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The cheapest and fastest trains from Aalst to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Nov 05
Cheapest price
$84
Average price
$86
Fastest journey
2 h 31 m
Average duration
2 h 32 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
204 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Aalst to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Aalst to Cologne will cost around $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Aalst for Cologne on Wed, Nov 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Nov 05 the direct trains cover the 204 km distance in an average of 2 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 31 m .
On Wed, Nov 05 the slowest trains will take 2 h 33 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.
06:43AM2h33
Aalst09:16AMCologne
$841One-way
0 transfers
08:44AM2h31
Aalst11:15AMCologne
$881One-way
0 transfers
08:44AM2h31
Aalst11:15AMCologne
$881One-way
0 transfers
06:43AM2h33
Aalst09:16AMCologne
$841One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Aalst to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Aalst to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €9, and a train costs an average of €41.
Distance: 126 miles (204 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€65 Average price | €16 Average price Cheapest |
2h 59m Average total duration 2h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Aalst to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Aalst to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:15 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:43 AM Aalst | 2h33 | 9:16 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:44 AM Aalst | 2h31 | 11:15 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Aalst to Cologne by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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
Nov 05
Nov 05
Thu
Nov 06
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Nov 11
Journey information
Overview: Train from Aalst to Cologne
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Aalst to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 21:42. The fastest train covers the 126 miles (204 km) distance in 2h 31m.
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
Bus from $11 (€9)
Distance 126 miles (204 km) |
Average train duration 2h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 31m |
First train 02:15 |
Last train 21:42 |
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
Bus from $11 (€9)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB from Aalst to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB trains will get you between Aalst and Cologne from $11 (€9). 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 31m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
SNCB frequency
10 a day
FAQs: Trains from Aalst to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Aalst 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Aalst to Cologne.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Train ticket prices from Aalst to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $80 (€65).
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
The cheapest way to get from Aalst to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The distance by train from Aalst to Cologne is 126 miles (204 km).
The train from Aalst to Cologne takes 2h 31m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Aalst to Cologne leaves at 2:15 AM.
The train station in Aalst that goes to Cologne is Aalst station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The last train from Aalst to Cologne leaves at 9:42 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Aalst to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Aalst to Cologne.
The train journey from Aalst to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of charming Belgian towns, lush countryside, and the scenic landscapes of the Meuse-Rhine region as you approach Cologne.
A day trip from Aalst to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 31m. There are 5 trains per day for this route.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Aalst to Cologne
Aalst
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Aalst is Erembodegem. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Erembodegem for your trip from Aalst to Cologne.
Erembodegem
Amenities at train station
DiningATMAccessibilityBike Parking
Aalst
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
5Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available near the station with both short-term and long-term options.
Dining
- Restaurant De Kraanvogel
- Restaurant 't Overhamme
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Royal Astrid
- Keizershof Hotel Aalst
- Tower Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for local and regional trains
Public transit options for Aalst
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Connections to major cities in Belgium
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Aalst.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car 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-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
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
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
Köln, Porz Bf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskKöln, Breslauer Platz/Hbf
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityMost popular train connections from Aalst
More options for your journey from Aalst to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Aalst
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