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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Cologne to Amsterdam. The train trip from Cologne to Amsterdam is usually about 4 hours and 58 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest FlixTrain train can get you there in as little as 3 hours and 45 minutes.
| Distance | 133 mi (214 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 45m |
| Lowest price | $17.09 |
| Most frequent service | FlixTrain |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Cologne to Amsterdam?
The average price for a train ticket from Cologne to Amsterdam is $19.23, This is one of the best deals we’ve seen for train fares recently. By booking your trip at least 19 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay $18.55 more.
Monthly average prices
Which train should you take from Cologne to Amsterdam?
FlixTrain is the one and only train line which connects Cologne to Amsterdam. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 2 | 4h 59m | $30.03 |
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 2 daily trips to Amsterdam from Cologne. The train usually departs from Cologne Central Station in Cologne and arrives at PiarcoPlein 1 in Amsterdam after about 4 hours and 59 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
The distance between Cologne and Amsterdam is approximately 133 miles, or 214 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 4 hours and 58 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 45 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 Amsterdam are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 7:00am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Cologne twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you change trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Amsterdam 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.
Amsterdam
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
The Dutch capital of Amsterdam is one of Europe's most eclectic cities with so much to explore. As a hub of culture, history, and architecture, as well as sex, drugs, and all things rock and roll, no amount of time in this vibrant city will ever be enough. Of course, this makes it one of the best cities to visit after graduation.
To learn about one of the most significant parts of modern history, visit the Anne Frank House, a humbling testament to this remarkable girl's unwavering optimism and resilience during the horrors of World War II. The Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are also well worth a visit to discover artworks by Dutch masters.
For a look into contemporary life in Amsterdam, visit De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets), a micro-neighborhood brimming with independent shops, artisan food eateries, and cozy cafes where you can experience an authentic Dutch Coffeeshop. Taking an iconic canal tour is another must, allowing you to experience the city while relaxing on the water. Since Amsterdam is known for its cycling culture, bring your bike or rent one during your stay to get around the city as the locals do.
Travel to Amsterdam is easy, with its connections to the rest of Europe via a vast network of motorways, utilized by FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus services. Amsterdam’s many connections are why it’s the starting point for our budget tour of the Netherlands. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is also a major international travel hub, and the Central Station is one of the largest rail terminals in Europe.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Cologne?
Main departure station: Cologne Central Station
There are two stations in Cologne where you can board the train to Amsterdam.
All train stations in Cologne:
Cologne Central Station
Cologne Messe Deutz Station - FlixTrain
Where is the train station in Amsterdam?
Image credit: Alfenaar
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: PiarcoPlein 1
The Piarco Plein bus station in Amsterdam is in the northeast of the city, just off A10 and next to local transit lines. It's most frequently used by FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus, which then continue on routes to cities like Antwerp. You can also find more connections, by train or bus, at Amsterdam Centraal with a quick trip on a local trolley. While Piarco Plein doesn't offer many amenities, there is a Starbucks, Holiday Inn, and various restaurants within easy walking distance. There's also a good amount of parking at the station if you have your own vehicle.
All train stations in Amsterdam:
PiarcoPlein 1
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