Cologne to Düsseldorf by train
| Journey time | From 11h 29m |
|---|---|
| Price | $68.73 - $384.12 |
| Distance | 416 miles (669 km) |
| Frequency | 17 trains per day |
| Departure station | Cologne |
| Arrival station | Düsseldorf |
| Changes | 2 changes |
| Train and bus operators | DB, Meridian, ÖBB, |
Frecciarossa, Italo, Trenitalia and Thello trains from Cologne to Düsseldorf
Frecciarossa
Italo
Trenitalia
Thello
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 welcome snacks served on arrival, as well as a morning newspaper), Business (with drinks and snacks, morning newspaper and larger seats) and Executive (with Fast Track, access to FrecciaClub lounges in train selected stations, and gourmet meals served to your seat).
Italo is a high-speed train operator that runs services between many of the major cities across Italy. All Italo trains are modern, air conditioned, and have free WiFi available for all travellers. There are four comfort classes, or "ambiances", as Italo like to call them – Smart (the cheapest price), Comfort (with wider seats and extra legroom), Prima (with a welcome selection of food and drink, fast track boarding and extra space), and Executive Club (with all Prima services, extra-wide seats, access to Italo Club lounges and personal entertainment screens at your seat).
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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.
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Thello, part of the Trenitalia Group, is an international railway service that connects France and Italy. Thello trains provide direct connections between Paris and Venice via Dijon, and Marseille and Milan via Nice. Trains between Paris and Venice are night/sleeper trains with three service levels. Choose either Standard shared berth compartments (4-6 berth), a standard bed cabin (1-3 people) which includes a welcome drink, breakfast, bed furnishings and a toiletry set, or treat yourself to a premium cabin (1-2 people) which feature a private bathroom with sink, shower and WC. Trains between Marseille and Milan offer Standard Class seating, as well as First Class, which has wider reclining seats for extra comfort.
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Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Düsseldorf
- lowest price found‡
- from$68.73
- 4 weeksin advance‡
- avg. single price$183.56
- 2 weeksin advance‡
- avg. single price$188.85
- on the day‡
- avg. single price$267.31
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Cologne to Düsseldorf by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guide to check when European train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
FAQs for Cologne to Düsseldorf
How long does the train from Cologne to Düsseldorf take?
The average journey time by train between Cologne and Düsseldorf is 13 hours and 45 minutes, with around 17 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Cologne and Düsseldorf by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Cologne to Düsseldorf is 11 hours and 29 minutes.
How much does the train from Cologne to Düsseldorf cost?
Train tickets from Cologne to Düsseldorf can start from as little as $68.73 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Cologne to Düsseldorf?
No, there are no direct train services from Cologne to Düsseldorf. Travelling from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.
What time does the first train from Cologne to Düsseldorf leave?
The first train from Cologne to Düsseldorf leaves at 05:20. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Cologne to Düsseldorf leave?
The last train from Cologne to Düsseldorf leaves at 21:40. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Cologne and Düsseldorf by train?
Trains travelling from Cologne to Düsseldorf cover a distance of around 416 miles (669 km) during the journey.
