- Must visit
Textile Museum St. Gallen
Leading cultural history museum focused on St. Gallen textiles, regional heritage, and changing exhibitions in a central historic building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$86
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$95
Fastest journey on Sep 19
7 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
7 h 36 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
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 $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 428 km distance in an average of 7 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 35 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 7 h 37 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.
8:53 AM7h35Cologne4:28 PMSankt Gallen$861One-way0 transfers- 7:27 AM7h37Cologne3:04 PMSankt Gallen$1031One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM7h35Cologne4:28 PMSankt Gallen$861One-way0 transfers
- 7:27 AM7h37Cologne3:04 PMSankt Gallen$1031One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, 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 an average ticket price of $72 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, while a flight costs an average of $380.
Distance: 265 miles (428 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$140 Average price | $72 Average price Cheapest | $380 Average price | $123 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 33m Average total duration 6h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 9m Average total duration 12h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 2h 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 |
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 Sankt Gallen is a bus with an average price of $72 (€59).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Sankt Gallen:
A bus is $68 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen costing on average $140 (€114).
A bus is $308 (€252) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Sankt Gallen costing on average $380 (€311).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Sankt Gallen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 40m.
Other travel options to Sankt Gallen take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 3m.
Bus takes on average 12h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Sankt Gallen including taking a train, bus, 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 meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 28m sooner (6h 3m by train vs 6h 31m by car). Tickets start at around $140 (€114) compared to roughly $123 (€100) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Sankt Gallen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Sankt Gallen trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:27 AM Cologne | 7h37 | 3:04 PM Sankt Gallen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:53 AM Cologne | 7h35 | 4:28 PM Sankt Gallen | 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 Sankt Gallen 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 22
Wed
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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 train, bus 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 train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Sankt Gallen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 (€46) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) 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 4h 59m.
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 $43 (€35)
Distance 265 miles (428 km) |
Average train duration 6h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $56 (€46) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 4h 59m |
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 Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $43 (€35)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Sankt Gallen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Sankt Gallen from $43 (€35). 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
4h 59m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$56 (€46)
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.
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 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.
- Recommended
Kunstmuseum St. Gallen
Major fine arts museum with Swiss and international works, known for strong modern collections and thoughtful temporary exhibitions.
- Recommended
Historisches und Völkerkundemuseum St. Gallen
Regional history museum combining archaeology, folklore, and natural history, ideal for understanding eastern Switzerland in one visit.
- Must visit
Old Town St. Gallen
Traffic-calmed historic core filled with oriel-window houses, boutiques, and lanes that make St. Gallen one of Switzerland’s best old-town walks.
- Must visit
Klosterhof
Elegant square beside the cathedral and abbey buildings, ideal for appreciating the UNESCO ensemble and baroque urban design.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Wide central square used for markets and events, surrounded by civic buildings and a practical starting point for exploring the center.
- Gluten-free
St. Galler Bratwurst
A hearty sausage made from veal, pork and milk, traditionally eaten without mustard. It is the city’s best-known specialty and a point of local pride.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
St. Galler Bürli
A crusty wheat roll traditionally served with St. Galler Bratwurst. It is a classic local pairing sold at stands and casual eateries.
- Gluten-free
Olma Bratwurst
A flat, oval Swiss sausage related to cervelat, often grilled or pan-fried. It is a traditional everyday sausage in Eastern Switzerland.
Einstein Gourmet
Refined fine-dining restaurant with creative seasonal cuisine, elegant service and one of the city’s strongest culinary reputations.
Netts Schützengarten
Historic beer hall and traditional restaurant known for St. Galler Bratwurst, Swiss classics and local beers in a lively old-town setting.
Restaurant Marktplatz
Well-known traditional venue serving Swiss specialties, sausages and hearty regional dishes in a warm, classic atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Very costly versus most European cities; hotels, restaurant meals, and transport are high, though public transit is reliable and discounts can help.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. In cafes and taxis, round up to the nearest CHF 1-5.
OSTWIND Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.80
- Day pass
- CHF 5.60
To the city center
St. Gallen St. Fiden -> St. Gallen Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Buy tickets before boarding buses; Switzerland generally uses proof-of-payment with inspections.
- Contactless card payment is available in many ticket machines and in the OSTWIND Tickets app, but not reliably on every bus.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Sankt Gallen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56 (€46), while the average price is around $140 (€114).
The train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen takes 4h 59m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen leaves at 4:37 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Sankt Gallen is 265 miles (428 km).
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 $43 (€35).
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 4h 59m. 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, 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 · $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 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 · $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.
Which Sankt Gallen station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Sankt Gallen arrive at St. Gallen. St. Gallen is from Sankt Gallen city centre.
St. GallenBahnhofplatz, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to St. Gallen from Sankt Gallen city centre
TrainS21, S22 · 6m · every ~6 min
Bus5, 9 · 2m · every ~19 min
200, 211, N24, 121 · 6m · $2
St. Gallen train station facilities and services
St. Gallen 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: Restaurant Lagerhaus, Restaurant Marktplatz
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St. Gallen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at St. Gallen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St. Gallen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at St. Gallen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St. Gallen: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Walhalla, Hotel Metropol, Hotel Dom.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Sankt Gallen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sankt Gallen and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Sankt Gallen
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