- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Sankt Gallen to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $84
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $108
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 6 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 6 h 22 m
- Trains on Nov 03
- 8
- 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 $108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Sankt Gallen to Cologne without transferring at least once.
IR 3270 · IC 776 · ICE 276 · ICE 5141:37 PM 6h27 St. Gallen 8:04 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz $84 1 One-way 3 transfers- IC 1522 · ECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26
12:28 PM 7h38 St. Gallen 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf $94 1 One-way 4 transfers - IR 3268 · ICE 104
12:37 PM 6h28 St. Gallen 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf $96 1 One-way 1 transfer - IC 1522 · ECE 4 · ICE 224+
TGV 922212:28 PM 6h15 St. Gallen 6:43 PM Cologne Hbf $108 1 One-way 3 transfers - EC 194 · EC 150 · ICE 514
1:29 PM 6h35 St. Gallen 8:04 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz $120 1 One-way 2 transfers
- IR 2215 · S 3 · S 1 · 4824
12:55 PM 6h10 St. Gallen 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf $121 1 One-way 5 transfers - IC 1522 · ECE 4 · ICE 224+TGV 9222
12:28 PM 6h15 St. Gallen 6:43 PM Cologne Hbf $108 1 One-way 3 transfers - IR 3270 · IC 776 · ICE 276 · ICE 514
1:37 PM 6h27 St. Gallen 8:04 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz $84 1 One-way 3 transfers - IR 3268 · ICE 104
12:37 PM 6h28 St. Gallen 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf $96 1 One-way 1 transfer - IC 526 · ICE 70 · ICE 912
1:58 PM 6h31 St. Gallen 8:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz $120 1 One-way 2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Sankt Gallen to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€40) but you can travel from only $42 (€35) 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 5h 2m.
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 $42 (€35)
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance265 miles (428 km)
- Average train duration5h 49m
- Cheapest ticket price$48 (€40)
- Trains per day9
- Fastest train5h 2m
- First train12:02 AM
- Last train11:58 PM
- Cheapest MonthJan
- Cheapest DayWed
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DayTue
- Least Busy DayTue
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
- Operators on this routeDeutsche Bahn
- Departure & arrivalSt. Gallen → Cologne Hbf
- High-speed trainsAvailable on this route
- Cross-border trainsSwitzerland–Germany services
- Night trainsAvailable on this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $42 (€35)
Frequently asked questions about your Sankt Gallen to Cologne trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Sankt Gallen to Cologne.
Train ticket prices from Sankt Gallen to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€40), while the average price is around $166 (€139).
The train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne takes 5h 2m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne is 265 miles (428 km).
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.
Live departures
Sankt Gallen to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Sankt Gallen to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 1522 · ECE 4 · ICE 224+TGV 9222 | 12:28 PM St. Gallen | 6h15 | 6:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1522 · ECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26 | 12:28 PM St. Gallen | 7h38 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IR 3268 · ICE 104 | On time 12:37 PM St. Gallen | 6h28 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IR 2215 · S 3 · S 1 · 4824 | On time 12:55 PM St. Gallen | 6h10 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 5 transfers | |
| EC 194 · EC 150 · ICE 514 | On time 1:29 PM St. Gallen | 6h35 | 8:04 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| EC 194 · EC 150 · ICE 120 | On time 1:29 PM St. Gallen | 7h14 | 8:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IR 3270 · IC 776 · ICE 276 · ICE 514 | On time 1:37 PM St. Gallen | 6h27 | 8:04 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3 transfers | |
| IC 526 · ICE 70 · ICE 912 | On time 1:58 PM St. Gallen | 6h31 | 8:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sankt Gallen to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Train companies
Train companies from Sankt Gallen to Cologne
Trains from Sankt Gallen to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn. Night trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. High-speed trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Regional trains available on this route with Deutsche Bahn. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
5h 2m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$48 (€40)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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.
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.
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.
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Sankt Gallen and Cologne
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne.
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.
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
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.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
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.
Plan your visit to Cologne
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Sankt Gallen to Cologne.
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 11
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 · $3
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.
Which Cologne station do trains from Sankt Gallen arrive at?
Trains from Sankt Gallen to Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf. Some services arrive at Köln Messe/Deutz, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $3 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Train stations for Sankt Gallen to Cologne
Check train stations information for Sankt Gallen and Cologne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Sankt Gallen that goes to Cologne is St. Gallen, which connects to Köln Hbf.
Most popular train connections from Sankt Gallen
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Sankt Gallen
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