- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum known for its Pop Art, Picasso, and important twentieth-century collections beside the cathedral.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus 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 bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a train costs an average of $78.
Distance: 177 miles (285 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$129 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $109 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 12m Average total duration Fastest 6h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 0m Average total duration 9h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Cologne:
A bus is $86 (€70) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Cologne costing on average $129 (€106).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 6h 42m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $129 (€106) compared to roughly $109 (€90) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.46 (€-15.95). The journey takes 6h 42m versus 4h 44m 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.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Basel 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Cologne
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Basel to Cologne run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 (€64) but you can travel from only $37 (€31) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 13:04, the last at 15:30. 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 $37 (€31)
Distance 177 miles (285 km) |
Average train duration 6h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $78 (€64) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 6h 35m |
First train 1:04 PM |
Last train 3:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $37 (€31)
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 $37 (€31). 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
$85 (€70)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Cologne
Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Leading fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and nineteenth-century European painting; a strong choice for classic art in Cologne.
- Recommended
Kolumba
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, admired for its atmospheric Peter Zumthor architecture and thoughtful mix of sacred and modern works.
- Must visit
Old Town Cologne
Historic core with colorful houses, lively squares, churches, and riverside walks; a natural base for first-time exploration.
- Recommended
Rhine Promenade
Scenic walking route along the river with classic city views, especially photogenic near sunset and during evening strolls.
- Recommended
Rheinauhafen
Redeveloped waterfront district known for modern architecture, marina atmosphere, and the striking Kranhaus buildings popular in photos.
- Vegetarian
Canederli
Bread dumplings common in the Alpine area around Cologne in South Tyrol, often served in broth or with butter and cheese.
- Vegetarian
Schlutzkrapfen
Traditional half-moon ravioli from South Tyrol, usually filled with spinach and ricotta and dressed with butter and chives.
- Gluten-free
Speck
Lightly smoked and cured ham typical of South Tyrol, valued for its mountain-herb aroma and served on platters or with bread.
Al Pergolato
Established local restaurant serving classic Italian and regional dishes in a relaxed, traditional setting.
Trattoria del Porto
Traditional dining spot known for local cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere, suitable for a leisurely meal.
Ristorante Pizzeria Teatro
Well-known casual venue appreciated for pizza, pasta, and dependable service in the town center.
Euro
Moderate by Italian standards: casual meals and coffee are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for pizza, panini, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or a coperto is charged. Tipping is not mandatory; round up or leave EUR 1-2 for cafes, 5-10% for very good restaurant service, and round up taxis.
DB Navigator
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.70 EUR
- Day pass
- 9.00 EUR
To the city center
Cologne Bonn Airport, Cologne -> Cologne Central Station, Cologne
- Distance
- 15 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Tap a contactless card or buy tickets in the KVB or DB Navigator apps before boarding; buses and trams do not always sell tickets onboard.
- Validate paper tickets if required and keep them until the end of the journey, as inspections are frequent.
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.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $78 (€64), while the average price is around $129 (€106).
The train from Basel to Cologne takes 6h 35m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Basel to Cologne is 177 miles (285 km).
The first train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 1:04 PM.
The last train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 3:30 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 $37 (€31).
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
Most Basel to Cologne trains use the Basel SBB to Cologne station pair. 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 1 miles (2 km) from Basel city centre at Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22
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 · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · $2
1, 3, 2 · 7m · $2 · 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.
Which Cologne station do trains from Basel arrive at?
Trains from Basel to Cologne arrive at Cologne. Cologne is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre.
Cologne25033 Cologne, Province of Brescia, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Cologne from Cologne city centre
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Cologne train station facilities and services
Cologne has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cologne.
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Basel
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