- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$122
Fastest journey
3 h 2 m
Average duration
3 h 5 m
Trains per day
19
Distance
333 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne will cost around $122 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Of the 19 trains that leave Freiburg im Breisgau for Cologne on Sat, Aug 01, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 333 km distance in an average of 3 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 2 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 3 h 10 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 276 · IC 2349
ICE 104
ICE 278 · ICE 516 · ICE 624
ICE 278 · ICE 516 · ICE 1714
ICE 276 · ICE 514
ICE 74 · ICE 1010
ICE 72 · ICE 916
ICE 6 · ICE 918
ICE 374 · ICE 612
ICE 372 · ICE 610Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne 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 2h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $93.
Distance: 206 miles (333 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$137 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $207 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 47m Average total duration 4h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration Fastest 2h 37m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.0kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne:
A bus is $96 (€78) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne costing on average $137 (€112).
A bus is $166 (€136) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne costing on average $207 (€169).
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 17m.
Bus takes on average 5h 44m.
You'll arrive about 18m sooner (4h 17m by train vs 4h 35m by car). Tickets start at around $137 (€112) compared to roughly $79 (€64) 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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.
The table below shows live departures for Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 8:55 AM Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 374 · IC 2577 | On time 8:55 AM Freiburg Hbf | 4h11 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 9:21 AM Freiburg , Hauptbhf/ZOB | 12h19 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 74 · ICE 1010 | On time 9:27 AM Freiburg Hbf | 3h02 | 12:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 | On time 9:55 AM Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 372 · IC 2545 | On time 10:55 AM Freiburg Hbf | 4h11 | 3:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 10:55 AM Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 6 · ICE 918 | On time 11:27 AM Freiburg Hbf | 3h02 | 2:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 108 | On time 11:55 AM Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 370 · ICE 28 | On time 1:12 PM Freiburg Hbf | 4h54 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 370 · ICE 122 | On time 1:12 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h31 | 4:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 72 · ICE 916 | On time 1:27 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h02 | 4:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 106 | On time 1:55 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 5:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 278 · ICE 516 · ICE 624 | On time 2:55 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h19 | 6:14 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
ICE 278 · ICE 516 · ICE 1714 | On time 2:55 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h30 | 6:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ECE 4 · ICE 224 | On time 3:27 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h16 | 6:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 104 | On time 3:55 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 276 · ICE 514 | On time 4:55 PM Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 276 · IC 2349 | On time 4:55 PM Freiburg Hbf | 4h11 | 9:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 206 miles (333 km) distance in 3h 2m.
Distance 206 miles (333 km) |
Average train duration 4h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 (€21) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 2m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 49 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne trains use the Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Freiburg im Breisgau and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Freiburg(Breisgau) 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 options include: Cafe Einstein, Pizzaria Picasso, Babeuf, Café Hermann
Wi-Fi is available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. ATMs are available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. Information desks are available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Minerva, Hotel Barbara, Parkhotel Post, Hotel Oberkirch.
Freiburg im Breisgau, Hauptbhf/ZOB has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Freiburg im Breisgau, Hauptbhf/ZOB.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need