- Must visit
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
Major fine arts complex covering Old Masters, Magritte, and modern collections. One of the city's most important museum visits for art lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Brussels Airport
Showing times and prices for Jun 10
Cheapest price
$66
Average price
$85
Fastest journey
1 h 56 m
Average duration
2 h 2 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
173 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Brussels Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Brussels Airport will cost around $85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $66.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Brussels Airport on Wed, Jun 10, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 10 the direct trains cover the 173 km distance in an average of 2 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 56 m .
On Wed, Jun 10 the slowest trains will take 2 h 4 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.
7:43 AM2h04Cologne9:47 AMBrussels Airport$661One-way0 transfers- 10:43 AM2h04Cologne12:47 PMBrussels Airport$701One-way0 transfers
7:39 AM1h56Cologne9:35 AMBrussels Airport$921One-way0 transfers- 9:43 AM2h04Cologne11:47 AMBrussels Airport$1101One-way0 transfers
- 7:39 AM1h56Cologne9:35 AMBrussels Airport$921One-way0 transfers
- 10:43 AM2h04Cologne12:47 PMBrussels Airport$701One-way0 transfers
- 9:43 AM2h04Cologne11:47 AMBrussels Airport$1101One-way0 transfers
- 7:43 AM2h04Cologne9:47 AMBrussels Airport$661One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Brussels Airport
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Brussels Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 17m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $193.
Distance: 107 miles (173 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $553 Average price | $40 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 47m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 12m Average total duration 3h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 57m Average total duration 4h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Brussels Airport is a bus with an average price of $39 (€32).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Brussels Airport:
A bus is $55 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Brussels Airport costing on average $94 (€77).
A bus is $514 (€417) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Brussels Airport costing on average $553 (€449).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Brussels Airport is by train with an average journey time of 2h 17m.
Other travel options to Brussels Airport take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 42m.
Flight takes on average 4h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Brussels Airport including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Brussels Airport 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 4m sooner (2h 17m by train vs 2h 21m by car). Tickets start at around $94 (€77) compared to roughly $40 (€33) 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 Brussels Airport train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Brussels Airport trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:39 AM Cologne | 1h56 | 9:35 AM Brussels Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:43 AM Cologne | 2h04 | 9:47 AM Brussels Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:43 AM Cologne | 2h04 | 11:47 AM Brussels Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:43 AM Cologne | 2h04 | 12:47 PM Brussels Airport | 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 Brussels Airport 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.
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
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Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Jun 16
Why should you book Cologne to Brussels Airport trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar, Intercity, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Cologne to Brussels Airport.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Brussels Airport.
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 Eurostar, Intercity or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Brussels Airport.
- 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 Brussels Airport.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar, Intercity or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Brussels Airport.
- 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 Brussels Airport.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Brussels Airport
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Cologne to Brussels Airport run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 17:44. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 1h 51m.
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 $25 (€20)
Distance 107 miles (173 km) |
Average train duration 2h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 51m |
First train 6:39 AM |
Last train 5:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $25 (€20)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Intercity, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Brussels Airport trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Intercity, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Brussels Airport from $25 (€20). 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
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Price
$138 (€112)
Eurostar frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
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.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Brussels Airport
Things to do in Brussels Airport
Discover the best of Brussels Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brussels Airport trip today.
- Must visit
Magritte Museum
Dedicated to René Magritte with a substantial collection of works and archives. A signature Brussels museum and especially popular with first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Autoworld Brussels
Large transport museum in Cinquantenaire Park with classic cars, Belgian motoring history, and rotating exhibitions. A strong museum choice for a layover trip into Brussels.
- Must visit
Mont des Arts
Landscaped cultural hill linking the upper and lower city, known for gardens, museums, and one of Brussels' classic skyline viewpoints.
- Must visit
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Historic covered shopping arcade with elegant glass roofing and a very photogenic interior. Popular for architecture, strolling, and social-media shots.
- Recommended
Place du Grand Sablon
Elegant square known for antiques, architecture, and an upscale historic atmosphere. A pleasant area for walking between central landmarks.
- Gluten-free
Moules-Frites
Belgium’s classic pairing of mussels and fries, often cooked with white wine, celery, and herbs. It is one of the country’s most iconic traditional meals.
Carbonnade Flamande
A rich Flemish beef and onion stew slowly braised with Belgian beer. It is a comforting regional specialty with deep, sweet-savory flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A traditional Brussels-style mash of potatoes with vegetables such as carrots, leeks, or spinach. It is a simple, hearty local comfort dish.
Brasserie Cantillon
Historic Brussels brewery and tasting venue known for traditional lambic and gueuze beers. Atmospheric and deeply rooted in local brewing heritage.
Comme Chez Soi
One of Brussels’ most famous fine-dining restaurants, celebrated for refined Belgian and French cuisine in an elegant historic setting.
Fin de Siècle
Well-known traditional eatery serving generous Belgian comfort food such as carbonnade and stoemp. Casual atmosphere with strong local character.
Euro
Airport prices are higher than in central Brussels. Coffee, snacks, and sit-down meals usually cost more than city averages.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for sandwiches or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at casual restaurants.
- Fine dining
- EUR 45+ per person at upscale airport dining.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving EUR 1-2 for good service is appreciated but not expected. Taxis can be rounded up.
STIB-MIVB
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.60 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.40 EUR
To the city center
Brussels Airport -> Brussels Central Station
- Distance
- 15 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on STIB-MIVB trams, buses, and metro for fare purchases.
- A separate train fare applies from Brussels Airport because of the airport supplement, so STIB-MIVB city tickets are not valid on the airport train.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Brussels Airport
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Brussels Airport 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 Brussels Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Brussels Airport can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $94 (€77).
The train from Cologne to Brussels Airport takes 1h 51m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Brussels Airport is 107 miles (173 km).
The first train from Cologne to Brussels Airport leaves at 6:39 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Brussels Airport leaves at 5:44 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Brussels Airport.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Brussels Airport.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Brussels Airport is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Cologne to Brussels Airport offers a pleasant view with glimpses of the picturesque Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and charming European towns, making it a moderately scenic route.
A day trip from Cologne to Brussels Airport is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 51m. There are 6 trains per day covering a distance of 107 miles (173 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Brussels Airport.
Since both Cologne and Brussels Airport 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 Brussels Airport include Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Lille, Brussels.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Brussels Airport 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
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 Brussels Airport
Cologne
Brussels
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.
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
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
More options for your journey from Cologne to Brussels Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brussels Airport and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Brussels Airport
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