Cologne to Grindelwald train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sun, Jul 12
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Grindelwald

Showing times and prices for Jul 12

Cheapest price

$89

Average price

$116

Fastest journey

6 h 46 m

Average duration

7 h 17 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

486 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Grindelwald will cost around $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Cologne for Grindelwald on Sun, Jul 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jul 12 the direct trains cover the 486 km distance in an average of 7 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 46 m .

On Sun, Jul 12 the slowest trains will take 7 h 47 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 AM7h47
    Cologne
    3:40 PMGrindelwald
    $891One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:54 AM6h46
    Cologne
    1:40 PMGrindelwald
    $1431One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and flight for Cologne to Grindelwald

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Grindelwald among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $93. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $93, and a train costs an average of $66.

Distance: 301 miles (486 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$137

Average price

$93

Average price

Cheapest

$198

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 28m

Average total duration

6h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 5m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

7h 2m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Smartwings

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Grindelwald is a flight with an average price of $93 (€76).

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

A flight is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Grindelwald costing on average $137 (€113).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Grindelwald is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.

Other travel options to Grindelwald take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 58m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Grindelwald including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Grindelwald among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 4m faster (6h 58m by train vs 7h 2m by car) and roughly $61 (€50) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($137 (€113) vs $198 (€163)). 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 Grindelwald train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Grindelwald trains for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · ICE 279 · R 275
Delayed
8:42 AM 9:54 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
6h46
4:40 PM Grindelwald station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2013 · ICE 371 · IC 629 · RE 4232
Delayed
9:31 AM 10:53 AMCologne Hbf
8h17
7:10 PM Grindelwald station
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 105 · IC 627 · R 281
On time
10:55 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
7h15
6:10 PM Grindelwald station
2 transfers
Sunday, July 12
Deutsche Bahn6:54 AM Cologne
6h46
1:40 PM Grindelwald0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:53 AM Cologne
7h47
3:40 PM Grindelwald0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Grindelwald by train or flight

Compare train 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.

Sun
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18

Why should you book Cologne to Grindelwald trains with Omio?

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

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 Grindelwald.
  • 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 flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Grindelwald.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Grindelwald.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Grindelwald

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Grindelwald run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $66 (€54) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 301 miles (486 km) distance in 6h 39m.

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
301 miles (486 km)
Average train duration
6h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$66 (€54)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
6h 39m
First train
5:15 AM
Last train
10:17 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 Grindelwald trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Grindelwald from $66 (€54). 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
6h 39m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€54)
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
6h 39m
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day

Complete guide to Grindelwald

Things to do in Grindelwald

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

  • Recommended

Heimatmuseum Grindelwald

Local history museum covering alpine life, farming, mountaineering, crafts, and the development of tourism in Grindelwald. A strong choice for visitors wanting village context beyond the scenery.

  • Recommended

Touristik-Museum der Jungfrau-Region

Museum in Interlaken dedicated to the history of travel, hotels, transport, and alpine tourism in the Jungfrau area. Especially relevant for understanding how Grindelwald became a famous resort.

  • Recommended

Freilichtmuseum Ballenberg

Large open-air museum near Brienz with historic Swiss houses, crafts, and rural traditions. It is one of the region's best cultural attractions for visitors who want a broader Swiss heritage overview.

Swiss Franc

Prices are high even by Swiss standards, especially for hotels, mountain transport, and dining in peak season.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for takeaway or a simple meal.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CHF 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is included. Tipping is modest: round up bills or leave about 5-10% for excellent service. Small change for cafés and taxis is appreciated, not required.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Grindelwald

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Grindelwald can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $66 (€54), while the average price is around $137 (€113).
The train from Cologne to Grindelwald takes 6h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Grindelwald leaves at 5:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Grindelwald is 301 miles (486 km).
The last train from Cologne to Grindelwald leaves at 10:17 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Grindelwald.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Grindelwald.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Grindelwald is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Grindelwald station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Grindelwald is by train, with a cost of around $66 (€54).
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Grindelwald is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, charming Swiss villages, and the majestic backdrop of the Alps as you approach Grindelwald.
A day trip from Cologne to Grindelwald is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 39m one way. Trains run 9 times per day.
In Grindelwald, you can enjoy adventurous activities at Grindelwald-First, such as zip-lining and mountain carting. Visit the Glacier Gorge to marvel at its rock formations and waterfalls. Take a scenic train ride on the Bernese Oberland Railway, and explore the charming village with its traditional Swiss architecture. Don't miss a guided tour of the local cheese factory to learn about Swiss cheese-making traditions. For stunning sights, walk the First Cliff Walk for panoramic views, visit Jungfraujoch for breathtaking glacier vistas, hike the Eiger Trail, relax by Bachalpsee Lake, and take a cable car to Pfingstegg for views of the area.
To fully experience Grindelwald's stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and nearby attractions like Jungfraujoch, plan for a stay of 3 to 4 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Grindelwald.
Since both Cologne and Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald include Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Bern, Spiez, Wilderswil.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald, travelers should be aware of typical mountain safety concerns such as sudden weather changes, challenging hiking trails, and the risk of avalanches in winter. It is important to stay on marked paths and check local weather forecasts. While scams are rare, travelers should be cautious of unofficial guides offering unlicensed tours or overpriced transportation services. Always use authorized ticket vendors and official transport providers to avoid fraud.
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 Grindelwald

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

Which Cologne station do trains to Grindelwald leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Grindelwald 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.

More options for your journey from Cologne to Grindelwald

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