- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK)
Ghent’s principal fine-arts museum, known for Flemish masters and a strong collection from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Cheapest price
$86
Average price
$101
Fastest journey
2 h 30 m
Average duration
2 h 35 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
227 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Ghent is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Ghent will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Ghent without transferring at least once.
ICE 1112 · IC 2834
ICE 318 · IC 2845
ICE 16 · IC 2835
ICE 316 · IC 2833
ICE 10 · IC 2843
ICE 14 · IC 8002
ICE 16 · IC 2835
ICE 316 · IC 2833
ICE 10 · IC 2843
ICE 314 · IC 2837Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Ghent among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a flight costs an average of $194.
Distance: 141 miles (227 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$100 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $647 Average price | $53 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration 4h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 30m Average total duration 5h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Ghent:
A bus is $70 (€56) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Ghent costing on average $100 (€81).
A bus is $616 (€497) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Ghent costing on average $647 (€522).
Other travel options to Ghent take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 28m.
Flight takes on average 5h 30m.
You'll arrive about 35m sooner (2h 37m by train vs 3h 12m by car). Tickets start at around $100 (€81) compared to roughly $53 (€43) 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.
Direct services run with Eurostar.
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.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ghent trains for today, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 316 · IC 2833 | Delayed 6:34 AM 8:33 AMCologne Hbf | 3h46 | 12:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
10810 · 26410 · 18926 · IC 534 | 8:59 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h36 | 1:35 PM Ghent St Pieters | 3 transfers | |
ICE 16 · IC 2835 | On time 10:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h46 | 2:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cologne to Ghent run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 141 miles (227 km) distance in 1h 56m.
Distance 141 miles (227 km) |
Average train duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 56m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Ghent — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ghent trip today.
Ghent’s principal fine-arts museum, known for Flemish masters and a strong collection from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Ghent’s leading contemporary art museum, featuring Belgian and international modern and contemporary works in rotating exhibitions.
A stylish museum covering decorative arts and contemporary design, set in an elegant historic house and modern extension.
Ghent’s most photogenic riverfront quays, lined with guild houses and busy with walkers, boat tours, and evening views.
A beautiful historic quarter of narrow cobbled lanes and old houses, ideal for wandering and atmosphere.
A lively central square surrounded by landmark buildings, tram lines, and easy access to the historic core.
Ghent’s signature creamy stew, traditionally made with fish and now often with chicken, vegetables, cream, and egg yolk.
A rich Flemish beef stew slow-cooked with dark beer, commonly served with fries and strongly associated with local tavern cooking.
Traditional ring-shaped sweet buns from the Ghent area, lightly spiced and linked to local fairs and seasonal baking traditions.
Modern fine dining restaurant with a Michelin star, offering creative seasonal tasting menus in a refined but relaxed setting.
Large, stylish brasserie in a former warehouse, known for Belgian classics, seafood, and a lively historic setting.
Well-known classic brasserie on Korenmarkt serving Flemish favorites such as waterzooi and stew in a central, bustling atmosphere.
Prices are moderate by Western European standards. Meals and drinks are manageable, but central hotels can be pricey in peak season.
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; no tip needed for counter service.
Official public transport app
Gent Sint-Pieters -> Korenmarkt, Ghent
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Ghent 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 Ghent, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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