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Travelling from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf by train

Looking to travel from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf by train? You've come to the right place!

On average, it takes around 11 hours 36 minutes to travel from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf by train, the fastest services can get you there in as little as 9 hours 33 minutes though. You'll usually find 19 trains per day running along the 271 miles (436 km) route between these two destinations. You’ll need to make 3 changes during the journey to Heidelberg Hbf, as there currently aren't any direct services on this route. You'll be travelling with ICE, Trenitalia or DB on your way to Heidelberg Hbf, as these are the main rail operators on this route.

Plan your trip ahead and book your train tickets in advance if you want to snap up the cheapest fares. Just start a search in our Journey Planner to view the latest prices for trains from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf.

If you’re feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Heidelberg Hbf by train, including our timetable where you can view first and last train times.

Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf by train

First train

00:20

Last train

21:20

Departure station

Cologne

Arrival station

Heidelberg Hbf

Journey time

From 9h 33m

Distance

271 miles (436 km)

Frequency

19 trains per day

Changes

3 changes

Train and bus operators

Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia, Trenord

Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf train times

Check out the next trains departing from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf for Tuesday 30th April 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
06:40 16:34 9h 54m, 5 changes
07:40 17:45 10h 5m, 6 changes
07:40 18:48 11h 8m, 4 changes
07:40 19:54 12h 14m, 3 changes
08:40 18:45 10h 5m, 5 changes
09:40 20:49 11h 9m, 5 changes
11:40 21:49 10h 9m, 4 changes
12:40 22:50 10h 10m, 5 changes
13:40 00:04 10h 24m, 4 changes
15:40 01:17 9h 37m, 4 changes

Trenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Trenord and IC (Intercity) trains from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf

You can travel from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf on Trenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Trenord and IC (Intercity) 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.

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.

Founded by Trenitalia and FNM (Ferrovie Nord Milano), Trenord run suburban and regional trains in Lombardy and from Lombardy to Ticino, the Italian-speaking region in Switzerland. With Trenord, you can travel between Milan, Bergamo, Como, Varese, Pavia, Brescia, Chiasso, Milan Malpensa Airport and Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport in total comfort. All Trenord trains have First and Second Class and offer special discounts to travellers under 14, over 60 and groups.

PhotoFalk2, under licence CC4.0

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.

Intercity (IC), ICE, Trenord and Trenitalia Eurocity classes from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf

Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity (IC), ICE, Trenord and Trenitalia Eurocity when travelling from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf.

Onboard services on Intercity (IC), ICE, Trenord and Trenitalia Eurocity

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

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.

Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.

Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

You will find an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you opt for the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.

If you upgrade to First Class, you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.

Although the menu changes every three months, you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

Currently, free WiFi is available on certain IC trains. Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on all their IC trains.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

On IC trains, children under 5 years old travel free of charge and don’t need a ticket. Kids up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.

On board, you will find family and children areas which are bookable.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

You need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle on a IC train. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.

Bike storage spaces are usually located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.

PetPetPets

With IC, you can travel with your pet. If you have a small dog or pet, you do not need an extra ticket and they can travel for free in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not travelling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.

Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

Deutsche Bahn offer the Mobility Service, where staff will help you board, disembark or change trains. Staff will also answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.

LuggageLuggageLuggage

You can take as much luggage as you like for free without making a reservation.

Luggage items include briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags or suitcases. You can also take pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis and surfboards.

Luggage should be stored under the seat or in the overhead luggage rack. Generally, the standard dimensions of luggage racks are 70 x 50 x 30 cm. Larger items of luggage such as suitcases can be stored in the large luggage racks by the doors.

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

When travelling with ICE, you can enjoy an extensive menu in the on-board restaurant, or you can grab a snack from the bistro carriage. If you choose the latter, you can enjoy your food and drink in the bistro or take it back to your seat.

Upgrade to First Class and you will be served complimentary food and drink at your seat.

DB change their menu every three months, but you will always find a wide variety of locally sourced food and drink, including a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

If you’re travelling on a ICE train, you can connect to the free WiFi and catch up on some work or your favourite TV show.

You can also connect to the ICE portal, where you’ll find a wide range of entertainment, such as films, television, audiobooks, games, newspapers and magazines.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

On DB’s ICE trains, kids under 5 years old travel for free and don’t need a ticket. Children up to 14 years old travel for free if they are accompanied by a person who is at least 15 years old.

You can also book family areas and children compartments on all ICE trains.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

With ICE, you need a bicycle ticket and reservation to take a bicycle onboard. The reservation for your bike is included in the price.

Generally, bike storage spaces are located in second class carriages. Please note that your seat and bike storage space might be located in different carriages.

PetPetPets

You can travel with your pet on all ICE trains. You do not need an extra ticket If you have a small dog and they can travel in a transport box. If your dog or pet is bigger than the size of a house cat, you will need an additional ticket, which costs 50% less than a standard ticket. Dogs not travelling in a transport box must be on a lead and wear a muzzle.

Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not have to wear a muzzle on the train.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

DB’s Mobility Service can assist you with boarding, disembarking or changing trains. Also, staff are happy to answer any questions or assist with any queries to make your journey easier.

LuggageLuggageLuggage
  • You can take your bags on board Trenord trains free of charge, provided their dimensions do not exceed 80 x 110 x 40cm.
  • You’ll need to make sure that your luggage is compatible with the space available on board.
RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

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.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

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 sockets that are available at your seat.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children
  • Children 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.
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes
  • 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 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 coaches of some trains are only reserved for bikes of those working in the food delivery sector.
PetPetPets
  • Small pets can travel on all Trenord trains free of charge, if they’re placed in a carrier or cage of max dimensions of 70 x 30 x 50cm.
  • Bigger dogs are allowed on all trains if they have a ticket for unlimited travel for the whole day you’re travelling. They also 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 07:00 to 09:30 and from 17:30 to 19:30.
WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

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 08:15 to 19:45) at least 48 hours before departure.

LuggageLuggageLuggage
  • You can take your bags on board Trenitalia's Eurocity trains free of charge.
  • In most cases, there are no luggage size limits – you can even travel with musical instruments and sports equipment. You’ll just need to make sure that your luggage is compatible with the space available on board.
RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink
  • 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.
WiFiWiFiEntertainment

Free WiFi is available on Eurocity Giruno trains.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

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

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

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.

PetPetPets

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

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

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

InfoInfoOther

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

Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf

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 Heidelberg Hbf 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.

Journey details

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

How long does the train from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf take?

The average journey time by train between Cologne and Heidelberg Hbf is 11 hours and 36 minutes, with around 19 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 Heidelberg Hbf by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf is 9 hours and 33 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf?

No, there are no direct train services from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf. Travelling from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf by train will require a minimum of 3 changes.

What time does the first train from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf leave?

The first train from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf leaves at 00:20. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf leave?

The last train from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf leaves at 21:20. 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 Heidelberg Hbf by train?

Trains travelling from Cologne to Heidelberg Hbf cover a distance of around 271 miles (436 km) during the journey.

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