- Must visit
OMEGA Museum
Flagship museum on Biel's watchmaking industry, showing precision technology and the city's industrial heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Biel/Bienne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$144
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$165
Fastest journey on Sep 08
6 h 43 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
7 h 45 m
Trains on Sep 08
2
Distance
423 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Biel/Bienne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Biel/Bienne will cost around $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $144.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Biel/Bienne, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 423 km distance in an average of 7 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 43 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 8 h 47 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.
6:28 AM6h43Cologne1:11 PMBiel/Bienne$1441One-way0 transfers- 7:54 PM8h47Cologne4:41 AMBiel/Bienne$1861One-way0 transfers
- 6:28 AM6h43Cologne1:11 PMBiel/Bienne$1441One-way0 transfers
- 7:54 PM8h47Cologne4:41 AMBiel/Bienne$1861One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Biel/Bienne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Biel/Bienne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $47 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 5m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, while a flight costs an average of $153.
Distance: 262 miles (423 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$97 Average price | $47 Average price Cheapest | $153 Average price | $132 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 47m Average total duration 5h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 3m Average total duration 7h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.5kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Biel/Bienne is a bus with an average price of $47 (€38).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Biel/Bienne:
A bus is $50 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Biel/Bienne costing on average $97 (€79).
A bus is $105 (€85) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Biel/Bienne costing on average $153 (€123).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Biel/Bienne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.
Other travel options to Biel/Bienne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 17m.
Bus takes on average 7h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Biel/Bienne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Biel/Bienne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 55m faster (5h 17m by train vs 6h 12m by car) and roughly $35 (€28) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($97 (€79) vs $132 (€107)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Biel/Bienne train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Biel/Bienne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:28 AM Cologne | 6h43 | 1:11 PM Biel/Bienne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Biel/Bienne 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.
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
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Thu
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Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Why should you book Cologne to Biel/Bienne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
- 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 Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Biel/Bienne
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Biel/Bienne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€41) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:21, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 262 miles (423 km) distance in 6h 18m.
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 $32 (€26)
Distance 262 miles (423 km) |
Average train duration 5h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 (€41) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 6h 18m |
First train 12:21 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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 $32 (€26)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Biel/Bienne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Biel/Bienne from $32 (€26). 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
6h 18m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$51 (€41)
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
5h 9m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
$137 (€111)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Biel/Bienne
Things to do in Biel/Bienne
Discover the best of Biel/Bienne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Biel/Bienne trip today.
- Recommended
Kunsthaus Centre d'art Pasquart
Major art museum with strong Swiss modern and contemporary collections in an elegant lakeside setting.
- Recommended
Neues Museum Biel
Interactive local history museum covering Biel's urban, industrial, and social development.
- Must visit
Altstadt Biel
Biel's atmospheric old town with medieval lanes, fountains, small shops, and many historic façades.
- Recommended
Bahnhofstrasse
Main pedestrian shopping street linking central Biel with lively urban life and bilingual city character.
- Recommended
Ring
Historic square in the old town, framed by civic buildings and often used for markets and gatherings.
- Gluten-free
Egli du Lac de Bienne
A Lake Biel whitefish fillet, usually pan-fried or poached. It is a regional classic because the fish comes from the nearby lake and reflects local fishing traditions.
- Vegetarian
Fondue Moitié-Moitié
Traditional Swiss cheese fondue made with melted cheese, wine, and bread. Popular across the region and especially fitting in Biel/Bienne’s French-German culinary setting.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp potato rösti, often served plain or with toppings. It is a beloved Swiss staple widely eaten in the Biel area as a hearty local side or main dish.
Restaurant Aux Trois Amis
Elegant fine dining in Biel/Bienne with refined seasonal cuisine and polished service. Best for a special meal in a classic upscale setting.
Café du Commerce
Historic old-town brasserie known for Swiss and French classics in a traditional atmosphere. A reliable choice for regional dishes and local wines.
Restaurant Joran
Well-known lakeside venue with fish specialties and a relaxed setting near the water. Ideal for trying perch or other Lake Biel seafood dishes.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Biel/Bienne is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though it is often slightly cheaper than Zurich or Geneva.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up small amounts in cafes, taxis, and casual meals; add about CHF 5-10 for very good restaurant service.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 10.40
To the city center
Biel/Bienne Bahnhof -> Biel/Bienne Bahnhof
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets before boarding; buses in Biel/Bienne do not sell onboard tickets. Use SBB Mobile or ticket machines.
- Contactless card payment is usually available at ticket machines, but not reliably onboard buses. Validate that you have a valid ticket before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Biel/Bienne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Biel/Bienne 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 Biel/Bienne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Biel/Bienne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€41), while the average price is around $97 (€79).
The train from Cologne to Biel/Bienne takes 6h 18m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Biel/Bienne is 262 miles (423 km).
The first train from Cologne to Biel/Bienne leaves at 12:21 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Biel/Bienne leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Biel/Bienne is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Biel/Bienne.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Biel/Bienne is by bus, with a cost of around $32 (€26).
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Biel/Bienne.
Since both Cologne and Biel/Bienne 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 Biel/Bienne include Basel, Geneva, Zurich, Bern, Lausanne.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Biel/Bienne 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.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
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 to Biel/Bienne
Most Cologne to Biel/Bienne trains use the Köln Hbf to Biel/Bienne station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Biel/Bienne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Biel/Bienne
Which Cologne station do trains to Biel/Bienne leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Biel/Bienne leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Biel/Bienne station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Biel/Bienne most often arrive at Biel/Bienne. Some services arrive at Basel Bad Bhf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Biel/Bienne arrival station.
Biel/BienneBahnhofplatz, 2502 Biel/Bienne, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Biel/Bienne from Biel/Bienne city centre
Bus72, 73 · 3m · $2 · every ~6 min
Biel/Bienne train station facilities and services
Biel/Bienne 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: Restaurant Seeland, Restaurant St. Gervais
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Biel/Bienne. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Biel/Bienne. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Biel/Bienne: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Biel/Bienne: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Biel/Bienne: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Elite, Art Déco Hotel Elite, Mercure Plaza Biel.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Biel/Bienne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Biel/Bienne and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Biel/Bienne
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