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

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$108

Average price

$154

Fastest journey

5 h 57 m

Average duration

6 h 50 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

428 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne to Sankt Gallen will cost around $154 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 Sankt Gallen without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 773 · IR 3271
    8:54 AM6h28
    Cologne Hbf
    3:22 PMSt. Gallen
    $1081One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 515 · IC 187 · EC 195
    9:54 AM6h36
    Cologne Hbf
    4:30 PMSt. Gallen
    $1251One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 915 · 3981 · ECE 192
    9:31 AM5h57
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    3:28 PMSt. Gallen
    $1611One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 515 · ECE 190
    9:54 AM7h34
    Cologne Hbf
    5:28 PMSt. Gallen
    $1831One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · 3985 · ECE 190
    9:53 AM7h35
    Cologne Hbf
    5:28 PMSt. Gallen
    $1961One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Cologne to Sankt Gallen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Sankt Gallen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 48m. 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 bus costs an average of $35, and a flight costs an average of $77.

Distance: 265 miles (428 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$125

Average price

$58

Average price

Cheapest

$184

Average price

$122

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 8m

Average total duration

6h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 13m

Average total duration

9h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 48m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 31m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Sankt Gallen is a bus with an average price of $58 (€47).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Sankt Gallen:

A bus is $67 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen costing on average $125 (€102).

A bus is $126 (€103) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Sankt Gallen costing on average $184 (€150).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Sankt Gallen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 48m.

Other travel options to Sankt Gallen take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 38m.

Bus takes on average 9h 43m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Sankt Gallen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Sankt Gallen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $125 (€102) compared to roughly $122 (€100) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-2.87 (€-2.35). The journey takes 6h 38m versus 6h 31m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cologne to Sankt Gallen train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Sankt Gallen trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · IC 773 · IR 3271
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h28
3:22 PM St. Gallen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 915 · 3981 · ECE 192
On time
9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
5h57
3:28 PM St. Gallen
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · 3985 · ECE 190
On time
9:53 AM Cologne Hbf
7h35
5:28 PM St. Gallen
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · ECE 190
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
7h34
5:28 PM St. Gallen
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 515 · IC 187 · EC 195
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
6h36
4:30 PM St. Gallen
2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Sankt Gallen by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, 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
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cologne to Sankt Gallen trains with Omio?

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

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 Sankt Gallen.
  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Sankt Gallen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€49) but you can travel from only $35 (€29) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:37, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 265 miles (428 km) distance in 6h 1m.

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 $35 (€29)
Distance
265 miles (428 km)
Average train duration
6h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$60 (€49)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
6h 1m
First train
4:37 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
63 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 $35 (€29)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Sankt Gallen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Sankt Gallen from $35 (€29). 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 10m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€49)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 13m
Cheapest Price
$137 (€112)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
5 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 16m
Cheapest Price
$248 (€203)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Sankt Gallen

Things to do in Sankt Gallen

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

  • Must visit

Textilmuseum St. Gallen

Leading museum on St. Gallen’s textile history, embroidery, and fashion, with rotating exhibitions in a historic city-center building.

  • Must visit

Stiftsbibliothek St. Gallen

UNESCO-listed abbey library displaying exceptional medieval manuscripts in one of Europe’s most beautiful historic library interiors.

  • Recommended

Kunstmuseum St.Gallen

Major fine arts museum with Swiss and international works, especially strong in modern and contemporary art.

Swiss Franc

Prices are high by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport cost more, though supermarkets and lunch deals help.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 25-45 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 prices. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for very good service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Sankt Gallen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€49), while the average price is around $125 (€102).
The train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen takes 6h 1m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen is 265 miles (428 km).
The first train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen leaves at 4:37 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Sankt Gallen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Sankt Gallen.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Sankt Gallen is Cologne Hbf, which connects to St. Gallen.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Sankt Gallen is by bus, with a cost of around $35 (€29).
The train journey from Cologne to Sankt Gallen offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills of the Rhineland and the picturesque landscapes of southern Germany and northern Switzerland.
A day trip from Cologne to Sankt Gallen is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 1m. There are 7 train trips available per day for this route, covering a distance of 265 miles (428 km).
In Sankt Gallen, you can explore the vibrant Old Town with its charming streets and historic buildings, visit the Botanical Garden St. Gallen, and enjoy a scenic hike in the nearby Appenzell region. Attend a performance at the Theater St. Gallen and discover the local culinary scene by sampling Swiss specialties at traditional restaurants. Key sights include the Abbey of Saint Gall with its stunning baroque architecture, the Textile Museum, Wildpark Peter and Paul, Kunstmuseum St. Gallen, and Drei Weieren, perfect for walking and relaxation.
Two to three days in Sankt Gallen are ideal to explore the Abbey of Saint Gall, visit the Textile Museum, and enjoy the city's charming old town.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen.
Since both Cologne and Sankt Gallen 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 Sankt Gallen include Zurich, Memmingen, Bregenz, Lindau (Bodensee), Appenzell.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Sankt Gallen 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 Sankt Gallen, travelers should be aware of common urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at some restaurants can occur, so it is advisable to agree on prices beforehand and use reputable services. Overall, Sankt Gallen is considered a safe destination with low crime rates, but standard precautions apply.
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 Sankt Gallen

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

Which Cologne station do trains to Sankt Gallen leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen 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.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone