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

Tue, Oct 13
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Deutsche Bahn
SNCF | TGV Lyria
Eurostar
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
SNCF | TGV Lyria
Eurostar
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lausanne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13

Cheapest price on Oct 13

$71

Average ticket price on Oct 13

$126

Fastest journey on Oct 13

6 h 12 m

Average journey duration on Oct 13

6 h 23 m

Trains on Oct 13

14

Distance

492 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Lausanne will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $71.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnIC 1648 · ICE 277 · IC 969 · IR 2520
    6:53 AM7h27
    Cologne Hbf
    2:20 PMLausanne station
    $711One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 101 · IR 2518
    6:54 AM6h26
    Cologne Hbf
    1:20 PMLausanne station
    $711One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 971 · IR 2522
    8:54 AM6h26
    Cologne Hbf
    3:20 PMLausanne station
    $831One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 1624
    8:54 AM7h02
    Cologne Hbf
    3:56 PMLausanne station
    $831One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1940 · ICE 279 · IR 2524
    8:53 AM7h27
    Cologne Hbf
    4:20 PMLausanne station
    $831One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Lausanne

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Lausanne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€34) but you can travel from only $37 (€31) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 305 miles (492 km) distance in 5h 48m.

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 $37 (€31)
Distance
305 miles (492 km)
Average train duration
6h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$40 (€34)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
5h 48m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:44 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€31)

Live departures

Cologne to Lausanne train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lausanne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Eurostar9414+SNCF | TGV Lyria97756:39 AM Cologne Hbf
11h58
6:37 PM Lausanne station1 transfer
Eurostar9414+SNCF | TGV Lyria97776:39 AM Cologne Hbf
13h58
8:37 PM Lausanne station1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 1648 · ICE 277 · IC 969 · IR 2520
On time
6:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h27
2:20 PM Lausanne station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 101 · IR 2518
On time
6:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h26
1:20 PM Lausanne station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623
On time
7:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h50
3:43 PM Lausanne station
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · ICE 277 · IC 1622
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Hbf
7h02
2:56 PM Lausanne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 513 · ICE 277 · IC 969 · IR 2520
On time
7:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h26
2:20 PM Lausanne station
3 transfers
Eurostar9426+SNCF | TGV Lyria97778:37 AM Cologne Hbf
12h00
8:37 PM Lausanne station1 transfer
Eurostar9426+SNCF | TGV Lyria97758:37 AM Cologne Hbf
10h00
6:37 PM Lausanne station1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 1940 · ICE 279 · IR 2524
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h27
4:20 PM Lausanne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 971 · IR 2522
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h26
3:20 PM Lausanne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 1624
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
7h02
3:56 PM Lausanne station
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 1624
Delayed
7:34 AM 9:31 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
6h25
3:56 PM Lausanne station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · ICE 71 · IC 623 · IC 720
Delayed
7:34 AM 9:31 AMCologne Messe/Deutz
6h12
3:43 PM Lausanne station
3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cologne to Lausanne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCF | TGV Lyria or Eurostar offer trains services from Cologne to Lausanne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Lausanne.

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 SNCF | TGV Lyria or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Lausanne.
  • 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 Lausanne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF | TGV Lyria or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Lausanne.
  • 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 Lausanne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCF | TGV Lyria from Cologne to Lausanne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCF | TGV Lyria trains will get you between Cologne and Lausanne from $37 (€31). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
5h 48m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$60 (€50)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

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 Eurostar Duration
7h 39m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$105 (€88)
Eurostar frequency
2 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

SNCF | TGV Lyria

About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
7h 16m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
$40 (€34)
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Lausanne

Things to do in Lausanne

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

  • Must visit

Musée cantonal des Beaux-Arts Lausanne (MCBA)

Flagship art museum in the Plateforme 10 district, with major Swiss and international works from past centuries to today.

  • Must visit

The Olympic Museum

Olympic museum on the lakeside with torches, medals, athlete stories, and interactive displays. A global highlight for sports fans.

  • Must visit

Collection de l'Art Brut

Art Brut pioneer museum founded from Jean Dubuffet's collection, showcasing powerful outsider art in an elegant historic mansion.

Swiss franc (CHF)

Lausanne is costly even by European standards; hotels, dining, and local transit are pricier than in most nearby cities.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for fast food or simple takeaway.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Lausanne

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lausanne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€34), while the average price is around $123 (€103).
The train from Cologne to Lausanne takes 5h 48m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Lausanne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lausanne is 305 miles (492 km).
The last train from Cologne to Lausanne leaves at 11:44 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Lausanne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Lausanne.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Lausanne is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Lausanne station.
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Lausanne is considered scenic, as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the Swiss countryside, offering views of rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lausanne.
Popular day trips by train from Lausanne include Geneva, Bern, Montreux, Martigny, Sion.
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 Lausanne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or asking for donations. It’s advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Public transportation is generally safe, but always stay alert to avoid petty theft.
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 Lausanne

Most Cologne to Lausanne trains use the Köln Hbf to Lausanne station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Lausanne 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 Lausanne

Which Cologne station do trains to Lausanne leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Lausanne 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 · $8 · 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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