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Cologne - BratislavaCompare Deutsche Bahn, Intercity
$52
8h 39m
4 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
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.
Accessibility
Wifi
Seat reservation: Second Class:\nNot included by default.\nYou can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).\nCosts around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).\n\nFirst Class:\nYes, always included in the ticket price.\n\n
Toilets
USB plugs
Quiet zone
Pets: Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):\nAllowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage). \nMust stay in the box for the entire journey.\n\nLarge dogs:\nRequire a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.\nMust be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.\nCannot sit on seats.\n\nAssistance dogs:\nTravel free of charge.\nDo not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.\nAllowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Food sold onboard: Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:\nA Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.\nA Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.\nAt-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.\n\nRegional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):\nNo onboard catering.\nYou’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Luggage included: Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Cancellation Policy: Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Check in: DB does not have a formal check-in process. Passengers can board the train with a valid ticket and find their reserved or available seat.
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.
$232
15h 16m
1 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Accessibility
Wifi
Seat reservation: Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Quiet zone
Pets: Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Food sold onboard: Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Luggage included: 2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Cancellation Policy: According to ticket conditions
Check in: No formal check-in process, passengers can board with valid ticket
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "Intercity" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use "InterCity" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering.
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Bratislava
Showing times and prices for Apr 29
Cheapest price
$163
Average price
$179
Fastest journey
9 h 59 m
Average duration
10 h 21 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
795 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Bratislava is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bratislava will cost around $179 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $163.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Bratislava without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 1225 · REX 25329:53 AM11h17Cologne Hbf9:10 PMBratislava hlavná stanica$1631One-way1 transfer- ICE 119 · RJX 165 · Os 76298:58 AM10h46Cologne Messe/Deutz7:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1631One-way2 transfers
- ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165 · Os 76299:31 AM10h13Cologne Messe/Deutz7:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1631One-way3 transfers
- ICE 623 · RJX 69 · Os 763110:45 AM9h59Cologne Messe/Deutz8:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1901One-way2 transfers
- IC 1940 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · Os 76318:53 AM11h51Cologne Hbf8:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1901One-way3 transfers
- ICE 623 · RJX 69 · Os 763110:45 AM9h59Cologne Messe/Deutz8:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1901One-way2 transfers
- ICE 529 · RJX 67 · Os 76278:45 AM9h59Cologne Messe/Deutz6:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1901One-way2 transfers
- ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165 · Os 76299:31 AM10h13Cologne Messe/Deutz7:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1631One-way3 transfers
- ICE 119 · RJX 165 · Os 76298:58 AM10h46Cologne Messe/Deutz7:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1631One-way2 transfers
- ICE 515 · RJX 69 · Os 76319:54 AM10h50Cologne Hbf8:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka$1901One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Bratislava
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bratislava among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 10h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $52.
Distance: 493 miles (795 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$154 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest |
10h 48m Average total duration Fastest 10h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 26m Average total duration 13h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Bratislava train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bratislava trains for today, Tuesday, April 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165 · Os 7629 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 10h13 | 7:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 1225 · REX 2532 | On time 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h17 | 9:10 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 515 · RJX 69 · Os 7631 | Delayed 7:57 AM 9:54 AMCologne Hbf | 10h50 | 8:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 623 · RJX 69 · Os 7631 | On time 10:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 9h59 | 8:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka | 2 transfers | |
| Wednesday, April 29 | |||||
| ICE 529 · RJX 67 · Os 7627 | On time 8:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 9h59 | 6:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka | 2 transfers | |
| IC 1940 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · Os 7631 | 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h51 | 8:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 119 · RJX 165 · Os 7629 | On time 8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 10h46 | 7:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka | 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 Bratislava 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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Bratislava trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Intercity offer trains services from Cologne to Bratislava.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Bratislava.
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 Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bratislava.
- 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 Bratislava.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bratislava.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Bratislava.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Bratislava
Germany
Slovakia
Trains from Cologne to Bratislava run on average 8 times per day, taking around 10h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€42) but you can travel from only $50 (€40) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 493 miles (795 km) distance in 8h 39m.
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 $50 (€40)
Distance 493 miles (795 km) |
Average train duration 10h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $52 (€42) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 8h 39m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 70 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 $50 (€40)
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Bratislava
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Bratislava 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 Bratislava, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Bratislava can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $52 (€42), while the average price is around $154 (€124).
The train from Cologne to Bratislava takes 8h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Bratislava is 493 miles (795 km).
The first train from Cologne to Bratislava leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Bratislava leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Bratislava.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Bratislava.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Bratislava is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Bratislava-Petržalka.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Bratislava is by bus, with a cost of around $50 (€40).
The train journey from Cologne to Bratislava offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque Rhine Valley with its historic castles and vineyards, and then continues through the beautiful landscapes of southern Germany and Austria, providing travelers with a pleasant and visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Cologne to Bratislava is not feasible due to a travel time of 8h 39m and a distance of 493 miles (795 km). Trains run 8 times per day.
In Bratislava, you can explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets and lively cafes, visit the UFO Observation Deck for stunning city views, and enjoy a relaxing Danube River Cruise. The Bratislava Zoo offers family-friendly fun with various animals. For cultural experiences, attend a concert at the Slovak Philharmonic or a performance at the elegant Slovak National Theatre. Don’t miss the historic Bratislava Castle and St. Martin's Cathedral for architectural marvels, while the Old Town Hall and Devin Castle provide insights into the city's rich history.
For a well-rounded experience in Bratislava, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days to explore its historical sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and take in the vibrant cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Bratislava.
Since both Cologne and Bratislava 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 Bratislava include Vienna, Brno, Parndorf, Dunajská Streda, Trnava.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Bratislava 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.
The currency used in Slovakia is the Euro (EUR). For travelers, card payments are widely accepted in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller shops, rural areas, and public transport.
In Bratislava, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, the Old Town, and near popular tourist sites. Taxi scams can occur, so it's advisable to use official taxi services or ride-hailing apps. Be cautious when exchanging money and avoid street currency exchangers offering unusually favorable rates. Always keep an eye on personal belongings and stay vigilant in busy places.
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 Bratislava
Cologne
Bratislava
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Bratislava.
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.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Bratislava is Bratislava-Petržalka. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bratislava-Petržalka for your journey to Bratislava from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with access from Kopčianska Street.
Dining
- Restaurant Petržalka
- Pizzeria La Mamma
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Viktor
- Hotel Dominika
- Hotel Expo
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
- Hall 2: waiting area and shops
Public transit options for Bratislava-Petržalka
- Bus: Lines 80, 91, 93
- Tram: Line 3
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with access from Šancová Street.
Dining
- Fach Restaurant
- Savoy Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Matyšák
- Mercure Bratislava Centrum Hotel
- Loft Hotel Bratislava
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
- Hall 2: waiting area and shops
- Hall 3: access to tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Bratislava Hlavná Stanica
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2
- Bus: Several lines available
- Trolleybus: Line 210
Bratislava-Nové Mesto
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalMore options for your journey from Cologne to Bratislava
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bratislava and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Bratislava
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