- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA)
Bold contemporary museum with major fashion, photography, and art shows. Antwerp’s flagship museum for modern culture and big-name exhibitions.
Cheapest price
$58
Average price
$89
Fastest journey
3 h 43 m
Average duration
3 h 48 m
Trains per day
37
Distance
181 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Antwerp is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Antwerp will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Antwerp without transferring at least once.
ICE 16 · IC 3312
ICE 314 · IC 3314
ICE 18 · IC 3308
26812 · S41 · IC 2837 · IC 2636
26816 · S41 · IC 2839 · IC 2638
ICE 314 · IC 3314
ICE 16 · IC 3312
10612 · 20074 · IC 3548 · IC 1146
10616 · 20078 · IC 3556 · IC 1154
10614 · 20076 · IC 3552 · IC 1150Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Antwerp among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a flight costs an average of $229.
Distance: 112 miles (181 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$96 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $647 Average price | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 7m Average total duration 4h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 51m Average total duration 5h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Antwerp:
A bus is $64 (€53) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Antwerp costing on average $96 (€79).
A bus is $616 (€506) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Antwerp costing on average $647 (€531).
Other travel options to Antwerp take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 37m.
Flight takes on average 5h 51m.
Tickets start at around $96 (€79) compared to roughly $41 (€33) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-54.85 (€-45.06). The journey takes 2h 50m versus 2h 45m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Antwerp trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 920 · S8 · 20060 · IC 3520 | 2:09 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 8:16 AM Antwerp-Central | 5 transfers | |
Bus RE1 · S8 · 20060 · IC 3520 | 2:47 AM Cologne | 5h29 | 8:16 AM Antwerp-Central | 5 transfers | |
10600 · 20062 · IC 3524 · IC 28522 | 5:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 9:16 AM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
ICE 18 · IC 3308 | On time 6:20 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h00 | 10:20 AM Antwerp-Central | 1 transfer | |
10602 · 20064 · IC 3528 · IC 28526 | 6:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 10:16 AM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
ICE 222 · RE 6631 · EC 9224 | 6:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h27 | 11:16 AM Antwerp-Central | 2 transfers | |
10604 · 20066 · IC 3532 · IC 28530 | 7:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 11:16 AM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10606 · 20068 · IC 3536 · IC 28534 | 8:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 12:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
ICE 220 · RE 6639 · EC 9232 | 8:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h27 | 1:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 2 transfers | |
10608 · 20070 · IC 3540 · IC 28538 | 9:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 1:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
28510 · ICE 240 · RE 6643 · EC 9236 | 9:31 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 2:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 3 transfers | |
10610 · 20072 · IC 3544 · IC 28542 | 10:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 2:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
ICE 16 · IC 3312 | On time 10:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h45 | 2:20 PM Antwerp-Central | 1 transfer | |
ICE 128 · IC 3639 · EC 9240 | 10:49 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h27 | 3:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 2 transfers | |
26812 · S41 · IC 2837 · IC 2636 | 11:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h56 | 4:11 PM Antwerp-Central | 3 transfers | |
10612 · 20074 · IC 3548 · IC 1146 | 11:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 3:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10612 · 20074+ 3548 · 1146 | 11:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 3:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10612 · 20074+ 3548 · 1146 | 11:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h58 | 3:23 PM Antwerp-Berchem | 4 transfers | |
10612 · 20074 · 1465+ 3548 | 11:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h36 | 4:01 PM Antwerp-South | 5 transfers | |
10614 · 20076 · IC 3552 · IC 1150 | 12:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 4:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10614 · 20076 · IC 3552 · IC 28550 | 12:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 4:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10614 · 20076+ 1150+ 9244 | 12:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 4:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
ICE 314 · IC 3314 | On time 12:37 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h43 | 4:20 PM Antwerp-Central | 1 transfer | |
ICE 126 · IC 3647 · EC 9248 | 12:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h27 | 5:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 2 transfers | |
ICE 126 · RE 6655 · EC 9248 | 12:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h27 | 5:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 2 transfers | |
26816 · S41 · IC 2839 · IC 2638 | 1:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h56 | 6:11 PM Antwerp-Central | 3 transfers | |
10616 · 20078 · IC 3556 · IC 1154 | 1:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 5:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10616 · 20078 · IC 3556 · IC 28554 | 1:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 5:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10616 · 20078+ 3556 · 1154 | 1:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h58 | 5:23 PM Antwerp-Berchem | 4 transfers | |
10616 · 20078+ 1154 · 3556 | 1:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 5:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10616 · 20078 · 1467+ 1154 | 1:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h36 | 6:01 PM Antwerp-South | 5 transfers | |
28518 · ICE 146 · RE 6659 · EC 9252 | 1:31 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 6:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 3 transfers | |
S19 · 92116 · ICE 14 · IC 3316 | 2:20 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h00 | 6:20 PM Antwerp-Central | 3 transfers | |
10618 · 20080 · IC 3560 · IC 28558 | 2:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 6:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10618 · 20080+ 3560 · 1158 | 2:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 6:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
10620 · 20082+ 3564 · 1162 | 3:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h51 | 7:16 PM Antwerp-Central | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cologne to Antwerp run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 112 miles (181 km) distance in 2h 23m.
Distance 112 miles (181 km) |
Average train duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 23m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:43 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 91 days |
Discover the best of Antwerp — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Antwerp trip today.
Bold contemporary museum with major fashion, photography, and art shows. Antwerp’s flagship museum for modern culture and big-name exhibitions.
Antwerp’s landmark museum on the river, covering city history, world cultures, and design. The rooftop offers outstanding panoramic views.
Recently restored fine arts museum with Flemish masters and modern works. A top choice for seeing Antwerp’s artistic heritage in depth.
Elegant shopping avenue known for fashion, luxury boutiques, and grand architecture. Great for people-watching and a stylish city walk.
Historic riverside district of narrow lanes, old houses, and intimate squares. One of Antwerp’s most atmospheric areas for wandering.
Revitalized dockside quarter around MAS with modern architecture, marinas, and broad promenades. Popular for sunset walks and photography.
A small hand-shaped butter biscuit spiced with cinnamon and baked crisp. It is Antwerp's signature sweet, linked to the city's Brabo legend.
Rich Belgian beef stew slowly cooked with dark beer, onions, and herbs. A beloved comfort dish often served with fries in Antwerp brasseries.
Mussels steamed with celery, onion, and white wine or beer, usually paired with fries. A classic Belgian coastal favorite widely enjoyed in Antwerp.
Celebrated fine dining restaurant by chef Zilte in MAS. Known for refined tasting menus, polished service, and panoramic city views.
Brewery venue and city beer landmark serving De Koninck beers with Belgian dishes. Lively atmosphere and a strong focus on Antwerp brewing heritage.
Popular casual spot for traditional Belgian fries with a wide choice of sauces. Quick, local, and ideal for an authentic street food stop.
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels are mid-priced, dining is manageable, and transit is reasonable versus Brussels, Amsterdam, or Paris.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Taxis: round up. Cafes: small change is fine.
Official public transport app
Antwerp-Central -> Grote Markt, Antwerp
The train connection between Cologne and Antwerp offers a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities. Passengers can choose from reputable providers such as Deutsche Bahn and Eurostar, ensuring a comfortable journey with modern amenities. The trip typically takes around 2 hours, making it an ideal option for both leisure travelers exploring the cultural gems of each city or business professionals on the go. Enjoy scenic views along the route while experiencing seamless service from start to finish!
The train connection between Cologne and Antwerp takes approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes. There are no direct trains available, with a total of 4 connections per day. Passengers will need to change trains during their journey.
The first daily train journey from Cologne to Antwerp departs at 06:44 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities. The last departure is scheduled for 07:42 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Cologne to Antwerp is €39. The average ticket price typically ranges around €86, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities.
The Cathedral of Our Lady, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, was completed in the 16th century and is home to several masterpieces by the renowned artist Peter Paul Rubens. Its towering spires and intricate stained glass windows not only symbolize Antwerp's rich religious heritage but also serve as a testament to the city's artistic legacy. As you explore its hallowed halls, take note of how each artwork tells a story that intertwines faith with history.
Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe established in 1843, offers visitors an enchanting glimpse into wildlife conservation while being nestled right next to the bustling city center. This unique urban oasis features over 7,000 animals from around the globe and beautifully landscaped gardens that create an immersive experience for all ages. Don't miss out on their commitment to education; engaging exhibits highlight both animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) stands proudly along Antwerp’s waterfront since its opening in 2011; it represents not just art but also cultural exchange through its diverse collections reflecting global influences on local life. The museum's striking modern design contrasts sharply with historical buildings nearby while offering panoramic views from its rooftop terrace—perfect for capturing unforgettable memories! Be sure to delve into interactive displays that connect past narratives with contemporary issues facing our world today.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Antwerp 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 Antwerp, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Antwerp trains use the Köln Hbf to Antwerpen Centraal station pair, with some services arriving at Antwerpen-Berchem. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Antwerp train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Köln-Ehrenfeld is 3 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln-Ehrenfeld has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato, Burger King, Café Franck, Eichendorf
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. ATMs are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Information desks are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Nearby hotels include Kölnotel, Black Hotels.
Antwerpen Centraal is 1 km from Antwerp city centre. Public transport options include:
Antwerpen Centraal 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 options include: Café - Brasserie Royal, Einstein Koffie, Leonidas, Starbucks, Yam Yam, Panos, Sweetz To Go, Frituur Centraal, lunch & pasta coffee, Döner Company, & many more
Free Wi-Fi in the station after logging in to the Free Wifi-NmbsSncb network. ATMs are located inside the atrium and retail area.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 22:00. Information desks are located in the main station hall on the ground floor (entrance/exit Koningin Astridplein).
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the top of the escalators in the retail area. .
Available at Antwerpen Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Antwerpen Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Antwerpen Centraal: 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.
Nearby hotels include Hampton by Hilton Antwerp Central Station, A-Stay Antwerpen, Hotel NH Collection Antwerp Centre.
Antwerpen-Berchem is 2 km from Antwerp city centre. Public transport options include:
Antwerpen-Berchem 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 options include: Wagamama, Brasserie Dikke Mee
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Antwerpen-Berchem. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Antwerpen-Berchem. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Antwerpen-Berchem: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Antwerpen-Berchem: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Antwerpen-Berchem: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Radisson Hotel Antwerp Berchem, Tulip Inn Antwerpen, Ibis Budget Antwerpen Centraal Station.
Antwerpen-Zuid is 2 km from Antwerp city centre. Public transport options include:
Antwerpen-Zuid has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Zuidcafé, Restaurant Het Gerecht
Free.
Ticket office support is available at Antwerpen-Zuid. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Antwerpen-Zuid. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Antwerpen-Zuid: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Antwerpen-Zuid: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Antwerpen-Zuid: Restrooms.
Nearby hotels include B&B HOTEL Antwerpen Zuid, Hotel Rubenshof, Hotel Pilar.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need