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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jan 12
Cheapest price
$68
Average price
$151
Fastest journey
4 h 55 m
Average duration
4 h 55 m
Trains per day
52
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 $151 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast trains
Of the 52 trains that leave Zurich for Cologne on Mon, Jan 12, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jan 12 the direct trains cover the 413 km distance in an average of 4 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 55 m .
On Mon, Jan 12 the slowest trains will take 4 h 56 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.
IC 6040209:59PM7h57
Zurich HB05:56AMCologne Hbf
$681One-way
0 transfers
ICE 272 · ICE 51006:59PM5h11
Zurich HB12:10AMCologne Hbf
$821One-way
1 transfer
IC 782 · ICE 10005:59PM5h11
Zurich HB11:10PMCologne Hbf
$821One-way
1 transfer
ICE 272 · ICE 92006:59PM7h06
Zurich HB02:05AMCologne Hbf
$821One-way
1 transfer
IC 780 · ICE 274 · IC 234704:59PM6h21
Zurich HB11:20PMCologne Hbf
$951One-way
2 transfers
IC 558 · ICE 74 · ICE 101007:34AM4h55
Zurich HB12:29PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1091One-way
2 transfers
TGV 9226+ICE 70 · ICE 91203:34PM4h55
Zurich HB08:29PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1091One-way
2 transfers
TGV 9210+ICE 6 · ICE 91809:34AM4h55
Zurich HB02:29PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1091One-way
2 transfers
TGV 9218+ICE 72 · ICE 91611:34AM4h55
Zurich HB04:29PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1201One-way
2 transfers
IC 578 · ICE 2 · ICE 91005:34PM4h56
Zurich HB10:30PMCologne Hbf
$1041One-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 €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, Sunday, January 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 6:06 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 200 | Delayed 6:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 12:17 PM 12:17 PMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 282 · ICE 610 | On time 7:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h28 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 | 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 1:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 1645 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h29 | 2:28 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9210+ICE 6 · ICE 918 | Delayed 8:34 AM Zurich HB | 4h55 | 1:49 PM 1:49 PMCologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 108 | Delayed 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 2:17 PM 2:17 PMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 370 · IC 2012 | On time 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h22 | 4:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 370 · ICE 518 | Delayed 9:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 3:17 PM 3:17 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| TGV 9218+ICE 72 · ICE 916 | On time 10:34 AM Zurich HB | 4h55 | 3:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| IC 770 · ICE 106 | Delayed 10:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 4:17 PM 4:17 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 188 · ICE 516 | Delayed 11:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h28 | 5:17 PM 5:17 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 772 · ICE 278 · IC 1941 | On time 11:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h26 | 6:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 772 · ICE 278 · ICE 516 | Delayed 11:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 5:17 PM 5:17 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9222+ECE 4 · ICE 224 | Delayed 12:34 PM Zurich HB | 5h09 | 5:56 PM 5:56 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9222+ECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26 | 12:34 PM Zurich HB | 7h00 | 7:34 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 104 | Delayed 12:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 6:17 PM 6:17 PMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 186 · ICE 514 | Delayed 1:37 PM Zurich HB | 5h28 | 7:17 PM 7:17 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 776 · ICE 276 · ICE 1649 | On time 1:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h27 | 8:26 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 776 · ICE 276 · ICE 514 | Delayed 1:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 7:17 PM 7:17 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9226+ICE 70 · ICE 912 · ICE 24 | On time 2:34 PM Zurich HB | 7h04 | 9:38 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| TGV 9226+ICE 70 · ICE 912 | Delayed 2:34 PM Zurich HB | 4h55 | 7:41 PM 7:41 PMCologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 102 | Delayed 2:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 8:17 PM 8:17 PMCologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 184 · ICE 512 | Delayed 3:37 PM Zurich HB | 5h28 | 9:20 PM 9:20 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 780 · ICE 274 · ICE 512 | Delayed 3:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 9:20 PM 9:20 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 780 · ICE 274 · IC 2347 | On time 3:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h41 | 10:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 578 · ICE 2 · ICE 910 | Delayed 4:34 PM Zurich HB | 4h56 | 9:42 PM 9:42 PMCologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 782 · ICE 100 | Delayed 4:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h11 | 10:20 PM 10:20 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 272 · ICE 920 | On time 5:59 PM Zurich HB | 6h54 | 12:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 272 · ICE 510 | Delayed 5:59 PM Zurich HB | 5h11 | 11:22 PM 11:22 PMCologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 60402 | On time 6:36 PM Zurich HB | 10h21 | 4:57 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IR 2290 · ICE 76 · ICE 1014 | On time 11:08 PM Zurich HB | 8h21 | 7:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
 IR 2290+ ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022 | 11:08 PM Zurich HB | 10h14 | 9:22 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IR 2290 · ICE 204 | 11:08 PM Zurich HB | 8h57 | 8:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, January 12 | |||||
| IR 2252 · ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | 4:08 AM Zurich HB | 7h13 | 11:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
IR 2252+ EC 8+ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | 4:08 AM Zurich HB | 7h18 | 11:26 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IR 2252 · ECE 8 · ICE 1012 | 4:08 AM Zurich HB | 5h21 | 9:29 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| IC 758 · ICE 202 | 4:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 284 · ICE 612 | 5:37 AM Zurich HB | 5h28 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
TGV 9206+ICE 374+ IC 1947 | 5:59 AM Zurich HB | 6h26 | 12:25 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| TGV 9206+ICE 374 · ICE 612 | 5:59 AM Zurich HB | 5h06 | 11:05 AM 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
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 to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB) as well as ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE and ÖBB | Euro City (EC) offer trains services from Zurich to Cologne. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB), but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE and ÖBB | Euro City (EC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich 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 (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | ICE and ÖBB | Euro City (EC) to help you choose the right option for your journey from Zurich to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Cologne.
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 $97Buses
from $30Flights
from $196Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Cologne
Switzerland
Germany
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.
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 $38 (€31)
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 |
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 $38 (€31)
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
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
4h 49m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
8h 55m
Cheapest Price
$136 (€110)
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 | 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
$228 (€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
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
$230 (€186)
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
3 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
$230 (€186)
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
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.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $74 (€60), while the average price is around $181 (€146).
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.
The train from Zurich to Cologne takes 4h 49m and runs 11 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
A day trip from Zurich to Cologne is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 49m each way, covering a distance of 256 miles (413 km). Trains run 11 times per day.
The last train from Zurich to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
The first train from Zurich to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The train journey from Zurich to Cologne is quite scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, picturesque towns, and stretches along the Rhine River, providing a pleasant and visually appealing travel experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Cologne.
Yes, there is a night train from Zurich to Cologne.
The distance by train from Zurich to Cologne is 256 miles (413 km).
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich to Cologne. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC).
The train station in Zurich that goes to Cologne is Zurich HB, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
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.
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
Zürich Stadelhofen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
Dining
- Outback Lodge
- Tibits
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Opera Zurich
- Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
- Hotel Seehof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1000 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 4 for regional trains
Public transit options for Zürich Stadelhofen
- Tram: Line 11, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmThe 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.
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/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
More options for your journey from Zurich to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Zurich
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