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

Tue, Oct 27
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Bratislava

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 27

Cheapest price on Oct 27

$48

Average ticket price on Oct 27

$106

Fastest journey on Oct 27

10 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Oct 27

10 h 24 m

Trains on Oct 27

20

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 $106 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 911 · EC 115 · RJX 161 · REX 7741
    5:25 AM10h19
    Cologne Hbf
    3:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka
    $481One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 911 · EC 1213 · REX 2522
    5:25 AM10h45
    Cologne Hbf
    4:10 PMBratislava hlavná stanica
    $481One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 511 · RJX 65 · Os 7623
    5:48 AM10h56
    Cologne Hbf
    4:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka
    $601One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1940 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · Os 7631
    8:53 AM11h51
    Cologne Hbf
    8:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka
    $831One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 119 · RJX 165 · Os 7629
    9:34 AM10h10
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    7:44 PMBratislava-Petržalka
    $831One-way
    3 transfers

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 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) 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 $22 (€18)
Distance
493 miles (795 km)
Average train duration
9h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$46 (€38)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
8h 3m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
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 $22 (€18)

Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Bratislava trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Bratislava.

Train ticket prices from Cologne to Bratislava can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€38), while the average price is around $128 (€107).
The train from Cologne to Bratislava takes 8h 3m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Bratislava leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Bratislava is 493 miles (795 km).
The last train from Cologne to Bratislava leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Bratislava.

Live departures

Cologne to Bratislava train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bratislava trains for today, Monday, October 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 1940 · ICE 515 · RJX 69 · Os 7631
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
11h51
8:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · EC 1217 · REX 2530
On time
9:34 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
10h36
8:10 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · ICE 211 · RJX 167
On time
9:53 AM Cologne Hbf
11h33
9:26 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · RJX 69 · Os 7631
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
10h50
8:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 217 · ICE 575 · ICE 565 · RJX 69
On time
9:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
10h46
8:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 827 · RJX 63 · Os 7619
On time
3:21 AM Cologne Hbf
11h23
2:44 PM Bratislava-Petržalka
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cologne to Bratislava trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?

  • 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.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Bratislava trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Bratislava from $22 (€18). 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
$46 (€38)
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Bratislava

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Bratislava.
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.

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.

Plan your visit to Bratislava

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Bratislava.

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.
Popular day trips by train from Bratislava include Vienna, Brno, Parndorf, Dunajská Streda, Trnava.
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.

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
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Bratislava.

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 · $3 · 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.

Train stations for Cologne to Bratislava

Check train stations information for Cologne and Bratislava, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Cologne that goes to Bratislava is Köln Hbf, which connects to Bratislava-Petržalka.

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