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Taking the train from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) in 2 hours 58 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany)? We’ve got you covered.

It usually takes around 3 hours 18 minutes to travel the 159 miles (256 km) from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) by train, although you can get there in as little as 2 hours 58 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 25 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 1 change along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line.

Train tickets from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.

Keen to book your train tickets to Cologne (Germany)? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.

Trains to Cologne (Germany) from Heilbronn Hbf

First train

04:55

Last train

23:57

Departure stationHeilbronn Hbf
Arrival stationCologne (Germany)
Journey time

From 2h 58m

Distance

159 miles (256 km)

Frequency

25 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany)?

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

How do you travel to Cologne (Germany) from Heilbronn Hbf?

To get to Cologne (Germany) from Heilbronn Hbf, why not take the train? With 25 trains per day and an average journey time of 3 hours and 18 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) by train?

On average, it takes around 3 hours and 18 minutes to travel from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) by train, although you can get there in 2 hours and 58 minutes on the fastest services. With 25 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany)?

The fastest time a train can travel the 159 miles (256 km) from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) is 2 hours and 58 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany)?

There are no direct trains that run between Heilbronn Hbf and Cologne (Germany). You’ll need to make at least 1 change along the way.

What are the train times from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany)?

Check out the next trains departing from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) for Tuesday 28th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
09:3012:333h 3m, 2 changes
10:0613:052h 59m, 1 change
11:0614:052h 59m, 1 change
11:3014:333h 3m, 2 changes
12:0615:052h 59m, 1 change
13:0616:052h 59m, 1 change
13:3016:333h 3m, 2 changes
14:0417:053h 1m, 1 change
15:0718:052h 58m, 1 change
15:3018:333h 3m, 2 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany)?

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 Heilbronn Hbf to Cologne (Germany) 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 travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train 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 Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within 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 discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

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.

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