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

Thu, Jul 09
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Deutsche Bahn
Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK)
Regionale
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bratislava to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Jul 09

Cheapest price

$68

Average price

$130

Fastest journey

9 h 57 m

Average duration

10 h 27 m

Trains per day

16

Distance

795 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bratislava to Cologne will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bratislava to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnREX 2523 · EC 1210 · ICE 698 · IC 60402
    3:50 PM13h54
    Bratislava hlavná stanica
    5:44 AMCologne Hbf
    $681One-way
    3 transfers
  • ÖBB | REXREX 6+Deutsche BahnEC 1210 · ICE 698 · IC 60402
    12:16 PM17h28
    Bratislava-Petržalka
    5:44 AMCologne Hbf
    $911One-way
    3 transfers
  • ÖBB | REXREX 6+Deutsche BahnEC 1210 · ICE 698 · IC 60402
    1:16 PM16h28
    Bratislava-Petržalka
    5:44 AMCologne Hbf
    $911One-way
    3 transfers
  • ÖBB | REXREX 6+Deutsche BahnEC 1210 · ICE 698 · IC 60402
    2:16 PM15h28
    Bratislava-Petržalka
    5:44 AMCologne Hbf
    $911One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnREX 7732 · RJX 19916 · EC 114 · ICE 910
    12:16 PM10h14
    Bratislava-Petržalka
    10:30 PMCologne Hbf
    $971One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bratislava to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bratislava to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 10h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $49.

Distance: 493 miles (795 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$152

Average price

$73

Average price

Cheapest

$205

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

10h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

14h 29m

Average total duration

13h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 46m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.8 - 2.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Bratislava to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $73 (€60).

This is compared to other travel options from Bratislava to Cologne:

A bus is $79 (€65) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bratislava to Cologne costing on average $152 (€125).

The fastest way to travel from Bratislava to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 10h 12m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 13h 59m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bratislava and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bratislava 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 $152 (€125) compared to roughly $205 (€168) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $53 (€43). The journey takes 10h 12m versus 8h 46m 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

Bratislava to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Bratislava to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnEC 19910 · ICE 210 · ICE 916
On time
6:32 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
9h57
4:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 19910 · ICE 210 · ICE 1514
On time
6:32 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
11h01
5:33 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnREX 7712 · RJX 262 · ICE 516
On time
7:16 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
10h49
6:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnREX 7712 · RJX 262 · ICE 564 · ICE 576
On time
7:16 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
12h39
7:55 PM Cologne Hbf
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnREX 7716 · RJX 19912 · ICE 118 · ICE 224
On time
8:16 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
10h27
6:43 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnREX 7716 · RJX 19912 · ICE 118 · ICE 26
On time
8:16 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
12h20
8:36 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnREX 7720 · RJX 60 · ICE 514
On time
9:16 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
10h49
8:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnREX 7720 · RJX 60 · ICE 562 · ICE 1649
On time
9:16 AM Bratislava-Petržalka
12h35
9:51 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnREX 7732 · RJX 19916 · EC 114 · ICE 910
On time
12:16 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
10h14
10:30 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
ÖBB | REXREX 6+Deutsche BahnEC 1210 · ICE 698 · IC 60402
On time
12:16 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
17h28
5:44 AM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
ÖBB | REXREX 6+Deutsche BahnRJX 64 · ICE 510
On time
12:16 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
11h54
12:10 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bratislava to Cologne by train or bus

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Why should you book Bratislava to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK) offer trains services from Bratislava to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bratislava 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 Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK) to find the best option for your trip from Bratislava 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bratislava to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bratislava to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bratislava to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Bratislava to Cologne is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bratislava to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bratislava to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Bratislava to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bratislava to Cologne

SlovakiaSlovakia
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Bratislava to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 10h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€40) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 493 miles (795 km) distance in 9h 49m.

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
493 miles (795 km)
Average train duration
10h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€40)
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
9h 49m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
7 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK) from Bratislava to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK) trains will get you between Bratislava and Cologne from $49 (€40). 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
9h 49m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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

Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 51m
Cheapest Price
$152 (€125)
Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK) frequency
2 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

Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, especially strong in Pop Art, Picasso, and postwar European art.

  • Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

One of Germany’s key fine art museums, known for medieval painting, Gothic works, and major Impressionist holdings.

  • Recommended

NS-Dokumentationszentrum

Cologne’s documentation center on National Socialism, housed in the former Gestapo headquarters with preserved prison cells.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Public transport is fair, while central hotels and dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
Mid-range
EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is common for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.

FAQs: Trains from Bratislava to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bratislava 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 Bratislava to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€40), while the average price is around $152 (€125).
The train from Bratislava to Cologne takes 9h 49m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Bratislava to Cologne is 493 miles (795 km).
The first train from Bratislava to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Bratislava to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bratislava to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bratislava to Cologne.
The train station in Bratislava that goes to Cologne is Bratislava-Petržalka, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bratislava to Cologne is by train, with a cost of around $49 (€40).
The train journey from Bratislava to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Austria and the rolling hills of southern Germany, with sights of charming villages, lush forests, and the majestic Rhine River along parts of the route.
A day trip from Bratislava to Cologne is not feasible as the travel time is 9h 49m. However, there are 10 trips per day available for trains, covering a distance of 493 miles (795 km).
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.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Bratislava to Cologne.
Since both Bratislava 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 Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bratislava 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.
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 Bratislava to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Bratislava
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Bratislava station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Bratislava to Cologne leave from Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bratislava city centre at Námestie Franza Liszta 1, 811 04 Bratislava, Slovakia.
Bratislava Hlavná StanicaNámestie Franza Liszta 1, 811 04 Bratislava, Slovakia+421 2 2029 7011WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Bratislava Hlavná Stanica from Bratislava city centre

Bratislava Hlavná Stanica is 1 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:

TramLine 1, Line 2
BusSeveral lines available
TrolleybusLine 210

Bratislava Hlavná Stanica train station facilities and services

Bratislava Hlavná Stanica has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Fach Restaurant, Savoy Restaurant

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Matyšák, Mercure Bratislava Centrum Hotel, Loft Hotel Bratislava.

Bratislava-PetržalkaKopčianska 100, 851 01 Bratislava, Slovakia+421 2 2029 7011WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Bratislava-Petržalka from Bratislava city centre

Bratislava-Petržalka is 3 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:

Trainrjx 160 · 19m · $1
Rjx · 26m · $11
Bus93, N93, N80 · 6m · $1 · every ~19 min

Bratislava-Petržalka train station facilities and services

Bratislava-Petržalka has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Petržalka, Pizzeria La Mamma

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bratislava-Petržalka. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bratislava-Petržalka. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bratislava-Petržalka: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bratislava-Petržalka: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava-Petržalka: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Viktor, Hotel Dominika, Hotel Expo.

Bratislava-Nové MestoTomášikova, 831 04 Bratislava-Nové Mesto, SlovakiaParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Bratislava-Nové Mesto from Bratislava city centre

Bratislava-Nové Mesto is 3 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus50 · 23m · $1 · every ~12 min
Tram4 · 11m · every ~22 min

Bratislava-Nové Mesto train station facilities and services

Bratislava-Nové Mesto has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava-Nové Mesto.

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