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Trip Summary
There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Cologne to Marseille. Traveling by train from Cologne to Marseille usually takes 31 hours and 49 minutes, but the fastest FlixTrain train can make the trip in 24 hours and 7 minutes.
| Distance | 533 mi (858 km) |
| Fastest train | 24h 7m |
| Lowest price | $50.89 |
| Most frequent service | FlixTrain |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Cologne to Marseille?
FlixTrain is the one and only train line which connects Cologne to Marseille. However, there are 4 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 4 | 1d 7h 50m | $126.62 |
Part of the FlixBus family, FlixTrain launched in 2018 to offer affordable and sustainable train travel in Germany. Its trains provide Wi-Fi, power outlets, air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and access to an entertainment portal full of movies, games, and music. In addition, each passenger gets a guaranteed seat, so you don't have to worry about standing in any aisles. FlixTrain operates 4 daily trips to Marseille from Cologne. The train usually departs from Cologne Central Station in Cologne and arrives at Arenc in Marseille after about 31 hours and 50 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Cologne and Marseille is approximately 533 miles, or 858 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 31 hours and 49 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 24 hours and 7 minutes.
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Trains from Cologne to Marseille are the most crowded on Saturday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Cologne at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Marseille to Cologne.
City Information
Cologne
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Pixabay
There's no shortage of sights, culture, history, and adventure in Cologne, an alluring city on the Rhine. One of the most famous landmarks of the city is the Cologne Cathedral. This Gothic building and UNESCO World Heritage site remains the most iconic structure in the city. In fact, the Cologne Cathedral is the most visited landmark in Germany. Next door, the Museum Ludwig contrasts the cathedral's sense of history with an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol.
Cologne's breadth of museums also caters to a younger crowd. Families with children should head to the Cologne Chocolate Museum along the river or the Cologne Zoological Garden for memorable, kid-friendly experiences.
Foodies, rejoice! Cologne is home to mouthwatering German delicacies and upscale restaurants. Start your day with breakfast at Café Sehnsucht. For lunch, visit Herings Im Martinswinkel, and for dinner, head over to Bei Oma Kleinmann to feel like you're visiting your long-lost German grandmother.
Trains like Deutsche Bahn, DB Intercity, and FlixTrain connect Cologne to other major European cities, including Munich, Paris, and Vienna. You can also catch a bus from Cologne on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Sindbad, Union Ivkoni, or Columbuzz. Plus, the Cologne Bonn Airport is a large, well-outfitted airport with daily international flights for travelers coming from afar.
Marseille
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Marseille is the oldest city in France and the second-largest city after Paris. Although this ancient port town may seem lacking glamour and sophistication, Marseille makes up for this through its cultural depth and rich history.
One of the most popular attractions in Marseille is the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde. This 19th-century cathedral sits on a hill overlooking the city and can be reached either by regular buses or on foot. If you make the climb, your rewards will be impressive views of Marseille and an awe-inspiring mosaic interior. Thanks to a recent cultural renaissance, Marseille is also home to many new museums and galleries. The Musée d'Histoire de Marseille guides you through the city's rich maritime history and includes exhibitions on the cathedral's construction. The Mucem, or Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, is an award-winning modern institution devoted to regional history.
After a day of exploring the city, spend a relaxing evening on one of the nearby picturesque Mediterranean beaches, or wander through the Vieux Port for exceptional photo opportunities and authentic local seafood restaurants.
Marseille is easily accessible via plane, train, bus, or sea. Marseille-Provence International Airport is only 30km from the city, with many shuttle services offering direct transfer. TGV services connect Marseille by rail to cities across the country and to Spain, as well. Eurolines and other buses cover routes from Marseille to Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Genoa, and more.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Cologne?
Main departure station: Cologne Central Station
There is one train station in Cologne.
All train stations in Cologne:
Cologne Central Station
Where is the train station in Marseille?
Image credit: Fred Romero
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Arenc
Marseille receives travelers from Cologne at its two active train stations.
All train stations in Marseille:
Arenc
Marseille (Saint-Antoine)
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Need a return trip from Marseille to Cologne?
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