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

Fri, Dec 19
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lugano

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

$95

Average price

$118

Fastest journey

7 h 7 m

Average duration

7 h 32 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

568 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Lugano will cost around $118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Cologne for Lugano on Sun, Dec 21, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 the direct trains cover the 568 km distance in an average of 7 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 7 m .

On Sun, Dec 21 the slowest trains will take 8 h 9 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
06:55AM7h33
Cologne
02:28PMLugano
$951One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:53AM8h09
Cologne
03:02PMLugano
$951One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
04:55AM7h07
Cologne
12:02PMLugano
$1101One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
07:10AM7h18
Cologne
02:28PMLugano
$1711One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Lugano

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Lugano among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €32. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 22m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €32, and a flight costs an average of €27.

Distance: 352 miles (568 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€91

Average price

€93

Average price

€58

Average price

Cheapest

8h 5m

Average total duration

7h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 22m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

12h 50m

Average total duration

12h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

Ryanair

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cologne to Lugano train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lugano trains for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:32 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn4:55 AM Cologne
7h07
12:02 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn6:53 AM Cologne
8h35
3:28 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn6:58 AM Cologne
7h04
2:02 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn7:10 AM Cologne
7h18
2:28 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn7:55 AM Cologne
7h33
3:28 PM Lugano0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Lugano 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
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27

Why should you book Cologne to Lugano trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC) operates all train services from Cologne to Lugano. Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC) tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC)?

  • 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 (IC,ICE,EC) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Lugano.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC) tickets can only be bought on Omio or Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC)'s website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC) tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC) tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • 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 Lugano.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Lugano

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Lugano run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€40) but you can travel from only $34 (€27) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 23:10. The fastest train covers the 352 miles (568 km) distance in 6h 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
Flight from $34 (€27)
Distance
352 miles (568 km)
Average train duration
7h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
$50 (€40)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
6h 48m
First train
00:35
Last train
23:10
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
Flight from $34 (€27)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Lugano trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Lugano from $34 (€27). 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 48m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€45)
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

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Lugano

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lugano can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€40), while the average price is around $113 (€91).
In Lugano, you can enjoy scenic boat tours and lakeside promenades around Lake Lugano, with stunning views. Hike or take a funicular to Monte San Salvatore for breathtaking regional views, and explore vibrant local markets for Swiss culture and cuisine. Visit the Hermann Hesse Museum in Montagnola, stroll through the historic streets of Lugano's Old Town, or enjoy panoramic views from Monte Brè. Relax at Parco Ciani, experience culture at Lugano Arte e Cultura, and explore Swissminiatur's miniature landmarks. Discover Gandria, a charming village with traditional architecture.
To fully experience Lugano, including its scenic lakeside views, cultural attractions, and nearby hiking trails, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Lugano is by flight, with a cost of around $34 (€27).
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Lugano is scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, picturesque villages, and the Swiss Alps.
The first train from Cologne to Lugano leaves at 12:35 AM.
A day trip from Cologne to Lugano is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 48m. The distance is 352 miles (568 km), and there are 8 train trips available per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lugano.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lugano is 352 miles (568 km).
The train from Cologne to Lugano takes 6h 48m and runs 8 per day.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Lugano is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Lugano station.
The last train from Cologne to Lugano leaves at 11:10 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Lugano.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Lugano.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Lugano

Cologne
Lugano
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 Lugano.
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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