Cologne to Bratislava train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC)

Fri, Sep 11
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Bratislava

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 11

Cheapest price on Sep 11

$74

Average ticket price on Sep 11

$165

Fastest journey on Sep 11

10 h 19 m

Average journey duration on Sep 11

10 h 52 m

Trains on Sep 11

11

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 $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Bratislava without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 911 · EC 115 · RJX 186 · REX 7741
    5:25 AM10h19
    Cologne Hbf
    3:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka
    $741One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 911 · EC 1213 · REX 2522
    5:25 AM10h45
    Cologne Hbf
    4:10 PMBratislava hlavná stanica
    $871One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 827 · RJX 63 · Os 7619
    3:21 AM11h23
    Cologne Hbf
    2:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka
    $991One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    4:14 PM15h56
    Cologne Hbf
    8:10 AMBratislava, Bus Station Nivy
    $1161One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 921 · 4251 · ICE 511 · RJX 65
    3:49 AM12h55
    Cologne Hbf
    4:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka
    $1451One-way
    4 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 an average ticket price of $95 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 10h 10m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $95, while a train costs an average of $139.

Distance: 493 miles (795 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$139

Average price

$95

Average price

Cheapest

$32

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

9h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

15h 25m

Average total duration

14h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.8 - 2.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Bratislava is a flight with an average price of $45.

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Bratislava:

A flight is $50 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cologne to Bratislava costing on average $95.

A flight is $94 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Bratislava costing on average $139.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Bratislava is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 32m.

Other travel options to Bratislava take longer:

Train takes on average 9h 40m.

Bus takes on average 14h 55m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Bratislava including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Bratislava among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 17m sooner (9h 40m by train vs 9h 57m by car). Tickets start at around $139 compared to roughly $32 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Bratislava train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bratislava trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 827 · RJX 63 · Os 7619
On time
3:21 AM Cologne Hbf
11h23
2:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 921 · 4251 · ICE 511 · RJX 653:49 AM Cologne Hbf
12h55
4:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 911 · EC 1213 · REX 2522
On time
5:25 AM Cologne Hbf
10h45
4:10 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 911 · EC 115 · RJX 186 · REX 7741
On time
5:25 AM Cologne Hbf
10h19
3:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2040 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · REX 2532
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
12h17
9:10 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · EC 1217 · REX 2530
On time
9:32 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
10h38
8:10 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · RJX 69 · REX 2532
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
11h16
9:10 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 211 · RJX 19917+Hessische Landesbahn24515
On time
9:55 AM Cologne Hbf
11h56
9:51 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2013 · ICE 517 · RJX 261 · REX 2536
On time
10:53 AM Cologne Hbf
12h19
11:12 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1923 · ICE 517 · RJX 261 · REX 2536
On time
10:53 AM Cologne Hbf
12h19
11:12 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
3 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus4:14 PM Cologne Hbf
15h56
8:10 AM Bratislava, Bus Station Nivy1 transfer

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.

Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17

Why should you book Cologne to Bratislava trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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?

  • 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

GermanyGermany
SlovakiaSlovakia
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Bratislava run on average 6 times per day, taking around 9h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 but you can travel from only $23 by flight.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 493 miles (795 km) distance in 8h 3m.

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
Flight from $23
Distance
493 miles (795 km)
Average train duration
9h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$50
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
8h 3m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
49 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
Flight from $23

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Bratislava trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Bratislava from $51. 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
8h 3m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$50
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Bratislava

Things to do in Bratislava

Discover the best of Bratislava — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bratislava trip today.

  • Must visit

Slovak National Gallery

Modern and contemporary art museum in a riverside modernist building, known for temporary exhibitions and strong Slovak art context.

  • Recommended

Slovak National Museum - Historical Museum

Slovakia’s leading national museum presents archaeology, history, and cultural collections inside Bratislava Castle.

  • Recommended

Museum of the City of Bratislava

Main city museum documenting Bratislava’s urban past through diverse exhibits in the Old Town’s historic core.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Central Europe: hotels and dining are usually below Vienna, while transit is cheap and many sights are low cost.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included, but 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up in cafes and for taxis if service was good.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Bratislava can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50, while the average price is around $139.
The train from Cologne to Bratislava takes 8h 3m and runs 6 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 hlavná stanica.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Bratislava is by bus, with a cost of around $51.
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 3m 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

Most Cologne to Bratislava trains use the Köln Hbf to Bratislava-Petržalka station pair, with some services arriving at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Bratislava 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 Bratislava

Which Cologne station do trains to Bratislava leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Bratislava 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, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

HomeTrainsTrain Times to BratislavaCologne to Bratislava train

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