The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$180
Fastest journey
5 h 6 m
Average duration
5 h 6 m
Trains per day
47
Distance
413 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf will cost around $180 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Of the 47 trains that leave Zurich HB for Cologne Hbf on Tue, Aug 04, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 413 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 6 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 5 h 6 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.
IR 2252 · ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 10205:08 AM6h57Zurich HB12:05 PMCologne Hbf$491One-way3 transfers
ICE 374 · IC 2047+
TGV 92066:59 AM6h07Zurich HB1:06 PMCologne Hbf$611One-way2 transfers
IC 604029:59 PM7h45Zurich HB5:44 AMCologne Hbf$741One-way0 transfers
IC 284 · ICE 6126:37 AM5h28Zurich HB12:05 PMCologne Hbf$761One-way1 transfer
IC 782 · ICE 1005:59 PM5h11Zurich HB11:10 PMCologne Hbf$811One-way1 transfer
IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 6108:59 AM5h06Zurich HB2:05 PMCologne Hbf$1651One-way2 transfers
ICE 2007:59 AM5h06Zurich HB1:05 PMCologne Hbf$1651One-way0 transfers
ICE 1089:59 AM5h06Zurich HB3:05 PMCologne Hbf$1651One-way0 transfers
ICE 370 · ICE 51810:59 AM5h06Zurich HB4:05 PMCologne Hbf$1651One-way1 transfer
IC 772 · ICE 278 · ICE 51612:59 PM5h06Zurich HB6:05 PMCologne Hbf$1651One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $184.
Distance: 256 miles (413 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$249 Average price | $213 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $168 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 58m Average total duration 6h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 33m Average total duration 8h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf:
A bus is $165 (€134) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf costing on average $213 (€173).
A bus is $200 (€163) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf costing on average $249 (€202).
Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 28m.
Bus takes on average 8h 3m.
Tickets start at around $249 (€202) compared to roughly $168 (€137) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-80.68 (€-65.62). The journey takes 6h 28m versus 5h 41m 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
Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 758 · ICE 202 | On time 5:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9206+ 9459 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 12h41 | 7:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
9206+ 9471 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 14h41 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
TGV 9206+ ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
TGV 9206+ ICE 374+ IC 2577 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
TGV 9206+ ICE 374 · IC 2577 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 1:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
9206+ 9459 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 13h38 | 8:37 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 200 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 200+ IC 2545 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 7h07 | 3:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 2:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 794+ ICE 372+ IC 2545 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 3:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 794 · ICE 372 · IC 2545 | On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 3:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 108 | On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 3:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 370 · ICE 2012 | On time 10:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 5:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 370 · ICE 2012 | On time 10:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 5:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 370 · ICE 518 | On time 10:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 4:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 770+ ICE 106 · ICE 710 · ICE 28 | On time 11:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 770 · ICE 106 | On time 11:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 5:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 770 · ICE 106 · ICE 710 · ICE 28 | On time 11:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IC 772+ ICE 278+ IC 2041 | On time 12:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 7:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 772 · ICE 278 · ICE 516 | On time 12:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 6:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 772 · ICE 278 · IC 2041 | On time 12:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 7:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
TGV 9222+ EC 4+ ICE 224 · ICE 26 | On time 1:34 PM Zurich HB | 6h32 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
TGV 9222+ ECE 4 · ICE 224 | On time 1:34 PM Zurich HB | 5h09 | 6:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
TGV 9222+ ECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26 | On time 1:34 PM Zurich HB | 6h32 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
ICE 104 | On time 1:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 7:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
EC 150 · ICE 514 | On time 2:34 PM Zurich HB | 5h31 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 776+ ICE 276+ IC 2349 | On time 2:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h06 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 776 · ICE 276 · IC 2349 | On time 2:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h06 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 776 · ICE 276 · ICE 514 | On time 2:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 102 | On time 3:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 102+ IC 2347 | 3:59 PM Zurich HB | 7h07 | 11:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 780+ ICE 274+ IC 2347 | On time 4:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 11:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 780 · ICE 274 · IC 2347 | On time 4:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 11:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 780 · ICE 274 · ICE 512 | On time 4:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 10:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 782 · ICE 100 | On time 5:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h11 | 11:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 272 · ICE 510 | On time 6:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h11 | 12:10 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 272 · ICE 920 | On time 6:59 PM Zurich HB | 7h06 | 2:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 60402 | On time 9:59 PM Zurich HB | 7h45 | 5:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 60402 | On time 9:59 PM Zurich HB | 7h45 | 5:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IR 2290 · ICE 204 | On time 12:08 AM Zurich HB | 8h57 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IR 2290+ ICE 204+ IC 2569 | 12:08 AM Zurich HB | 10h58 | 11:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IR 2252 · ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | 5:08 AM Zurich HB | 6h57 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IR 2252+ EC 8+ ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | 5:08 AM Zurich HB | 6h57 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf 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.
Aug 04
Aug 05
Aug 06
Aug 07
Aug 08
Aug 09
Aug 10
Why should you book Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
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 ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | ICE or ÖBB | Euro City (EC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf.
- 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 Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf.
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 Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Trains from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $184 (€149) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:59, the last at 20:59. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (413 km) distance in 6h 4m.
Distance 256 miles (413 km) |
Average train duration 6h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $184 (€149) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 6h 4m |
First train 5:59 AM |
Last train 8:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Trenitalia EuroCity from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Trenitalia EuroCity trains will get you between Zurich HB and Cologne Hbf from $31 (€25). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
ÖBB | Nightjet
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
Trenitalia EuroCity
FAQs: Trains from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Most Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf trains use the Zürich HB to Köln Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich HB and Cologne Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
More options for your journey from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
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