- Recommended
Museo Civico e Archeologico, Castello Visconteo
Locarno's main museum inside the Visconti castle, presenting archaeology, local history, and period collections in a landmark setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Locarno
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€71
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€102
Fastest journey on Sep 20
7 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
8 h 30 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
547 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Locarno is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Locarno will cost around €102 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €71.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Locarno, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 547 km distance in an average of 8 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 42 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 9 h 17 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.
7:58 AM9h17Cologne5:15 PMLocarno€711One-way0 transfers- 7:54 AM7h42Cologne3:36 PMLocarno€1331One-way0 transfers
- 7:54 AM7h42Cologne3:36 PMLocarno€1331One-way0 transfers
- 7:58 AM9h17Cologne5:15 PMLocarno€711One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Locarno
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Locarno among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €98 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 55m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €98, while a flight costs an average of €452.
Distance: 339 miles (547 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€136 Average price | €98 Average price Cheapest | €452 Average price | €137 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 1m Average total duration 7h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 10m Average total duration 13h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 55m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.6 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 Locarno is a bus with an average price of €98.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Locarno:
A bus is €38 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Locarno costing on average €136.
A bus is €355 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Locarno costing on average €452.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Locarno is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Locarno take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 31m.
Bus takes on average 13h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Locarno including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Locarno among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 33m faster (7h 31m by train vs 8h 4m by car) and roughly €1 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€136 vs €137). 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 Locarno train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Locarno trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:58 AM Cologne | 9h17 | 5:15 PM Locarno | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:54 AM Cologne | 7h21 | 4:15 PM Locarno | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Locarno 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.
Sun
Sep 20
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Why should you book Cologne to Locarno trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Locarno.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Locarno.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Locarno.
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 Locarno.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Locarno
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Locarno run on average 11 times per day, taking around 7h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €50 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 339 miles (547 km) distance in 6h 41m.
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 339 miles (547 km) |
Average train duration 7h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price €50 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 6h 41m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 from Cologne to Locarno trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Locarno from €50. 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
6h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€50
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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.
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.
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.
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
Complete guide to Locarno
Things to do in Locarno
Discover the best of Locarno — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Locarno trip today.
- Recommended
Pinacoteca Comunale Casa Rusca
Important modern and contemporary art museum in the old town, known for quality exhibitions and works linked to Swiss and international artists.
- Recommended
Casa Anatta
House museum in nearby Brissago devoted to painter and writer Raffaele Leoncavallo, offering insight into regional artistic life.
- Must visit
Piazza Grande
Locarno's lively main square is framed by arcades and historic buildings and is essential for strolling, events, and people-watching.
- Must visit
Lungolago Giuseppe Motta
The lakeside promenade offers palms, mountain views, and a relaxed walking route ideal for sunsets, photos, and easy access to central Locarno.
- Recommended
Città Vecchia
Charming old town streets with arcades, boutiques, and historic houses, perfect for wandering and discovering Locarno's everyday urban character.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Risotto Al Merlot
Risotto made with Ticino Merlot wine, giving it a rich color and local character. It reflects the canton’s rice tradition and famous red wine.
- Gluten-free
Brasato Al Merlot
Slow-braised beef cooked in Ticino Merlot until tender. A classic festive dish in the region, often served with polenta.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Polenta
Creamy cornmeal polenta, a staple of Ticino mountain cooking. It is traditional comfort food and often paired with cheese, stew, or mushrooms.
Ristorante La Brezza
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with refined Ticino and Italian influences in a polished lakeside setting at Villa Orselina above Locarno.
Grotto Broggini
Historic grotto-style venue known for traditional Ticino dishes, hearty polenta, local wine, and a relaxed, rustic atmosphere.
Ristorante Fontana
Well-known restaurant at Hotel Belvedere serving seasonal cuisine with regional products, plus panoramic views over Locarno and the lake.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Locarno is pricier than many nearby Italian towns. Hotels, dining, and local transport are typically Swiss-priced, though budget snacks and supermarkets help control costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 3.50-5.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills, but tipping is not obligatory.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.50
- Day pass
- : null
To the city center
Locarno railway station -> Piazza Grande
- Distance
- 450 m
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy Arcobaleno zone tickets before boarding buses; fares depend on zones, and Locarno urban trips are usually within local zones.
- Contactless card payment is not consistently available on buses, so use the FAIRTIQ app, ticket machines, or sales points.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Locarno
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Locarno 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 Locarno, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Locarno can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €50, while the average price is around €136.
The train from Cologne to Locarno takes 6h 41m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Locarno leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Locarno is 339 miles (547 km).
The last train from Cologne to Locarno leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Locarno.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Locarno.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Locarno is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Locarno station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Locarno is by train, with a cost of around €50.
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Locarno is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Rhine Valley, Swiss Alps, and beautiful landscapes along the way.
A day trip from Cologne to Locarno is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 41m. Trains run 12 times per day and the distance is 339 miles (547 km).
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Locarno allows visitors to explore its main attractions, including the Piazza Grande, Madonna del Sasso, and the beautiful shores of Lake Maggiore, while also enjoying local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Locarno.
Since both Cologne and Locarno 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 Locarno include Milan, Lugano, Domodossola, Bellinzona, Andermatt.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Locarno 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 Locarno, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near popular tourist spots and public transport hubs. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unofficial tour guides are rare but worth noting. Overall, Locarno is considered a safe destination with low crime rates, but standard precautions like securing belongings and using licensed services are advised.
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 Locarno
Most Cologne to Locarno trains use the Köln Hbf to Locarno station pair, with some services arriving at Locarno, Debarcadero. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Locarno 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 Locarno
Which Cologne station do trains to Locarno leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Locarno 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, Germany
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 · €7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · €5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · €5 · 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 Köln
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 · €3 · 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 Köln
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 · €4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · €4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · €5
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.
Which Locarno station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Locarno most often arrive at Locarno. Some services arrive at Locarno, Debarcadero, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Locarno arrival station.
LocarnoPiazza Stazione, 6600 Locarno, Switzerland+41 91 751 82 90
City-centre transport
Getting to Locarno from Locarno city centre
Bus1, 311, 312, 316, 3, 4, 7 · 4m · €2 · every ~38 min
Locarno train station facilities and services
Locarno has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Ristorante Sensi, Osteria Chiara
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Locarno. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Locarno. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Locarno: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Locarno: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Locarno: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Ibis Locarno, Hotel Belvedere Locarno, Hotel Garni Muralto.
Locarno, DebarcaderoPiazza Stazione, 6600 Muralto, Switzerland+41 848 446 688
Locarno, Debarcadero train station facilities and services
Locarno, Debarcadero has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Locarno, Debarcadero.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Locarno
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Locarno and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Locarno
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