Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sat, Sep 19
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Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
SNCB
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

€33

Average ticket price on Sep 19

€50

Fastest journey on Sep 19

1 h 41 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

1 h 41 m

Trains on Sep 19

8

Distance

182 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels-North 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-North to Cologne Hbf will cost around €50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €33.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 8 trains from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf, including 6 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 182 km distance in an average of 1 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 41 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 42 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 BahnICE 11
    6:31 AM1h45
    Brussels-North
    8:16 AMCologne Hbf
    331One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2809 · ICE 311
    11:25 AM1h59
    Brussels-North
    1:24 PMCologne Hbf
    471One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 317
    4:34 PM1h41
    Brussels-North
    6:15 PMCologne Hbf
    481One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 522 · R 5005 · 26809
    12:31 AM7h13
    Brussels-North
    7:44 AMCologne Hbf
    511One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 15
    10:34 AM1h41
    Brussels-North
    12:15 PMCologne Hbf
    561One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €31 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 34m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €31, while a flight costs an average of €479.

Distance: 113 miles (182 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

€65

Average price

€31

Average price

Cheapest

€479

Average price

€37

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 34m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 33m

Average total duration

5h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 29m

Average total duration

2h 29m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

2h 17m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Brussels Airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf is a bus with an average price of €31.

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

A bus is €34 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf costing on average €65.

A bus is €448 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf costing on average €479.

The fastest way to travel from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf is by train with an average journey time of 2h 4m.

Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:

Flight takes on average 2h 29m.

Bus takes on average 5h 3m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brussels-North and Cologne Hbf including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels-North 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 13m sooner (2h 4m by train vs 2h 17m by car). Tickets start at around €65 compared to roughly €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.

Direct services run with Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn.

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-North to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 11
On time
6:31 AM Brussels-North
1h45
8:16 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 15
On time
10:34 AM Brussels-North
1h41
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3610 · ICE 311
On time
11:20 AM Brussels-North
2h04
1:24 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 17
On time
2:34 PM Brussels-North
1h41
4:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 317
On time
4:32 PM Brussels-North
1h43
6:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 19
On time
6:34 PM Brussels-North
1h41
8:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 3618 · ICE 313
On time
7:20 PM Brussels-North
2h04
9:24 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 518 · ICE 319
On time
8:08 PM Brussels-North
2h07
10:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Saturday, September 19
Deutsche BahnIC 522 · R 5005 · 2680912:31 AM Brussels-North
7h13
7:44 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brussels-North 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.

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Sep 19
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Why should you book Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB and more offer trains services from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels-North 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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Brussels-North 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-North 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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Brussels-North 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-North to Cologne Hbf.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €20 but you can travel from only €13 by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:31, the last at 18:34. The fastest train covers the 113 miles (182 km) distance in 1h 40m.

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
Distance
113 miles (182 km)
Average train duration
2h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
€20
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 40m
First train
4:31 AM
Last train
6:34 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
21 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €13

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar trains will get you between Brussels-North and Cologne Hbf from €13. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€20
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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 Eurostar Duration
1h 49m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
€45
Eurostar frequency
4 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

FAQs: Trains from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels-North 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-North to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €20, while the average price is around €65.
The train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf takes 1h 40m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf is 113 miles (182 km).
The first train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf leaves at 4:31 AM.
The last train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf leaves at 6:34 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around €13.
The train journey from Brussels-Nord to Köln Hbf offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with highlights including picturesque countryside views, charming villages, and the crossing of the iconic Meuse and Rhine rivers.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Brussels-Nord to Köln Hbf as the journey takes 1h 40m, the distance is 113 miles (182 km), and there are 6 trains per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf.
Since both Brussels-North 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-North 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-North to Cologne Hbf

Most Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf trains use the Bruxelles-Midi to Köln Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Brussels-North 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
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 · €3 · every ~10 min
R24, 728, R28 · 7m · €3 · every ~10 min
Tram4, 10 · 4m · €3 · every ~34 min
10, 4 · 5m · €3 · 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.

More options for your journey from Brussels-North to Cologne Hbf

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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