- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Major art museum with one of Europe’s best collections from medieval painting to modern masters, including notable Impressionist works.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Bordeaux to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
€323
Average price
€323
Fastest journey
7 h 19 m
Average duration
9 h 58 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
828 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bordeaux to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bordeaux to Cologne will cost around €323 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €323.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bordeaux to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.
5:56 AM7h19Bordeaux1:15 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers- 7:45 AM7h29Bordeaux3:14 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 8:50 AM10h25Bordeaux7:15 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 1:06 PM8h09Bordeaux9:15 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 6:46 PM16h29Bordeaux11:15 AMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 5:56 AM7h19Bordeaux1:15 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 7:45 AM7h29Bordeaux3:14 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 1:06 PM8h09Bordeaux9:15 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 8:50 AM10h25Bordeaux7:15 PMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
- 6:46 PM16h29Bordeaux11:15 AMKöln Hbf€3231One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bordeaux to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bordeaux to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €90. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €90, and a flight costs an average of €174.
Distance: 514 miles (828 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€144 Average price | €90 Average price Cheapest | €174 Average price | €169 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 36m Average total duration 11h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 10m Average total duration 16h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 50m Average total duration Fastest 3h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bordeaux to Cologne is a bus with an average price of €90.
This is compared to other travel options from Bordeaux to Cologne:
A bus is €54 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bordeaux to Cologne costing on average €144.
A bus is €84 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bordeaux to Cologne costing on average €174.
The fastest way to travel from Bordeaux to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 50m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 6m.
Bus takes on average 16h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bordeaux and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bordeaux to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €144 compared to roughly €169 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €25. The journey takes 11h 6m versus 10h 54m 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.
Live departures
Bordeaux to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Bordeaux to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:56 AM Bordeaux | 7h19 | 1:15 PM Köln Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 7:45 AM Bordeaux | 7h29 | 3:14 PM Köln Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 8:50 AM Bordeaux | 10h25 | 7:15 PM Köln Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 1:06 PM Bordeaux | 8h09 | 9:15 PM Köln Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 6:46 PM Bordeaux | 16h29 | 11:15 AM Köln Hbf | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bordeaux to Cologne by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
Mon
Aug 03
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bordeaux to Cologne
France
Italy
Trains from Bordeaux to Cologne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €144 but you can travel from only €90 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 19:20. The fastest train covers the 514 miles (828 km) distance in 11h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €90
Distance 514 miles (828 km) |
Average train duration 11h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price €144 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 11h 6m |
First train 5:35 AM |
Last train 7:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 €90
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI from Bordeaux to Cologne trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Bordeaux and Cologne from €90. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 19m
Cheapest Price
€323
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. 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
Leading museum of modern and contemporary art, known for Picasso, Pop Art, and major postwar European collections.
- Recommended
Romano-Germanic Museum
Large archaeology museum presenting Cologne’s Roman past through mosaics, glass, inscriptions, and everyday artifacts.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic old town lanes with colorful houses, breweries, and churches; ideal for wandering between the Rhine and cathedral.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
Lively riverside promenade with classic skyline views, boat traffic, and easy walks connecting the old town and southern harbor.
- Recommended
Rheinauhafen
Modern harbor redevelopment known for the dramatic Kranhaus buildings, waterfront paths, and a polished urban atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
Canederli
Canederli are bread dumplings from the Alpine north, often served in broth or with butter. They reflect Tyrolean influence and are a classic local comfort dish.
- Gluten-free
Speck Alto Adige
Speck is lightly smoked, cured ham from South Tyrol. It is prized for its mountain-aging tradition and is commonly served with bread, cheese, or dumplings.
- Vegetarian
Schlutzkrapfen
Schlutzkrapfen are half-moon pasta filled with spinach and ricotta, usually dressed with butter and chives. They are a hallmark of the region’s Alpine cuisine.
Restaurant Zur Rose
Michelin-starred dining with creative tasting menus rooted in local ingredients. Elegant atmosphere for a high-end South Tyrolean meal.
Wirtshaus Vögele
Historic traditional restaurant known for South Tyrolean classics, wood-paneled rooms, and a refined but welcoming atmosphere in the old town.
Forsterbräu Central
Well-known local tavern serving canederli, schnitzel, and regional wine in a rustic setting popular with residents and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe; hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and public transport are generally manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
KVB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.70
- Day pass
- €9.00
To the city center
Cologne Central Station, Cologne -> Köln Hauptbahnhof, Cologne
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines and in the KVB App, but not reliably onboard every bus or tram.
- Validate paper tickets if required, and buy before boarding when possible to avoid fines.
FAQs: Trains from Bordeaux to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bordeaux 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.
Train ticket prices from Bordeaux to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €144, while the average price is around €144.
The train from Bordeaux to Cologne takes 11h 6m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Bordeaux to Cologne leaves at 5:35 AM.
The distance by train from Bordeaux to Cologne is 514 miles (828 km).
The last train from Bordeaux to Cologne leaves at 7:20 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bordeaux to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bordeaux to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bordeaux to Cologne.
The train station in Bordeaux that goes to Cologne is Bordeaux-Saint-Jean, which connects to Milan Porta Garibaldi.
The cheapest way to get from Bordeaux to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around €90.
The train journey from Bordeaux to Cologne offers varied scenery, with picturesque views of vineyards and rolling countryside in the Bordeaux region, transitioning to the scenic landscapes of the Rhine Valley as you approach Cologne.
A day trip from Bordeaux to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 6m and covers 514 miles (828 km). The frequency of trips is 1 per day by train.
To fully experience Cologne, including its historic cathedral, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Bordeaux to Cologne.
Since both Bordeaux 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 Brescia, Bergamo, Milan, Verona, Palazzolo sull'Oglio.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bordeaux 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.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and around popular attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Staying alert and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Bordeaux to Cologne
Most Bordeaux to Cologne trains use the Talence-Médoquine to Milano Porta Garibaldi station pair. Use this guide to compare Bordeaux and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bordeaux
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Bordeaux Saint-JeanRue Charles Domercq, 33800 Bordeaux, France+33 556916470
City-centre transport
Getting to Bordeaux Saint-Jean from Bordeaux city centre
Bordeaux Saint-Jean is 2 km from Bordeaux city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4211, 421, 4210 · 17m · €3 · every ~2 min
G, 1 · 18m · €2 · every ~19 min
TramC, D · 11m · €2 · every ~27 min
F · 13m · €2 · every ~11 min
Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station facilities and services
Bordeaux Saint-Jean has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Baillardran, Starbucks, Café Ritazza, Le Grand Comptoir, Metsens, PAUL, Factory & Co, Brioche Dorée, Costa Coffee, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available everywhere in the station and its surroundings. ATMs are aTM machine is in Hall 3 forecourt.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 19:00. Information desks are open daily from 09:00 to 18:00, located in the Sales area of Hall 1 on Level 0.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are automatic luggage lockers located in Hall 2, Level 0 near the toilets.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bordeaux Saint-Jean: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bordeaux Saint-Jean: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bordeaux Saint-Jean: Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets, services to assist disabled passengers.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Regina, Best Western Plus Gare Saint Jean, Hotel La Zoologie.
More options for your journey from Bordeaux to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Bordeaux
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.
