- Must visit
Train World
Belgium’s national railway museum in nearby Schaerbeek, known for restored locomotives, immersive displays, and strong family appeal.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Zaventem
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
2 h 35 m
Average duration
2 h 35 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
174 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Zaventem is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Zaventem will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cologne for Zaventem on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 174 km distance in an average of 2 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 35 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.
8:43 AM2h35Cologne11:18 AMZaventem$491One-way0 transfers
- 8:43 AM2h35Cologne11:18 AMZaventem$491One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Zaventem
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Zaventem among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $192.
Distance: 108 miles (174 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$62 Average price | $30 Average price Cheapest | $532 Average price | $40 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 42m Average total duration Fastest 2h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 28m Average total duration 8h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 38m Average total duration 6h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Zaventem is a bus with an average price of $30 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Zaventem:
A bus is $32 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Zaventem costing on average $62 (€51).
A bus is $501 (€410) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Zaventem costing on average $532 (€435).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Zaventem is by train with an average journey time of 2h 12m.
Other travel options to Zaventem take longer:
Flight takes on average 6h 38m.
Bus takes on average 8h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Zaventem including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Zaventem 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 10m sooner (2h 12m by train vs 2h 22m by car). Tickets start at around $62 (€51) compared to roughly $40 (€33) 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 Zaventem train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Zaventem trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:43 AM Cologne | 2h35 | 11:18 AM Zaventem | 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 Zaventem 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.
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Jun 21
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Why should you book Cologne to Zaventem trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Zaventem.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Zaventem.
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 Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Zaventem.
- 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 Zaventem.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Zaventem.
- 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 Zaventem.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Zaventem
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Cologne to Zaventem run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 108 miles (174 km) distance in 1h 56m.
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 $25 (€20)
Distance 108 miles (174 km) |
Average train duration 2h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 56m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 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 $25 (€20)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Zaventem trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Zaventem from $25 (€20). 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
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
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 Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€57)
Eurostar frequency
4 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Zaventem
Things to do in Zaventem
Discover the best of Zaventem — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zaventem trip today.
- Recommended
Studio 44 - Museum of Military History and Aviation
A local museum near Brussels Airport focused on military history and aviation, with aircraft-related exhibits and memorabilia that appeal to plane enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Autoworld
A major automobile museum in nearby Brussels with historic cars, temporary exhibitions, and broad appeal for transport and design fans.
- Must visit
Parc du Cinquantenaire
A landmark urban park in Brussels combining monumental architecture, lawns, and major museums in one setting.
- Must visit
Grand-Place
Brussels’ famous central square, celebrated for its guildhalls and atmosphere, and a must for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Woluwe Park
A spacious landscaped park in the eastern Brussels area, popular for walking, jogging, and relaxed time outdoors.
- Gluten-free
Moules-Frites
Mussels steamed with white wine, celery, and onion, served with fries. A Belgian classic widely loved in and around Brussels.
Carbonnade Flamande
Traditional Flemish beef stew slow-cooked with Belgian beer, often slightly sweet and richly savory. A staple of Belgian home cooking.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A rustic mashed potato dish mixed with seasonal vegetables such as carrot or leek, commonly served with sausage in Belgian brasseries.
Sawad
Well-known restaurant in Zaventem appreciated for refined cuisine and a more upscale dining experience in an elegant setting.
Rigoletto
Established Italian restaurant in Zaventem known for reliable quality, generous portions, and a polished yet relaxed atmosphere.
Brasserie Rossini
Popular brasserie-style venue in Zaventem offering classic Belgian and French-influenced dishes in a comfortable, established setting.
Euro
Prices are above average due to airport demand. Nearby local spots can be cheaper than terminal dining and hotels.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
STIB-MIVB
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.40 EUR
To the city center
Brussels Airport-Zaventem, Zaventem -> Brussels-Central Station, Brussels
- Distance
- 12 km
- Travel time
- 17 min
- Contactless card payment is available on STIB-MIVB buses, trams, and metro in Brussels; validate once per journey with your bank card or device.
- From Brussels Airport, the train is usually the fastest option to Brussels city center; buy tickets in advance online or at SNCB/NMBS machines at the airport.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Zaventem
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Zaventem 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 Zaventem, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Zaventem can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43 (€35), while the average price is around $62 (€51).
The train from Cologne to Zaventem takes 1h 56m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Zaventem is 108 miles (174 km).
The first train from Cologne to Zaventem leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Zaventem leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Zaventem.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Zaventem.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Zaventem is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Brussels National Airport.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Zaventem is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Cologne to Zaventem offers picturesque views of the Rhine River and rolling countryside, with glimpses of charming villages and historic towns along the route, making it a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Cologne to Zaventem is not feasible as the travel time is 1h 56m. However, there are 8 trains per day covering a distance of 108 miles (174 km).
Zaventem, primarily known for Brussels Airport, generally requires just one day for travelers transiting through or exploring the airport and its immediate surroundings.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Zaventem.
Since both Cologne and Zaventem 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 Zaventem include Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Breda, Ghent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Zaventem 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 Zaventem, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the airport and public transport. Be wary of unofficial taxi drivers and always use licensed services to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, watch out for counterfeit ticket sellers and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to prevent fraud. Staying alert and securing belongings can help ensure a safe 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 Zaventem
Cologne
Zaventem
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 Zaventem.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
The major train station for arrivals in Zaventem is Zaventem. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zaventem for your journey to Zaventem from Cologne.
Zaventem
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access is available via the main airport road
Dining
- Restaurant Belair
- Black Pearls
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel
- Crowne Plaza Brussels Airport
- NH Brussels Airport
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to Brussels and other destinations
- Hall 2: ticketing and information
Public transit options for Zaventem
- Train: SNCB/NMBS services
- Bus: Several lines available
Nossegem
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningHotelBike ParkingMore options for your journey from Cologne to Zaventem
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zaventem and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Zaventem
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