Basel to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Wed, May 06
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Cologne

Showing times and prices for May 06

Cheapest price

$87

Average price

$87

Fastest journey

3 h 34 m

Average duration

3 h 39 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

285 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 traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Basel to Cologne will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Basel for Cologne on Wed, May 06, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, May 06 the direct trains cover the 285 km distance in an average of 3 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 34 m .

On Wed, May 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 40 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 Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    5:25 AM3h40
    Basel
    9:05 AMKöln Hbf
    $871One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    7:25 AM3h40
    Basel
    11:05 AMKöln Hbf
    $871One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    9:25 AM3h40
    Basel
    1:05 PMKöln Hbf
    $871One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    11:25 AM3h40
    Basel
    3:05 PMKöln Hbf
    $871One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    1:25 PM3h40
    Basel
    5:05 PMKöln Hbf
    $871One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Basel to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Basel to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $63. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, and a flight costs an average of $365.

Distance: 177 miles (285 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$128

Average price

$365

Average price

$63

Average price

Cheapest

7h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 50m

Average total duration

6h 50m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 55m

Average total duration

8h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Basel to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, May 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)8:25 AM Basel
3h40
12:05 PM Köln Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)9:25 AM Basel
3h40
1:05 PM Köln Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)10:25 AM Basel
3h40
2:05 PM Köln Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)11:25 AM Basel
3h40
3:05 PM Köln Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)12:25 PM Basel
3h40
4:05 PM Köln Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)5:25 AM Basel
3h40
9:05 AM Köln Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)6:25 AM Basel
3h40
10:05 AM Köln Hbf1 transfer

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 train

Compare train 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
May 06
Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Cologne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $128 (€102) but you can travel from only $63 (€51) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 14:04, the last at 14:04. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (285 km) distance in 6h 35m.

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 $63 (€51)
Distance
177 miles (285 km)
Average train duration
6h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
$128 (€102)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
6h 35m
First train
2:04 PM
Last train
2:04 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
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 $63 (€51)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Basel to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Basel and Cologne from $63 (€51). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€70)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Basel to Cologne

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
Train ticket prices from Basel to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $128 (€102), while the average price is around $128 (€102).
The train from Basel to Cologne takes 6h 35m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 2:04 PM.
The distance by train from Basel to Cologne is 177 miles (285 km).
The last train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 2:04 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basel to Cologne.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Cologne.
The train station in Basel that goes to Cologne is Basel SBB, which connects to Cologne station.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $63 (€51).
The train journey from Basel to Cologne is generally considered scenic, as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Upper Rhine Valley, offering views of vineyards, charming towns, and the Rhine River.
A day trip from Basel to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 35m, covering 177 miles (285 km), with trains running 4 times per day.
To fully experience Cologne, including its historic cathedral, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Cologne.
Since both Basel and Cologne are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Brescia, Bergamo, Milan, Verona, Palazzolo sull'Oglio.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and around popular attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Staying alert and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Cologne

Basel
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your trip from Basel to Cologne.
Basel SBBWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
address
Address
Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
10
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Da Roberto
  • Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Victoria
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
  • GAIA Hotel
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 800 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
  • Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
  • Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
  • Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available

More options for your journey from Basel to Cologne

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

Flights from Basel to Cologne
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HomeTrainsTrains in ItalyBasel to Cologne train

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