Bern to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sat, Aug 01
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
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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 and prices for Aug 01

Cheapest price

€132

Average price

€177

Fastest journey

5 h 1 m

Average duration

5 h 17 m

Trains per day

14

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 €177 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €132.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bern to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 966 · ICE 370 · ICE 28
    11:05 AM7h01
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    6:06 PMCologne Hbf
    1321One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 372 · IC 2545
    9:04 AM6h02
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    3:06 PMCologne Hbf
    1321One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 966 · ICE 370 · ICE 916
    11:05 AM5h24
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    4:29 PMCologne Messe/Deutz
    1361One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 966 · ICE 370 · ICE 122
    11:05 AM5h38
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    4:43 PMCologne Hbf
    1361One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIR 2365 · IC 668 · ICE 108
    9:36 AM5h29
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    3:05 PMCologne Hbf
    1361One-way
    2 transfers

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 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €50 but you can travel from only €33 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 56m.

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 €33
Distance
276 miles (445 km)
Average train duration
5h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
€50
Trains per day
12
Fastest train
4h 56m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
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 €33

Live departures

Bern to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Bern to Cologne trains for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918
On time
9:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
4h56
2:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 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
ÖBB | InterCityIC 612+ÖBB | ICEICE 6 · ICE 918+ÖBBDB S199:33 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h06
2:39 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 964 · ICE 108
On time
10:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
3:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 964 · ICE 108 · ICE 2012
On time
10:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
7h02
5:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 964+ÖBB | ICEICE 108
On time
10:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
3:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 106
On time
12:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
5:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
ÖBB | InterCityIC 2041+ÖBB | ICEICE 106
Delayed
1:52 PM 12:04 PMBern Hauptbahnhof
7h02
7:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
ÖBB | ICEICE 106
On time
12:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
5:05 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 970 · ICE 278 · IC 2041
On time
1:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
7:06 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 970 · ICE 278 · ICE 516
On time
1:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
ÖBB | InterCityIC 970 · IC 2041+ÖBB | ICEICE 278
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
ÖBB | InterCityIC 620+ÖBB | Euro City (EC)EC 4+ÖBB | ICEICE 224
On time
1:33 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h10
6:43 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 972 · ICE 104
On time
2:04 PM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
7:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Saturday, August 1
ÖBB | ICEICE 372 · ICE 610
On time
9:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
2:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
ÖBB | ICEICE 372+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2545
On time
9:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
3:06 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 2545
On time
9:04 AM Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
3:06 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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, bus and flight 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, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bern to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Bern to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Bern and Cologne from €33. 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
4h 56m
Cheapest Price
€50
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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 | 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 Duration
6h 1m
Cheapest Price
€190
ÖBB | ICE frequency
9 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

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 1m
Cheapest Price
€122
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
7 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

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 €50, while the average price is around €123.
The train from Bern to Cologne takes 4h 56m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Bern to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Bern to Cologne is 276 miles (445 km).
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Bern to Cologne.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
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

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