Basel to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Sat, 15 Nov
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB Nightjet
FlixTrain
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB Nightjet
FlixTrain
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 17 Nov

Cheapest price

$167

Average price

$167

Fastest journey

3 h 42 m

Average duration

3 h 51 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

378 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Basel to Cologne will cost around $167 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $167.

Fast trains

To travel from Basel to Cologne you need to make at least one change.

Deutsche BahnICE 2552 · ICE 612
08:13AM3h55
Basel SBB
12:08PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1671One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 76 · ICE 1010
09:06AM3h42
Basel SBB
12:48PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1671One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 2550 · ICE 610
10:13AM3h55
Basel SBB
02:08PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1671One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Basel to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $31.

Distance: 378 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

$127

Average Price

$47

Average Price

Cheapest

5h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 9m

Average total duration

6h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Basel to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Cologne trains for today, Sunday, 16 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:51 am
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 2552 · ICE 612
On time
7:13 am Basel SBB
3h53
11:06 am Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 76 · ICE 1010
On time
8:06 am Basel SBB
3h42
11:48 am Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 2550 · ICE 610
On time
9:13 am Basel SBB
3h55
1:08 pm Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Basel to Cologne by train or coach

Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sun
16 Nov
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06 Dec

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Basel to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Basel to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Basel to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Basel to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Cologne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 but you can travel from only $31 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 378 km distance in 3h 42m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from $31
Distance
378 km
Average train duration
5h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
$31
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
3h 42m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from $31

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) from Basel to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) trains will get you between Basel and Cologne from $31. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 42m
Cheapest Price
$62
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$188
ÖBB | ICE frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

ÖBB | InterCity

About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 53m
Cheapest Price
$188
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

ÖBB Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 44m
Cheapest Price
$124
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 8m
Cheapest Price
$31
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

ÖBB | Euro City (EC)

About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 46m
Cheapest Price
$188
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Basel to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Cologne by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Basel to Cologne can start from as little as $43 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Basel to Cologne is $129; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Basel to Cologne is 3 h 42 min   to travel the 377 km long trip, with around there are 12 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 7: 13am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 10: 13pm.
Yes, there are 2 direct trains a day from Basel to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn or ÖBB Nightjet. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
Yes, there's a high-speed train to Cologne. Take the fast train with ÖBB | ICE from Basel to Cologne.
Take the Basel to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) or FlixTrain. However, it's always good to check out all possible train providers for the route to Cologne from Basel as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
Yes, you can take a night train from Basel to Cologne with ÖBB Nightjet. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.  

When departing from Basel, you have various train station options to start your journey from including Basel SBB and Basel Bad Bhf. When arriving in Cologne, you can end your journey in train stations like Cologne Hbf and Cologne Messe/Deutz.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Basel SBB, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located away from the city centre.

A trip to Cologne from Basel is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3 h 42 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Basel to Cologne is December.
You have options as you can travel from Basel to Cologne 2 different ways: train or coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Basel and Cologne

Basel
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel Bad Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel Bad Bhf for your trip from Basel to Cologne.
Basel Bad BhfWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
8
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Les Gareçons
  • Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Alexander
  • Hotel Wettstein
  • Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 330 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
  • Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transport options for Basel Bad Bhf
  • Tram: Line 2, Line 6
  • Bus: Several lines available
Basel SBBWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
10
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Da Roberto
  • Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Victoria
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
  • GAIA Hotel
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 800 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
  • Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
  • Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transport options for Basel SBB
  • Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available
Basel, Badischer BahnhofParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingCar Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km

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