- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.
Cheapest price
$46
Average price
$266
Fastest journey
3 h 49 m
Average duration
3 h 49 m
Trains per day
92
Distance
380 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf will cost around $266 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Of the 92 trains that leave Basel SBB for Cologne Hbf on Fri, Jun 19, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 380 km distance in an average of 3 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 49 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 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.
ICE 204 · IC 2243
ICE 204 · ICE 1049
ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020
ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · S19
ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022
ICE 374 · ICE 612
ICE 200
ICE 372 · ICE 610
ICE 370 · ICE 518
ICE 108Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a flight costs an average of $398.
Distance: 236 miles (380 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$150 Average price | $46 Average price Cheapest | $710 Average price | $152 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 46m Average total duration Fastest 5h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 4m Average total duration 6h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 47m Average total duration 7h 47m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf:
A bus is $104 (€85) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf costing on average $150 (€123).
A bus is $663 (€544) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf costing on average $710 (€581).
Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 34m.
Flight takes on average 7h 47m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022 | On time 4:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 10:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · S19 | On time 4:46 AM Basel SBB | 3h53 | 8:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022 | On time 4:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 10:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 204 · ICE 1049 | On time 5:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 204 | On time 5:16 AM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 204 · IC 2243 | On time 5:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2243+ ICE 204 | On time 5:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 204 · ICE 1049 | On time 5:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 376 · ICE 614 | On time 6:16 AM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 376 · ICE 1020 | On time 6:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
96206+ 9530+ 9459 | 6:21 AM Basel SBB | 12h54 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96206+ 9530+ 9435 | 6:21 AM Basel SBB | 8h53 | 3:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | On time 6:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h19 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · S19 | On time 6:46 AM Basel SBB | 3h53 | 10:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
EC 8+ ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | On time 6:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h19 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96208+ 9578+ 9459 | 6:51 AM Basel SBB | 12h24 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96208+ 9578+ 9435 | 6:51 AM Basel SBB | 8h23 | 3:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 202 | On time 7:16 AM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 202 · IC 1947 | On time 7:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 1947+ ICE 202 | Delayed 7:35 AM 7:16 AMBasel SBB | 5h49 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
96210+ 9568+ 9471 | 7:21 AM Basel SBB | 13h54 | 9:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96210+ 9568+ 9459 | 7:21 AM Basel SBB | 11h54 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96210+ 9568+ 9435 | 7:21 AM Basel SBB | 7h53 | 3:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 374 · ICE 926 | On time 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9206+ 9459 | 8:25 AM Basel SBB | 10h50 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9206+ 9477 | 8:25 AM Basel SBB | 13h57 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9206+ 9471 | 8:25 AM Basel SBB | 12h50 | 9:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9206+ 9477 | 8:25 AM Basel SBB | 13h57 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 74 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 | On time 8:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h19 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 74 · ICE 1010 · S19 | On time 8:46 AM Basel SBB | 3h53 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 74 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 | On time 8:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h19 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96216+ 2406+ 9477 | 8:51 AM Basel SBB | 13h31 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96216+ 2406+ 9459 | 8:51 AM Basel SBB | 10h24 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96216+ 2406+ 9471 | 8:51 AM Basel SBB | 12h24 | 9:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96216+ 2406+ 9477 | 8:51 AM Basel SBB | 13h31 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 200 · ICE 1645 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 200 · IC 1645 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 · IC 2245 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 · ICE 1645 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2245+ ICE 200 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
96218+ 2356+ 9471 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 11h54 | 9:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96218+ 2356+ 9477 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 13h01 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96218+ 2356+ 9459 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 9h54 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96218+ 9576+ 9459 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 9h54 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96218+ 2356+ 9477 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 13h01 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96218+ 9576+ 9477 | 9:21 AM Basel SBB | 13h01 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 10:16 AM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9210+ 9477 | 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 11h48 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9210+ 9471 | 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 10h41 | 9:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9210+ 9459 | 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 8h41 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9210+ 9477 | 10:34 AM Basel SBB | 11h48 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
96112 · 96264+ 9574+ 9477 | 10:38 AM Basel SBB | 11h44 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
96112 · 96264+ 9574+ 9459 | 10:38 AM Basel SBB | 8h37 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
96112 · 96264+ 12124+ 9477 | 10:38 AM Basel SBB | 11h44 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
96112 · 96264+ 12124+ 9459 | 10:38 AM Basel SBB | 8h37 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
96112 · 96264+ 12124+ 9477 | 10:38 AM Basel SBB | 11h44 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228 | On time 10:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 4:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 6 · ICE 918 · S19 | On time 10:46 AM Basel SBB | 3h53 | 2:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228 | On time 10:46 AM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 4:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 108 | On time 11:16 AM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
96222+ 9590+ 9459 | 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 7h54 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96222+ 9590+ 9477 | 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 11h01 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96222+ 9590+ 9471 | 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 9h54 | 9:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96222+ 9590+ 9477 | 11:21 AM Basel SBB | 11h01 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 370 · ICE 518 | On time 12:16 PM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 4:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9218+ 9471 | 12:34 PM Basel SBB | 8h41 | 9:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9218+ 9477 | 12:34 PM Basel SBB | 9h48 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9218+ 9477 | 12:34 PM Basel SBB | 9h48 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
96116 · 96256+ 2430+ 9477 | 12:38 PM Basel SBB | 9h44 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 72 · ICE 916 · ICE 28 | On time 12:46 PM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 72 · ICE 916 · S19 | On time 12:46 PM Basel SBB | 3h53 | 4:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 72 · ICE 916 · ICE 28 | On time 12:46 PM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 106 · IC 1941 | On time 1:16 PM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 106 | On time 1:16 PM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 5:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 1941+ ICE 106 | Delayed 2:18 PM 1:16 PMBasel SBB | 5h49 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
96282+ 2440+ 9477 | 1:24 PM Basel SBB | 8h58 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
96282+ 2440+ 9477 | 1:24 PM Basel SBB | 8h58 | 10:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 278 · ICE 516 | On time 2:16 PM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 6:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26 | On time 2:46 PM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ECE 4 · ICE 224 | On time 2:46 PM Basel SBB | 3h57 | 6:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
EC 4+ ICE 26 · ICE 224 | On time 2:46 PM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 104 | On time 3:16 PM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 5320 · ICE 1649 | On time 3:46 PM Basel SBB | 5h20 | 9:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 276 · ICE 514 | On time 4:16 PM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 276 · ICE 24 | On time 4:16 PM Basel SBB | 5h49 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 70 · ICE 912 · ICE 24 | On time 4:46 PM Basel SBB | 5h19 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 70 · ICE 912 · ICE 24 | On time 4:46 PM Basel SBB | 5h19 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 102 | On time 5:16 PM Basel SBB | 3h49 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, 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.
Trains from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $28 (€23) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:46, the last at 22:16. The fastest train covers the 236 miles (380 km) distance in 3h 49m.
Distance 236 miles (380 km) |
Average train duration 5h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€38) |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 49m |
First train 3:46 AM |
Last train 10:16 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.
Cologne’s key archaeological museum for Roman heritage, famous for mosaics and finds from the city’s ancient past. Parts of the collection may be presented in temporary locations during building works
Leading fine arts museum with important medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century paintings, offering one of Cologne’s strongest classic art collections.
Revitalized waterfront district with striking modern architecture, promenades, and photogenic Rhine views, popular on social media.
Wide riverside steps and promenade on the right bank, famous for postcard views back toward the cathedral skyline.
Historic Old Town square lined with traditional facades and lively public life, ideal for absorbing the classic Cologne atmosphere.
The city’s signature top-fermented beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to Cologne’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a classic brauhaus.
A classic Cologne snack of rye roll, Gouda cheese, mustard, onions, and pickles. Despite the name, it contains no chicken and is a staple in local beer halls.
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The name means 'Heaven and Earth.'
Established traditional brewery restaurant in the old town, popular for authentic Cologne specialties, Kölsch, and rustic historic atmosphere.
Well-known central brauhaus serving Sion Kölsch and dependable local dishes. A solid choice for visitors wanting a classic Cologne beer hall experience.
A long-established restaurant by the Rhine, especially known for pork knuckle and hearty German fare in a traditional, tourist-friendly setting.
Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
Official public transport app
Köln Hbf, Köln -> Köln Dom, Köln
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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