Travel Time: Amsterdam To Cologne By Train

The train journey from Amsterdam to Cologne takes between 2 hours 38 minutes and 4 hours, depending on the type of train and the number of changes. The fastest route is on the ICE International train, which takes 2 hours and 38 minutes and costs from €20 one-way. This route is jointly operated by DB (German Railways) and NS (Dutch Railways) and runs up to 6 times daily from Amsterdam Central Station to Cologne Hauptbahnhof (Hbf).

The journey from Amsterdam to Cologne by train takes between 2 hours 38 minutes and 4 hours

There are up to six daily departures of the ICE International train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Cologne Hauptbahnhof (Hbf). This modern train has a 2-2 seat configuration in second class and a five-seat family compartment with adjacent baby-changing facilities. First-class tickets include a seat reservation and feature a 1-2 seat arrangement, with some carriages offering a "quiet zone". The ICE International train also has a "Panorama lounge" at the front and rear of the train, providing a unique view of the driver's seat through a glass screen.

The second-class fare for this route starts at €20, while the first-class fare starts at €32. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the lowest fares. The train journey is a convenient option, offering centre-to-centre travel without the need for check-in or security lines.

In addition to the direct ICE International train, there are other train options that involve changes. These journeys can take up to 4 hours. The train operators for these routes include Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB, and NS.

The Amsterdam-Cologne train route offers a scenic journey through the Rhine Valley. The Cologne Hauptbahnhof station is conveniently located next to the Cologne Cathedral and is a major rail hub for travel to other German destinations and beyond.

The cheapest one-way ticket price for this route in 2nd class is €20

The cheapest ticket price is the lowest fare ever found for this journey. These prices can usually be found by searching when booking opens but they vary due to availability, which depends on factors like the day of the week or time of year.

The cheapest tickets can be found by booking your journey as far in advance as possible and by avoiding travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket price for this journey is $58 (€50).

The ICE International train from Amsterdam to Cologne has a 2-2 seat configuration in 2nd class

The ICE International train is the best way to travel between Amsterdam and Cologne. The journey takes just under three hours, and the high-speed train travels up to six times daily between the two cities. The ICE International offers centre-to-centre convenience, with no need for check-in or security lines, and passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, free WiFi, power outlets, and excellent views of the Rhine Valley.

The 2nd class on the ICE International train has a 2-2 seat configuration, with a special five-seat family compartment available. The 2nd class seats are extremely comfortable and spacious, and passengers can enjoy the convenience of power outlets and free WiFi. The ICE International also offers a Bordrestaurant carriage, serving hot meals at an additional charge.

The ICE International train is a convenient and comfortable option for travelling from Amsterdam to Cologne, with its spacious seating, modern amenities, and stunning views. The 2-2 seat configuration in 2nd class provides a pleasant and roomy travel experience for passengers.

The ICE International train offers different fare types: Supersparpreis Europa, Sparpreis Europa, and Flexpreis

First-class tickets are also available for the ICE International train. The Supersparpreis Europa fare in first class starts at €32 one-way, while the Sparpreis Europa fare starts at €39 one-way. The fully-flexible Flexpreis fare in first class starts at €139 one-way.

The ICE International train offers a comfortable and convenient journey between Amsterdam and Cologne, with a travel time of just under 3 hours. The train is equipped with power outlets and free WiFi, and there is a Bordrestaurant carriage serving hot meals at an additional charge. Both the first and second-class seats are extremely comfortable, and the train also offers a special family compartment with adjacent baby changing facilities.

The ICE International train has a Bordrestaurant carriage serving hot meals at an extra charge

Seating and Availability:

The Bordrestaurant offers more seating options compared to the BordBistro, which is the other type of service available on ICE trains. It's important to note that seating in the Bordrestaurant is intended for passengers who wish to order food and cannot simply take their meal back to their regular seat. To maximise your chances of getting a seat, it is recommended to arrive at the train station a few minutes early and locate the restaurant car's position on the platform. This information can usually be found on display boards or monitors. By waiting in the designated area, you can quickly secure a seat when the train arrives.

Making Reservations:

While it is not mandatory to make reservations for the Bordrestaurant, doing so is advised. You can make reservations online and will receive a confirmation with your carriage and seat number. If you have a first-class full-flex ticket, the seat reservation cost is included in the price of your ticket. Please note that these seats are not intended for passengers to spend the entire journey in the restaurant car, and you may be asked to leave if you are not actively consuming food or drinks.

Ordering and Payment:

Once you're seated in the Bordrestaurant, a waiter will take your order. The menu offers a variety of options, and you can pay for your meal using cash or a credit card. It's worth noting that the restaurant car may get busy, especially on crowded trains, so it's recommended to have a backup plan, such as bringing your own food, in case there are any issues with availability or service.

Other Amenities:

In addition to the Bordrestaurant, the ICE International train offers a range of other amenities to make your journey more comfortable. Free WiFi is available in both first and second class, and power outlets are accessible from each seat. The train also has luggage racks above the seats and designated spaces between seats to accommodate larger pieces of luggage.

Frequently asked questions