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

Sun, Dec 21
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Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
SNCB
Regionale
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels Airport to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

$104

Average price

$114

Fastest journey

2 h 2 m

Average duration

2 h 12 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

173 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Brussels Airport to Cologne will cost around $114 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $104.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Brussels Airport for Cologne on Sun, Dec 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 the direct trains cover the 173 km distance in an average of 2 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 2 m .

On Sun, Dec 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 33 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.

Deutsche Bahn
06:13AM2h02
Brussels Airport
08:15AMCologne
$1041One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
08:13AM2h02
Brussels Airport
10:15AMCologne
$1191One-way
0 transfers
Eurostar
08:42AM2h33
Brussels Airport
11:15AMCologne
$1201One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Brussels Airport to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels Airport to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €9, and a train costs an average of €36.

Distance: 107 miles (173 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€73

Average price

€28

Average price

Cheapest

2h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 28m

Average total duration

3h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Brussels Airport to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Brussels Airport to Cologne trains for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:38 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn6:13 AM Brussels Airport
2h02
8:15 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
eurostar-direct6:42 AM Brussels Airport
2h34
9:16 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn8:13 AM Brussels Airport
2h19
10:32 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn10:13 AM Brussels Airport
2h02
12:15 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn2:13 PM Brussels Airport
2h19
4:32 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brussels Airport 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.

Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27

Why should you book Brussels Airport to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE) as well as Eurostar and SNCB offer trains services from Brussels Airport to Cologne. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels Airport to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE)?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE), but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar and SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Brussels Airport 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 (IC,ICE,RE) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels Airport to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Eurostar and SNCB to help you choose the right option for your journey from Brussels Airport to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Brussels Airport to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brussels Airport to Cologne

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Brussels Airport to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $45 (€36) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:13, the last at 19:25. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 1h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11 (€9)
Distance
107 miles (173 km)
Average train duration
2h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$45 (€36)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
1h 49m
First train
06:13
Last train
19:25
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 $11 (€9)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB from Brussels Airport to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB trains will get you between Brussels Airport and Cologne from $11 (€9). 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 1m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€40)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 33m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Eurostar frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

SNCB

About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 2m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€49)
SNCB frequency
8 a day

FAQs: Trains from Brussels Airport to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels Airport 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
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, a day trip from Brussels Airport to Cologne is feasible with a travel time of 1h 49m and a distance of 107 miles (173 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
The train journey from Brussels Airport to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Belgian countryside, quaint towns, and parts of the German Rhineland, providing a pleasant and moderately scenic experience.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Brussels Airport to Cologne.
Train ticket prices from Brussels Airport to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $45 (€36), while the average price is around $92 (€73).
The distance by train from Brussels Airport to Cologne is 107 miles (173 km).
The cheapest way to get from Brussels Airport to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The first train from Brussels Airport to Cologne leaves at 6:13 AM.
The train from Brussels Airport to Cologne takes 1h 49m and runs 6 per day.
The last train from Brussels Airport to Cologne leaves at 7:25 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Brussels Airport to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brussels Airport to Cologne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Brussels Airport to Cologne

Brussels
Cologne
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
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