The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Cologne
Cheapest price
$108
Average price
$191
Fastest journey
4 h 49 m
Average duration
4 h 49 m
Trains per day
54
Distance
413 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Cologne will cost around $191 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $108.
Of the 54 trains that leave Zurich for Cologne on Fri, Nov 28, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 28 the direct trains cover the 413 km distance in an average of 4 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 49 m .
On Fri, Nov 28 the slowest trains will take 4 h 49 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.
ICE 4 · ICE 920
ICE 4 · ICE 510
IC 60402 · RB 25408
ICE 272 · ICE 512
ICE 272 · IC 2347
ICE 78 · ICE 1012
IC 778 · ICE 376 · ICE 912
ICE 70 · ICE 914
ICE 74 · ICE 918
ICE 76 · ICE 1010Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Cologne 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 11m. 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 €31, and a flight costs an average of €80.
Distance: 256 miles (413 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€146 Average price | €181 Average price | €59 Average price Cheapest |
7h 8m Average total duration 6h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 39m Average total duration 8h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Zurich to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, November 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 78 · ICE 202 | On time 4:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 78 · ICE 1012 | On time 4:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h49 | 9:48 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
IC 284 · ICE 612 | On time 5:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h25 | 11:02 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
ICE 76 · ICE 200 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 12:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 76 · ICE 1010 | On time 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 4h49 | 11:48 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
IC 282 · ICE 610 | On time 7:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h28 | 1:05 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
IC 764+ ICE 370+ IC 1745 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 2:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 764 · ICE 370 · ICE 124 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h34 | 1:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 764 · ICE 370 · IC 1745 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 2:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 764 · ICE 370 · ICE 610 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 1:05 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
ICE 74+ IC 2012 | 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h45 | 3:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
EC 8 | 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 4:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IR 2264+ EC 8 | 10:08 AM Zurich HB | 5h58 | 4:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 770+ ICE 72 · ICE 710 · ICE 28 | 10:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 5:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IR 2268+ EC 6 | 12:08 PM Zurich HB | 5h58 | 6:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 70 · ICE 1512 · ICE 26 | 12:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 7:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 776+ ICE 274+ IC 2349 | 1:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 8:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 272+ IC 2347 | 3:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h07 | 10:06 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 4 · ICE 920 | 5:59 PM Zurich HB | 7h06 | 1:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 60402 | 8:34 PM Zurich HB | 8h23 | 4:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 790 · IC 60402 | 8:59 PM Zurich HB | 7h58 | 4:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IR 2290 · ICE 374 · ICE 128 | 11:08 PM Zurich HB | 10h25 | 9:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IR 2290 · ICE 1178 · ICE 614 | 11:08 PM Zurich HB | 9h54 | 9:02 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Zurich to Cologne?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Cologne
Trains from Zurich to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 6h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $74 (€60) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (413 km) distance in 4h 49m.
Distance 256 miles (413 km) |
Average train duration 6h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $74 (€60) |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 49m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity from Zurich to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity trains will get you between Zurich and Cologne from $38 (€31). 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 | ICE
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | InterCity
Train tickets from Zürich to Cologne: when to book to save $
The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:
- Buying your train ticket from Zürich - Cologne 3 weeks in advance means you can save on average up to 41% compared to the price available on the day of departure.
- If you book a ticket Zürich - Cologne with 2 months in advance you save up to about 27% compared to the initial price.
- By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 0%.
- On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Zurich to Cologne
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available 24/7 with access from the main road.
- Restaurant Markthalle
- Restaurant LaSalle
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators.
- CHF 1
- Placid Hotel Zurich
- Best Western Hotel Spirgarten
- H+ Hotel Zürich
- Located in the main hall
- 240 places, covered
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for S-Bahn and regional trains
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S9, S12, S15
- Tram: Line 4
- Bus: Several lines available
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
- Outback Lodge
- Tibits
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 2
- Hotel Opera Zurich
- Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
- Hotel Seehof
- Located in the main hall
- 1000 places, covered
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 4 for regional trains
- Tram: Line 11, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking available nearby with several parking options
- Brisket Southern BBQ & Bar
- Les Halles
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 1
- 25hours Hotel Zürich West
- Sheraton Zürich Hotel
- Novotel Zurich City West
- 800 places, covered
- Located on the main concourse
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-8 for S-Bahn and regional trains
- Tram: Line 4, Line 8
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- CHF 2
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
- Cost CHF 12
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- 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
- 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
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
- Monday: 07:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Tuesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Wednesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Thursday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Friday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Zum Piccolo
- Kolpinghaus
- Pizzeria Marco Polo
- Grill Stube
- Pension Europa
- Hotel Geisler
- The niu Mill
- Café Lichtblick
- Gaststätte zum Krug
- Italienisches Eiscafé
- Steak- und Grillstube Richartz
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- Subway
- Ganesha
- Magnus
- Borsalino
- Hotel Chelsea
- Hotel Mado
- Elite Hotel
- Blacksheep Hostel
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
- Haus Wester
- 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
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- Yilmaz
- Bistro im Park
- Restaurant Fernandes
- Orient Palais Restaurants & Catering
- Hanoi46
- Aida
- Vasco da Gama
- Alforat Grill & Pizza
- Wirtshaus Josef
- Casona Argentina
- Yilmaz
- Kaiserpalast
More options for your journey from Zurich to Cologne
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