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Take the train from Köln Hbf to Jena in 4 hours 25 minutes
If you want to travel from Köln Hbf to Jena by train, you've come to the right place.
You can expect the journey from Köln Hbf to Jena by train to take around 5 hours 15 minutes. If you want to get there as quickly as possible, it can take as little as 4 hours 25 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll usually find around 21 trains per day running on this route, which spans 201 miles (324 km). There’s no need for any changes along the way, as there are direct trains available to Jena. DB trains are the main operator of services on this route, so you're likely to travel with them for all or at least part of your journey to Jena.
You can save money on train tickets from Köln Hbf to Jena if you book in Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to search for cheap ticket prices – we'll show you how much you can save on train tickets from Köln Hbf to Jena if you book in advance.. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.
If you want to know more about the journey, keep reading for timetables, tips on finding cheap tickets and FAQs, including first and last train times. Want to go straight to booking? Start a search with us today!
Deutsche Bahn and IC (Intercity) trains from Köln Hbf to Jena
Deutsche Bahn
IC (Intercity)
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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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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Intercity (IC) classes from Köln Hbf to Jena
Compare the different travel classes offered by Intercity (IC) when travelling from Köln Hbf to Jena.
Second Class
Enjoy comfy seats with power sockets, fold-down tables and free WiFi in Second Class. Some IC trains are double decker trains (IC2) too.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track
- Quiet area
First Class
Upgrade to First Class and you'll get to enjoy Fast Track in some German stations and free access to DB lounges.
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Air-conditioning
- Luggage storage
- Seat reservation
- Lounge access
- Fast track
- Quiet area
Onboard services on Intercity (IC)
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Köln Hbf to Jena.
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.
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.
Currently, free WiFi is available on certain IC trains. Deutsche Bahn are gradually installing free WiFi on all their IC trains.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cheap train tickets from Köln Hbf to Jena
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 Köln Hbf to Jena 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 Köln Hbf to Jena? 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 Köln Hbf to Jena take?
The average journey time by train between Köln Hbf and Jena is 5 hours and 15 minutes, with around 21 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 Köln Hbf and Jena by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Köln Hbf to Jena is 4 hours and 25 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Köln Hbf to Jena?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Köln Hbf to Jena without having to change trains. There are 2 direct trains from Köln Hbf to Jena each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Köln Hbf to Jena leave?
The first train from Köln Hbf to Jena leaves at 04:20. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Köln Hbf to Jena leave?
The last train from Köln Hbf to Jena leaves at 23:42. 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 Köln Hbf and Jena by train?
Trains travelling from Köln Hbf to Jena cover a distance of around 201 miles (324 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Jena to Köln Hbf.