Bern to Cologne train with ÖBB | ICE

Tue, Sep 15
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bern to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

$74

Average ticket price on Sep 15

$206

Fastest journey on Sep 15

4 h 56 m

Average journey duration on Sep 15

4 h 56 m

Trains on Sep 15

55

Distance

445 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bern to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bern to Cologne will cost around $206 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 15, we found 55 trains from Bern to Cologne, including 3 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 445 km distance in an average of 4 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 56 m .

On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 4 h 56 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 BahnIC 976 · ICE 102
    4:04 PM5h01
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    9:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $741One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 972 · ICE 104
    2:04 PM5h01
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    7:05 PMCologne Hbf
    $991One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228
    9:33 AM6h33
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    4:06 PMCologne Hbf
    $1061One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 106 · ICE 710 · ICE 28
    12:04 PM6h02
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    6:06 PMCologne Hbf
    $1061One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 970 · ICE 278 · IC 2041
    1:04 PM6h02
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    7:06 PMCologne Hbf
    $1061One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bern to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bern to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $79 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 31m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $79, while a train costs an average of $202.

Distance: 276 miles (445 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$202

Average price

$79

Average price

Cheapest

$186

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 35m

Average total duration

10h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 41m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

ÖBB | ICE

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Bern to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $79 (€64).

This is compared to other travel options from Bern to Cologne:

A bus is $123 (€100) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bern to Cologne costing on average $202 (€164).

The fastest way to travel from Bern to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 5h 1m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 10h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bern and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bern to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 40m sooner (5h 1m by train vs 5h 41m by car). Tickets start at around $202 (€164) compared to roughly $186 (€151) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Bern to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Bern to Cologne trains for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 970 · ICE 278 · ICE 516
On time
1:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 970 · ICE 278 · IC 2041
On time
1:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
7:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 970+ÖBB | ICEICE 278+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2041
On time
1:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
7:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 970+ÖBB | ICEICE 278 · ICE 516
On time
1:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 620 · ECE 4 · ICE 224
On time
1:33 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h10
6:43 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 620 · ECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26
On time
1:33 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h33
8:06 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Tuesday, September 15
Deutsche BahnIC 960 · ICE 200
On time
8:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
ÖBB | InterCityIC 960+ÖBB | ICEICE 200
On time
8:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 372 · ICE 610
On time
9:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 372 · IC 2045
On time
9:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
3:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
ÖBB | ICEICE 372+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2045
On time
9:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
3:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
ÖBB | ICEICE 372 · ICE 610
On time
9:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918
On time
9:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
4h56
2:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228
On time
9:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h33
4:06 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 612+ÖBB | ICEICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228
On time
9:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h33
4:06 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 612+ÖBB | ICEICE 6 · ICE 918+ÖBBDB S199:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h06
2:39 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 612+ÖBB | ICEICE 6 · ICE 918
On time
9:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
4h56
2:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 964 · ICE 108
On time
10:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
3:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
ÖBB | InterCityIC 964+ÖBB | ICEICE 108
On time
10:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
3:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 966 · ICE 370 · ICE 518
On time
11:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
4:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 966 · ICE 370 · ICE 2012
On time
11:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
5:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 966+ÖBB | ICEICE 370 · ICE 2012
On time
11:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
5:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 966+ÖBB | ICEICE 370 · ICE 518
On time
11:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
4:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 616 · ICE 72 · ICE 916
On time
11:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
4h56
4:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 616+ÖBB | ICEICE 72 · ICE 916
On time
11:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
4h56
4:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 616+ÖBB | ICEICE 72 · ICE 916+ÖBBDB S1911:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h06
4:39 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 106 · ICE 710 · ICE 28
On time
12:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
6:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 106
On time
12:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
5:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
ÖBB | ICEICE 106
On time
12:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
5:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
ÖBB | ICEICE 106 · ICE 710 · ICE 28
On time
12:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
6:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bern 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.

Tue
Sep 15
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Sep 28

Why should you book Bern to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Bern to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bern to Cologne.

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 ÖBB | ICE or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Bern to Cologne.
  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bern to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bern to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bern to Cologne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Bern to Cologne run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 (€50) but you can travel from only $44 (€35) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 276 miles (445 km) distance in 4h 32m.

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 $44 (€35)
Distance
276 miles (445 km)
Average train duration
5h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$62 (€50)
Trains per day
12
Fastest train
4h 32m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
14 days
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 $44 (€35)

Train companies: ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) from Bern to Cologne trainsÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) trains will get you between Bern and Cologne from $44 (€35). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | ICE Duration
4h 32m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
$234 (€190)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 32m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$62 (€50)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

ÖBB | InterCity

About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | InterCity Duration
5h 29m
Cheapest ÖBB | InterCity Price
$234 (€190)
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

ÖBB | Euro City (EC)

About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | Euro City (EC) Duration
4h 50m
Cheapest ÖBB | Euro City (EC) Price
$235 (€191)
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

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

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Bern to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bern 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 Bern to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $62 (€50), while the average price is around $202 (€164).
The train from Bern to Cologne takes 4h 32m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Bern to Cologne is 276 miles (445 km).
The first train from Bern to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Bern to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bern to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bern to Cologne.
The train station in Bern that goes to Cologne is Bern Hauptbahnhof, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bern to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $44 (€35).
The train journey from Bern to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly through the Swiss countryside and along parts of the Rhine River, where travelers can enjoy picturesque landscapes and charming towns.
A day trip from Bern to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 32m one way. There are 9 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 276 miles (445 km).
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Bern to Cologne.
Since both Bern 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 Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bern to Cologne 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.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Bern to Cologne

Most Bern to Cologne trains use the Bern Hauptbahnhof to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Bern and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Bern
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Bern station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Bern to Cologne leave from Bern Hauptbahnhof. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bern city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 3011 Bern, Switzerland.
Bern HauptbahnhofBahnhofplatz, 3011 Bern, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Bern Hauptbahnhof from Bern city centre

Tram3, 6, 7, 8, 9 · 3m · $2 · every ~59 min

Bern Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services

Bern Hauptbahnhof 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, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Lötschberg, Tibits Bern Gurtengasse

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bern Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bern Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa, Hotel Savoy Bern, Best Western Plus Hotel Bern.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

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