The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Cologne
Cheapest price
$47
Average price
$128
Fastest journey
4 h 52 m
Average duration
4 h 57 m
Trains per day
42
Distance
479 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berlin to Cologne will cost around $128 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $47.
Of the 42 trains that leave Berlin for Cologne every day 25 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 479 km distance in an average of 4 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 52 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
ICE 154011:52 PM6h20Berlin Hbf6:12 AMCologne Hbf$471One-way0 changes
FlixTrain11:52 AM5h51Berlin Ostbahnhof5:43 PMCologne Hbf$551One-way0 changes
FlixTrain8:07 AM5h34Berlin Hbf1:41 PMCologne Hbf$551One-way0 changes
FlixTrain12:26 PM5h17Berlin Spandau5:43 PMCologne Hbf$551One-way0 changes
FlixTrain12:06 PM5h37Berlin Hbf5:43 PMCologne Hbf$551One-way0 changes
ICE 54812:43 PM4h52Berlin Hbf5:35 PMCologne Hbf$1591One-way0 changes
ICE 602 · ICE 94011:37 AM4h56Berlin Hbf4:33 PMCologne Hbf$1591One-way1 change
ICE 6446:33 AM4h59Berlin Hbf11:32 AMCologne Hbf$1441One-way0 changes
ICE 64010:35 AM4h59Berlin Hbf3:34 PMCologne Hbf$1591One-way0 changes
ICE 8463:32 PM5h00Berlin Hbf8:32 PMCologne Hbf$1201One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Berlin to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $26, and a flight costs an average of $68.
Distance: 479 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$51 Average Price | $44 Average Price Cheapest | $292 Average Price |
7h 12m Average total duration 6h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 47m Average total duration 7h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 1h 27m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Berlin to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Cologne trains for today, Friday, 24 April. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 646 | On time 4:00 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h33 | 9:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 277 · ICE 820 | On time 4:28 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h46 | 10:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 946 | On time 5:27 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h08 | 10:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 1501 · ICE 593 · ICE 728 | On time 5:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h38 | 11:14 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
ICE 644 | On time 6:33 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h59 | 11:32 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 9590 · ICE 726 | On time 7:06 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h08 | 12:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 944 | On time 7:29 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h04 | 12:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain | 7:54 AM Berlin Südkreuz station | 5h47 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 1137 · ICE 1518 | On time 8:00 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h33 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1137 · ICE 724 | On time 8:00 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h14 | 1:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
FlixTrain | 8:07 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h34 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 642 | On time 8:18 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h16 | 1:34 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain | 8:21 AM Berlin Spandau | 5h20 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 371 · ICE 642 | On time 8:31 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h03 | 1:34 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 837 · ICE 722 | On time 9:05 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h09 | 2:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 1505 · ICE 597 · ICE 1516 | On time 9:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h57 | 3:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 1505 · ICE 597 · ICE 720 | On time 9:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h38 | 3:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
FlixTrain | 11:57 AM Berlin Südkreuz station | 5h46 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain | 12:06 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h37 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain | 12:21 PM Berlin Spandau | 5h22 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 1601 · ICE 693 · ICE 528 | On time 3:36 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h38 | 9:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
FlixTrain | 3:58 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h42 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 4:21 PM Berlin Spandau | 7h29 | 11:50 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 change | |
FlixTrain | 4:21 PM Berlin Spandau | 5h19 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 544 | On time 4:33 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h02 | 9:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 935 · ICE 526 | On time 5:05 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h09 | 10:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
ICE 844 · ICE 207 | On time 5:09 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h39 | 10:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 542 | On time 6:33 PM Berlin Hbf | 4h53 | 11:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 937 · ICE 522 | On time 7:05 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h26 | 12:31 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 842 · 26840 | On time 7:33 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h51 | 1:24 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 540 · ICE 921 | On time 8:10 PM Berlin Hbf | 7h02 | 3:12 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 679 · ICE 540 · ICE 921 | On time 8:29 PM Berlin Hbf | 6h43 | 3:12 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 699 · IC 60402 | On time 9:27 PM Berlin Hbf | 8h30 | 5:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1540 | On time 11:44 PM Berlin Hbf | 6h48 | 6:32 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Berlin to Cologne by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight 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.
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01 May
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14 May
Why should you book Berlin to Cologne trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen or ÖBB | Nightjet to find the best option for your trip from Berlin to Cologne.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berlin to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Berlin to Cologne?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin to Cologne
Trains from Berlin to Cologne run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 479 km distance in 4h 11m.
Distance 479 km |
Average train duration 6h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 4h 11m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, ÖBB | Nightjet from Berlin to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen, ÖBB | Nightjet trains will get you between Berlin and Cologne from $25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
ÖBB | Nightjet
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
FAQs: Berlin to Cologne train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin 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.

popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Berlin and Cologne
- Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 22:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 22:00
- Free WiFi (30 minutes limit).
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
- backWERK
- Burger King
- Costa Coffee
- Dunkin' Donuts
- Einstein Kaffee
- Le Crobag
- McDonald's
- Hans im Glück
- Pret A Manger
- Starbucks
- & many more
- Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof
- Located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
- Monday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Unvernunft
- Taverna Teloneio
- Burger King
- Hasir
- Hotel Benn
- Hotel Herbst
- Hotel Lindenufer
- Hotel Ibis Berlin Spandau
- Monday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 17:30
- Biertempel 2
- McDonald's
- Eis Bär
- Cafe Mon Cherie
- Appartements Eisemann
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Berlin
More options for your journey from Berlin to Cologne
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