Cologne to Frankfurt am Main by train

Compare prices, times and book fast direct trains

Overview: trains from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main

Find the key information for travelling by train from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main, including journey times, fares and operators serving the route. Compare your options and plan the journey that works for you with Rail Europe.

First train 00:28 View journey
Last train 23:57 View journey
Avg changes 0
Fastest journey 1hr 2m View journey
Distance (km) 152
Trains / day 65 View all
Cheapest journey US$8.50 View journey
Avg journey time 1hr 33m
Train operators 14

Travelling from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main by train

Considering a train trip from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main? This guide will walk you through everything — from the best routes to finding the cheapest train tickets — so you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey.

Cost of a train ticket between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main

The cheapest ticket price along this route is US$8.50. Fares naturally increase as the travel date approaches. A month out, expect prices run around US$23, and a week out, fares can hit around US$39 on average. Tickets for this journey can be purchased 12 months in advance.

What’s included in the price of a European train ticket

When booking with Rail Europe, you will be prompted to choose the class of service before checking out. We will automatically select the most affordable option. Choosing a more elevated class will increase the cost, but also often includes a number of other perks like elaborate dining menus and extra space. It's good to know that many train operators do include luggage, Wi-Fi and other basic amenities at no extra cost. Seat reservations and meals often do incur a further cost. You can review the terms of service of each type of ticket at checkout.

Cologne to Frankfurt am Main daily train schedule

Whether you’re headed to Frankfurt am Main on a Tuesday or a Sunday, with 65 trains per day, you will have multiple options to choose from.

  • 01:50: departure of first train Monday-Friday

  • 23:57: departure of last train Monday-Friday

  • 00:28: departure of first train on weekends

  • 23:55: departure of last train on weekends

  • Every 8 minutes: frequency of train departures

What are the travel time and distance for trains from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main?

On this route spanning 152 kilometres in total, the fastest journey takes 1 hour and 2 minutes.

Booking time frame: Cologne to Frankfurt am Main trains

Tickets for travel to Frankfurt am Main along this route are available for purchase 12 months before the travel date. Set up a booking alert to be notified as soon as your ideal travel date goes on sale.

Making your Cologne to Frankfurt am Main travels smooth and enjoyable

Explore our wide range of help articles for a hassle-free journey and find travel ideas from our city guide: Frankfurt am Main.

FAQs about the train journey from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main

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

The train route from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main covers 152 kilometres.

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Sncf Eurostar Deutsche Bahn Trenitalia National Rail ÖBB Renfe SBB
Interrail Eurail TGV Lyria Swiss Travel System Italo Iryo Alleo OUIGO RegioJet

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Child and youth passengers

The definition of "Child" and "Youth" varies by country and operator. This is why we ask for the age of young passengers.

Sometimes children below a certain age can travel without a seat for free. If you want to guarantee a seat for child passengers, enter '6' as the age of the child.

Read more about child and youth passenger ages. See also youth discounts and railcards.