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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bielefeld to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Nov 07
Cheapest price
$16
Average price
$20
Fastest journey
2 h 7 m
Average duration
2 h 28 m
Trains per day
4
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 $20 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Bielefeld for Cologne on Fri, Nov 07, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 2 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 7 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 2 h 53 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.
06:40AM2h07
Bielefeld08:47AMCologne
$161One-way
0 transfers
12:53PM2h53
Bielefeld03:46PMCologne
$181One-way
0 transfers
05:25PM2h30
Bielefeld07:55PMCologne
$201One-way
0 transfers
09:25AM2h20
Bielefeld11:45AMCologne
$261One-way
0 transfers
06:40AM2h07
Bielefeld08:47AMCologne
$161One-way
0 transfers
09:25AM2h20
Bielefeld11:45AMCologne
$261One-way
0 transfers
05:25PM2h30
Bielefeld07:55PMCologne
$201One-way
0 transfers
12:53PM2h53
Bielefeld03:46PMCologne
$181One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bielefeld to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bielefeld to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €8, and a bus costs an average of €12.
Distance: 101 miles (164 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€16 Average price Cheapest | €17 Average price |
2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration 2h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Bielefeld to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Bielefeld to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 4:22 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RE 89708 · RE 17407 | On time 5:01 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h37 | 7:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 103 | Delayed 5:41 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h06 | 7:56 AM 7:56 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| RE 89710 | On time 6:01 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h49 | 8:50 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 646 · RE 17409 | Delayed 6:23 AM 6:22 AMBielefeld Hbf | 2h16 | 8:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| RE 89712 · ICE 956 | Delayed 6:59 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h13 | 9:23 AM 9:23 AMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2042 | Delayed 7:40 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h07 | 9:57 AM 9:57 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| RE 89714 · RE 17413 | On time 8:01 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h37 | 10:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| RE 89714 | On time 8:01 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h49 | 10:50 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 644 · ICE 625 | On time 8:28 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h14 | 10:42 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 644 · ICE 517 | Delayed 8:28 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h19 | 10:56 AM 10:56 AMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixTrain | 10:25 AM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h20 | 12:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixTrain | 6:25 PM Bielefeld Hbf | 2h30 | 8:55 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bielefeld 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.
Fri
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
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Nov 13
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Bielefeld to Cologne
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
Very positive experiencePunctual and uncomplicatedDisadvantages
Have noneThe 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
ComfortDisadvantages
DelayIt 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
Wifi and power sockets were availableno changeComfortable equipmentDisadvantages
short delayRelatively expensiveOverall, 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bielefeld to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $10 (€8) if you book in advance.
There are 5 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 2h 6m.
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 101 miles (164 km) |
Average train duration 2h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $10 (€8) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 6m |
First train 00:05 |
Last train 23:58 |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, Eurobahn from Bielefeld to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, Eurobahn trains will get you between Bielefeld and Cologne from $10 (€8). 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
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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.
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
2h 19m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€6)
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
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
National Express frequency
14 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Eurobahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
Eurobahn frequency
2 a day
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.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
The train from Bielefeld to Cologne takes 2h 6m and runs 10 per day.
Train ticket prices from Bielefeld to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $10 (€8), while the average price is around $19 (€16).
The cheapest way to get from Bielefeld to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The last train from Bielefeld to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
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.
The first train from Bielefeld to Cologne leaves at 12:05 AM.
A day trip from Bielefeld to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 6m. However, there are 10 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 101 miles (164 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Bielefeld to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bielefeld to Cologne.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bielefeld to Cologne. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express.
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.
The distance by train from Bielefeld to Cologne is 101 miles (164 km).
The train station in Bielefeld that goes to Cologne is Bielefeld Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bielefeld to Cologne
Bielefeld
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Bielefeld is Bielefeld Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bielefeld Hbf for your trip from Bielefeld to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Dining
- McDonald's
- Mexims
- Entrada
- Lokma
Hotel
- Wali
- Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld
- Hotel Stadt Bremen
- Bielefelder Hof
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskBrake(b Bielefeld)
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
6 kmDining
- Braker Grill
- Holzweiler's Schnellimbiss
- Da Carmela
- La Perla
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 Bielefeld.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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.
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
10 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Hotel
- Haus Wester
Köln-Chorweiler Nord
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
11 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln Airport-Businesspark
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Yilmaz
- Bistro im Park
- Restaurant Fernandes
- Orient Palais Restaurants & Catering
Köln-Nippes
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Hanoi46
- Aida
- Vasco da Gama
- Alforat Grill & Pizza
Köln, Porz Bf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskPorz-Wahn
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
12 kmDining
- Brauhaus Eltzhof
- Cafe Wanda
- East Time
- Olymp
Most popular train connections from Bielefeld
More options for your journey from Bielefeld to Cologne
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Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Bielefeld
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