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How to take a train journey from Paris to Köln / Cologne
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Paris to Köln / Cologne / Koeln by train
The only direct trains between Paris and north-east Germany are the high speed Thalys trains, so this is a straightforward journey.
Köln hbf, the main station in Cologne, offers connections on to a swathe of destinations with no direct trains from Paris, including Berlin, Bonn, Hannover, Koblenz and Wuppertal.
Routes you can take to go from Paris to Köln / Cologne / Koeln
When travelling between most cities by train there is only one logical option, though on other journeys there is a choice between different trains or alternative routes. If different options are available you can use the info to decide which is best for you.
Choose one of the following options:
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Route Information
Travel Time (approx)
3hr 21min (approx)
Frequency
Daily
Travel Info
Monday to Friday: 5 x trains per day
Sat/Sun: 4 x trains per day
Is the journey from Paris to Köln / Cologne direct?
Yes, there is no need to make a connection when taking this route.
Is the journey scenic?
Not particularly, but more than 80% of the journey is on a high-speed line.
What other tourist locations are along the route from Paris to Köln / Cologne?
Bruxelles and Aachen
When is the usual approximate earliest arrival at Köln Hbf from Paris Gare du Nord?
- Around 11:15 on Monday to Saturday
- Around 13:15 on Sunday
Source = European Rail Timetable
How easy is it to travel on from the station in Cologne / Köln?
Köln Hbf is conveniently located in the city centre, see the Station Guide above for more info, plus easy access to multiple options for booking somewhere to stay in its neighborhood.
When is the usual approximate latest departure from Paris Gare du Nord to Köln Hbf
Around 17:55 daily
Source = European Rail Timetable
How easy is it to get to the station in Paris?
The Gare De Lyon is served by two Metro lines - line 14 is now directly linked to Orly Airport. The station also has rail links from the Gare Du Nord and the La Défense business district.
See the Station Guide above for more info, plus easy access to multiple options for booking somewhere to stay by the Gare De Lyon.
Are tickets cheaper if booked in advance for the Paris to Köln / Cologne trains?
Yes, and they can be purchased from a choice of booking agents - see below.
How soon ahead of travel are tickets typically placed on sale for the Paris to Köln / Cologne trains?
Typically up to 6 months ahead of the travel date; see the Ticket Information
What are the child ticket terms for the Paris to Köln / Cologne trains?
Children under the age of 12 travel at a flat rate price of €15 in Standard, €20 in Comfort and €30 in Premium Class.
Source = Eurostar
Does the ticket for the Paris to Köln / Cologne train include assigned seats?
Yes - See the Train Guide in the Journey Information for insights on how to board the train
Do rail pass users need to book reservations for the Paris to Köln / Cologne trains?
Yes; see the rail pass reservation guide for the options on how to book.
Is catering available on the Paris to Köln / Cologne trains?
Yes, there is a bar/bistro car and a vending machine
A complimentary at-seat meal service is available in Premier Class
Source = Eurostar
What else is good to know about French rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in France.
What else is good to know about German rail travel?
Check out the guide to travelling by train in Germany.
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