Lille to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Sun, Aug 30
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Lille to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30

Cheapest price on Aug 30

$122

Average ticket price on Aug 30

$130

Fastest journey on Aug 30

3 h 6 m

Average journey duration on Aug 30

3 h 59 m

Trains on Aug 30

5

Distance

276 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lille to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Lille to Cologne will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $122.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Lille to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnTER 19717 · IC 2812 · ICE 17
    12:09 PM4h06
    Lille Flandres
    4:15 PMCologne Hbf
    $1221One-way
    2 transfers
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI9886+Deutsche BahnICE 315
    10:26 AM3h49
    Lille-Europe
    2:15 PMCologne Hbf
    $1271One-way
    1 transfer
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI9890+Deutsche BahnICE 315
    9:09 AM5h06
    Lille-Europe
    2:15 PMCologne Hbf
    $1271One-way
    1 transfer
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI9884+Deutsche BahnICE 315
    10:26 AM3h49
    Lille-Europe
    2:15 PMCologne Hbf
    $1271One-way
    1 transfer
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI9890+Deutsche BahnICE 15
    9:09 AM3h06
    Lille-Europe
    12:15 PMCologne Hbf
    $1451One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Lille to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Lille to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $43 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 9m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, while a train costs an average of $44.

Distance: 171 miles (276 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$44

Average price

$43

Average price

Cheapest

$64

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 11m

Average total duration

5h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 56m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Lille to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).

This is compared to other travel options from Lille to Cologne:

A bus is $0.86 (€0.70) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lille to Cologne costing on average $44 (€35).

The fastest way to travel from Lille to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 2h 39m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 41m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lille and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lille to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1h 17m faster (2h 39m by train vs 3h 56m by car) and roughly $21 (€17) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($44 (€35) vs $64 (€52)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Lille to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Lille to Cologne trains for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SNCF | TGV INOUI9890+Deutsche BahnICE 315
Delayed
7:11 AM 9:06 AMLille-Europe
5h09
2:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCF | TGV INOUI9890+Deutsche BahnICE 15
Delayed
7:11 AM 9:06 AMLille-Europe
3h09
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCF | TGV INOUI9852+Deutsche BahnICE 315
On time
9:06 AM Lille-Europe
5h09
2:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCF | TGV INOUI9886+Deutsche BahnICE 315
Delayed
8:32 AM 10:27 AMLille-Europe
3h48
2:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCF | TGV INOUI9884+Deutsche BahnICE 315
Delayed
8:32 AM 10:27 AMLille-Europe
3h48
2:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lille to Cologne by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12

Why should you book Lille to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) offer trains services from Lille to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lille to Cologne.

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 Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) to find the best option for your trip from Lille to Cologne.
  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lille to Cologne.

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 Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) to find the best option for your trip from Lille to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Lille to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lille to Cologne

FranceFrance
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lille to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€14) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:40, the last at 22:09. The fastest train covers the 171 miles (276 km) distance in 2h 20m.

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 $16 (€13)
Distance
171 miles (276 km)
Average train duration
2h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$18 (€14)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
2h 20m
First train
1:40 AM
Last train
10:09 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 $16 (€13)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar from Lille to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar trains will get you between Lille and Cologne from $16 (€13). 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 20m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$18 (€14)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
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 22m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$49 (€39)
Eurostar frequency
3 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 Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.

  • 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.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

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.

FAQs: Trains from Lille to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lille 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Lille to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€14), while the average price is around $44 (€35).
The train from Lille to Cologne takes 2h 20m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Lille to Cologne leaves at 1:40 AM.
The distance by train from Lille to Cologne is 171 miles (276 km).
The last train from Lille to Cologne leaves at 10:09 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lille to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lille to Cologne.
The train station in Lille that goes to Cologne is Lille-Europe, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lille to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Lille to Cologne offers a mix of scenic views, including the picturesque countryside of northern France and Belgium, with rolling fields and charming small towns, before entering the urban landscapes of Germany.
A day trip from Lille to Cologne is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 20m. The journey covers 171 miles (276 km), with a frequency of 1 trip per day for trains.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Lille to Cologne.
Since both Lille and Cologne 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 Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lille to Cologne 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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 Lille to Cologne

Most Lille to Cologne trains use the Lille-Europe to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Use this guide to compare Lille and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Lille
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Lille station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Lille to Cologne leave from Lille-Europe. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Lille city centre at 1 Place François Mitterrand, 59777 Euralille, France.
Lille-Europe1 Place François Mitterrand, 59777 Euralille, France+33 892353535WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lille-Europe from Lille city centre

Lille-Europe is 1 km from Lille city centre. Public transport options include:

BusL5 · 5m · $2 · every ~19 min
L5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min

Lille-Europe train station facilities and services

Lille-Europe has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Costa Coffee, Factory & Co., PAUL, Selecta

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are located in Hall 3.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:30 - 20:00. Information desks are located in Hall 2 and Hall 3.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is staffed luggage counter is open daily from 07:30 to 20:00 and is located in Hall 1.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lille-Europe: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lille-Europe: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lille-Europe: The station is fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, a magnetic induction loop for people with hearing loss and a guidance system for people with visual impairments. Staff can provide additional assistance, and wheelchairs are available.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Novotel Suites Gare Lille Europe, Hôtel Lille Europe - Euralille, Kyriad Lille Gare - Grand Palais.

Lille FlandresPlace des Buisses 59000 Lille, France+33 184943635WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Lille Flandres from Lille city centre

BusL5, 14 · 4m · $2 · every ~33 min
SubwayM1 · 3m · $2 · every ~28 min

Lille Flandres train station facilities and services

Lille Flandres has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Chopsticks & Co, McDonald's, Subway, Black Coffee, Eric Kayser, So! Coffee, Aux Merveilleux de Fred

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available after creating an account and connecting to "CONNECTION.". ATMs are aTM is located by Track 9.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 20:00, Sat: 08:00 - 19:30, Sun: 09:00 - 19:30.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lille Flandres: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lille Flandres: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lille Flandres: Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets, services to assist disabled passengers.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Le Napoleon, Hotel Chopin, Ibis Styles Lille Centre Grand Place.

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone