- Must visit
Heimatmuseum Dykhus
Main local history museum covering island life, whaling, navigation, and spa culture. The best museum start for understanding Borkum.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Borkum
Showing times and prices for Aug 12
Cheapest price
$103
Average price
$103
Fastest journey
6 h 59 m
Average duration
6 h 59 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
295 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Borkum is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Borkum will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $103.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Borkum without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 204 · Schiff+
902789:11 AM6h59Cologne Hbf4:10 PMBorkum Reede$1031One-way2 transfers
- ICE 204 · Schiff+902789:11 AM6h59Cologne Hbf4:10 PMBorkum Reede$1031One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Borkum
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Borkum among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, and a train costs an average of $38.
Distance: 183 miles (295 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$100 Average price | $63 Average price Cheapest |
6h 19m Average total duration Fastest 5h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 26m Average total duration 11h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Borkum is a bus with an average price of $63 (€51).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Borkum:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Borkum costing on average $100 (€81).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Borkum is by train with an average journey time of 5h 49m.
Other travel options to Borkum take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Borkum including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Borkum among Omio's users.
Live departures
Cologne to Borkum train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Borkum trains for today, Tuesday, August 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 204 · Schiff+90278 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h59 | 4:10 PM Borkum Reede | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 612 · KAT+90284 | On time 12:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h34 | 5:45 PM Borkum Reede | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Borkum by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Wed
Aug 12
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Aug 18
Why should you book Cologne to Borkum trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as WestfalenBahn offer trains services from Cologne to Borkum.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Borkum.
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 WestfalenBahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Borkum.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Borkum.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Borkum.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Borkum
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Borkum run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:15, the last at 17:40. The fastest train covers the 183 miles (295 km) distance in 5h 29m.
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 $33 (€27)
Distance 183 miles (295 km) |
Average train duration 5h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 5h 29m |
First train 7:15 AM |
Last train 5:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $33 (€27)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn from Cologne to Borkum trainsDeutsche Bahn, WestfalenBahn trains will get you between Cologne and Borkum from $33 (€27). 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
5h 29m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 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
WestfalenBahn
About
WestfalenBahn is a train company offering regional trains in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia in Northern Germany. Founded in 2005, it has been owned by Abellio Deutschland since 2017. WestfahlenBahn covers the RE15, RE60 and RE70 regional train routes serving cities like Emden, Braunschweig, Hanover, Münster and Bielefeld.
Luggage & cancellation policy
WestfalenBahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Borkum
Things to do in Borkum
Discover the best of Borkum — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Borkum trip today.
- Recommended
Leuchtfeuer-Ausstellung Alter Leuchtturm
Small museum in the old lighthouse explaining maritime navigation and island history. A compact, atmospheric visit in a unique setting.
- Recommended
Naturkundeausstellung Borkum
Exhibition area presenting natural history topics linked to dunes, tides, and birdlife. Useful context before exploring the wider island landscape.
- Must visit
Strandpromenade
Borkum’s main seafront promenade with beach views, benches, and classic resort atmosphere. Essential for walking, people-watching, and sea air.
- Must visit
Nordbad
Wide sandy beach area popular for long walks, bathing, and sunset views. One of the island’s defining natural attractions and a visitor favorite.
- Recommended
Südbad
Quieter beach and dune area ideal for walking and relaxing away from the busiest central stretch. A local favorite with a calmer atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Nordseekrabben
Small North Sea brown shrimp, often served on bread or with potatoes. A classic East Frisian coastal specialty tied to local fishing traditions.
Fischsuppe
A clear or creamy fish soup with North Sea catch and vegetables. It reflects the island's maritime food culture and fresh local seafood.
- Gluten-free
Räucheraal
Smoked eel from regional waters, rich and oily, traditionally eaten with bread or potatoes. A long-standing delicacy in coastal East Frisia.
Valentin's
Well-known island restaurant for fresh fish, regional dishes, and a relaxed maritime atmosphere near the center.
Kleine Möwe
Established dining spot known for seafood, steaks, and polished service in an upscale but approachable setting.
Alt Borkum
Traditional casual venue serving hearty German and East Frisian fare with a cozy pub-like atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Borkum is pricier than many German towns due to island logistics. Hotels, dining, and ferry-linked travel usually cost more, especially in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-14 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €45-80 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. In cafes, small change is appreciated.
DB Navigator
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.50
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Borkum(Nordseebad) -> Borkum Zentrum
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- The island railway from Borkum(Nordseebad) is the standard connection into town and to the ferry. Check ferry-train coordination before travel.
- Card payment availability on local buses or the island railway is not reliably published. Carry a payment card and some cash for tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Borkum
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Borkum 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 Borkum, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Borkum can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $100 (€81).
The train from Cologne to Borkum takes 5h 29m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Borkum leaves at 7:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Borkum is 183 miles (295 km).
The last train from Cologne to Borkum leaves at 5:40 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Borkum.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Borkum.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Borkum is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Borkum Reede.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Borkum is by bus, with a cost of around $33 (€27).
The train journey from Cologne to Borkum offers scenic views, particularly as it approaches the North Sea coast, with picturesque landscapes, lush green fields, and charming rural villages enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Borkum is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 29m each way. The distance is 183 miles (295 km), and trains run 3 times per day.
To fully explore Borkum, including its beaches, lighthouse, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient for most visitors.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Borkum.
Since both Cologne and Borkum 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Borkum 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Borkum, travelers should be mindful of typical coastal safety concerns such as strong tides and sudden weather changes when engaging in water activities. It is advisable to follow local guidance on swimming and boating. While scams are uncommon, travelers should remain cautious of overpriced services or goods, especially near busy tourist areas and the ferry terminal. Keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded spots helps prevent petty theft.
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 Borkum
Most Cologne to Borkum trains use the Köln Hbf to Borkum Reede station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Borkum 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 Borkum
Which Cologne station do trains to Borkum leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Borkum 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.
Porz-WahnPorz-Wahn, Am Bahnhof 1, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Porz-Wahn from Cologne city centre
Porz-Wahn is 12 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS12, S19 · 12m · $4 · every ~12 min
S12, S19 · 15m · $4 · every ~12 min
BusS19, S12 · 33m · $7 · every ~1 min
Porz-Wahn train station facilities and services
Porz-Wahn 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: Brauhaus Eltzhof, Cafe Wanda, East Time, Olymp
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Porz-Wahn. ATMs are available at Porz-Wahn.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Porz-Wahn. Information desks are available at Porz-Wahn.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Porz-Wahn. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Porz-Wahn: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Porz-Wahn: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Porz-Wahn.
Which Borkum station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Borkum arrive at Borkum Reede. Borkum Reede is 3 miles (5 km) from Borkum city centre.
Borkum Reede
City-centre transport
Getting to Borkum Reede from Borkum city centre
Borkum Reede is 4 km from Borkum city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1 · 19m
Borkum Reede train station facilities and services
Borkum Reede has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility, WC, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Borkum Reede.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Borkum Reede: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Borkum Reede: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Borkum Reede.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Borkum
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Borkum and Cologne
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