- Must visit
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tournai
Major fine arts museum designed by Victor Horta, known for strong collections and refined architecture in a compact setting.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Tournai
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$79
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$84
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 5 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
253 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Tournai is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Tournai will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Tournai, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 253 km distance in an average of 4 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 36 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 33 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.
7:43 AM4h33Cologne12:16 PMTournai$791One-way0 transfers- 5:43 AM3h36Cologne9:19 AMTournai$891One-way0 transfers
- 5:43 AM3h36Cologne9:19 AMTournai$891One-way0 transfers
- 7:43 AM4h33Cologne12:16 PMTournai$791One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Tournai
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Tournai among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $51 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 46m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, while a flight costs an average of $687.
Distance: 157 miles (253 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$135 Average price | $687 Average price | $51 Average price Cheapest | $58 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 46m Average total duration Fastest 3h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration 2h 25m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 16m Average total duration 5h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Tournai is a bus with an average price of $51.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Tournai:
A bus is $83 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Tournai costing on average $135.
A bus is $635 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Tournai costing on average $687.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Tournai is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 25m.
Other travel options to Tournai take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 16m.
Bus takes on average 5h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Tournai including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Tournai 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 8m sooner (3h 16m by train vs 3h 24m by car). Tickets start at around $135 compared to roughly $58 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 Tournai train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Tournai 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:43 AM Cologne | 4h47 | 11:30 AM Tournai | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:43 AM Cologne | 3h36 | 11:19 AM Tournai | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 9:39 AM Cologne | 3h02 | 12:41 PM Tournai | 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 Tournai 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
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cologne to Tournai trains with Omio?
Eurostar as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Cologne to Tournai.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Tournai.
Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurostar, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Tournai.
- 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 Eurostar with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Tournai.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Tournai.
- 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 Tournai.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Tournai
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Cologne to Tournai run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 but you can travel from only $28 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 2h 30m.
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 $28
Distance 157 miles (253 km) |
Average train duration 3h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 30m |
First train 2:15 AM |
Last train 10:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 2 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 $28
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar from Cologne to Tournai trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar trains will get you between Cologne and Tournai from $28. 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
2h 54m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$70
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
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
2h 30m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$133
Eurostar frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Tournai
Things to do in Tournai
Discover the best of Tournai — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tournai trip today.
- Recommended
Musée d'Archéologie de Tournai
Archaeology museum displaying regional finds that illuminate Tournai’s Roman and medieval past in a clear, accessible way.
- Recommended
Musée des Arts Décoratifs de Tournai
Decorative arts museum in a historic house, valued for porcelain, furniture, and insight into elegant bourgeois interiors.
- Must visit
Grand-Place de Tournai
Atmospheric central square framed by heritage buildings, markets, and events; ideal for orientation and people-watching.
- Must visit
Centre Historique de Tournai
Walkable old-town area with narrow streets, heritage façades, and easy access to the city’s main monuments and museums.
- Recommended
Place de l'Évêché
Elegant triangular square near the cathedral, appreciated for its historic setting and photogenic urban perspective.
- Vegetarian
Tournay Beer
A strong Trappist-style beer brewed at nearby Brasserie de Cazeau. It is a regional favorite and reflects local Walloon brewing traditions.
Stoemp
Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with leeks or other greens, often served with sausage. A comforting classic of Wallonia and western Belgium.
Carbonnade Flamande
Slow-cooked beef stew braised in dark Belgian beer. Rich, slightly sweet, and deeply traditional in Belgian brasserie cooking.
L'Eau Vive
Elegant Michelin-starred dining known for refined seasonal French-Belgian cuisine in a polished, intimate setting.
Le Carillon
Classic brasserie near the Grand-Place serving Belgian staples, seafood, and beers in a lively traditional atmosphere.
Le Greco
Popular local spot for mussels, grills, and Belgian comfort food with a casual setting suited to everyday dining.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Brussels or Bruges, while local transit and casual meals stay reasonable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; small change is fine in cafes.
TEC
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.60
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Tournai Railway Station -> Grand-Place, Tournai
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in advance in the TEC app or from sales points; onboard purchase options can be more limited and may cost more.
- Contactless payment availability can vary by bus and validator, so carry a valid ticket or use the official TEC app before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Tournai
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Tournai 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 Tournai, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Tournai can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70, while the average price is around $135.
The train from Cologne to Tournai takes 2h 30m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Tournai leaves at 2:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Tournai is 157 miles (253 km).
The last train from Cologne to Tournai leaves at 10:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cologne to Tournai.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Tournai.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Tournai.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Tournai is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Tournai station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Tournai is by bus, with a cost of around $28.
The train journey from Cologne to Tournai offers scenic views of the rolling landscapes of North Rhine-Westphalia and traverses charming Belgian countryside, with picturesque towns and lush greenery visible along the way.
No, a day trip from Cologne to Tournai is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 30m. There are 6 trips per day by train.
Two to three days in Tournai are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Belfry, and the Museum of Fine Arts, while enjoying the local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Tournai.
Since both Cologne and Tournai 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 Tournai include Lille, Brussels, Charleroi, Mons, Zaventem.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Tournai 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Tournai, travelers should stay alert to pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and near public transportation hubs. Common scams include distraction techniques where someone may try to divert attention to steal valuables. It is advisable to keep personal belongings secure and avoid displaying large amounts of cash. Travelers should also be cautious when using unfamiliar taxi services and opt for official providers to avoid overcharging. Overall, Tournai is considered safe, but standard precautions help ensure a smooth visit.
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 Tournai
Most Cologne to Tournai trains use the Köln Hbf to Tournai station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Tournai 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 Tournai
Which Cologne station do trains to Tournai leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Tournai 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.
Which Tournai station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Tournai most often arrive at Tournai. Some services arrive at Lille Flandres, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Tournai arrival station.
TournaiPlace Saint-Pierre 1, 7500 Tournai, Belgium+32 69 22 21 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Tournai from Tournai city centre
Bus1, 4, 7, 8, 88, 98, 491, K, R, V, W · 12m · $2 · every ~16 min
Tournai train station facilities and services
Tournai has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Carillon, La Petite Madeleine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tournai. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Tournai. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tournai: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Tournai: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tournai: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel d'Alcantara, Hotel Cathedrale, Hotel l'Europe.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Tournai
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Tournai and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Tournai
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.
