1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Bielefeld
Showing times and prices for 04 Feb
Cheapest price
$18
Average price
$57
Fastest journey
2 h 7 m
Average duration
2 h 7 m
Trains per day
28
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $18.
Fast trains
Of the 28 trains that leave Cologne for Bielefeld every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 2 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 7 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 7 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.
FlixTrain08:14AM2h24
Cologne Hbf10:38AMBielefeld Hbf
$181One-way
0 changes
ICE 616 · ICE 54508:11AM2h21
Cologne Hbf10:32AMBielefeld Hbf
$381One-way
1 change
ICE 612 · ICE 54912:11PM2h21
Cologne Hbf02:32PMBielefeld Hbf
$411One-way
1 change
ICE 202 · IC 204911:11AM2h07
Cologne Hbf01:18PMBielefeld Hbf
$411One-way
1 change
ICE 204 · IC 244109:11AM2h07
Cologne Hbf11:18AMBielefeld Hbf
$411One-way
1 change
ICE 202 · IC 204911:11AM2h07
Cologne Hbf01:18PMBielefeld Hbf
$411One-way
1 change
ICE 204 · IC 244109:11AM2h07
Cologne Hbf11:18AMBielefeld Hbf
$411One-way
1 change
ICE 200 · IC 204701:11PM2h07
Cologne Hbf03:18PMBielefeld Hbf
$411One-way
1 change
ICE 106 · IC 204305:11PM2h07
Cologne Hbf07:18PMBielefeld Hbf
$431One-way
1 change
ICE 108 · IC 204503:11PM2h07
Cologne Hbf05:18PMBielefeld Hbf
$431One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cologne to Bielefeld
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bielefeld among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $7, and a coach costs an average of $13.
Distance: 164 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
$21 Average Price Cheapest | $21 Average Price |
2h 47m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 19m Average total duration 2h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Bielefeld train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bielefeld trains for today, Tuesday, 3 February. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 7:07 am
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 7:14 am Cologne Hbf | 2h24 | 9:38 am Bielefeld Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| Wednesday, 4 February | |||||
| 6:14 am Cologne | 2h21 | 8:35 am Bielefeld | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bielefeld 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.
Wed
04 Feb
04 Feb
Thu
05 Feb
05 Feb
Fri
06 Feb
06 Feb
Sat
07 Feb
07 Feb
Sun
08 Feb
08 Feb
Mon
09 Feb
09 Feb
Tue
10 Feb
10 Feb
Wed
11 Feb
11 Feb
Thu
12 Feb
12 Feb
Fri
13 Feb
13 Feb
Sat
14 Feb
14 Feb
Sun
15 Feb
15 Feb
Mon
16 Feb
16 Feb
Tue
17 Feb
17 Feb
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Bielefeld
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Bielefeld run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 164 km distance in 2h 9m.
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 164 km |
Average train duration 2h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 2h 9m |
First train 00:07 |
Last train 23:51 |
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, National Express from Cologne to Bielefeld trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express trains will get you between Cologne and Bielefeld from $7. 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
2h 7m
Cheapest Price
$13
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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.
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.
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.
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
2h 21m
Cheapest Price
$8
FlixTrain frequency
2 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
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
$45
National Express frequency
16 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
FAQs: Cologne to Bielefeld train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Bielefeld can start from as little as $7 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne to Bielefeld is $21; 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 Cologne to Bielefeld is 2h 9m to travel the 164 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Cologne to Bielefeld leaves at 12:07 am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Cologne to Bielefeld leaves at 11:51 pm.
Yes, there are 7 direct trains a day from Cologne to Bielefeld with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Cologne to Bielefeld, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express for the best way to get you to Bielefeld. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Cologne and Bielefeld and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Bielefeld from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 9m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cologne to Bielefeld is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Bielefeld including taking a train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Bielefeld
Cologne
Bielefeld
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Bielefeld.
Köln Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
The major train station for arrivals in Bielefeld is Bielefeld Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bielefeld Hbf for your journey to Bielefeld from Cologne.
Bielefeld Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Dining
- McDonald's
- Mexims
- Entrada
- Lokma
Hotel
- Wali
- Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld
- Hotel Stadt Bremen
- Bielefelder Hof
Bielefeld-Senne
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Wölke
- Tebie Grill
Brake(b Bielefeld)
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
6 kmDining
- Braker Grill
- Holzweiler's Schnellimbiss
- Da Carmela
- La Perla
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Bielefeld
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bielefeld and Cologne
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
