Trains from Dortmund to Cologne
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About the train journey from Dortmund to Cologne
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The train from Dortmund to Cologne usually takes 14 hours 25 minutes on average to travel 685 km, although the quickest services can take as little as 11 hours 23 minutes. You can expect to find 22 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren't any direct services running between Dortmund and Cologne, you'll need to make 2 changes on your way to Cologne. You can choose to travel with Frecciarossa, Frecciargento or ICE to get to Cologne. 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 Dortmund to Cologne in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save, as advance tickets start from $66.12.
Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Cologne, 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.
Dortmund to Cologne by train
It takes an average of 14h 25m to travel from Dortmund to Cologne by train, over a distance of around 426 miles (685 km). There are normally 22 trains per day traveling from Dortmund to Cologne and tickets for this journey start from $66.12 when you book in advance.
| First train | 04:01 |
|---|---|
| Last train | 22:26 |
| Departure station | Dortmund |
| Arrival station | Cologne |
| Journey time | 11h 23m |
| Distance | 685 miles (426 km) |
| Frequency | 22 trains per day |
| Changes | 2 changes |
| Price | From $66.12 |
| Train and bus operators | Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia, Trenord, SBB CFF FFS, ÖBB, Italo, WestfalenBahn |
Deutsche Bahn, ICE (Intercity Express), IC (Intercity) and EC (Eurocity) trains from Dortmund to Cologne
Deutsche Bahn
ICE (Intercity Express)
IC (Intercity)
EC (Eurocity)
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.
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The high-speed train of Deutsche Bahn, with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), the ICE connects major cities and is also used for international travel to neighbouring countries such as Austria, France and Denmark. This train is equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment and power sockets. Passengers enjoy a free WiFi connection throughout the duration of the ICE trip.
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An express train running on German domestic routes, the Intercity is a little slower than the ICE and is also used for long distance trips. The integrated circuit covers long distances with a maximum speed of 125 mph (200 km/h). In recent years, trains of the new generation "Intercity 2" run on some lines at 100 mph (160 km/h) only – these trains, however, offer extra legroom and extra space for toddlers. They are also equipped with air conditioning, a food carriage and wheelchair parking spaces.
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EuroCity (EC) trains offer convenient European cross-border connections between major cities in Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria – it's often a good alternative to air travel.
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- Eurocity /
- Trenitalia /
- Deutsche Bahn /
- SBB /
- ÖBB
Cheap train tickets from Dortmund to Cologne
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 Dortmund to Cologne 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 guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train 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 Dortmund to Cologne
How long does the train from Dortmund to Cologne take?
The average journey time by train between Dortmund and Cologne is 14 hours and 25 minutes, with around 22 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 Dortmund and Cologne by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Dortmund to Cologne is 11 hours and 23 minutes.
How much does the train from Dortmund to Cologne cost?
Train tickets from Dortmund to Cologne can start from as little as $66.12 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 Dortmund to Cologne?
No, there are no direct train services from Dortmund to Cologne. Travelling from Dortmund to Cologne by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.
What time does the first train from Dortmund to Cologne leave?
The first train from Dortmund to Cologne leaves at 04:01. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Dortmund to Cologne leave?
The last train from Dortmund to Cologne leaves at 22:26. 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 Dortmund and Cologne by train?
Trains travelling from Dortmund to Cologne cover a distance of around 426 miles (685 km) during the journey.