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Cologne to Heidelberg from $10.5: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Heidelberg, Germany

How to Get from Cologne to Heidelberg: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$10.5 - OtherBest price
254 kmDistance
1h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Heidelberg with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Train
Average Duration
1h  51m
Estimated price
$28.5-105.3
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  45m
Estimated price
$10.5-20.5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 254 km
Duration: 1h 51m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Train
Average Duration
2h  16m
Estimated price
$45-54
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
2h  22m
Estimated price
$53-280.5
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$55-81
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  48m
Estimated price
$262-263
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  10m
Estimated price
$275-58

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $14 $13 $13 $14 $16 $16 $17
Train $48 $23 $29 $42 $43 $48 $33
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cologne to Heidelberg

Traveling from Cologne to Heidelberg offers a journey through bustling urban life to charming historical ambiance, showcasing Germany's diverse cultural landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Heidelberg

Heidelberg boasts charming neighborhoods that each offer a distinct atmosphere.

Altstadt (Old Town)
• Historic buildings and lively cobblestone streets.
• Home to Heidelberg Castle and vibrant cafes.
Neuenheim
• Quieter, picturesque riverside area.
• Ideal for scenic walks and local eateries.
Bergheim
• Mix of modern living and traditional architecture.
• Close to shopping areas and parks.

Best Times To Visit Heidelberg's Attractions

Timing your visits to Heidelberg's attractions enhances your experience and minimizes crowds.

Heidelberg Castle
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer tourists and stunning views.
Philosopher's Walk
Late afternoon offers peaceful strolls with golden hour lighting for photographs.
Old Town (Altstadt)
Weekdays are quieter than weekends, providing a better atmosphere to explore.

Heidelberg Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Heidelberg experiences a temperate climate, with mild summers and chilly winters, making spring and early autumn the best times to enjoy outdoor attractions. Weather can impact your travel experience; sunny days invite exploration, while rainy spells may encourage cozy indoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Heidelberg

A visit to Heidelberg isn't complete without trying the hearty Maultaschen at Stiftskeller, where traditional Swabian flavors shine through in every bite. This dining experience contrasts with Cologne’s lively Kölsch culture, offering a cozy atmosphere and a focus on rich, local ingredients that transport you to a different culinary tradition.

Cologne - Heidelberg operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Heidelberg, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Köln Hbf to Mannheim, Hauptbahnhof

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
45-54

Train from Köln Hbf to Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
45-54

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
26-26
Contact phone
+31 30 751 5155
Website
https://www.ns.nl/en

Train from Koeln Hbf to Mannheim Hbf

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
267-269
Contact phone
+49-261-98887070
Website
mittelrheinbahn.de

Train from Köln West Bf to Mainz, Hauptbahnhof

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
974-45
Contact phone
0621 8301200
Website
suewex.de

Train from Mainz, Hauptbahnhof to Ludwigshafen, Mitte

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
975-976
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Cologne to Heidelberg

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
9.8-19
Plane
Website
lufthansa.com

Plane from Dusseldorf Airport to Frankfurt Airport

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
264-265

Cologne to Heidelberg: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cologne and Heidelberg offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train from Cologne to Heidelberg, you will likely be traveling with Deutsche Bahn (DB) as the main operator. DB offers a range of onboard catering services including snacks, meals, and beverages available for purchase at your seat or from the onboard bistro. The selection varies, but you can typically find items such as sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and soft drinks. For the latest menu options, check out the DB website or app.
• The trains on this route generally offer three types of seating: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides more spacious seating and additional amenities, while Business Class offers comfortable seating with a quiet atmosphere. Economy Class is more cost-effective and tends to be more populated. However, all classes provide power plugs and good Wi-Fi, ensuring a smooth journey no matter your choice.
• Various operators run trains from Cologne to Heidelberg, including Deutsche Bahn (DB) and the Intercity-Express (ICE) service. For timetables and ticket bookings, visit the following websites: Deutsche Bahn and ICE. Additionally, for regional services, you can check VRN for integrated transport options in the region.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Heidelberg.

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The distance between Cologne and Heidelberg is approximately 210.8 km by road. By train, it takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes to travel between the two cities. Another option is to take a train via Mannheim and then Hauptbahnhof, which takes about 1 hour and 46 minutes. If you prefer driving, it would take approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes to reach Cologne from Heidelberg. And finally, the bus journey from Cologne to Heidelberg takes about 4 hours and 47 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cologne to Heidelberg is to rideshare, which costs €9-€18. It takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. However, if you are looking for a quick and efficient journey, taking the train via Mannheim and Hauptbahnhof is the best option. It costs €27-€101 and takes 1 hour and 46 minutes.
The prices for a train ticket between Cologne and Heidelberg range from €37 to €55. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Heidelberg and Cologne vary from €25 to €39.
To get from Cologne to Heidelberg without using public transportation, you can consider using carpooling services like BlaBlaCar. This allows you to find rideshare options with other drivers traveling the same route. The driving distance between Cologne and Heidelberg is approximately 254.3 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes to drive. The prices for carpooling services can vary between €37 - €55 for this journey.
The most convenient way to travel from Cologne to Heidelberg without a car is by taking a train. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes and involves changing trains at Mannheim Hauptbahnhof. The cost of the train ticket ranges from €27 to €101.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Cologne and Heidelberg. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, and trains operate every day with departures every three hours. The train service is operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express, and the route goes from Köln Hbf station in Cologne to Heidelberg station in Heidelberg.
There are no direct flights from Cologne to Heidelberg as both cities are in close proximity. However, the quickest flight option would be to fly from Dusseldorf Airport to Frankfurt Airport, which takes approximately 50 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but typically range between 100-150 euros.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Heidelberg. With over 880 hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable for your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at €51 per night.