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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for Apr 16
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$162
Fastest journey
4 h 59 m
Average duration
5 h 6 m
Trains per day
23
Distance
475 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin Hbf 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 Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
Fast trains
Of the 23 trains that leave Berlin Hbf for Cologne Hbf on Thu, Apr 16, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Apr 16 the direct trains cover the 475 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 59 m .
On Thu, Apr 16 the slowest trains will take 5 h 14 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 273 · ICE 154011:28 PM6h44Berlin Hbf6:12 AMCologne Hbf$701One-way1 transfer- ICE 699 · IC 604029:27 PM8h30Berlin Hbf5:57 AMCologne Hbf$701One-way1 transfer
FlixTrain8:08 AM5h33Berlin Hbf1:41 PMCologne Hbf$801One-way0 transfers- ICE 2524 · ICE 9217:38 PM8h18Berlin Hbf3:56 AMCologne Hbf$821One-way1 transfer
- ICE 154010:52 PM7h20Berlin Hbf6:12 AMCologne Hbf$821One-way0 transfers
- ICE 6446:34 AM4h59Berlin Hbf11:33 AMCologne Hbf$1881One-way0 transfers
- ICE 371 · ICE 6428:31 AM5h03Berlin Hbf1:34 PMCologne Hbf$2061One-way1 transfer
- ICE 9447:29 AM5h04Berlin Hbf12:33 PMCologne Hbf$2941One-way0 transfers
- ICE 9465:27 AM5h08Berlin Hbf10:35 AMCologne Hbf$1881One-way0 transfers
- ICE 8427:32 PM5h14Berlin Hbf12:46 AMCologne Hbf$1441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a flight costs an average of $69.
Distance: 295 miles (475 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$58 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $272 Average price |
4h 15m Average total duration 3h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 50m Average total duration 7h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration Fastest 2h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Wednesday, April 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 1540 | Delayed 9:59 PM 9:51 PMBerlin Hbf | 6h21 | 4:12 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, April 16 | |||||
| ICE 646 | On time 1:59 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h34 | 7:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 277 · ICE 820 · S6 | On time 2:28 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h55 | 8:23 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 946 | On time 3:27 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h08 | 8:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1501 · ICE 593 · ICE 728 · S6 | On time 3:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h47 | 9:23 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 644 | On time 4:34 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h59 | 9:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 944 | On time 5:29 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h04 | 10:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1503 · ICE 595 · ICE 1518 | On time 5:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h57 | 11:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 1503 · ICE 595 · ICE 724 · S6 | On time 5:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h47 | 11:23 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| FlixTrain | 6:08 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h33 | 11:41 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 642 | On time 6:18 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h16 | 11:34 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 371 · ICE 642 | On time 6:31 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h03 | 11:34 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1505 · ICE 597 · ICE 720 · S6 | On time 7:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h47 | 1:23 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 1505 · ICE 597 · ICE 1516 | On time 7:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 5h57 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| FlixTrain | 1:58 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h42 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 1603 · ICE 695 · ICE 524 | On time 3:36 PM Berlin Hbf | 6h03 | 9:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 542 | On time 4:33 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h14 | 9:47 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 842 | On time 5:32 PM Berlin Hbf | 5h14 | 10:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 2524 · ICE 921 | On time 5:38 PM Berlin Hbf | 8h18 | 1:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 679+ 95788+ICE 921 | On time 6:29 PM Berlin Hbf | 7h27 | 1:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 699 · IC 60402 | On time 7:27 PM Berlin Hbf | 8h30 | 3:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 609 · IC 60408+ 24300+ICE 618 | On time 8:28 PM Berlin Hbf | 7h36 | 4:04 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 1540 | On time 8:52 PM Berlin Hbf | 7h20 | 4:12 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 273 · ICE 1540 | On time 9:28 PM Berlin Hbf | 6h44 | 4:12 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Why should you book Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
- 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 Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
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 Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf
GermanyGermany
Trains from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€18) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:23, the last at 23:22. The fastest train covers the 295 miles (475 km) distance in 3h 59m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 295 miles (475 km) |
Average train duration 3h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€18) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 59m |
First train 3:23 AM |
Last train 11:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $20 (€16)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Berlin Hbf and Cologne Hbf from $20 (€16). 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
3h 59m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€18)
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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 1m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€23)
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 27m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€92)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin Hbf 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.
Train ticket prices from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€18), while the average price is around $58 (€46).
The train from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 3h 59m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 295 miles (475 km).
The first train from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 3:23 AM.
The last train from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 11:22 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Berlin Hbf to Köln Hbf offers varied landscapes, including picturesque views of the Rhine Valley and charming German countryside, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Berlin Hbf to Köln Hbf is not feasible due to the travel duration of 3h 59m. However, there are 6 trains per day available for this route covering a distance of 295 miles (475 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Since both Berlin Hbf and Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Venlo.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users.
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.
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.
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 Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Berlin
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Berlin is Berlin Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Berlin Hbf for your trip from Berlin to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 22:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 22:00
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free WiFi (30 minutes limit).
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Dining
- backWERK
- Burger King
- Costa Coffee
- Dunkin' Donuts
- Einstein Kaffee
- Le Crobag
- McDonald's
- Hans im Glück
- Pret A Manger
- Starbucks
- & many more
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof
Information Desk
- Located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
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 Berlin.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar 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.
Most popular train connections from Berlin Hbf
More options for your journey from Berlin Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Berlin Hbf
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