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

Fri, Jun 19
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$67

Average price

$93

Fastest journey

2 h 2 m

Average duration

2 h 3 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

173 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf will cost around $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Brussels Airport for Cologne Hbf on Fri, Jun 19, 4 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 173 km distance in an average of 2 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 2 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 3 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
    7:13 AM2h03
    Brussels Airport
    9:16 AMCologne Hbf
    $671One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:13 AM2h03
    Brussels Airport
    8:16 AMCologne Hbf
    $711One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    11:13 AM2h02
    Brussels Airport
    1:15 PMCologne Hbf
    $881One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    10:13 AM2h02
    Brussels Airport
    12:15 PMCologne Hbf
    $1471One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a flight costs an average of $362.

Distance: 107 miles (173 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$92

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$578

Average price

$45

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 8m

Average total duration

2h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 53m

Average total duration

5h 53m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

2h 18m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf is a bus with an average price of $37 (€31).

This is compared to other travel options from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf:

A bus is $55 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf costing on average $92 (€76).

A bus is $540 (€443) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf costing on average $578 (€473).

The fastest way to travel from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf is by train with an average journey time of 2h 11m.

Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 38m.

Flight takes on average 5h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brussels Airport and Cologne Hbf including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 7m sooner (2h 11m by train vs 2h 18m by car). Tickets start at around $92 (€76) compared to roughly $45 (€37) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:13 AM Brussels Airport
2h03
8:16 AM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:13 AM Brussels Airport
2h03
9:16 AM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn10:13 AM Brussels Airport
2h02
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn11:13 AM Brussels Airport
2h02
1:15 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf 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.

Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

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

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or SNCB offer trains services from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.

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 Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 (€46) but you can travel from only $13 (€11) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:13, the last at 16:13. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 1h 50m.

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 $13 (€11)
Distance
107 miles (173 km)
Average train duration
2h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$56 (€46)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
1h 50m
First train
6:13 AM
Last train
4:13 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
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 $13 (€11)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB trains will get you between Brussels Airport and Cologne Hbf from $13 (€11). 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 2m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
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
$43 (€35)
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
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
SNCB frequency
1 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, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Cologne’s key archaeological museum for Roman heritage, famous for mosaics and finds from the city’s ancient past. Parts of the collection may be presented in temporary locations during building works

  • Recommended

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Leading fine arts museum with important medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century paintings, offering one of Cologne’s strongest classic art collections.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 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, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes and bars.

FAQs: Trains from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56 (€46), while the average price is around $92 (€76).
The train from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf takes 1h 50m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf leaves at 6:13 AM.
The distance by train from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf is 107 miles (173 km).
The last train from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf leaves at 4:13 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€11).
The train journey from Brussels Airport to Köln Hbf offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Passengers can enjoy views of the Belgian countryside, charming small towns, and the transition into Germany's Rhineland region, known for its picturesque scenery. While not overwhelmingly scenic, the route provides a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Brussels Airport to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey duration is 1h 50m. However, there are 6 trips per day available by train. The distance is 107 miles (173 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf.
Since both Brussels Airport and Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Venlo.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf 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.
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 Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf

Most Brussels Airport to Cologne Hbf trains use the Bruxelles-Midi to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Use this guide to compare Brussels Airport and Cologne Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Brussels
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Bruxelles-Midi47B Avenue Fonsny, 1060 Brussels, BelgiumWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bruxelles-Midi from Brussels city centre

TrainEuroCity · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
Ice · 14m · $1
Bus48 · 16m · $4 · every ~9 min
Bus · 20m
FlixBus N1153 · 29m · $1
Subway2, 6 · 18m · $4 · every ~38 min

Bruxelles-Midi train station facilities and services

Bruxelles-Midi 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: Pullman Hotel Bar, Quick Gare du Midi, Subway, EXKi Zuid, Starbucks, Häagen-Dazs, Sbarro, The Coffee Club, The Belgian Chocolate House, PAUL, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are available at Bruxelles-Midi.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bruxelles-Midi. Information desks are located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Midi: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Les Lofts De Styliste, Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi, Pullman Brussels Centre Midi.

Bruxelles-CentralCarr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium+32 25282828WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bruxelles-Central from Brussels city centre

Bus29, 63, 65, 66, 87, 89 · 5m · $4 · every ~17 min
Subway1, 5 · 1m · $4 · every ~38 min

Bruxelles-Central train station facilities and services

Bruxelles-Central 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: Starbucks, Brasserie 28 Brewery, Panos, Delitraiteur Eat & Go

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks. ATMs are aTM machine is downstairs from the main entrance on the right side.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00. Information desks are travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bruxelles-Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bruxelles-Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Central: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hilton Brussels Grand Palace, Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe, Hôtel The Moon.

Brussels-NordRue du Progrès 76, Vooruitgangstraat 76, 1030 Schaerbeek, BelgiumWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Brussels-Nord from Brussels city centre

Brussels-Nord is 1 km from Brussels city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainP, S3, Ec, T, Ic, Ext, L, S1, S10, S4, S2, S8 · 4m · $1 · every ~58 min
Bus88 · 6m · $4 · every ~10 min
R24, 728, R28 · 7m · $4 · every ~10 min
Tram4, 10 · 4m · $4 · every ~34 min
10, 4 · 5m · $4 · every ~34 min

Brussels-Nord train station facilities and services

Brussels-Nord 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: Chabrol Brasserie, Winok Café, Félix Wine Bar

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Brussels-Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brussels-Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Brussels-Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brussels-Nord: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Progress, Hilton Brussels City, Hotel Siru.

Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Brussels Airport

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to Cologne HbfBrussels Airport to Cologne Hbf train

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