Sankt Gallen to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC)

Wed, Aug 05
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Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Thurbo
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Thurbo
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Sankt Gallen to Cologne

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

€66

Average price

€73

Fastest journey

5 h 33 m

Average duration

6 h 15 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

428 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Sankt Gallen to Cologne will cost around €73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €66.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnS 1 · S 14 · 4706 · ICE 376
    12:19 AM9h46
    St. Gallen
    10:05 AMCologne Hbf
    661One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnEC 95 · 3682 · ICE 612 · IC 2577
    6:32 AM6h34
    St. Gallen
    1:06 PMCologne Hbf
    661One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnEC 95 · 3682 · ICE 612
    6:32 AM5h33
    St. Gallen
    12:05 PMCologne Hbf
    761One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIR 3256 · ICE 200
    6:37 AM6h28
    St. Gallen
    1:05 PMCologne Hbf
    761One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIR 2203 · S 3 · REX 5556 · 4240
    6:55 AM6h10
    St. Gallen
    1:05 PMCologne Hbf
    761One-way
    5 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Sankt Gallen to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Sankt Gallen to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €32. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 32m. 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 €32, and a flight costs an average of €71.

Distance: 265 miles (428 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

€110

Average price

€53

Average price

Cheapest

€161

Average price

€100

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 39m

Average total duration

6h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

13h 35m

Average total duration

13h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 32m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

5h 44m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

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 Sankt Gallen to Cologne is a bus with an average price of €53.

This is compared to other travel options from Sankt Gallen to Cologne:

A bus is €57 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne costing on average €110.

A bus is €108 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sankt Gallen to Cologne costing on average €161.

The fastest way to travel from Sankt Gallen to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 32m.

Other travel options to Cologne take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 9m.

Bus takes on average 13h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Sankt Gallen and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Sankt Gallen to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around €110 compared to roughly €100 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-10.35. The journey takes 6h 9m versus 5h 44m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Sankt Gallen to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Sankt Gallen to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnS 1 · S 14 · 4706 · ICE 376
On time
12:19 AM St. Gallen
9h46
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIR 3252 · IC 758 · ICE 202
On time
4:37 AM St. Gallen
6h28
11:05 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 95 · 3682 · ICE 612
On time
6:32 AM St. Gallen
5h33
12:05 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 95 · 3682 · ICE 612 · IC 2577
On time
6:32 AM St. Gallen
6h34
1:06 PM Cologne Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIR 3256 · ICE 200
On time
6:37 AM St. Gallen
6h28
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIR 2203 · S 3 · REX 5556 · 4240
On time
6:55 AM St. Gallen
6h10
1:05 PM Cologne Hbf
5 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Sankt Gallen 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.

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Aug 05
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Aug 08
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Aug 09
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Aug 11

Why should you book Sankt Gallen to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Thurbo offer trains services from Sankt Gallen to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sankt Gallen 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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Thurbo to find the best option for your trip from Sankt Gallen 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 Sankt Gallen to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sankt Gallen to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Sankt Gallen to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €49 but you can travel from only €32 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 265 miles (428 km) distance in 6h 1m.

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 €32
Distance
265 miles (428 km)
Average train duration
6h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
€49
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
6h 1m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
2 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 €32

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Thurbo from Sankt Gallen to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Thurbo trains will get you between Sankt Gallen and Cologne from €32. 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
6h 1m
Cheapest Price
€49
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

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
€111
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day

Thurbo

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 40m
Cheapest Price
€87
Thurbo frequency
1 a day

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 Sankt Gallen to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sankt Gallen 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 Sankt Gallen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €49, while the average price is around €110.
The train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne takes 6h 1m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne is 265 miles (428 km).
The first train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Sankt Gallen to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Sankt Gallen to Cologne.
The train station in Sankt Gallen that goes to Cologne is St. Gallen, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Sankt Gallen to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around €32.
The train journey from Sankt Gallen to Cologne offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland and the Rhine Valley, featuring rolling hills, charming villages, and river vistas.
A day trip from Sankt Gallen to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 1m each way and covers 265 miles (428 km). There are 8 train trips available per day.
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 Sankt Gallen to Cologne.
Since both Sankt Gallen 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 Sankt Gallen 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 Sankt Gallen to Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Sankt Gallen
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Sankt Gallen station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Sankt Gallen to Cologne leave from St. Gallen. The station is from Sankt Gallen city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
St. GallenBahnhofplatz, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to St. Gallen from Sankt Gallen city centre

TrainS21, S22 · 6m · every ~6 min
Bus5, 9 · 2m · every ~19 min
200, 211, N24, 121 · 6m · €2

St. Gallen train station facilities and services

St. Gallen 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 Lagerhaus, Restaurant Marktplatz

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at St. Gallen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at St. Gallen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at St. Gallen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at St. Gallen: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Walhalla, Hotel Metropol, Hotel Dom.

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