can travel for free if a seat is not assigned to them. If they do have a seat, they can get 50% off Base tickets (Frecciarossa’s standard fare).
    • Children aged 4-14 also get 50% off.
    • Bimbi Gratis offer: You can also get free travel for kids under 15 plus 40% off Base tickets for adults, if you’re traveling in a family group of 2 to 5 people (including at least one adult and one child).
    ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?
    • You can travel with your bike for free on all Frecciarossa trains provided it’s not larger than 80 x 110 x 45cm (31.4 x 43.3 x 17.7 inches).
    • Your bike must be disassembled or folded and stored in a bag in one of the dedicated luggage racks.
    PetPetCan I bring pets on board?
    • Dogs, cats and other small pets can travel for free in a carrier with maximum dimensions of 70x30x50 cm (maximum one per passenger).
    • Bigger dogs can travel for only 5 € from Sunday to Friday, and for as little as 1 € on Saturday.
    • Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost.
    WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

    If you need to request special assistance, you can call the toll-free number 800 90 60 60, which can be reached from a landline in Italy, or the national number +3902323232, which can be reached from a landline or mobile, even from abroad (international calling charges may apply).

    InfoInfoWhat else do I need to know?

    Air-conditioning is available on board. You can also charge your devices thanks to the power outlets you can find at your seat.

    LuggageLuggageWhat baggage limits are there?
    • You can take your bags on board Trenord trains free of charge, provided their dimensions do not exceed 80 x 110 x 40cm (31.4 x 43.3 x 15.7 inches).
    • You’ll need to make sure that your baggage is compatible with the space available on board.
    RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?

    At the moment, a restaurant service is not available on Trenord trains. However, you can take your own food on board so pick up some snacks at the station before you set off.

    WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

    Trenord do not offer an entertainment portal on board. However, you can make use of your internet data, as well as charge your devices thanks to the power outlets that are available at your seat.

    ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?

    Kids under 4 travel for free on all Trenord trains if they don’t occupy a seat and sit on an adult’s lap. Children aged 4-13 get 50% off the standard fare.

    ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?
    • Each passenger can take only one bike onboard Trenord trains.
    • Folding bikes and scooters that do not exceed the maximum dimensions of 80 x 120 x 45cm (31.4 x 47.2 x 17.7 inches) are allowed on board free of charge.
    • If you can’t fold your bike, you may be able to take it onboard some Trenord trains. However, you’ll need to buy a ticket both for you and for your bike.
    • Please note that the last cars of some trains are only reserved for bikes of those working in the food delivery sector.
    PetPetCan I bring pets on board?
    • Small pets can travel on all Trenord trains free of charge, if they’re placed in a carrier of max dimensions of 70 x 30 x 50cm (27.5 x 11.8 x 19.6 inches).
    • Bigger dogs are allowed on all trains if they have a ticket for unlimited travel for the whole day you’re traveling. They need to be kept on a leash and equipped with a muzzle.
    • Guide and assistance dogs are allowed on all trains at no additional cost.
    • Pets are not allowed on board on weekdays from 7 am to 9.30 am and from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm.
    WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

    Passengers with disabilities can:

    • Request, through the Lombardy Region, the IVOL regional card, which allows them to travel at a discounted price
    • Buy the ticket on board without going through control checks
    • Access the train with CartaBlu (free card for disabled passengers that live in Italy)

    To request special assistance, passengers will need to call the toll-free number 800210955 (active every day from 8.15 am to 7:45 pm) at least 48 hours before departure.

    LuggageLuggageWhat baggage limits are there?
    • You can take your bags on board Trenitalia's Eurocity trains free of charge.
    • In most cases, there are no baggage size limits – you can even travel with musical instruments and sports equipment. You’ll just need to make sure that your baggage is compatible with the space available on board.
    RestaurantRestaurantWhat food and drink is available?
    • You’ll find a Bar-Bistrò on Eurocity trains that are travelling between Italy, Switzerland and Germany.
    • A minibar trolley service is also available – you can choose from a wide range of snacks and drinks.
    WiFiWiFiWhat onboard entertainment is available?

    Free WiFi is available on Eurocity Giruno trains.

    ChildPassengerChildPassengerWhat facilities are there for travel with children?

    Kids under 4 can travel for free if they're accompanied by an adult and don't occupy a seat.

    ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeCan I bring a bike on board?

    Not all Eurocity trains allow you to take your bike on board – you’ll need to check in advance if you can travel with your bike. If that’s the case, you’ll need to buy a ticket and book your bike space before departure at the ticket office.

    PetPetCan I bring pets on board?

    Guide and assistance dogs can travel for free and don't need a ticket.

    WheelchairWheelchairWhat special assistance is available?

    All of Trenitalia’s Eurocity trains offer dedicated spaces to passengers with disabilities.

    InfoInfoWhat else do I need to know?

    A quiet area (or Area Silenzio) is available on all Eurocity Giruno trains.

    How do I find cheap train tickets from Cologne to Aachen?

    If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

    1. Book in advance

    The price of train tickets from Cologne to Aachen starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

    2. Be flexible with your travel times

    If you can, consider traveling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as lots of trains companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

    3. Buy a rail pass

    If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Eurail Passes that are valid for travel in one country or multiple countries across Europe.

    4. Choose a slower or connecting train

    On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

    5. Look out for train ticket sales and deals

    Many train companies in Europe will often run sales and offers on tickets throughout the year, so keep an eye out!

    For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

    §Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

    * Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

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