Cologne to Fribourg train with Deutsche Bahn (EC,ICE,IC)

Thu, Jun 18
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
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 Fribourg

Showing times and prices for Jun 18

Cheapest price

$149

Average price

$195

Fastest journey

5 h 32 m

Average duration

6 h 30 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

460 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Fribourg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne to Fribourg will cost around $195 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $149.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cologne for Fribourg on Thu, Jun 18, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jun 18 the direct trains cover the 460 km distance in an average of 6 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 32 m .

On Thu, Jun 18 the slowest trains will take 7 h 25 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:53 AM6h33
    Cologne
    2:26 PMFribourg
    $1491One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:54 AM5h32
    Cologne
    12:26 PMFribourg
    $1951One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:31 AM7h25
    Cologne
    2:56 PMFribourg
    $2401One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Fribourg

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Fribourg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, and a flight costs an average of $93.

Distance: 285 miles (460 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$152

Average price

$204

Average price

$88

Average price

Cheapest

$191

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 15m

Average total duration

5h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 0m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

17h 40m

Average total duration

17h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 39m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.4 - 2.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Fribourg is a bus with an average price of $88 (€72).

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

A bus is $64 (€52) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Fribourg costing on average $152 (€124).

A bus is $116 (€94) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Fribourg costing on average $204 (€166).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Fribourg is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 0m.

Other travel options to Fribourg take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 45m.

Bus takes on average 17h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Fribourg including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Fribourg among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 54m faster (5h 45m by train vs 6h 39m by car) and roughly $39 (€32) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($152 (€124) vs $191 (€156)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Fribourg train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Fribourg trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:54 AM Cologne
5h32
12:26 PM Fribourg0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:31 AM Cologne
7h25
2:56 PM Fribourg0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:53 AM Cologne
6h33
2:26 PM Fribourg0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Fribourg 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.

Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24

Why should you book Cologne to Fribourg trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Fribourg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Fribourg.

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 Fribourg.
  • 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 Fribourg.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • 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 Fribourg.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Fribourg

userReviewImage
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The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconComfortable
IconClean
IconWell maintained
Disadvantages
IconPrice
I travelled with my son from Cologne to Freiburg because he has a rare disease that prevents his bones from growing. We have to go to Freiburg regularly and so we did on this day in September. Everything went smoothly, the train arrived on time and there were no disruptions or delays during the journey. The train was clean and well maintained, the seats, the corridors and the sanitary facilities were in excellent condition. We had to change trains once. The wifi on board also worked really well, so I have nothing to criticise. The price could perhaps be reduced a little.
Advantages
IconNo car
IconMore environmentally friendly
Disadvantages
IconPrice
I was very satisfied with the train from Cologne to Freiburg. The cleanliness was good. Thanks to the seat reservation, I had no problem finding a seat. Fortunately, it wasn't very loud, so I was able to study well. The conductor was nice. It's a great alternative to travelling by car as it's more environmentally friendly. I don't use any petrol and I can concentrate on studying the whole time. The only negative point is that I have to pay a lot for such a ticket and it doesn't tend to be worth it.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Fribourg

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Fribourg run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 (€52) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:25, the last at 23:33. The fastest train covers the 285 miles (460 km) distance in 5h 25m.

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
Distance
285 miles (460 km)
Average train duration
5h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$63 (€52)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
5h 25m
First train
12:25 AM
Last train
11:33 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
14 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Fribourg trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Fribourg from $63 (€52). 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 25m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€52)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
$215 (€176)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Fribourg

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Fribourg 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 Fribourg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Fribourg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63 (€52), while the average price is around $152 (€124).
The train from Cologne to Fribourg takes 5h 25m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Fribourg leaves at 12:25 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Fribourg is 285 miles (460 km).
The last train from Cologne to Fribourg leaves at 11:33 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Fribourg.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Fribourg.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Fribourg is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Fribourg.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Fribourg is by train, with a cost of around $63 (€52).
The train journey from Cologne to Fribourg is quite scenic, offering views of the picturesque Rhine Valley, charming German towns, and lush landscapes, especially as you pass through regions like the Black Forest.
A day trip from Cologne to Fribourg is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 25m. The distance is 285 miles (460 km), and there are 9 trains per day.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Fribourg, allowing time to visit its historic old town, museums, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Fribourg.
Since both Cologne and Fribourg 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 Fribourg include Geneva, Bern, Lausanne, Zurich, Basel.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Fribourg 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.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Fribourg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and bus stops. Scams are rare but can include overcharging by taxis unfamiliar with local rates. It's advisable to use official transportation services and stay aware of surroundings to ensure safety.
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 Fribourg

Most Cologne to Fribourg trains use the Köln Hbf to Fribourg station pair, with some services arriving at Fribourg, Gare routiere. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Fribourg 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 Fribourg

Which Cologne station do trains to Fribourg leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Fribourg 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.

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