Bielefeld to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Wed, Nov 04
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bielefeld to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$15
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$24
Fastest journey on Nov 04
2 h 3 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
2 h 11 m
Trains on Nov 04
6
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bielefeld to Cologne will cost around $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 6 trains from Bielefeld to Cologne, including 5 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 2 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 3 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 2 h 24 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.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 956
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 954
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2042
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn89972 · 89878 · 26416 · 17415
    3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bielefeld to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 if you book in advance.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 1h 41m.

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

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance101 miles (164 km)
  • Average train duration2h 14m
  • Cheapest ticket price$7
  • Trains per day9
  • Direct trains6
  • Fastest train1h 41m
  • First train12:05 AM
  • Last train11:58 PM
  • Cheapest MonthJul
  • Cheapest DayWed
  • High SeasonOct - Dec
  • Low SeasonApr - Jun
  • Busiest DaySat
  • Least Busy DayThu
  • Best time to book1 day

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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

Frequently asked questions about your Bielefeld to Cologne trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bielefeld to Cologne.

Train ticket prices from Bielefeld to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7, while the average price is around $45.
The train from Bielefeld to Cologne takes 1h 41m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Bielefeld to Cologne is 101 miles (164 km).
The first train from Bielefeld to Cologne leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Bielefeld to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bielefeld to Cologne. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

Live departures

Bielefeld to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Bielefeld to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 654
Delayed
8:35 AM 9:33 AMBielefeld Hbf
2h07
11:40 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn89972 · 89878 · 26416 · 174159:37 AM Bielefeld Hbf
3h01
12:38 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 954
Delayed
9:24 AM 10:22 AMBielefeld Hbf
2h18
12:40 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain3:23 PM Bielefeld Hbf
2h24
5:47 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, November 4
Deutsche BahnICE 956
On time
8:22 AM Bielefeld Hbf
2h05
10:27 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 2042
On time
8:42 AM Bielefeld Hbf
2h03
10:45 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Bielefeld to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Bielefeld to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bielefeld 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 FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld to Cologne.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Bielefeld to Cologne

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconVery positive experience
IconPunctual and uncomplicated
Disadvantages
IconHave none
The train connection was very punctual. The train arrived exactly at the scheduled departure time and reached its destination without any delays. This allowed for a stress-free journey planning. The ticket price was reasonable and affordable compared to other means of transport, but it would be desirable if there were even cheaper fares or discounts for travellers. The overall cleanliness of the train was good, the seats and floor were tidy and there were no obvious defects. However, regular cleaning during the journey could further improve the overall impression. The availability of free wifi on the train was a big plus, the connection was stable and allowed for reliable internet use throughout the journey. The toilets on the train were functional, but there were slight cleanliness issues. More intensive cleaning and regular checks would improve hygiene conditions. The seats were comfortable and ergonomically designed. There was sufficient legroom, and the ability to recline the seat contributed to a pleasant travelling experience.
Advantages
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconDelay
It was almost a given that the train would be late, so I didn't get upset at all. When we set off after a fifteen-minute delay, the rest of the journey was fine. My seat was clean and comfortable, so you feel at ease and not disgusted. The price was also good.
Advantages
IconWifi and power sockets were available
Iconno change
IconComfortable equipment
Disadvantages
Iconshort delay
IconRelatively expensive
Overall, the journey from Bielefeld to Cologne was very smooth and pleasant. Apart from the fact that the train was a few minutes late, there were no shortcomings during the journey. The availability of wifi, power sockets, WCs and friendly service made the journey even more pleasant. The short journey caused little inconvenience as there was no need to change trains.

Train companies

Train companies from Bielefeld to Cologne

Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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
1h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$9
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

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 FlixTrain Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$7
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld 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

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.

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 Bielefeld to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Teutoburg Forest, the Weser Hills, and the Rhine River, making it a pleasant and varied trip.
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 Bielefeld to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bielefeld 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
Yes, you can take the train from Bielefeld to Cologne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Bielefeld to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Bielefeld
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Bielefeld station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne leave from Bielefeld Hbf. The station is from Bielefeld city centre at Bielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 Bielefeld.
Bielefeld HbfBielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 BielefeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bielefeld Hbf from Bielefeld city centre

Bus351, 350 · 3m · every ~4 min
Tram4, 3, 2, 1 · 3m · $3 · every ~32 min
2, 1, 3, 4 · 4m · $3 · every ~21 min

Bielefeld Hbf train station facilities and services

Bielefeld 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: McDonald's, Mexims, Entrada, Lokma

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bielefeld Hbf. ATMs are available at Bielefeld Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Information desks are available at Bielefeld Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bielefeld Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wali, Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld, Hotel Stadt Bremen, Bielefelder Hof.

BrackwedeBrackwede, Eisenbahnstr. 42, 33647 BielefeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Brackwede from Bielefeld city centre

Brackwede is 4 km from Bielefeld city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb75, Rb74 · 4m · $8 · every ~6 min
Bus88, 48 · 6m · every ~3 min
Tram1 · 11m · $3 · every ~12 min

Brackwede train station facilities and services

Brackwede has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Brackwede.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Brackwede. Information desks are available at Brackwede.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Brackwede. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brackwede: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Brackwede: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brackwede.

Train stations for Bielefeld to Cologne

Check train stations information for Bielefeld and Cologne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Bielefeld that goes to Cologne is Bielefeld Hbf, which connects to Köln Hbf.

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