The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Zurich
Cheapest price
$95
Average price
$162
Fastest journey
4 h 54 m
Average duration
4 h 56 m
Trains per day
46
Distance
413 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Zurich will cost around $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
Of the 46 trains that leave Cologne for Zurich on Tue, Jan 06, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jan 06 the direct trains cover the 413 km distance in an average of 4 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 54 m .
On Tue, Jan 06 the slowest trains will take 4 h 58 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.
ICE 511 · ICE 275
ICE 929 · ICE 379 · IR 2347 · IC 841
ICE 205 · IR 2055
IC 2348 · ICE 103 · IC 795
ICE 203 · IC 2345 · IC 839
ICE 1013 · ICE 75+
TGV 9223
ICE 915 · ICE 71+
TGV 9211
ICE 1011 · ICE 7+
TGV 9219
ICE 919 · ICE 73 · IC 581
ICE 225 · ECE 5+
TGV 9213Cologne - ZurichCompare Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | InterCity

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.




Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. 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 €24, and a flight costs an average of €80.
Distance: 256 miles (413 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€137 Average price | €188 Average price | €55 Average price Cheapest |
7h 7m Average total duration 6h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 3m Average total duration 9h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Zurich train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Zurich trains for today, Monday, January 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 2040 · ICE 279 · IC 775 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 2:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2040+ ICE 105 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h07 | 3:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
IC 2040+ ICE 279+ IC 775 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 2:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 103 · IC 795 | 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 1:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 915 · ICE 71+ TGV 9211 | On time 8:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h55 | 1:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 27 · ICE 371 · IC 779 | 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h07 | 4:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 515 · ICE 279 · IC 775 | Delayed 8:59 AM 8:54 AMCologne Hbf | 5h06 | 2:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 515 · IC 187 | Delayed 8:59 AM 8:54 AMCologne Hbf | 5h29 | 2:23 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
IC 2013 · ICE 107 · IC 781 | 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h07 | 5:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2013+ ICE 371+ IC 779 | 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 4:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 105 | Delayed 9:55 AM 9:54 AMCologne Hbf | 5h06 | 3:00 PM Zurich HB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 225 · ECE 5+ TGV 9213 | On time 10:28 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h58 | 3:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 517 · ICE 371 · IC 779 | Delayed 10:55 AM 10:54 AMCologne Hbf | 5h06 | 4:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2404 · ICE 109 | On time 11:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h07 | 7:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
IC 2404+ ICE 373 | On time 11:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 6:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 107 · IC 781 | Delayed 11:55 AM 11:54 AMCologne Hbf | 5h06 | 5:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 919 · ICE 73 · IC 581 | On time 12:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h56 | 5:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 229 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7+ TGV 9219 | On time 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h33 | 7:26 PM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 229 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7+ TGV 9219 | On time 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h33 | 7:26 PM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 519 · ICE 373 | On time 12:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 6:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
IC 2406+ ICE 375+ IC 787 | 1:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 8:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2406 · ICE 375 · IC 787 | 1:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 8:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 109 | On time 1:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 7:00 PM Zurich HB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1011 · ICE 7+ TGV 9219 | On time 2:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h56 | 7:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 927 · ICE 1013 · ICE 75+ TGV 9223 | 2:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h33 | 9:26 PM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 611 · ICE 375 · IC 787 | 2:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 8:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2408 · ICE 377 · IC 989 · IC 837 | On time 3:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h08 | 10:01 PM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
IC 2408+ ICE 377+ IC 989 · IC 837 | On time 3:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h08 | 10:01 PM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 201 · IC 789 | On time 3:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 9:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1013 · IC 285 | On time 4:32 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 5h51 | 10:23 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1013 · ICE 75+ TGV 9223 | On time 4:32 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h54 | 9:26 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 929 · ICE 379 · IR 2347 · IC 841 | 4:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h13 | 12:06 AM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 613 · ICE 377 · IC 989 · IC 837 | 4:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h07 | 10:01 PM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 613 · ICE 377 · IR 1991 | 4:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h30 | 10:24 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2400+ ICE 379+ IR 1995 | 5:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h31 | 12:24 AM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2400+ ICE 379+ IR 2347+ IC 841 | 5:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 6h13 | 12:06 AM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 203 · IC 2345 · IC 839 | 5:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h07 | 11:01 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 203 · IR 1993 | 5:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h30 | 11:24 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 615 · ICE 379 · IR 2347 · IC 841 | 6:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h12 | 12:06 AM Zurich HB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 615 · ICE 379 · IR 1995 | 6:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h30 | 12:24 AM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 205 · ICE 77 · IR 2055 | 7:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h55 | 4:49 AM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 619 · IC 60403 | On time 10:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h11 | 7:05 AM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 2829 · IC 60403 · IC 559 | On time 10:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h32 | 6:26 AM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 2829 · IC 60403 | On time 10:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h11 | 7:05 AM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 619 · IC 60403 · IC 559 | 10:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h32 | 6:26 AM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 511 · ICE 275 | 4:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h12 | 10:00 AM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
IC 2348+ ICE 277 | On time 5:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h07 | 12:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
IC 2348 · ICE 103 · IC 795 | On time 5:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h07 | 1:00 PM Zurich HB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 101 · EC 151 | 5:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 11:00 AM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 513 · ICE 277 | On time 6:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h06 | 12:00 PM Zurich HB | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Zurich 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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Why should you book Cologne to Zurich trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB) as well as ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | ICE and ÖBB Nightjet offer trains services from Cologne to Zurich. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Zurich.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB), but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | ICE and ÖBB Nightjet to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Zurich.
- 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 (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Zurich.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | ICE and ÖBB Nightjet to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cologne to Zurich.
- 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 Zurich.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Zurich?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Zurich
Trains from Cologne to Zurich run on average 11 times per day, taking around 6h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $77 (€62) but you can travel from only $30 (€24) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (413 km) distance in 4h 50m.
Distance 256 miles (413 km) |
Average train duration 6h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 (€62) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 4h 50m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:57 |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | InterCity from Cologne to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | InterCity trains will get you between Cologne and Zurich from $30 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB Nightjet
ÖBB | InterCity
Traveling by train from Cologne to Zurich
Traveling between Cologne and Zurich is a seamless experience, thanks to the efficient train connections provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | InterCity, and ÖBB | Euro City (EC). With multiple daily departures, you can enjoy a comfortable journey through picturesque landscapes while reaching your destination in just around 6 hours. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, these providers ensure that your travel needs are met with convenience and reliability.
Train Connection: Cologne to Zurich
Traveling from Cologne to Zurich takes approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available each day, departing from Köln Hbf or Köln Messe/Deutz and arriving at Zürich HB.
Cologne to Zurich Train Connection
The first daily train journey from Cologne to Zurich departs at 04:53, allowing early travelers to start their day. The last departure is scheduled for 21:51, providing a late option for those wishing to arrive in Zurich after an evening of exploration.
Train Tickets Price for Cologne to Zurich
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Cologne to Zurich is €82. The average ticket price tends to be around €152, making it a good option for travelers looking to save on transportation costs while enjoying scenic views along the way.
Exploring the Heart of Zurich: Lake Zurich, Grossmünster, and Bahnhofstrasse
Welcome to Lake Zurich, a stunning body of water that has been the heart of Zurich since ancient times. Its significance lies not only in its breathtaking beauty but also as a hub for recreation and relaxation, where locals and tourists alike enjoy sailing, swimming, or simply strolling along the picturesque promenade. What makes this lake truly unique is its crystal-clear waters fed by glacial streams and surrounded by majestic mountains—offering an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable memories.
Next on our journey is the iconic Grossmünster, a landmark church with roots dating back to the 12th century. This architectural marvel holds great historical importance as it played a pivotal role in the Protestant Reformation led by Huldrych Zwingli; today it stands as a symbol of religious freedom and cultural heritage in Switzerland. One of its most distinctive features is the twin towers that dominate Zurich's skyline—climb them for panoramic views that will take your breath away!
Finally, we arrive at Bahnhofstrasse—the world-renowned shopping street known for luxury boutiques and high-end brands stretching over one mile from Zürich Hauptbahnhof (the main train station) to Lake Zurich itself. The significance of this vibrant thoroughfare goes beyond retail therapy; it's considered one of the most exclusive shopping avenues globally while reflecting Swiss craftsmanship and innovation through local artisans' shops alongside international labels. Unique features include charming cafés nestled between stores where you can indulge in delicious pastries while soaking up the lively atmosphere around you!
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Zurich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Zurich 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 Zurich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Zurich
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- 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
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 2
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
- Cost CHF 12
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
- Outback Lodge
- Tibits
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 2
- Hotel Opera Zurich
- Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
- Hotel Seehof
- Located in the main hall
- 1000 places, covered
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 4 for regional trains
- Tram: Line 11, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
More options for your journey from Cologne to Zurich
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