Zurich to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Cologne

Showing times and prices for May 25

Cheapest price

$123

Average price

$191

Fastest journey

5 h 6 m

Average duration

5 h 6 m

Trains per day

Distance

413 km

Cheap tickets

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 $123.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Zurich to Cologne without transferring at least once.

ICE 78 · ICE 202

05:59AM5h06

Zurich HB

11:05AMCologne Hbf

$1231One-way

1 transfer

TGV 9210+

ICE 370 · ICE 228

08:59AM7h12

Zurich HB

04:11PMCologne Messe/Deutz

$1231One-way

2 transfers

ICE 74 · ICE 108

09:59AM5h06

Zurich HB

03:05PMCologne Hbf

$1481One-way

1 transfer

ICE 76 · ICE 200

07:59AM5h06

Zurich HB

01:05PMCologne Hbf

$1481One-way

1 transfer

TGV 9210+

ICE 370 · ICE 610

08:59AM5h06

Zurich HB

02:05PMCologne Hbf

$1661One-way

2 transfers

Travel 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 €30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg.

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Flight	Bus
€132 Average price	€225 Average price	€57 Average price Cheapest
7h 10m Average duration 6h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 52m Average duration Fastest 3h 52m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	14h 18m Average duration 13h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	1.2 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions	0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions
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

Showing trains for today, Saturday, May 24

Last updated at 12:56 AM

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
EC 8+ICE 278+IC 2012+S 12	8:59 AM Zurich HB	6h50	3:49 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
EC 8 · ICE 278 · ICE 518	On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB	5h06	2:05 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
EC 8 · ICE 278 · IC 2012	On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB	6h38	3:37 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz	2 transfers
EC 8+ICE 278+IC 2012	On time 8:59 AM Zurich HB	6h38	3:37 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz	2 transfers
IC 488 · ICE 516	On time 9:37 AM Zurich HB	6h28	4:05 PM Cologne Hbf	1 transfer
IC 770 · ICE 72 · ICE 106	On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB	5h06	3:05 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers
IC 772 · ICE 276 · ICE 26	Delayed 10:59 AM Zurich HB	7h12	6:33 PM 6:33 PMCologne Messe/Deutz	2 transfers
IC 772+ICE 276 · ICE 26	Delayed 10:59 AM Zurich HB	7h12	6:33 PM 6:33 PMCologne Messe/Deutz	2 transfers
IC 772+ICE 276 · ICE 26+RB 27	10:59 AM Zurich HB	7h23	6:22 PM Cologne Hbf	3 transfers
IC 772 · ICE 276 · ICE 516	On time 10:59 AM Zurich HB	5h06	4:05 PM Cologne Hbf	2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Cologne by train, bus, or flight

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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Zurich to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Zurich to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Zurich to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Zurich to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Zurich to Cologne.

Trains

from $94

Buses

from $29

Flights

from $191

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Cologne

Switzerland

Germany

Trains from Zurich to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 (€34) but you can travel from only $36 (€30) by bus.

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 $36 (€30)

Distance

256 miles (413 km)

Average train duration

6h 40m

Cheapest ticket price

$41 (€34)

Trains per day

Train providers

Fastest train

4h 49m

First train

04:59

Last train

20:59

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $36 (€30)

Train providers: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) and ÖBB | InterCity from Zurich to Cologne trains

For as little as $58 (€48) you can travel by train between Zurich and Cologne with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) and ÖBB | InterCity. Omio will show you the best deals, schedules and tickets available for this journey.

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main provider of train services and makes on average about 40,000 domestic and international journeys per day. Deutsche Bahn’s fleet of trains includes the high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) as well as the IC (Intercity), EC (Eurocity), IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express) and RB (Regionalbahn), which differ in terms of comfort and the time needed to travel. For example, while toilets are standard amenities, services like onboard restaurants or free WiFi are only available on certain train types and routes. Deutsche Bahn is well-known for its wide range of fares like Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible and discount cards like the Bahncard 25, 50 and 100, which you can also use for your Zurich to Cologne train.

Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Cologne train information:

Average Duration: 4 h 59 min
Cheapest Price: $58

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.

Train information from Zurich to Cologne with ÖBB | Euro City (EC):

Average Duration: 5 h 57 min
Cheapest Price: $205

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.

ÖBB | InterCity from Zurich to Cologne train information:

Average Duration: 6 h 6 min
Cheapest Price: $205

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.

ÖBB Nightjet from Zurich to Cologne train information:

Average Duration: 7 h 54 min
Cheapest Price: $66

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.

Zurich to Cologne train information with ÖBB | ICE:

Average Duration: 6 h 7 min
Cheapest Price: $205

Train tickets from Zürich to Cologne: when to book to save $

Time	Price	Savings
1 week earlier	38 €
2 weeks earlier	35 €	9%
3 weeks earlier	27 €	41%
1 month before	32 €	19%
2 months earlier	30 €	27%
3 months earlier	38 €	0%

All train ticket offers

Discover

Train companies often offer promotional prices and offers—by buying in advance—you can get access the best prices for trains in the U.S., Canada, and the major European railroad operators. Search on Omio to check prices and cheap train tickets from Zürich - Cologne. Easily find the most attractive rates and choose the your preferred route for your journey. Book and choose your mobile ticket: avoid the queues at the station and the added stress of printing your ticket.

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

FAQs: Travel by train from Zurich to Cologne easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Zurich to Cologne.

Cheap train tickets from Zurich to Cologne can start from as little as $36 (€30) when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Zurich to Cologne is $132 (€109); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

On average the Zurich to Cologne train travel time is 5 h 33 min for the 256 mile (413 km) long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.

The first train from Zurich to Cologne leaves at 12: 01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The last train from Zurich to Cologne leaves at 11: 58 PM.

There are 10 trains a day from Zurich to Cologne which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet or ÖBB | ICE. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.

Yes, there's a high-speed train to Cologne. Take the fast train with ÖBB | ICE from Zurich to Cologne.

When taking a train from Zurich to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet or ÖBB | ICE for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train providers who offer a service between Zurich and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

Yes, you can take a night train from Zurich to Cologne with ÖBB Nightjet. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Zurich HB, which is located around 1.9 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre.

The cheapest month to travel from Zurich to Cologne by train is April.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Cologne including taking a train, bus or flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Zurich to Cologne

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.

Zürich HB