To Cologne by train
With ICE
Quickly to the city center
- From € 20 one-way trip with ICE
- Travel time Amsterdam – Cologne 2.37 hrs
- Board directly, no check-ins
The earlier you book, the lower the price. The lowest fare from Amsterdam to Cologne is € 20 . If the € 20 tickets have run out on a particular time and day, the price will increase to between € 25 and € 72. You pay extra if you want a flexible ticket.
Cologne is known for the imposing Kölner Dom, which dominates the cityscape. This city on the Rhine combines rich history with a lively art and culture scene. Its numerous museums and galleries, cosy beer gardens and annual carnival make Cologne a versatile destination.
Travel information train to Cologne
With the international train ICE you can travel from Amsterdam Central Station directly to Cologne. Now that's relaxing!
Cologne has something for everyone: a rich history, excellent restaurants, medieval architecture, and charming shops. The Cathedral is the most famous landmark, but not the only one! The city is adorned with parks, lively pubs, botanical gardens, museums, and a zoo. In February, the largest carnival parade in Europe is organised for the enthusiast. Time for a Kölsch beer!
Travel times to Cologne by train
Prices to Cologne with ICE
ICE offers different fare types for your journey. You can choose the Flexpreis (Plus), Sparpreis or Supersparpreis Europa rate. Each rate has its own conditions.
The price depends on
- The moment of booking - Early booking means lowest prices
- Travel class - 1st or 2nd class
- Flexibility - Regarding changing or cancelling bookings
Options flexibility ICE
Supersparpreis Europa
- Always the most affordable tickets
- Available to book up to and including the day of travel, subject to availability
- Changes and cancellations not possible
Sparpreis Europa
- Affordable tickets
- Available to book up to and including the day of travel, subject to availability
- Changes and cancellations possible at a cost
Flexpreis Europa
- Available to book up to and including the day of travel
- Free to change up to and including the day of travel (except for reservation costs)
- Includes City-Ticket
*With a City-Ticket, travel free by bus, metro and tram on your day of arrival and departure in over 140 German cities. Included with Flexpreis, available at extra cost with Sparpreis and Supersparpreis.
View the full fare information for ICE
Cheap train tickets to Cologne
The cheapest way to travel by train is to book early. Do you already know when you want to go? Then choose the Supersparpreis Europa fare. This is the most affordable fare, but it is tied to a fixed date, time and train. Changes or cancellations are not possible.
Tips for buying budget train tickets
- Book as early as possibly to have the most chance of getting the cheapest tickets.
- Travelling in the evening is often cheaper.
- For a weekend getaway, travel Sat-Sun-Mon instead of Fri-Sat-Sun.
- Book online to avoid booking fee.
Practical information
To make your train journey as smooth as possible, we have put together the most important practical information for you.
Facilities on board
ICE offers a comfortable travel experience with spacious seating, power sockets and Wi-Fi on board. In 1st class, you enjoy extra space and service. Your city break has already begun before you even arrive.
Read all about the facilities and practical details of ICE
Check the journey planner and app
Always check your journey in the journey planner beforehand. This keeps you informed of any delays or engineering works. Download the NS International App too for up-to-date travel information on the go.
Free access to the lounges
ITravelling in 1st class? You can relax comfortably before your train journey to Düsseldorf in the NS International Lounge in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, with a complimentary drink. You also have access to the 1st class lounge of Deutsche Bahn, where you can enjoy a free snack and drink (excluding the Supersparpreis rate (Europe) and the Sparpreis Europe rate).
Seat reservation
In the summer of 2026 (26 June to 31 August), a seat reservation for international trains is compulsory. Outside this period, reserving a seat is not required, but it is recommended. After booking, you will receive a confirmation with your carriage and seat number. Want to make sure you have a seat? Reserve online.
1st class reservation
When booking a 1st class full-flex ticket, the cost of the seat reservation is included in the price. You can often also indicate a seating preference when booking.
Cologne
Tips Cologne
Hip & happening: this versatile city on the Rhine is surprisingly close!
Train and hotel Cologne
Here you'll find one of the largest art collections in the country, world-famous street art and the best shops and bistros. ICE will get you there in no time!
City trip Cologne
Cologne has everything for a perfect city break: art and the best shops and restaurants.
Walking tours Cologne
We have listed the most remarkable city walks in Cologne for you.
Hotels in Cologne
Going to Cologne for the weekend? Read our tips for the best hotels.
Restaurants in Cologne
Where do you go to get the best coffee, the most delicious lunches, the tastiest dinners and the freshest beers?
Shopping in Cologne
There’s no shortage of choice. We present the best neighbourhoods, shopping streets and malls for shopping in Cologne.
10 museums in Cologne
Which museum in Cologne should you not miss? Here are 10.
Book hotel Cologne on Booking.com
Zoo in Cologne
Read why Kölner Zoo is so special.
Other destinations in Germany
