- Recommended
Train World
Major railway museum in Schaerbeek with historic locomotives, immersive displays, and Belgian rail heritage exhibits. A strong museum option reachable from the airport area via Brussels.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
$79
Average price
$91
Fastest journey
2 h 5 m
Average duration
2 h 6 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
173 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport will cost around $91 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport without transferring at least once.
26800 · S41 · IC 28315:15 AM4h05Cologne Hbf9:20 AMBrussels National Airport$791One-way2 transfers- ICE 18 · IC 23067:43 AM2h05Cologne Hbf9:48 AMBrussels National Airport$811One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1112 · IC 230910:40 AM2h08Cologne Hbf12:48 PMBrussels National Airport$881One-way1 transfer
- ICE 316 · IC 23089:43 AM2h05Cologne Hbf11:48 AMBrussels National Airport$931One-way1 transfer
- ICE 16 · IC 231011:43 AM2h05Cologne Hbf1:48 PMBrussels National Airport$931One-way1 transfer
- ICE 316 · IC 23089:43 AM2h05Cologne Hbf11:48 AMBrussels National Airport$931One-way1 transfer
- ICE 16 · IC 231011:43 AM2h05Cologne Hbf1:48 PMBrussels National Airport$931One-way1 transfer
- ICE 18 · IC 23067:43 AM2h05Cologne Hbf9:48 AMBrussels National Airport$811One-way1 transfer
- ICE 314 · IC 23121:42 PM2h06Cologne Hbf3:48 PMBrussels National Airport$931One-way1 transfer
- ICE 14 · IC 23143:41 PM2h07Cologne Hbf5:48 PMBrussels National Airport$1061One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a flight costs an average of $187.
Distance: 107 miles (173 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$86 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $546 Average price | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration 3h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 44m Average total duration 4h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport is a bus with an average price of $35 (€28).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport:
A bus is $51 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport costing on average $86 (€69).
A bus is $510 (€412) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport costing on average $546 (€440).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport is by train with an average journey time of 2h 10m.
Other travel options to Brussels Airport take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 44m.
Flight takes on average 4h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne Hbf and Brussels Airport including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport 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 1m sooner (2h 10m by train vs 2h 11m by car). Tickets start at around $86 (€69) compared to roughly $46 (€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.
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
Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26800 · S41 · IC 2831 | 5:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h05 | 9:20 AM Brussels National Airport | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 18 · IC 2306 | On time 7:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 9:48 AM Brussels National Airport | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 316 · IC 2308 | On time 9:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 11:48 AM Brussels National Airport | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1112 · IC 2309 | On time 10:40 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h08 | 12:48 PM Brussels National Airport | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
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, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
- 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 Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
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, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:43, the last at 20:42. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 1h 51m.
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 $12 (€10)
Distance 107 miles (173 km) |
Average train duration 2h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€24) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 51m |
First train 7:43 AM |
Last train 8:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 $12 (€10)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Brussels Airport from $12 (€10). 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
1h 56m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
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.
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.
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.
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
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
Eurostar frequency
8 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
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 14m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€61)
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
2 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
$94 (€76)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Brussels Airport
Things to do in Brussels Airport
Discover the best of Brussels Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brussels Airport trip today.
- Recommended
Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History
Large military museum in Cinquantenaire Park covering Belgian and European military history, aviation, and historic equipment. Popular with visitors seeking a substantial collection.
- Recommended
Autoworld
Well-known car museum in the Cinquantenaire complex featuring classic automobiles, Belgian marques, and rotating exhibitions. Good for transport and design enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Groot Begijnhof Leuven
Historic beguinage and UNESCO-listed quarter with cobbled lanes, brick houses, and calm canalside atmosphere. One of the most charming walking areas near the airport region.
- Must visit
Mont des Arts
Central Brussels cultural terrace with gardens and one of the city’s best skyline viewpoints. Frequently featured in travel photography and social media content.
- Must visit
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Elegant 19th-century covered arcade ideal for architecture lovers and leisurely strolling. One of Brussels’ classic atmospheric passageways and a very popular stop.
- Gluten-free
Moules-Frites
Belgium’s classic pairing of mussels and fries, often served with white wine, cream, or garlic broth. It is one of the country’s most iconic comfort dishes.
Carbonnade Flamande
A traditional Flemish beef stew slowly braised with Belgian beer, onions, and mustard. It is rich, hearty, and deeply tied to Belgian home cooking.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A rustic Belgian mash of potatoes with seasonal vegetables such as carrots, leeks, or spinach. It is a staple side dish and sometimes served as a main meal.
Le Bistro
A well-known airport restaurant at Brussels Airport serving Belgian and international classics in a comfortable sit-down setting.
EXKi Brussels Airport
A popular fast-casual chain focused on fresh salads, soups, sandwiches, and healthy light meals in a modern setting.
Panos Brussels Airport
A familiar casual option at the airport for sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and quick Belgian-style bites before a flight.
Euro
Airport prices are higher than in central Brussels. Meals, coffee, and convenience items usually cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for fast food or a snack.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50+ per person at upscale airport dining.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated.
STIB-MIVB
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.60 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.40 EUR
To the city center
Brussels Airport -> Brussels Central Station
- Distance
- 15 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on STIB-MIVB trams, buses, and metro for fare purchases.
- A separate train fare applies from Brussels Airport because of the airport supplement, so STIB-MIVB city tickets are not valid on the airport train.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport 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 Brussels Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€24), while the average price is around $86 (€69).
The train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport takes 1h 51m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport leaves at 7:43 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport is 107 miles (173 km).
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport leaves at 8:42 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Eurostar.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Brussels Airport offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Passengers can enjoy views of the Rhine River as the train departs Cologne, and as the journey progresses, it traverses through the picturesque landscapes of the German and Belgian countryside, including fields and small towns, before reaching the urban areas around Brussels.
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Brussels Airport is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 51m. However, there are 6 trains per day covering the 107 miles (173 km) distance.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport.
Since both Cologne Hbf and Brussels Airport 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 Brussels Airport include Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Lille, Brussels.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
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 Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport
Cologne
Brussels
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Brussels Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brussels Airport and Cologne Hbf
Most popular train connections to Brussels Airport
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