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 Brussels
Showing times and prices for 20 Dec
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$106
Fastest journey
1 h 52 m
Average duration
1 h 52 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
183 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Brussels is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Brussels will cost around $106 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $70.
Fast trains
Of the 12 trains that leave Cologne for Brussels every day 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 1 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 52 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 53 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.
ICE 31809:42PM1h53
Cologne Hbf11:35PMBrussels-Midi
$701One-way
0 changes
ICE 1007:43PM1h52
Cologne Hbf09:35PMBrussels-Midi
$771One-way
0 changes
945012:39PM1h56
Cologne Hbf02:35PMBrussels-Midi
$1061One-way
0 changes
947404:43PM1h52
Cologne Hbf06:35PMBrussels-Midi
$1111One-way
0 changes
941406:39AM1h56
Cologne Hbf08:35AMBrussels-Midi
$1111One-way
0 changes
ICE 1007:43PM1h52
Cologne Hbf09:35PMBrussels-Midi
$771One-way
0 changes
947404:43PM1h52
Cologne Hbf06:35PMBrussels-Midi
$1111One-way
0 changes
ICE 1205:43PM1h52
Cologne Hbf07:35PMBrussels-Midi
$1121One-way
0 changes
ICE 1611:43AM1h52
Cologne Hbf01:35PMBrussels-Midi
$1121One-way
0 changes
ICE 31809:42PM1h53
Cologne Hbf11:35PMBrussels-Midi
$701One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Brussels
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Brussels among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $16, and a flight costs an average of $460.
Distance: 183 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$84 Average Price | $27 Average Price Cheapest | $838 Average Price |
2h 41m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 4m Average total duration 9h 4m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Brussels train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Brussels trains for tomorrow, Saturday, 20 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 8:50 pm
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9414 | 5:39 am Cologne Hbf | 1h56 | 7:35 am Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9426 | 7:39 am Cologne Hbf | 1h56 | 9:35 am Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 316 | On time 8:41 am Cologne Hbf | 1h54 | 10:35 am Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9438 | 9:39 am Cologne Hbf | 1h56 | 11:35 am Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 16 | 10:43 am Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 12:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9450 | 11:39 am Cologne Hbf | 1h56 | 1:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 314 | On time 12:42 pm Cologne Hbf | 1h53 | 2:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 14 | On time 2:41 pm Cologne Hbf | 1h54 | 4:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9474 | 3:43 pm Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 5:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 12 | 4:43 pm Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 6:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 10 | On time 6:43 pm Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 8:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 318 | 8:42 pm Cologne Hbf | 1h53 | 10:35 pm Brussels-Midi | 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 Brussels 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.
Sat
20 Dec
20 Dec
Sun
21 Dec
21 Dec
Mon
22 Dec
22 Dec
Tue
23 Dec
23 Dec
Wed
24 Dec
24 Dec
Thu
25 Dec
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec
26 Dec
Sat
27 Dec
27 Dec
Sun
28 Dec
28 Dec
Mon
29 Dec
29 Dec
Tue
30 Dec
30 Dec
Wed
31 Dec
31 Dec
Thu
01 Jan
01 Jan
Fri
02 Jan
02 Jan
Sat
03 Jan
03 Jan
Sun
04 Jan
04 Jan
Mon
05 Jan
05 Jan
Tue
06 Jan
06 Jan
Wed
07 Jan
07 Jan
Thu
08 Jan
08 Jan
Fri
09 Jan
09 Jan
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Brussels?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Brussels is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Brussels route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Brussels 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 Cologne to Brussels.
Trains
from $43Coaches
from $22Flights
from $32Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Brussels
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Cologne to Brussels run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 but you can travel from only $16 by coach.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:01. The fastest train covers the 183 km distance in 1h 49m.
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 $16
Distance 183 km |
Average train duration 2h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 1h 49m |
First train 00:10 |
Last train 23:01 |
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 $16
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Österreichische Bundesbahnen from Cologne to Brussels trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Österreichische Bundesbahnen trains will get you between Cologne and Brussels from $16. 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
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
$52
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
$24
Eurostar frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 44m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Cologne to Brussels train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Brussels 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 Brussels, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Brussels can start from as little as $45 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne to Brussels is $85; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Cologne to Brussels train time is 1 h 48 min covering the 182 km long trip, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cologne to Brussels leaves at 6: 42am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Cologne to Brussels leaves at 8: 47pm.
Yes, there are 5 direct trains a day from Cologne to Brussels with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar or SNCB. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
Yes, there's a high-speed train to Brussels. Take the fast train with Eurostar from Cologne to Brussels.
The high-speed Eurostar train from Cologne to Brussels takes 1 h 51 min on average.
For the best Cologne to Brussels train to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar or SNCB. However, it's always good to check all possible train companies with services to Brussels from Cologne to compare what amenities they may offer.
When departing from Cologne, you have various train station options to start your route from including Cologne Hbf, Cologne Messe/Deutz and Cologne-Ehrenfeld. When arriving in Brussels, you can end your route in train stations like Brussels-Midi and Brussels-North.
Passengers board the train most frequently from Cologne Hbf, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Brussels-Midi, located away from the city centre.
A day trip to Brussels from Cologne is worth doing with a journey time of 1 h 48 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Cologne to Brussels by train is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Cologne to Brussels including taking a train or coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Brussels
Cologne
Brussels
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 Brussels.
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 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
The major train station for arrivals in Brussels is Bruxelles-Midi. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bruxelles-Midi for your journey to Brussels from Cologne.
Bruxelles-Midi
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 21:30
Wifi
- Wi-Fi is available for a fee.
Lockers
- Baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Dining
- Pullman Hotel Bar
- Quick Gare du Midi
- Subway
- EXKi Zuid
- Starbucks
- Häagen-Dazs
- Sbarro
- The Coffee Club
- The Belgian Chocolate House
- PAUL
- & many more
Accessibility
- Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Hotel
- Les Lofts De Styliste
- Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi
- Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
Information Desk
- Located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
Bruxelles-Central
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Dining
- Starbucks
- Brasserie 28 Brewery
- Panos
- Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Accessibility
- Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Hotel
- Hilton Brussels Grand Palace
- Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe
- Hôtel The Moon
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Public transport options for Bruxelles-Central
- Metro lines: 1, 5
- Train lines: IC, Intercity Direct 9200, RER (S1, S2, S3, S6, S8, S10)
Brussels-Nord
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Rue du Progrès.
Dining
- Chabrol Brasserie
- Winok Café
- Félix Wine Bar
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Progress
- Hilton Brussels City
- Hotel Siru
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 7-12 for regional and local trains
Public transport options for Brussels-Nord
- Metro: Line 3, Line 4
- Tram: Line 25, Line 55
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Brussels
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brussels and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Brussels
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.
