- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
Cheapest price
$9
Average price
$19
Fastest journey
20 m
Average duration
21 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
24 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bonn to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bonn to Cologne will cost around $19 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Of the 8 trains that leave Bonn for Cologne on Fri, Jun 19, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 24 km distance in an average of 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 20 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 22 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.
IC 2347
ICE 22
IC 2012
IC 2241
IC 1947
IC 5107
IC 1947
IC 2008
IC 2241
IC 2012Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bonn to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 34m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $9.
Distance: 14 miles (24 km)
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$22 Average price Cheapest | $6 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 4m Average total duration Fastest 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 34m.
Tickets start at around $22 (€18) compared to roughly $6 (€5) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-16.71 (€-13.65). The journey takes 34m versus 32m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Bonn to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 920 | Delayed 11:37 PM 1:37 AMBonn Hbf | 0h28 | 12:05 AM 12:05 AMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2241 | On time 8:44 AM Bonn Hbf | 0h22 | 9:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train 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.

Trains from Bonn to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 14 miles (24 km) distance in 20m.
Distance 14 miles (24 km) |
Average train duration 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 20m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 70 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
Cologne’s key archaeology museum for Roman heritage, especially famous for the Dionysus mosaic and Roman artifacts from the city.
Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century painting, including one of Germany’s leading Impressionist collections.
Popular riverfront promenade in Deutz with one of the city’s best postcard views toward the cathedral skyline, especially at sunset.
Classic walking area with narrow lanes, traditional houses, churches, and river access, ideal for first-time visitors.
One of the Old Town’s best-known squares, surrounded by historic facades and a lively atmosphere close to major sights.
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a local brauhaus.
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, usually served with black pudding and fried onions. The sweet-savory combination is strongly associated with Rhineland home cooking.
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye bread roll with aged Gouda, butter, mustard, and onions. It is a beloved Kölsch beer snack in traditional Cologne pubs.
An established fine-dining restaurant in central Cologne offering refined modern European cuisine, polished service, and an elegant hotel dining room.
A well-known casual restaurant loved for schnitzel and hearty German comfort food. It has a relaxed, local feel and a strong reputation among visitors and residents.
One of Cologne’s most famous brauhäuser near the cathedral, known for Kölsch and classic Rhineland dishes in a lively traditional atmosphere.
Moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Add EUR 1-2 for taxis, and round up in cafés if table service is provided.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf -> Cologne City Center
The train connection between Bonn and Cologne is efficient and convenient, making it easy for travelers to explore these vibrant cities. The primary provider of this route is Deutsche Bahn, known for its reliable service and comfortable trains. With frequent departures throughout the day, passengers can enjoy a scenic journey that typically takes around 30 minutes. Whether you're heading to Cologne's famous cathedral or exploring Bonn's rich history, the train offers an excellent way to travel between these two destinations.
The train connection between Bonn and Cologne is direct, with a travel duration of just 19 minutes. There are 16 connections available per day, making it convenient for travelers. The departure station is Bonn Hbf and the arrival station is Köln Hbf.
The first daily train from Bonn to Cologne departs at 06:22 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Cologne. The last journey of the day leaves Bonn at 11:38 PM, allowing night owls and late arrivals ample time to enjoy their visit before heading back.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Bonn and Cologne is €10. The average ticket price typically hovers around €17, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in Germany.
Welcome to Cologne, where the magnificent Cologne Cathedral stands as a testament to Gothic architecture and centuries of devotion; construction began in 1248 and was completed in 1880, making it one of Germany's most iconic landmarks. Its towering spires reach an impressive height of 157 meters, drawing visitors from around the world who come not only for its breathtaking beauty but also to witness its significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that embodies both spiritual and cultural heritage.
As we stroll towards Hohenzollern Bridge, you'll notice this remarkable structure is more than just a crossing over the Rhine River; it has been connecting people since its completion in 1911. The bridge is famous for its thousands of love locks attached by couples seeking to symbolize their eternal commitment—a unique feature that adds personal stories to this historical site while offering stunning views of the cathedral against the skyline.
Finally, let’s explore Museum Ludwig, which houses one of Europe’s most extensive collections of modern art with works spanning from Picasso to Warhol. Opened in 1976 and located right next door to the cathedral, this museum uniquely combines contemporary creativity with traditional aesthetics—making it an essential stop for art lovers eager to experience innovative exhibitions alongside classic masterpieces within such close proximity.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bonn 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.

Most Bonn to Cologne trains use the Bonn Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Bonn and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Bonn 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 options include: Magd und Knecht, Cafébar Macchiato, Frittebud, McDonald's
Wi-Fi is available at Bonn Hbf. ATMs are available at Bonn Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Bonn Hbf. Information desks are available at Bonn Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Bonn Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bonn Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bonn Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bonn Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Motel One, Hotel Rheinland, Hotel Löhndorf, Villa Esplanade.
Bonn-Beuel is 2 km from Bonn city centre. Public transport options include:
Bonn-Beuel 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 options include: Cafe Wagner, Stadt-Café, Freundlicher Imbiss, Beueler Döner- & Pizza-Center
Wi-Fi is available at Bonn-Beuel. ATMs are available at Bonn-Beuel.
Ticket office support is available at Bonn-Beuel. Information desks are available at Bonn-Beuel.
Luggage storage is available at Bonn-Beuel. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bonn-Beuel: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bonn-Beuel: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bonn-Beuel.
Nearby hotels include Garten Hotel, Portofino.
Bonn-Bad Godesberg is 7 km from Bonn city centre. Public transport options include:
Bonn-Bad Godesberg 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 options include: House of Steaks, Fair Cafe, Maternus, Mykonos
Wi-Fi is available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg. ATMs are available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg.
Ticket office support is available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg. Information desks are available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg.
Luggage storage is available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bonn-Bad Godesberg.
Nearby hotels include Kaiserhof, Hotel zum Adler, Insel Hotel, Hotel Eden.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln 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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz 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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need