Zurich to Cologne train with ÖBB | Nightjet

Wed, May 06
+ Add return
ÖBB | Nightjet
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
ÖBB | Nightjet
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Cologne

Showing times and prices for May 06

Cheapest price

$57

Average price

$57

Fastest journey

5 h 46 m

Average duration

5 h 46 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

225 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 $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Zurich for Cologne on Wed, May 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, May 06 the direct trains cover the 225 km distance in an average of 5 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 46 m .

On Wed, May 06 the slowest trains will take 5 h 46 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.

  • Trenitalia
    5:33 AM5h46
    Zurich
    11:19 AMCologne
    $571One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, flight, and bus for Zurich to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the flight 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 $44. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $106.

Distance: 139 miles (225 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$94

Average price

$241

Average price

$92

Average price

Cheapest

5h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 38m

Average total duration

9h 38m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

14h 58m

Average total duration

14h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Zurich to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday, May 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
trenitalia9:33 AM Zurich
4h46
2:19 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect
trenitalia1:33 PM Zurich
4h46
6:19 PM Cologne0 transfersDirect

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, flight, or bus

Compare train, flight, and bus 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.

Wed
May 06
Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Cologne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
ItalyItaly
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 (€45) but you can travel from only $44 (€35) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 18:20. The fastest train covers the 139 miles (225 km) distance in 4h 46m.

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 $44 (€35)
Distance
139 miles (225 km)
Average train duration
5h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$57 (€45)
Trains per day
10
Fastest train
4h 46m
First train
12:20 AM
Last train
6:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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 $44 (€35)

Train companies: ÖBB | Nightjet from Zurich to Cologne trainsÖBB | Nightjet trains will get you between Zurich and Cologne from $44 (€35). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 54m
Cheapest Price
$180 (€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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57 (€45), while the average price is around $94 (€76).
The train from Zurich to Cologne takes 4h 46m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Cologne leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Cologne is 139 miles (225 km).
The last train from Zurich to Cologne leaves at 6:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Cologne.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zurich to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by ÖBB | Nightjet.
Yes, there is a night train from Zurich to Cologne.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Cologne is Zurich HB, which connects to Cologne station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $44 (€35).
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Cologne is scenic, offering views of the Swiss countryside, picturesque villages, and the Rhine River as it winds through Germany.
A day trip from Zurich to Cologne is not feasible as the travel time is 4h 46m each way. There are 9 train journeys available per day, and the distance is 139 miles (225 km).
To fully experience Cologne, including its historic cathedral, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Cologne.
Since both Zurich and Cologne are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Brescia, Bergamo, Milan, Verona, Palazzolo sull'Oglio.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Cologne among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and around popular attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Staying alert and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
26
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Au Premier
  • Brasserie Federal
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
  • Hotel St. Gotthard
  • Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
Shower
  • Cost CHF 12
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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

More options for your journey from Zurich to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in ItalyZurich to Cologne train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone