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

Tue, Nov 03
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Deutsche Bahn
Intercity
Eurostar
SNCB
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Intercity
Eurostar
SNCB
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleroi to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
Cheapest price on Nov 03
$52
Average ticket price on Nov 03
$74
Fastest journey on Nov 03
2 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03
2 h 49 m
Trains on Nov 03
13
Distance
186 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Charleroi to Cologne will cost around $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Charleroi to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 4505 · ICE 11
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 4507 · ICE 13
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 5710 · ICE 311
    1 transfer
  • SNCB3811+Eurostar9435
    1 transfer
  • SNCB3815+Eurostar9459
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Charleroi to Cologne

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Charleroi to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 but you can travel from only $10 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:23, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 115 miles (186 km) distance in 2h 10m.

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 $10

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance115 miles (186 km)
  • Average train duration2h 35m
  • Cheapest ticket price$37
  • Trains per day7
  • Fastest train2h 10m
  • First train1:23 AM
  • Last train11:15 PM
  • Cheapest MonthSep
  • Cheapest DayWed
  • High SeasonOct - Dec
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayThu
  • Least Busy DayTue
  • Best time to book28 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $10

Frequently asked questions about your Charleroi to Cologne trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Charleroi to Cologne.

Train ticket prices from Charleroi to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37, while the average price is around $84.
The train from Charleroi to Cologne takes 2h 10m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Charleroi to Cologne leaves at 1:23 AM.
The distance by train from Charleroi to Cologne is 115 miles (186 km).
The last train from Charleroi to Cologne leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Charleroi to Cologne.

Live departures

Charleroi to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Charleroi to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 4505 · ICE 11
On time
5:25 AM Charleroi-Sud
2h51
8:16 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 4507 · ICE 13
On time
7:25 AM Charleroi-Sud
2h51
10:16 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCB3807+Eurostar94118:10 AM Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
11:15 AM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 4509 · ICE 15
On time
9:25 AM Charleroi-Sud
2h50
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCB3809+Eurostar942310:10 AM Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
1:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 5710 · ICE 311
On time
10:39 AM Charleroi-Sud
2h45
1:24 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 4511 · ICE 315
On time
11:25 AM Charleroi-Sud
2h50
2:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCB3811+Eurostar943512:10 PM Marchienne-au-Pont
3h04
3:14 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB3811+Eurostar943512:18 PM Charleroi-Sud
2h56
3:14 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB3815+Eurostar94594:10 PM Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB3815+Eurostar94594:18 PM Charleroi-Sud
2h57
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB3817+Eurostar94716:10 PM Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB3817+Eurostar94716:18 PM Charleroi-Sud
2h57
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Charleroi to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Intercity, Eurostar, SNCB and more offer trains services from Charleroi to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Charleroi 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 Intercity, Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Charleroi 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Charleroi to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

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

Train companies

Train companies from Charleroi to Cologne

Trains from Charleroi to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn, SNCB, and Eurostar. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and SNCB. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn, SNCB, and Eurostar. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn and SNCB. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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
2h 10m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$37
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
2h 33m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$48
Eurostar frequency
15 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

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$64
Intercity frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
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 SNCB Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest SNCB Price
$68
SNCB frequency
8 a day

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Charleroi and Cologne

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Charleroi to Cologne.
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.

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

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

Plan your visit to Cologne

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.

The train journey from Charleroi to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including rolling hills, picturesque Belgian countryside, and views of the Meuse River, providing a pleasant and varied landscape for travelers.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Charleroi to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleroi 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
Yes, you can take the train from Charleroi to Cologne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Charleroi to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Charleroi
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Charleroi station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Charleroi to Cologne leave from Charleroi-Sud. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Charleroi city centre at Place Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium.
Charleroi-SudPlace Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Charleroi-Sud from Charleroi city centre

SubwayM2, M3 · 3m · $3 · every ~15 min

Charleroi-Sud train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: La Manufacture Urbaine, Le Pain Quotidien

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Charleroi-Sud. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Charleroi-Sud: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Charleroi-Sud: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Charleroi-Sud: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare, Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center, Novotel Charleroi Centre.

Marchienne-au-Pont6030 Charleroi, BelgiumDiningBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Marchienne-au-Pont from Charleroi city centre

Marchienne-au-Pont is 3 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIc, S62, S19, L, S1, P, T, Ext · 4m · $2 · every ~12 min
Bus43, 71, 83 · 12m · $3 · every ~9 min

Marchienne-au-Pont train station facilities and services

Marchienne-au-Pont has practical services for this route, including Dining and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Marchienne-au-Pont.

Bike and car services

Available at Marchienne-au-Pont: Bike Parking.

Lodelinsart6042 Charleroi, BelgiumDiningAccessibilityBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Lodelinsart from Charleroi city centre

Lodelinsart is 2 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainL, S61 · 4m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusBus · 11m
18 · 20m · $3 · every ~5 min

Lodelinsart train station facilities and services

Lodelinsart has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Lodelinsart.

Bike and car services

Available at Lodelinsart: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lodelinsart.

Train stations for Charleroi to Cologne

Check train stations information for Charleroi and Cologne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Charleroi that goes to Cologne is Charleroi-Sud, which connects to Köln Hbf.

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