Malmö to Cologne by train

Experience seamless travel from Malmö to Cologne with our comprehensive train guide. Discover schedules, tips, and more for an unforgettable journey.

Train tickets to Cologne

You can buy train tickets directly from the operator or through a reseller. The reseller is typically slightly more expensive (3-5%) but can provide an easier booking experience, especially if you travel with more than one operator.

Omio
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers – trains, buses, flights, and more – to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Rail Europe
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.

Direct train service to Cologne

These operators provide a complete journey either as a direct connection or through their partners. Even if a change of trains is involved, it’s all part of a single itinerary managed by the same train company or its partners, offering a smoother and more coordinated travel experience.

Flixbus
FlixBus is a German intercity bus company offering affordable, tech-driven travel across Europe and beyond.

Some operators don’t run direct trains the whole way, but they serve either the departure or arrival station. In many cases, you can combine two of these operators to complete your journey by changing trains along the way. This is often a flexible and budget-friendly way to travel — especially if you’re comfortable piecing together your own itinerary.

Just keep in mind that these are separate journeys, which means a delay on the first leg could cause you to miss the second without automatic compensation or rebooking. It’s a great option for confident travelers who don’t mind a bit of extra planning.

Departing from Malmö

SJ
SJ is Sweden’s state-owned train operator, running high-speed, regional, and long-distance services across the country and into neighboring nations.

Arriving to Cologne

SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV services across Europe.
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s national railway company, operating long-distance, regional, and international train services across Europe.

FlixBus is primarily known as a long-distance bus service provider and does not operate traditional train services. While it is possible they may be involved in transportation networks or have partnerships that include train travel, FlixBus typically focuses on offering budget-friendly bus services across various European routes. Their buses are generally equipped with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restrooms, which are comparable to amenities offered by many train services. For customer support, FlixBus provides assistance through their website, mobile app, and customer service hotline, offering easy access to booking, schedule changes, and travel updates. For travelers seeking to go from Malmö to Cologne by train, it might be more appropriate to consider operators like Deutsche Bahn or SJ, which specialize in train services in the region.

Travel with a rail pass to Cologne

For traveling by train from Malmö to Cologne, the Interrail Global Pass is valid for this journey as it covers multiple countries including Sweden and Germany. The Interrail One Country Pass is not valid as it applies only within a single country and thus would not cover the journey between different countries. The Eurail Pass is also valid for this trip since it is designed for travelers who are not residents of the EU, and it covers journeys across multiple countries in Europe including the route from Malmö to Cologne.

Getting around in Cologne

Upon arriving in Cologne by train at the Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), you have several convenient options for getting around the city. The city’s public transportation system, operated by Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB), includes an extensive network of trams and the U-Bahn (metro) that can take you to most destinations within Cologne. The trams and U-Bahn lines are well integrated, with frequent services and clear signage. Tickets for the KVB services are interchangeable between trams, U-Bahn, and buses and can be purchased at ticket machines located at stations or via the KVB app. Taxis are readily available outside major transportation hubs like the central station, and you can either hail them on the street or book them via phone or app services. Additionally, ridesharing options such as Uber and Bolt operate in Cologne and can be a convenient choice for those who prefer ride-hailing services. It’s worth noting that Cologne is also quite compact and walkable, especially in the city center, if you prefer exploring on foot.

Onward connections from Cologne

Cologne, situated in western Germany, serves as a significant railway hub with numerous domestic and international connections. Domestically, travelers can easily reach Berlin with direct high-speed ICE trains that typically take around 4 to 4.5 hours. The ICE also connects Cologne to other major cities like Frankfurt, which is approximately one hour away, and Munich, with journeys taking about 4.5 to 5 hours. For a scenic route, the train to the picturesque city of Bonn takes just about 20 minutes. Internationally, Cologne offers direct connections to various European destinations. The Thalys train services provide a direct route to Paris, with travel times around 3.5 hours. The ICE also connects Cologne to Brussels in approximately 2 hours. For those traveling to Amsterdam, direct links via the ICE or other regional services can have you there in about 2.5 to 3 hours. Travelling to Luxembourg involves regional trains and typically takes about 3.5 hours. This comprehensive rail network makes Cologne a prime starting point for exploring Europe efficiently by train.

Best time to visit Cologne

The best time to visit Cologne is generally during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). These months offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city and its outdoor attractions. Travel prices can be more moderate compared to the peak summer months, providing better value for accommodation and train travel. May and June also feature vibrant festivals like the Cologne Comedy Festival and various open-air events. September continues the festival atmosphere with events like the Cologne Lights, which showcases an impressive fireworks display. The shoulder months of May, June, September, and October allow you to experience the charm of Cologne without the summer tourist crowds while still enjoying a festive atmosphere. Winter, especially December, is also a popular time due to the festive holiday markets, but weather can be chilly, and accommodations may be pricier due to increased demand. If you’re arriving by train, you’ll benefit from well-connected services to Cologne throughout the year, but booking in advance during these optimal months might yield better fares.

Packing for Cologne

When traveling from Malmö to Cologne by train, it’s important to pack smartly for both the journey and your time in the destination. Essential items include your passport or national ID, especially since you’re crossing international borders within the Schengen Area. Make sure to have your train tickets or a digital copy on your smartphone. Bring a power bank and charging cables; electronic devices are crucial for navigation and entertainment. You may need a power adapter for German outlets if your devices don’t support Type F plugs. Have some cash in euros and a payment card for purchases. Pack comfortable clothing for travel and weather-appropriate attire for exploring Cologne, as well as sturdy shoes for walking. Include toiletries and any necessary medications. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and some snacks for the journey. A good book, headphones, or a downloaded playlist can enhance your travel experience. A small backpack is useful for day trips within the city. Consider a travel insurance document for peace of mind. Lastly, having a guidebook or a downloaded map of Cologne can enrich your experience.