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

Fri, 14 Aug
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 14 Aug

Cheapest price

79S$

Average price

330S$

Fastest journey

3 h 43 m

Average duration

3 h 48 m

Trains per day

45

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 330S$ if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only 79S$.

Fast trains

Of the 45 trains that leave Basel for Cologne every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 378 km distance in an average of 3 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 43 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 49 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 100
    7:16 PM3h54
    Basel SBB
    11:10 PMCologne Hbf
    79 S$1One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 274 · IC 2347
    6:16 PM4h50
    Basel SBB
    11:06 PMCologne Hbf
    109 S$1One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnICE 274 · ICE 512
    6:16 PM3h49
    Basel SBB
    10:05 PMCologne Hbf
    130 S$1One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnICE 278 · IC 2041
    2:16 PM4h50
    Basel SBB
    7:06 PMCologne Hbf
    148 S$1One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26
    2:46 PM5h20
    Basel SBB
    8:06 PMCologne Hbf
    148 S$1One-way
    2 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight 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 39S$. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of 39S$, and a flight costs an average of 572S$.

Distance: 378 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

204S$

Average Price

62S$

Average Price

Cheapest

882S$

Average Price

5h 40m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 10m

Average total duration

6h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 14m

Average total duration

8h 14m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

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

Basel to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, 13 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 102
On time
5:16 PM Basel SBB
3h49
9:05 PM Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
ÖBB | ICEICE 274+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2347
On time
6:16 PM Basel SBB
4h50
11:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 274 · ICE 910
On time
6:16 PM Basel SBB
4h14
10:30 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 274 · IC 2347
On time
6:16 PM Basel SBB
4h50
11:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 274 · ICE 512
On time
6:16 PM Basel SBB
3h49
10:05 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz		1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 272 · ICE 9208:16 PM Basel SBB
5h49
2:05 AM Cologne Hbf1 change
ÖBB | InterCityIC 6040211:16 PM Basel SBB
6h28
5:44 AM Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
Friday, 14 August
Deutsche BahnICE 376 · IC 2549
On time
6:16 AM Basel SBB
4h50
11:06 AM Cologne Hbf		1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 376+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2549
On time
6:16 AM Basel SBB
4h50
11:06 AM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 376 · ICE 614
On time
6:16 AM Basel SBB
3h49
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf		1 change
TER96206+SNCF | TGV INOUI9530+Eurostar94716:21 AM Basel SBB
14h54
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER96206+SNCF | TGV INOUI9530+Eurostar94596:21 AM Basel SBB
12h54
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
ÖBB | ICEICE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020
On time
6:46 AM Basel SBB
5h19
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf		2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020
On time
6:46 AM Basel SBB
5h19
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf		2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 8 · ICE 1012
On time
6:46 AM Basel SBB
3h43
10:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz		1 change
TER96208+TGV9578+Eurostar94716:51 AM Basel SBB
14h24
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER96208+TGV9578+Eurostar94596:51 AM Basel SBB
12h24
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 202
On time
7:16 AM Basel SBB
3h49
11:05 AM Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
TER96210+TGV9568+Eurostar94597:21 AM Basel SBB
11h54
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER96210+TGV9568+Eurostar94717:21 AM Basel SBB
13h54
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · ICE 612
On time
8:16 AM Basel SBB
3h49
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 374+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2547
On time
8:16 AM Basel SBB
4h50
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · IC 2547
On time
8:16 AM Basel SBB
4h50
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
SNCF | TGV Lyria9206+Eurostar94718:25 AM Basel SBB
12h50
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCF | TGV Lyria9206+Eurostar94598:25 AM Basel SBB
10h50
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 200
On time
9:16 AM Basel SBB
3h49
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
TER96218+SNCF | TGV INOUI2356+Eurostar94599:21 AM Basel SBB
9h54
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER96218+SNCF | TGV INOUI2356+Eurostar94719:21 AM Basel SBB
11h54
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER96218+SNCF | TGV INOUI9576+Eurostar94719:21 AM Basel SBB
11h54
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER96218+SNCF | TGV INOUI9576+Eurostar94599:21 AM Basel SBB
9h54
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
ÖBB | ICEICE 372+ÖBB | InterCityIC 204510:16 AM Basel SBB
4h50
3:06 PM Cologne Hbf1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 372+ÖBB | InterCityIC 254510:16 AM Basel SBB
4h50
3:06 PM Cologne Hbf1 change
TER96112 · 96264+SNCF | TGV INOUI9574+Eurostar947110:38 AM Basel SBB
10h37
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf3 changes
TER96112+SNCF | TGV INOUI6704+Eurostar947110:38 AM Basel SBB
10h37
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER96112 · 96264+SNCF | TGV INOUI9574+Eurostar945910:38 AM Basel SBB
8h37
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf3 changes
SNCF | TGV Lyria9218+Eurostar947112:34 PM Basel SBB
8h41
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 change
TER96116 · 96256+SNCF | TGV INOUI2430+Eurostar947112:38 PM Basel SBB
8h37
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf3 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 278 · IC 2041
On time
2:16 PM Basel SBB
4h50
7:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 278+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2041
On time
2:16 PM Basel SBB
4h50
7:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 278 · ICE 516
On time
2:16 PM Basel SBB
3h49
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26
On time
2:46 PM Basel SBB
5h20
8:06 PM Cologne Hbf		2 changes
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)EC 4+ÖBB | ICEICE 224 · ICE 26
On time
2:46 PM Basel SBB
5h20
8:06 PM Cologne Hbf		2 changes
Deutsche BahnECE 4 · ICE 224
On time
2:46 PM Basel SBB
3h57
6:43 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 104
On time
3:16 PM Basel SBB
3h49
7:05 PM Cologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 276 · IC 2349
On time
4:16 PM Basel SBB
4h50
9:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 276+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2349
On time
4:16 PM Basel SBB
4h50
9:06 PM Cologne Hbf		1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 276 · ICE 514
On time
4:16 PM Basel SBB
3h49
8:05 PM Cologne Hbf		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 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.

Fri
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug
Sun
16 Aug
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17 Aug
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19 Aug
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24 Aug
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03 Sept

Why should you book Basel to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, FlixTrain and more offer trains services from Basel to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Cologne.

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 ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet or FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Basel 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Cologne.

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 11 times per day, taking around 5h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at 49S$ but you can travel from only 39S$ by coach.

There are 1 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 43m.

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 39S$
Distance
378 km
Average train duration
5h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
49S$
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 43m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
35 days
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 39S$

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Basel to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Basel and Cologne from 39S$. 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 43m
Cheapest Price
66S$
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

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
4h 49m
Cheapest Price
238S$
ÖBB | ICE frequency
2 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 49m
Cheapest Price
267S$
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 52m
Cheapest Price
172S$
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
8h 1m
Cheapest Price
49S$
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
239S$
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
110S$
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

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 49S$ when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Basel to Cologne is 204S$; 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 3h 43m to travel the 378 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 Basel to Cologne leaves at 12:01 am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 11:58 pm.
Yes, there are 1 direct trains a day from Basel to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Basel to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Basel and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
Yes, you can take a night train from Basel to Cologne with ÖBB | Nightjet. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.
A trip to Cologne from Basel is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 43m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Basel to Cologne is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Cologne including taking a coach, train and flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Basel and Cologne

Most Basel to Cologne trains use the Basel SBB to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Basel and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Basel
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Basel station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Basel to Cologne leave from Basel SBB. The station is 2 km from Basel city centre at Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre

Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 5m · 2S$ · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · 3S$ · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · 3S$
1, 3, 2 · 7m · 3S$ · every ~25 min

Basel SBB train station facilities and services

Basel SBB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.

Basel Bad BhfSchwarzwaldallee 200, 4058 Basel, Switzerland+41 61 690 13 13WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel Bad Bhf from Basel city centre

Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus30 · 11m · 5S$ · every ~18 min
Tram6, 1, 2 · 19m · 5S$ · every ~20 min

Basel Bad Bhf train station facilities and services

Basel Bad Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.

Basel MarkthalleCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, SwitzerlandAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel Markthalle from Basel city centre

Basel Markthalle is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 8m · 2S$ · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 6m · 3S$ · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 3m · 3S$
1, 3, 2 · 6m · 3S$ · every ~25 min

Basel Markthalle train station facilities and services

Basel Markthalle has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Markthalle.

More options for your journey from Basel to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return trains from Cologne to Basel
Basel to Cologne coach

Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Basel

Brussels to Cologne train
Milan to Cologne train
Amsterdam to Cologne train
Paris to Cologne train
Munich to Cologne train
Berlin to Cologne train
Vienna to Cologne train
Stockholm to Cologne train
Copenhagen to Cologne train
Geneva to Cologne train
Prague to Cologne train
Hamburg to Cologne train
Innsbruck to Cologne train
Salzburg to Cologne train
Rotterdam to Cologne train
Strasbourg to Cologne train
Luxembourg to Cologne train
Antwerp to Cologne train
Düsseldorf to Cologne train
Stuttgart to Cologne train
Utrecht to Cologne train
Kraków to Cologne train
Basel to Brussels train
Basel to Amsterdam train
Basel to Paris train
Basel to Munich train
Basel to Rome train
Basel to Berlin train
Basel to Copenhagen train
Basel to Lyon train
Basel to Geneva train
Basel to Prague train
Basel to Innsbruck train
Basel to Zurich train
Basel to Interlaken train
Basel to Strasbourg train
Basel to Bern train
Basel to Luxembourg train
Basel to Antwerp train
Basel to Stuttgart train
Basel to Lourdes train
Basel to Zermatt train
Basel to Pisa train
Basel to Frankfurt am Main train

Most popular train connections to Cologne

Düsseldorf to Cologne train
HomeTrainsBasel to Cologne train

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