Mechelen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Sat, Sep 12
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mechelen to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 12

Cheapest price on Sep 12

$63

Average ticket price on Sep 12

$88

Fastest journey on Sep 12

1 h 50 m

Average journey duration on Sep 12

2 h 4 m

Trains on Sep 12

3

Distance

173 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Mechelen to Cologne will cost around $88 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 12, we found 3 trains from Mechelen to Cologne, including 3 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 12 the direct trains cover the 173 km distance in an average of 2 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 50 m .

On Sat, Sep 12 the slowest trains will take 2 h 13 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    10:05 AM2h10
    Mechelen
    12:15 PMCologne
    $631One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    4:03 AM2h13
    Mechelen
    6:16 AMCologne
    $971One-way
    0 transfers
  • Eurostar
    10:25 AM1h50
    Mechelen
    12:15 PMCologne
    $1031One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Mechelen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mechelen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $44 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 43m. 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 $44, while a flight costs an average of $523.

Distance: 107 miles (173 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$85

Average price

$44

Average price

Cheapest

$523

Average price

$41

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 34m

Average total duration

6h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

2h 27m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

2h 31m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Brussels Airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

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 Mechelen to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $44.

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

A bus is $42 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mechelen to Cologne costing on average $85.

A bus is $479 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mechelen to Cologne costing on average $523.

The fastest way to travel from Mechelen to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 2h 13m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Flight takes on average 2h 27m.

Bus takes on average 6h 4m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Mechelen and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mechelen to Cologne 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 18m sooner (2h 13m by train vs 2h 31m by car). Tickets start at around $85 compared to roughly $41 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

Mechelen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Mechelen to Cologne trains for today, Friday, September 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:14 AM Mechelen
2h02
8:16 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Eurostar12:25 PM Mechelen
1h49
2:14 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
Saturday, September 12
Deutsche Bahn4:03 AM Mechelen
2h13
6:16 AM Cologne0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Mechelen to Cologne 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.

Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18

Why should you book Mechelen to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCB offer trains services from Mechelen to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mechelen 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 SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Mechelen to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Mechelen to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Mechelen to Cologne

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Mechelen to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 but you can travel from only $19 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 21:42. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 1h 54m.

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 $19
Distance
107 miles (173 km)
Average train duration
2h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$48
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
1h 54m
First train
3:20 AM
Last train
9:42 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
14 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 $19

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar from Mechelen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar trains will get you between Mechelen and Cologne from $19. 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
1h 54m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$48
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.
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 16m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$65
Eurostar frequency
8 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 Mechelen to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48, while the average price is around $85.
The train from Mechelen to Cologne takes 1h 54m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Mechelen to Cologne is 107 miles (173 km).
The first train from Mechelen to Cologne leaves at 3:20 AM.
The last train from Mechelen to Cologne leaves at 9:42 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Mechelen to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mechelen to Cologne.
The train station in Mechelen that goes to Cologne is Mechelen station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Mechelen to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $19.
The train journey from Mechelen to Cologne offers scenic views as it passes through the picturesque Belgian countryside, including charming towns and rolling landscapes, before crossing into Germany, where passengers can enjoy views of the Rhine River and historic architecture.
A day trip from Mechelen to Cologne is not feasible as the travel duration is 1h 54m. Trains run 8 times per day. The distance is 107 miles (173 km).
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 Mechelen to Cologne.
Since both Mechelen 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Mechelen
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Mechelen station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Mechelen to Cologne leave from Mechelen. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Mechelen city centre at Stationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre

Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus1, 1a · 3m · $4 · every ~12 min

Mechelen train station facilities and services

Mechelen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant De Graspoort, Il Cardinale

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.

Mechelen-Nekkerspoel2800 Mechelen, BelgiumParkingDiningATMWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Mechelen-Nekkerspoel from Mechelen city centre

Mechelen-Nekkerspoel is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus1 · 8m · $4 · every ~5 min

Mechelen-Nekkerspoel train station facilities and services

Mechelen-Nekkerspoel has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Muizen2812 Mechelen, BelgiumParkingDiningWCBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Muizen from Mechelen city centre

Muizen is 3 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS7, L, P · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusBus · 8m

Muizen train station facilities and services

Muizen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, WC, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Muizen.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Muizen: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Muizen: Bike Parking.

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