Escape to the snowy-side in style. Book a Swiss adventure today! Tell me more

Business

No tickets in your cart.

Why not plan a trip?

My Bookings
Loading...
Loading...

TrainlineTrainline is Europe’s Nº 1 destination for train and bus tickets*

Official distributor

  • sncf
  • trenitalia
  • ouigo
  • eurostar
  • italo
  • renfe
  • tgv_lyria
  • db
  • blablacar_bus
Support image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

Say hello to Your Account

All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.

ChatChat

Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.

Companion image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

No more fumbling in your pockets

Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.

ETicketETicket

All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.

Calendar week image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

Looking for a cheap price?

Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.

CalendarCalendar

We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.

Support image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

Say hello to Your Account

All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.

ChatChat

Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.

Companion image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

No more fumbling in your pockets

Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.

ETicketETicket

All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.

Calendar week image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

Looking for a cheap price?

Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.

CalendarCalendar

We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.

Support image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

Say hello to Your Account

All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.

ChatChat

Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.

Companion image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

No more fumbling in your pockets

Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.

ETicketETicket

All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.

Calendar week image
TrainlineTrainline

Search. Book. Travel.

Looking for a cheap price?

Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.

CalendarCalendar

We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.

What customers say about Trainline

Read real reviews from real users

Taking the train from Paris to Cologne (Germany) in 3 hours 20 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Paris to Cologne (Germany)? We've got you covered.

It usually takes around 4 hours 24 minutes to travel the 404 km from Paris to Cologne (Germany) by train, although you can get there in as little as 3 hours 20 minutes on the fastest services. You'll normally find around 16 trains per day running on this route. You won't need to worry about making any changes along the way either as direct trains are available. You can travel on this route with either Eurostar, Thalys or SNCF. As the main train operators on this route, all offer comfortable seating and plenty of space for luggage as standard.

Train tickets from Paris to Cologne (Germany) start from $35.03 when you book in advance, which can be cheaper than 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 schedule below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.

Paris to Cologne (Germany) by train

It takes an average of 4h 24m to travel from Paris to Cologne (Germany) by train, over a distance of around 251 miles (404 km). There are normally 16 trains per day traveling from Paris to Cologne (Germany) and tickets for this journey start from $35.03 when you book in advance.

First train

6:22 am

Last train

8:25 pm

Departure station

Paris

Arrival station

Cologne (Germany)

Journey time

From 3h 20m

Distance

251 miles (404 km)

Frequency

16 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Price

From $35.03

Train and bus operators

BlaBlaCar Bus, Flixbus, SNCF, ÖBB, Eurostar

FAQs about the train journey from Paris to Cologne (Germany)

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

How do I get from Paris to Cologne (Germany)?

You can travel from Paris to Cologne (Germany) by train in about 4 hours and 24 minutes. With around 16 trains available on this route each day, taking the train is easy. Find out more about times, tickets and prices using our Journey Planner.

How long is the train trip from Paris to Cologne (Germany)?

On average, the train trip from Paris to Cologne (Germany) takes around 4 hours and 24 minutes, with 16 trains per day. The duration may vary slightly depending on the specific train and any potential delays. Use our Journey Planner to check out more information.

How much is the train from Paris to Cologne (Germany)?

Train tickets from Paris to Cologne (Germany) start from as little as $35.03, depending on the time of booking, class of service and type of train. Booking in advance often results in better prices.

Can you take a high-speed train from Paris to Cologne (Germany)?

Yes, you can travel on a high-speed train between Paris and Cologne (Germany). The fastest journeys can take 3 hours and 20 minutes on Eurostar trains. High-speed trains often offer more comfort, different classes and services on board: check out the classes and onboard services available!

Paris to Cologne (Germany) train times

Check out the next trains departing from Paris to Cologne (Germany) for Tuesday Dec 31st 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
8:55 am12:15 pm3h 20m, direct
9:25 am1:15 pm3h 50m, 1 change
10:55 am2:15 pm3h 20m, direct
11:54 am3:15 pm3h 21m, 1 change
12:10 pm5:05 pm4h 55m, 1 change
1:22 pm5:15 pm3h 53m, 1 change
2:55 pm6:15 pm3h 20m, direct
3:55 pm7:15 pm3h 20m, 1 change
4:25 pm9:36 pm5h 11m, 3 changes
4:54 pm10:06 pm5h 12m, 1 change

SNCF, Eurostar and ÖBB trains from Paris to Cologne (Germany)

You can travel from Paris to Cologne (Germany) on SNCF, Eurostar and ÖBB 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.

PhotoCtruongngoc, under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).

PhotoSmiley.toerist, under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Eurostar is the exclusive high-speed train service that links London to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and the rest of Europe at speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All Eurostar trains have modern, comfortable facilities, plenty of room for baggage, and onboard food and beverage car. There are three comfort classes on offer – Standard, Standard Premier (equivalent to Premium Economy, with light refreshments served), and Business Premier (equivalent to First or Business Class, with flexible travel options, priority boarding, lounge access and delicious food and drink included). On October 1, 2023, Eurostar and Thalys joined forces and are now united under the Eurostar name. Eurostar now runs trains on more routes between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. These trains, with their distinctive red color scheme, have three classes: Standard, Comfort and Premium (equivalent to First Class, with lounge access included).

ÖBB is the major railway company for Austria, subdivided into several subsidiaries, responsible for certain areas of transport, such as long distance and local transport, the operation of postal buses and the transport of goods. Railjet is ÖBB's high-speed train, which travels at speeds of up to 143 mph (230 km/h) and connects the main Austrian cities with Germany, Hungary, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Italy.

Eurostar classes from Paris to Cologne (Germany)

Compare the different travel classes offered by Eurostar when traveling from Paris to Cologne (Germany).

Onboard services on Eurostar

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Paris to Cologne (Germany).

LuggageLuggageBaggage

Although there's no weight limit for your baggage on Eurostar trains, you must be able to carry your bags safely by yourself.

Each bag must be clearly labeled and must be no longer than 33.4 inches (for trains to and from the United Kingdom) or no larger than 29.5 x 20.8 x 11.8 inches (for trains in Europe).

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

Are you traveling to or from the United Kingdom? In Eurostar Standard, choose from a wide selection of drinks and snacks at the Eurostar Café, the onboard bar car in the middle of the train. Cards and cash (Euros or pounds) are accepted. If you're traveling in Eurostar Plus, a light meal and a drink will be served at your seat.
Travel in Eurostar Premier and you'll be treated to a gourmet meal, as well as a continuous drinks service throughout your journey.

For all other Eurostar trains (red trains, formerly Thalys), head to the bar car and choose from a wide range of hot and cold drinks as well as savory and sweet snacks.
In Eurostar Premier on European routes, you'll get a free meal served directly to your seat.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

Eurostar doesn't have an onboard entertainment portal. However, there is free WiFi available, as well as UK and EU power outlets at your seat so you can charge your devices while traveling.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children
  • Kids of all ages need their passport to travel with Eurostar.
  • Children under 4 can travel free on Eurostar trains, as long as they're sitting on an accompanying adult's lap. Alternatively, you can book them their own seat with a child ticket.
  • If you're alone with kids, you can pre-book assistance so that a member of Eurostar staff can help you during your journey.
  • Kids under 12 must travel with someone over 16, while those aged 12-15 can travel alone if they have an unaccompanied minor form (excluding direct trains to/from the Netherlands).
  • 16 to 17-year-olds can travel alone if they meet all legal requirements.
  • You'll find changing tables on all Eurostar trains, as well as family-oriented seating (4 seats facing one another) where available.
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

Generally, Eurostar trains running to and from the United Kingdom can't transport fully assembled bikes - though on certain trains between London and Brussels, you may be able to book a bike space by contacting Eurostar. You can, however, take a foldable bike on board Eurostar trains to and from the UK provided that it's no more than 33.4 inches long and it fits in a protective bag that covers the whole bicycle. Folded bikes are treated as standard baggage.

For all other Eurostar trains in Europe, a limited number of non-foldable bikes can be brought on board, provided that the wheels are taken off and the whole bicycle is stored in a suitable cover (max. size 53.1 x 33.4 x 11.8 inches). Foldable bicycles are also permitted and count towards standard baggage limits.

PetPetPets

The rules around traveling with your pets depend on whether you're traveling across the Channel or not, so check before you travel:

Eurostar trains to and from the United Kingdom:

  • Pets are not permitted on board.
  • Guide dogs and assistance dogs can travel, but they must be accompanied by their owner. You must also reserve a ticket for your assistance dog at least 48 hours before travel, by filling out Eurostar's contact form.

Trains in the rest of Europe:

  • Small dogs and other pets weighing less than 13 lbs (6 kg) can travel for free. They must travel in a cage or carrier (max. dimensions 17.7 x 11.8 x 9.8 inches).
  • If your dog is larger than this, you must buy them a dog ticket (generally the price is fixed at €30, around $32), and the dog must travel on your lap or on the ground, on a lead and with a muzzle.
  • Guide dogs and assistance dogs, whatever their size, travel for free.
WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

If you need help getting on or off the train, you should contact Eurostar directly before your trip. To use Eurostar's special assistance program, fill in this contact form at least 48 hours before your journey so that the team can help you.

If you're traveling on trains to/from the United Kingdom:

  • Arrive at least one hour before your train's scheduled departure time, then head to the Eurostar Assist desk or ask a member of staff.
  • If you have a wheelchair, you must reserve a wheelchair space in either Eurostar Plus or Eurostar Premier - you'll only pay for a Eurostar Standard ticket. Someone can travel with you at a discounted rate.

If you're traveling on red trains in the rest of Europe:

  • Wheelchair users travel in Eurostar Premier on routes in Europe.
  • Wheelchairs can be transported as long as they're no bigger than 27.5 inches long and 47.2 inches high. The wheelchair's turning circle must be no larger than 59 inches in diameter. The combined weight of the wheelchair, passenger and any baggage must not exceed 661 lbs (300 kg).
  • Please note that combustion engine-powered wheelchairs are not permitted on board. However, electric wheelchairs are allowed.
InfoInfoOther

Specific restrictions for trains to/from the United Kingdom:

Liquids:

  • There's no restriction on liquids. However, there are restrictions on alcohol: you can take 4 bottles/cans of beer or 1 bottle of wine per person to enjoy on the journey; large bottles of spirits are not permitted. If you're traveling with large quantities of alcohol, you should contact a courier service.

 

Sports equipment:

  • You can travel with a golf bag as long as it's no larger than 47.2 x 13.7 x 13.7 inches.
  • You can bring tents or other shelters if they're stored in bags or cases less than 33.4 inches long.
  • Camping gas or butane bottles are not permitted on board.
  • Camping utensils or tools such as pocket knives and Swiss army knives are permitted provided the blades are less than 3 inches long. Folding knives where the blade locks into place are prohibited.
  • You can bring bats, snooker or pool cues and darts on board if they're stored in a protective case.

Cheap train tickets from Paris to Cologne (Germany)

The price of train tickets from Paris to Cologne (Germany) starts at $35.03 one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

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 Paris to Cologne (Germany) 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.

§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.

* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

Europe’s leading train and coach app

We help customers across Europe make more than 172,000 smarter journeys every day.