- Must visit
Pergamonmuseum (currently partially closed)
One of Berlin’s most famous museums on Museum Island, known for monumental antiquities such as the Pergamon Altar and Ishtar Gate collections; major sections remain under renovation.
Cheapest price
$79
Average price
$183
Fastest journey
4 h 44 m
Average duration
4 h 44 m
Trains per day
36
Distance
479 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Berlin is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Berlin will cost around $183 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
Of the 36 trains that leave Cologne for Berlin on Fri, Jul 03, 28 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 03 the direct trains cover the 479 km distance in an average of 4 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 44 m .
On Fri, Jul 03 the slowest trains will take 4 h 45 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.
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
FlixTrain
ICE 849
ICE 647
ICE 549
ICE 643
ICE 645Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Berlin among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a flight costs an average of $86.
Distance: 297 miles (479 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$67 Average price | $47 Average price Cheapest | $305 Average price | $105 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 58m Average total duration 5h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 23m Average total duration 6h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration Fastest 1h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Berlin:
A bus is $21 (€17) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Berlin costing on average $67 (€55).
A bus is $259 (€212) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Berlin costing on average $305 (€250).
Other travel options to Berlin take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 28m.
Bus takes on average 6h 53m.
The journey is about 1h 10m faster (5h 28m by train vs 6h 38m by car) and roughly $38 (€31) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($67 (€55) vs $105 (€86)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Berlin trains for today, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 1541 | On time 11:27 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h11 | 5:38 AM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1541 · 3704 | On time 11:27 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 5:37 AM Berlin-Charlottenburg | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, July 3 | |||||
ICE 541 | On time 4:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 9:10 AM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 843 | On time 5:26 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h46 | 10:12 AM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1543 | On time 5:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h04 | 10:47 AM Berlin-Charlottenburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 543 | On time 6:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 11:10 AM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1511 · ICE 1138 | On time 6:27 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h34 | 12:01 PM Berlin Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 525 · ICE 1138 | On time 6:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h16 | 12:01 PM Berlin Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 845 | On time 7:26 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h46 | 12:12 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2206 · ICE 1545 | On time 7:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h01 | 12:47 PM Berlin-Charlottenburg | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h56 | 1:10 PM Berlin Spandau | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h17 | 1:31 PM Berlin Südkreuz station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 1:20 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 545 | On time 8:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 1:10 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 847 | On time 9:26 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h46 | 2:12 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2204 · ICE 1547 | On time 9:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h01 | 2:47 PM Berlin-Charlottenburg | 1 transfer | |
ICE 547 | On time 10:24 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h46 | 3:10 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1515 · ICE 1134 | On time 10:29 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h32 | 4:01 PM Berlin Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 623 · ICE 1134 | On time 10:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h16 | 4:01 PM Berlin Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 849 | On time 11:28 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h44 | 4:12 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1053 | On time 11:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h09 | 4:47 PM Berlin-Charlottenburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 5:20 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h56 | 5:10 PM Berlin Spandau | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h23 | 5:37 PM Berlin Südkreuz station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 549 | On time 12:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h44 | 5:10 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 941 | On time 1:27 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 6:12 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1549 | On time 1:34 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h09 | 6:43 PM Berlin-Gesundbrunnen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 641 | On time 2:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h46 | 7:12 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1519 · ICE 1130 | On time 2:29 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h32 | 8:01 PM Berlin Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 721 · ICE 1130 | On time 2:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h16 | 8:01 PM Berlin Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 943 | On time 3:28 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 8:13 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1055 | On time 3:36 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h11 | 8:47 PM Berlin-Gesundbrunnen station | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 643 | On time 4:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h44 | 9:10 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 945 | On time 5:24 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h49 | 10:13 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 645 | On time 6:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h45 | 11:10 PM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 947 | On time 7:27 PM Cologne Hbf | 4h50 | 12:17 AM Berlin Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Cologne to Berlin run on average 20 times per day, taking around 5h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 297 miles (479 km) distance in 4h 52m.
Distance 297 miles (479 km) |
Average train duration 5h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Trains per day 20 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 4h 52m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 days |
Discover the best of Berlin — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Berlin trip today.
One of Berlin’s most famous museums on Museum Island, known for monumental antiquities such as the Pergamon Altar and Ishtar Gate collections; major sections remain under renovation.
A highlight of Museum Island housing Egyptian and prehistoric collections, including the celebrated bust of Nefertiti in a beautifully restored historic building.
A major museum of Jewish history and culture, renowned for Daniel Libeskind’s architecture and powerful permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Berlin’s most important cultural ensemble and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for architecture, riverside views and world-class museums in one area.
Berlin’s central park offers broad paths, lakes and monuments, making it one of the best areas for a long walk or break from the city.
A major central square and transport hub known for its energy, shopping access and proximity to several headline sights.
Berlin’s iconic street food: sliced pork sausage covered with curried ketchup and usually served with fries. It became a symbol of postwar Berlin snack culture.
A defining Berlin fast food with Turkish roots: shaved meat stuffed into flatbread with salad and sauces. Berlin popularized its modern sandwich style.
Salt-cured, boiled pork knuckle, traditionally served with peas, sauerkraut, and potatoes. A hearty classic associated with Berlin and Brandenburg cuisine.
Acclaimed Berlin fine dining restaurant focused on local ingredients and modern German cuisine with counter seating.
Stylish established restaurant in Mitte known for seasonal German-influenced cooking, relaxed fine dining, and a leafy courtyard.
Historic Kreuzberg restaurant serving classic Berlin and German dishes such as Eisbein and schnitzel in a traditional beer hall setting.
Moderate for a major European capital. Transit is reasonable, while central hotels and dining cost more.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service; round up taxis and bar tabs.
Official public transport app
Berlin Hbf, Berlin -> Alexanderplatz, Berlin
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Berlin 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 Berlin, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Berlin trains use the Köln Hbf to Berlin Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Berlin Spandau. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Berlin 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 Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz 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: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
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.
Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin Hbf 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: backWERK, Burger King, Costa Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, Einstein Kaffee, Le Crobag, McDonald's, Hans im Glück, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, & many more
Free WiFi (30 minutes limit). ATMs are available at Berlin Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Hbf. Information desks are located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Available at Berlin Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Berlin Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Hbf: Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof.
Berlin Spandau is 14 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin Spandau 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: Unvernunft, Taverna Teloneio, Burger King, Hasir
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin Spandau. ATMs are available at Berlin Spandau.
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Spandau. Information desks are available at Berlin Spandau.
Luggage storage is available at Berlin Spandau. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Berlin Spandau: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Berlin Spandau: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Spandau.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Benn, Hotel Herbst, Hotel Lindenufer, Hotel Ibis Berlin Spandau.
Berlin Südkreuz is 6 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin Südkreuz 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: Biertempel 2, McDonald's, Eis Bär, Cafe Mon Cherie
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin Südkreuz. ATMs are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Information desks are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Luggage storage is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Nearby hotels include Appartements Eisemann.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need