- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its Picasso collection and important Pop Art holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Thun to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 09
Cheapest price
$99
Average price
$145
Fastest journey
5 h 31 m
Average duration
5 h 31 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
468 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Thun to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Thun to Cologne will cost around $145 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Thun to Cologne without transferring at least once.
11:34 AM5h31Thun5:05 PMCologne$991One-way1 transfer- 5:34 PM5h36Thun11:10 PMCologne$991One-way1 transfer
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5:29 AM5h36Thun11:05 AMCologne$1631One-way1 transfer- 7:33 AM5h32Thun1:05 PMCologne$1631One-way1 transfer
- 9:34 AM5h31Thun3:05 PMCologne$1631One-way1 transfer
- 9:34 AM5h31Thun3:05 PMCologne$1631One-way1 transfer
- 11:34 AM5h31Thun5:05 PMCologne$991One-way1 transfer
- 1:34 PM5h31Thun7:05 PMCologne$1631One-way1 transfer
- 3:34 PM5h31Thun9:05 PMCologne$1631One-way1 transfer
- 7:33 AM5h32Thun1:05 PMCologne$1631One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Thun to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Thun to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 40m. 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 $53, and a flight costs an average of $90.
Distance: 290 miles (468 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$154 Average price | $197 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $136 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 59m Average total duration 5h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 56m Average total duration 14h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.8kg 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 Thun to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $74 (€61).
This is compared to other travel options from Thun to Cologne:
A bus is $80 (€65) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Thun to Cologne costing on average $154 (€126).
A bus is $122 (€100) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Thun to Cologne costing on average $197 (€160).
The fastest way to travel from Thun to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 40m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 29m.
Bus takes on average 14h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Thun and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Thun 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 25m sooner (5h 29m by train vs 5h 54m by car). Tickets start at around $154 (€126) compared to roughly $136 (€111) 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
Thun to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Thun to Cologne trains for today, Monday, June 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:04 AM Thun | 5h25 | 1:29 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, June 9 | |||||
| 5:29 AM Thun | 5h36 | 11:05 AM Cologne | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Thun 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.
Tue
Jun 09
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Jun 12
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Why should you book Thun to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) and more offer trains services from Thun to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Thun 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 Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Thun 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 Thun 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 Thun to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Thun to Cologne
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Thun to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) but you can travel from only $53 (€44) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 290 miles (468 km) distance in 5h 24m.
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 $53 (€44)
Distance 290 miles (468 km) |
Average train duration 5h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€47) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 24m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 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 $53 (€44)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Thun to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Thun and Cologne from $53 (€44). 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
5h 24m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
SBB
About
SBB is Switzerland’s national railway company, operating a wide range of train services including InterCity, InterRegio, RegioExpress, Regio, S-Bahn, and international InterCityExpress connections. InterCity trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h for fast travel between major cities, while Regio trains provide slower, more frequent local services. Ticket options include Standard and First Class, as well as passes and discounts such as the Swiss Travel Pass, Half-Fare Card, and Super Saver tickets. Onboard amenities may feature Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restaurant cars. Popular routes include Zurich–Geneva, Basel–Bern, and Geneva–Lausanne.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 31m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€81)
SBB frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant cars on long-distance trains, bistro service available. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require half-price ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 53m
Cheapest Price
$169 (€138)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 31m
Cheapest Price
$163 (€133)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
4 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
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Archaeological museum focused on Roman Cologne; famous for mosaics and finds from the ancient city. Main building has had closures, but the collection remains significant.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Leading fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque and 19th-century European painting in Cologne's historic center.
- Must visit
Old Town Cologne
The city's most visited walking area, with narrow lanes, churches, colorful houses and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
Popular riverside walking route with postcard views of the cathedral, bridges and skyline, especially lively near sunset.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic square in the Old Town surrounded by traditional facades, busy pedestrian activity and classic Cologne atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s signature pale beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses called Stangen. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a Brauhaus.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with fried onions and black pudding. The sweet-savory combination is strongly associated with Rhineland home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye bread roll with Gouda, mustard, onions, and pickles. It is a beloved Brauhaus snack traditionally eaten with Kölsch.
Ox & Klee
A celebrated fine-dining restaurant in Cologne known for creative modern tasting menus and polished service, ideal for a higher-end culinary experience.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
A well-known casual restaurant famous for schnitzel and generous portions, with a friendly, old-school Cologne neighborhood feel.
Peters Brauhaus
A long-established Brauhaus in the Old Town serving hearty Cologne specialties, fresh Kölsch, and a warm wood-paneled atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Euro
Moderate by German standards: supermarkets and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but a tip is expected. Round up in cafés and taxis, and add about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
KVB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.70
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Hbf, Cologne -> Cologne Cathedral, Cologne
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- You can buy tickets in the KVB App, at ticket machines, and on many buses and trams. Card payment is commonly available at machines and in the app.
- Validate that your ticket covers the correct fare zone before travel. Cologne city trips usually use the local city fare level.
FAQs: Trains from Thun to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thun 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.
Train ticket prices from Thun to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $58 (€47), while the average price is around $154 (€126).
The train from Thun to Cologne takes 5h 24m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Thun to Cologne is 290 miles (468 km).
The first train from Thun to Cologne leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Thun to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Thun to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Thun to Cologne.
The train station in Thun that goes to Cologne is Thun station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Thun to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $53 (€44).
The train journey from Thun to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Swiss landscapes, including lakes and mountains, before transitioning to the charming countryside of Germany.
A day trip from Thun to Cologne is not feasible as the travel duration is 5h 24m. However, there are 9 train journeys available per day, covering a distance of 290 miles (468 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 Thun to Cologne.
Since both Thun 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 Thun 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 Thun to Cologne
Thun
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Thun is Thun. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Thun for your trip from Thun to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from the main road.
Dining
- Restaurant Dampfschiff
- Restaurant Schlossberg
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Freienhof
- Hotel Krone Thun
- Hotel Emmental
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 320 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for trains to Bern, Zurich, and regional destinations
Public transit options for Thun
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Regional and intercity connections
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Thun.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln Frankfurter Straße
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Bistro im Park
- Restaurant Fernandes
- Orient Palais Restaurants & Catering
Most popular train connections from Thun
More options for your journey from Thun to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Thun
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