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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for Dec 20
Cheapest price
$285
Average price
$285
Fastest journey
6 h 54 m
Average duration
6 h 54 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
413 km
Cheap tickets
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 $285 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $285.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf without transferring at least 3 times.
IC 794+
ICE 372+IC 2405+
1082408:59AM6h54
Zurich HB03:53PMCologne Hbf
$2851One-way
3 transfers
IC 794+ICE 372+IC 2405+1082408:59AM6h54
Zurich HB03:53PMCologne Hbf
$2851One-way
3 transfers
Zurich HB - Cologne HbfCompare Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | ICE
$47
5h 0m
11 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
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.
$181
7h 25m
1 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
$232
5h 58m
2 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
$229
6h 7m
1 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
$229
6h 7m
3 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
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 €22. 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 €22, and a train costs an average of €107.
Distance: 256 miles (413 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€192 Average price | €147 Average price | €41 Average price Cheapest |
7h 8m Average total duration 6h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 20m Average total duration 7h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf trains for tomorrow, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 9:56 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 794+ICE 372+IC 2405+10824 | 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h54 | 2:53 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.
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Why should you book Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC,RB) as well as ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) and ÖBB | InterCity offer trains services from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC,RB)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC,RB), but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) and ÖBB | InterCity 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 (ICE,IC,RE,EC,RB) 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 and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC,RB) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,EC,RB)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) and ÖBB | InterCity to help you choose the right option for your journey from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf.
- 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
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $133 (€107) but you can travel from only $28 (€22) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:59, the last at 14:59. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (413 km) distance in 6h 7m.
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 $28 (€22)
Distance 256 miles (413 km) |
Average train duration 6h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $133 (€107) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 7m |
First train 03:59 |
Last train 14:59 |
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 $28 (€22)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | ICE from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | ICE trains will get you between Zurich HB and Cologne Hbf from $28 (€22). 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 0m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€37)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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
ÖBB Nightjet
About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 25m
Cheapest Price
$181 (€145)
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 58m
Cheapest Price
$232 (€186)
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
ÖBB | InterCity
About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 7m
Cheapest Price
$229 (€184)
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
ÖBB | ICE
About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 7m
Cheapest Price
$229 (€184)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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.
A day trip from Zürich HB to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 7m. Trains run 6 times per day covering a distance of 256 miles (413 km).
Yes, the train journey from Zürich HB to Köln Hbf is scenic, offering views of the Rhine River, charming Swiss landscapes, and picturesque German countryside.
The train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf takes 6h 7m and runs 6 per day.
The last train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf leaves at 2:59 PM.
Train ticket prices from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $133 (€107), while the average price is around $240 (€192).
The distance by train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf is 256 miles (413 km).
Yes, there is a night train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€22).
The first train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf leaves at 3:59 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by ÖBB Nightjet.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Zurich
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Zurich is Zürich HB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich HB for your trip from Zurich to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
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
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
26Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
- Cost CHF 12
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transit options for Zürich HB
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
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 Zurich.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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.
More options for your journey from Zurich HB to Cologne Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Zurich HB
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