BERLIN SÜDKREUZ STATION to COLOGNE HBF train from $13 (€10) with FlixTrain

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$29

Average price

$89

Fastest journey

5 h 1 m

Average duration

5 h 2 m

Trains per day

Distance

473 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin Südkreuz station 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 Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.

Fast trains

Of the 29 trains that leave Berlin Südkreuz station for Cologne Hbf on Mon, Jun 22, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 473 km distance in an average of 5 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 1 m .

On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 5 h 2 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 1540
11:42 PM6h31
Berlin Südkreuz station
6:13 AMCologne Hbf
$291One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrain
4:28 PM5h12
Berlin Südkreuz station
9:40 PMCologne Hbf
$531One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrain
12:22 PM5h21
Berlin Südkreuz station
5:43 PMCologne Hbf
$541One-way
0 transfers
ICE 277 · ICE 646
4:25 AM5h08
Berlin Südkreuz station
9:33 AMCologne Hbf
$601One-way
1 transfer
ICE 646
4:18 AM5h15
Berlin Südkreuz station
9:33 AMCologne Hbf
$601One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $23, and a flight costs an average of $90.

Distance: 293 miles (473 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$55 Average price	$40 Average price Cheapest	$196 Average price	$108 Average price (fuel + tolls)
5h 39m Average total duration 5h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	8h 24m Average total duration 7h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	5h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door)
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf is a bus with an average price of $40 (€33).

This is compared to other travel options from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf:

A bus is $15 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf costing on average $55 (€45).

A bus is $156 (€128) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf costing on average $196 (€160).

The fastest way to travel from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.

Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 9m.

Bus takes on average 7h 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berlin Südkreuz station and Cologne Hbf including taking a bus, train, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 15m faster (5h 9m by train vs 5h 24m by car) and roughly $54 (€44) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($55 (€45) vs $108 (€89)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
ICE 506 · ICE 844	Delayed 3:34 PM 5:24 PMBerlin Südkreuz station	5h09	10:33 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
21910 · ICE 844	5:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h02	10:33 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
21918 · ICE 542	6:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h04	11:35 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 504 · ICE 842	Delayed 5:28 PM 7:24 PMBerlin Südkreuz station	5h09	12:33 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
21926 · ICE 842	7:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h02	12:33 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 740 · ICE 921	8:05 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	6h59	3:04 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 699 · ICE 618	9:35 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	8h29	6:04 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 1540	On time 11:42 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	6h31	6:13 AM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
Monday, June 22
ICE 646	On time 4:18 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h15	9:33 AM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 277 · ICE 646	On time 4:25 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h08	9:33 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 946	On time 5:26 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h09	10:35 AM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
21822 · ICE 644	On time 6:31 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h02	11:33 AM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
S2 · ICE 1548	On time 6:46 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h30	12:16 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
21830 · ICE 944	On time 7:31 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h02	12:33 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 1131 · ICE 1518	On time 7:49 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h44	1:33 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 1131 · ICE 724 · S6	On time 7:49 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h34	1:23 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
FlixTrain	8:28 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h13	1:41 PM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
S41 · S5 · ICE 1546	On time 10:50 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h29	4:19 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
21862 · ICE 940	On time 11:31 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h02	4:33 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
3173 · ICE 1135 · ICE 626 · S6	11:45 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h38	5:23 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
3173 · ICE 1135 · ICE 1514	On time 11:45 AM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h48	5:33 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
FlixTrain	12:22 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h21	5:43 PM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
21870 · ICE 548	On time 12:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h04	5:35 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
S41 · S5 · ICE 1050	On time 12:50 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h28	6:18 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
21886 · ICE 546	On time 2:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h04	7:35 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
S41 · S5 · ICE 1544 · 10228	2:50 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h39	8:29 PM Cologne Hbf	4 transfers
21894 · ICE 846	On time 3:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h01	8:32 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 1139 · ICE 528 · S6	On time 3:50 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h33	9:23 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
FlixTrain	4:28 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h12	9:40 PM Cologne Hbf	0 transfersDirect
21902 · ICE 544	On time 4:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h04	9:35 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
S41 · S5 · ICE 1542	On time 4:50 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	5h27	10:17 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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 Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?

FlixTrain as well as Deutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf.

Omio is the only official third party seller for FlixTrain tickets.

Why book with Omio vs FlixTrain?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixTrain, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Berlin Südkreuz station 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 FlixTrain with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf

Germany

Trains from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:54, the last at 22:34. The fastest train covers the 293 miles (473 km) distance in 5h 8m.

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

Distance

293 miles (473 km)

Average train duration

5h 9m

Cheapest ticket price

$13 (€10)

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

5h 8m

First train

5:54 AM

Last train

10:34 PM

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Wed

High Season

Jan - Mar

Low Season

Oct - Dec

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Mon

Price information

Train companies: FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf trainsFlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Berlin Südkreuz station and Cologne Hbf from $13 (€10). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 8m

Cheapest Price

$13 (€10)

FlixTrain frequency

2 a day

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

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

5h 27m

Cheapest Price

$22 (€18)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

16 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.

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.

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.

Quiet zone

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

4h 40m

Cheapest Price

$104 (€85)

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

10 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.

Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

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

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Leading fine arts museum with important medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century paintings, offering one of Cologne’s strongest classic art collections.

View on map Visit website

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget: EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
Mid-range: EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining: EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee: EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

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.

FAQs: Trains from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin Südkreuz station 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 Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13 (€10), while the average price is around $55 (€45).

The train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf takes 5h 8m and runs 16 per day.

The distance by train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf is 293 miles (473 km).

The first train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf leaves at 5:54 AM.

The last train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf leaves at 10:34 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf.

Yes, there is a direct train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf is by train, with a cost of around $13 (€10).

The train journey from Berlin Südkreuz to Köln Hbf offers scenic views of Germany's diverse landscapes, including glimpses of the picturesque Harz Mountains, vast green fields, and charming villages, making it a pleasant and visually appealing experience.

A day trip from Berlin Südkreuz to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 8m and the distance is 293 miles (473 km). However, there are 9 trains available per day.

Yes, you can take the train from Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf.

Since both Berlin Südkreuz station 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 Südkreuz station 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 Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf

Most Berlin Südkreuz station to Cologne Hbf trains use the Berlin Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Berlin Südkreuz station and Cologne Hbf 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

Berlin HbfEuropaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre

Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb23, Re2, Rb14, Re7, Fex · 5m · $4 · every ~6 min

U5 · 8m · $4 · every ~25 min

BusN40, 142 · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min

170, 270, 170A, 157A, 157 · 18m · $1

TramM8 · 13m · $4 · every ~12 min

Berlin Hbf train station facilities and services

Berlin Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: backWERK, Burger King, Costa Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, Einstein Kaffee, Le Crobag, McDonald's, Hans im Glück, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi (30 minutes limit). ATMs are available at Berlin Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Berlin Hbf. Information desks are located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Berlin Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Berlin Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Hbf: Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof.

More about Berlin Hbf

Berlin SpandauBerlin-Spandau, Seegefelder Str. 1, 13597 Berlin Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Spandau from Berlin city centre

Berlin Spandau is 14 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS3, S9, S5 · 10m · $4 · every ~14 min

S9, S5, S3 · 25m · $4 · every ~14 min

Berlin Spandau train station facilities and services

Berlin Spandau 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.