- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $37
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $83
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 5 h 20 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 5 h 35 m
- Trains on Nov 03
- 4
- Distance
- 479 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Fast trains
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 4 trains from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct trains cover the 479 km distance in an average of 5 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 20 m .
On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest trains will take 6 h 5 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.
8:12 AM 5h20 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 1:32 PM Cologne $37 1 One-way 0 transfers6:01 AM 5h33 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 11:34 AM Cologne $50 1 One-way 0 transfers7:12 AM 5h20 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 12:32 PM Cologne $79 1 One-way 0 transfers6:27 AM 6h05 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 12:32 PM Cologne $166 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:12 AM 5h20 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 1:32 PM Cologne $37 1 One-way 0 transfers7:12 AM 5h20 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 12:32 PM Cologne $79 1 One-way 0 transfers6:01 AM 5h33 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 11:34 AM Cologne $50 1 One-way 0 transfers6:27 AM 6h05 Berlin Brandenburg Airport 12:32 PM Cologne $166 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€40) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:01, the last at 09:16. The fastest train covers the 297 miles (479 km) distance in 4h 19m.
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 $24 (€20)
Distance 297 miles (479 km) |
Average train duration 5h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€40) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 4h 19m |
First train 3:01 AM |
Last train 9:16 AM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 $24 (€20)
Frequently asked questions about your Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
Train ticket prices from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€40), while the average price is around $134 (€112).
The train from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne takes 4h 19m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne is 297 miles (479 km).
The first train from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne leaves at 3:01 AM.
The last train from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne leaves at 9:16 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
Live departures
Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne trains for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21868 · ICE 858 | On time 12:01 PM Flughafen BER - Terminal 1–2 | 6h11 | 6:12 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 21874 · ICE 931 · ICE 624 | On time 12:46 PM Flughafen BER - Terminal 1–2 | 5h28 | 6:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| 21876 · ICE 546 | Delayed 1:01 PM Flughafen BER - Terminal 1–2 | 6h35 | 6:37 PM 6:37 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 21876 · ICE 691 · ICE 622 | On time 1:01 PM Flughafen BER - Terminal 1–2 | 6h13 | 7:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| 21876 · ICE 691 · ICE 1512 | On time 1:01 PM Flughafen BER - Terminal 1–2 | 6h32 | 7:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 21878 · ICE 1509 · ICE 691 · ICE 1512 | On time 1:16 PM Flughafen BER - Terminal 1–2 | 6h17 | 7:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| 21878 · ICE 1509 · ICE 691 · ICE 622 | On time 1:16 PM Flughafen BER - Terminal 1–2 | 5h58 | 7:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3 transfers | |
| Tuesday, November 3 | |||||
| 6:01 AM Berlin Brandenburg Airport | 5h33 | 11:34 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:27 AM Berlin Brandenburg Airport | 6h05 | 12:32 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:12 AM Berlin Brandenburg Airport | 5h20 | 12:32 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:12 AM Berlin Brandenburg Airport | 5h20 | 1:32 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Berlin Brandenburg Airport and Cologne from $24 (€20). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 19m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$48 (€40)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Berlin Brandenburg Airport and Cologne
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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.
- Must visit
Kolumba
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
Plan your visit to Cologne
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.
The train journey from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, showcasing picturesque countryside landscapes, small towns, and sections along the Rhine River, making parts of the trip visually appealing.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin Brandenburg Airport 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 Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne
Most Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne trains use the Berlin Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Berlin Brandenburg Airport and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Berlin
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $3 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Most popular train connections from Berlin Brandenburg Airport
More options for your journey from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Berlin Brandenburg Airport
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