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

Thu, Jun 04
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Interlaken

Showing times and prices for Jun 04

Cheapest price

$108

Average price

$128

Fastest journey

5 h 59 m

Average duration

6 h 21 m

Trains per day

15

Distance

477 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Interlaken will cost around $128 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $108.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Interlaken without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 225 · ECE 5 · IC 977
    11:18 AM6h35
    Cologne Hbf
    5:53 PMInterlaken West
    $1081One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 517 · ICE 371 · IC 629 · RE 4232
    11:54 AM6h27
    Cologne Hbf
    6:21 PMInterlaken West
    $1081One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1644 · ICE 109 · IC 983 · IC 830
    12:53 PM8h00
    Cologne Hbf
    8:53 PMInterlaken West
    $1081One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 919 · ICE 73 · IC 981
    1:30 PM6h23
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    7:53 PMInterlaken West
    $1081One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 2013 · ICE 1651 · ICE 107
    10:53 AM8h00
    Cologne Hbf
    6:53 PMInterlaken West
    $1091One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and flight for Cologne to Interlaken

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Interlaken among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $58. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 47m. 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 train costs an average of $58, and a flight costs an average of $87.

Distance: 296 miles (477 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$137

Average price

Cheapest

$200

Average price

$198

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 48m

Average total duration

6h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 47m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.4 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

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 Interlaken is a train with an average price of $137 (€111).

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

A train is $63 (€51) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Interlaken costing on average $200 (€162).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Interlaken is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 47m.

Other travel options to Interlaken take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 18m.

Bus takes on average 6h 34m.

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

The journey is about 30m faster (6h 18m by train vs 6h 48m by car) and roughly $61 (€49) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($137 (€111) vs $198 (€160)). 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 Interlaken train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Interlaken trains for today, Wednesday, June 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1648 · ICE 103 · IC 623
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
8h29
3:22 PM Interlaken West
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 101
On time
6:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h28
1:22 PM Interlaken West
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 279 · IC 625 · RE 4228
On time
7:53 AM Cologne Hbf
8h28
4:21 PM Interlaken West
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · ICE 277 · EC 65 · RE 4224
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h27
2:21 PM Interlaken West
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · ICE 277 · IC 10971
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h59
2:53 PM Interlaken West
2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Interlaken 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.

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Why should you book Cologne to Interlaken trains with Omio?

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

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) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Interlaken.
  • 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 Interlaken.

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 Interlaken.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Interlaken

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Interlaken run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 296 miles (477 km) distance in 5h 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
Distance
296 miles (477 km)
Average train duration
6h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$58 (€47)
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
5h 51m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
77 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), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Interlaken trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Interlaken from $58 (€47). 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 51m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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 51m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€108)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
9 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 54m
Cheapest Price
$274 (€221)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Interlaken

Things to do in Interlaken

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

Tourismuseum

Local museum on the history of tourism in the Jungfrau region, with exhibits on early alpine travel, hotels, transport, and mountain guiding.

Kunsthaus Interlaken

Contemporary art venue hosting rotating exhibitions by regional and international artists in a central Interlaken setting.

Brienz Woodcarving Exhibition Room

Nearby cultural stop highlighting the woodcarving tradition of the Bernese Oberland, often visited from Interlaken.

Swiss Franc

Prices are high by European standards, especially for hotels and restaurants. Supermarkets and lunch deals help reduce daily costs.

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 cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is included in restaurant prices. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Interlaken

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Interlaken can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $58 (€47), while the average price is around $137 (€111).
The train from Cologne to Interlaken takes 5h 51m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Interlaken leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Interlaken is 296 miles (477 km).
The last train from Cologne to Interlaken leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Interlaken.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Interlaken.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Interlaken is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Interlaken West.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Interlaken is by train, with a cost of around $58 (€47).
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Interlaken is scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley, picturesque towns, rolling hills, and the Swiss Alps as you approach Interlaken.
A day trip from Cologne to Interlaken is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 51m and the distance is 296 miles (477 km). The train frequency is 10 per day.
In Interlaken, you can explore Jungfraujoch for breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, visit Harder Kulm for panoramic vistas of the Bernese Alps and Interlaken, enjoy boat cruises and water sports on Lake Thun, experience the thrill of paragliding with stunning aerial views, and discover the St. Beatus Caves with their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, the Schynige Platte offers a mountain ridge experience with its alpine garden and hiking trails accessible by cogwheel train.
To fully enjoy Interlaken and its surrounding attractions, a stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended, allowing time for activities such as visiting the Jungfraujoch, exploring Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and engaging in outdoor adventures like hiking or paragliding.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Interlaken.
Since both Cologne and Interlaken 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 Interlaken include Milan, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Lauterbrunnen, Basel.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Interlaken 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 Interlaken, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Common safety concerns include sudden weather changes affecting outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding, so proper gear and local advice are essential. Scams are rare but can include overpriced taxi fares or unofficial tour offers; using licensed services helps avoid these issues.
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 Interlaken

Cologne
Interlaken
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Interlaken.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps

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