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Trains from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Köln Hbf to Heilbronn

About the train journey from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn

Want to travel from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn usually takes 3 hours 22 minutes on average to travel 158 miles (255 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 2 hours 55 minutes. You can expect to find 29 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Köln Hbf and Heilbronn, you’ll need to make 1 change on your way to Heilbronn. DB are the main train operator on this route and will whisk you to Heilbronn in no time.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn 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 Heilbronn, 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.

Trains to Heilbronn from Köln Hbf

First train

03:21

Last train

23:42

Departure stationKöln Hbf
Arrival stationHeilbronn
Journey time

From 2h 55m

Distance

158 miles (255 km)

Frequency

29 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Deutsche Bahn

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn?

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

How do you travel to Heilbronn from Köln Hbf?

To get to Heilbronn from Köln Hbf, why not take the train? With 29 trains per day and an average journey time of 3 hours and 22 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 Köln Hbf to Heilbronn by train?

On average, it takes around 3 hours and 22 minutes to travel from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn by train, although you can get there in 2 hours and 55 minutes on the fastest services. With 29 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 Köln Hbf to Heilbronn?

The fastest time a train can travel the 158 miles (255 km) from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn is 2 hours and 55 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn?

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

What are the train times from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn?

Check out the next trains departing from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn for Tuesday 17th February 2026. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
08:5411:512h 57m, 1 change
09:5412:492h 55m, 1 change
10:2813:262h 58m, 1 change
10:5413:512h 57m, 1 change
11:5414:492h 55m, 1 change
12:2115:263h 5m, 1 change
12:5415:512h 57m, 1 change
13:5416:492h 55m, 1 change
14:2117:162h 55m, 1 change
14:5417:512h 57m, 1 change

Deutsche Bahn trains from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn

You can travel from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn on Deutsche Bahn 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.

Photo: JoachimKohlerBremen, 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.

More information

How do I find cheap train tickets from Köln Hbf to Heilbronn?

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 Köln Hbf to Heilbronn 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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