Berlin to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,RB)

Tue, 09 Dec
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
ÖBB Nightjet
Eurostar
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Deutsche Bahn
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Österreichische Bundesbahnen
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Eurostar
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 10 Dec

Cheapest price

$27

Average price

$106

Fastest journey

4 h 21 m

Average duration

4 h 23 m

Trains per day

15

Distance

479 km

Cheap tickets

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 $106 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $27.

Fast trains

Of the 15 trains that leave Berlin for Cologne every day 11 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 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 21 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 26 m 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.

Deutsche BahnICE 101
12:22AM6h27
Berlin Hbf
06:49AMCologne Hbf
$271One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
12:27PM5h19
Berlin Hbf
05:46PMCologne Hbf
$411One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
12:40PM5h06
Berlin Spandau
05:46PMCologne Hbf
$411One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 275 · ICE 646 · ICE 656
04:28AM4h53
Berlin Hbf
09:21AMCologne Hbf
$901One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 646 · ICE 656
04:23AM4h58
Berlin Hbf
09:21AMCologne Hbf
$901One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare coach, train 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 $28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 41m. 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 $28, and a flight costs an average of $99.

Distance: 479 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

$83

Average Price

$49

Average Price

Cheapest

$283

Average Price

5h 37m

Average total duration

5h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 39m

Average total duration

7h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 41m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

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, Tuesday, 9 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 6:34 am
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain6:59 am Berlin Ostbahnhof
5h46
12:45 pm Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain7:10 am Berlin Hbf
5h35
12:45 pm Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain7:40 am Berlin Spandau
5h05
12:45 pm Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 652
Delayed
7:57 am Berlin Hbf
4h22
12:28 pm 12:28 pmCologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1050
Delayed
8:09 am Berlin Hbf
5h12
1:26 pm 1:26 pmCologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 942 · RE 17419
On time
8:46 am Berlin Hbf
4h52
1:38 pm Cologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 101
On time
11:22 pm Berlin Hbf
6h27
5:49 am Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
Wednesday, 10 December
deutsche_bahnICE 646 · ICE 656
On time
3:23 am Berlin Hbf
4h58
8:21 am Cologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 275 · ICE 646 · ICE 656
On time
3:28 am Berlin Hbf
4h53
8:21 am Cologne Hbf		2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 956
On time
4:27 am Berlin Hbf
4h45
9:12 am Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1033 · ICE 7284:51 am Berlin Hbf
5h23
10:14 am Cologne Messe/Deutz1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 6545:57 am Berlin Hbf
4h21
10:18 am Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 10526:06 am Berlin Hbf
5h04
11:10 am Cologne Hbf0 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 coach, train or flight

Compare coach, train 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Berlin to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Berlin to Cologne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Berlin to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Berlin 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 Berlin to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berlin to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Berlin to Cologne run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 if you book in advance.

There are 8 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 25m.

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
Distance
479 km
Average train duration
5h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$26
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
8
Fastest train
4h 25m
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

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 $26. 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
4h 24m
Cheapest Price
$45
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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

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
5h 5m
Cheapest Price
$21
FlixTrain frequency
6 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 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
11h 5m
Cheapest Price
$191
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

Österreichische Bundesbahnen

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 53m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Berlin to Cologne can start from as little as $17 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Berlin to Cologne is $56; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The train time from Berlin to Cologne is on average 4 h 19 min   for the 478 km long journey, but the time it takes to go between Berlin and Cologne by train can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Berlin to Cologne leaves at 12: 01am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Berlin to Cologne leaves at 11: 58pm.
Yes, there are 9 direct trains a day from Berlin to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Berlin to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service to Cologne from Berlin and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

When departing from Berlin, you have various train station options to start your route from including Berlin Hbf, Berlin Ostbahnhof, Berlin Südkreuz station, Berlin Spandau, Berlin-Gesundbrunnen station and Berlin Zoologischer Garten. When arriving in Cologne, you can end your journey in train stations like Cologne Hbf, Cologne Messe/Deutz and Cologne Süd.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Berlin Hbf, 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 Berlin is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 19 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Berlin to Cologne by train is May.
You have options as you can travel between Berlin and Cologne 3 different ways: coach, train or flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Berlin and Cologne

Berlin
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Berlin is Berlin-Karlshorst. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Berlin-Karlshorst for your trip from Berlin to Cologne.
Berlin-KarlshorstWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
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
information
address
Address
Berlin-Karlshorst, Treskowallee, 10318 Berlin
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
9 km
Dining
Dining
  • Wernesgrüner B
  • Steakhaus Barbecue
  • TreBo
  • Thai-A-Dong
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Karlshorst
  • Allee-Hotel Berlin
  • Mit-Mensch
Berlin-LichtenbergWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
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
information
address
Address
Berlin-Lichtenberg, Weitlingstr. 22, 10317 Berlin
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km
Dining
Dining
  • AVCI Bistro
  • Restaurant Athos
  • Yoko Sushi
  • Payamlino Bistro
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Nova
  • Pension Adamshof
  • Pension Zum Lichtenberger
Berlin-SchöneweideParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
address
Address
Michael-Brückner-Straße 42, 12439 Berlin, Germany
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
10 km

More options for your journey from Berlin to Cologne

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