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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleroi to Cologne
Showing times and prices for May 04
Cheapest price
$99
Average price
$128
Fastest journey
2 h 56 m
Average duration
2 h 59 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
186 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charleroi to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charleroi to Cologne will cost around $128 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Charleroi to Cologne without transferring at least once.
IC 3808 · ICE 159:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud12:15 PMCologne Hbf$991One-way1 transfer- IC 3810 · ICE 31511:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud2:15 PMCologne Hbf$991One-way1 transfer
3809+
942310:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud1:15 PMCologne Hbf$1371One-way1 transfer- 3807+94118:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud11:15 AMCologne Hbf$1371One-way1 transfer
4559+3809+942310:06 AM3h09Charleroi-West1:15 PMCologne Hbf$1371One-way2 transfers
- IC 3808 · ICE 159:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud12:15 PMCologne Hbf$991One-way1 transfer
- IC 3810 · ICE 31511:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud2:15 PMCologne Hbf$991One-way1 transfer
- 3809+942310:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud1:15 PMCologne Hbf$1371One-way1 transfer
- 3807+94118:19 AM2h56Charleroi-Sud11:15 AMCologne Hbf$1371One-way1 transfer
- 4559+3809+942310:06 AM3h09Charleroi-West1:15 PMCologne Hbf$1371One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Charleroi to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charleroi to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $54.
Distance: 115 miles (186 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$85 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest |
3h 31m Average total duration 3h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 29m Average total duration Fastest 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Charleroi to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Charleroi to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Monday, May 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4178+3807+9411 | 8:02 AM Couillet | 3h13 | 11:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 4557+3807+9411 | 8:06 AM Charleroi-West | 3h09 | 11:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 3807+9411 | 8:19 AM Charleroi-Sud | 2h56 | 11:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3808 · ICE 15 | On time 9:19 AM Charleroi-Sud | 2h56 | 12:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 4180+3809+9423 | 10:02 AM Couillet | 3h13 | 1:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 4559+3809+9423 | 10:06 AM Charleroi-West | 3h09 | 1:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 3809+9423 | 10:19 AM Charleroi-Sud | 2h56 | 1:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 3810 · ICE 315 | On time 11:19 AM Charleroi-Sud | 2h56 | 2:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Intercity, Eurostar, SNCB and more offer trains services from Charleroi to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Charleroi to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Charleroi 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 with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Charleroi to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Charleroi to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Charleroi to Cologne is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Charleroi to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Cologne.
Trains
from $24Buses
from $12Journey information
Overview: Train from Charleroi to Cologne
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Charleroi to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€43) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 115 miles (186 km) distance in 2h 50m.
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 $16 (€13)
Distance 115 miles (186 km) |
Average train duration 3h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€43) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 42 days |
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 $16 (€13)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Intercity, Eurostar, SNCB from Charleroi to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Intercity, Eurostar, SNCB trains will get you between Charleroi and Cologne from $16 (€13). 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
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€43)
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
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Intercity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
Eurostar frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€47)
SNCB frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Charleroi to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleroi 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.
Train ticket prices from Charleroi to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€43), while the average price is around $85 (€68).
The train from Charleroi to Cologne takes 2h 50m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Charleroi to Cologne is 115 miles (186 km).
The first train from Charleroi to Cologne leaves at 12:20 AM.
The last train from Charleroi to Cologne leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Charleroi to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charleroi to Cologne.
The train station in Charleroi that goes to Cologne is Charleroi-Sud, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Charleroi to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Charleroi to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including rolling hills, picturesque Belgian countryside, and views of the Meuse River, providing a pleasant and varied landscape for travelers.
A day trip from Charleroi to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 50m. However, there are 5 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 115 miles (186 km).
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.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Charleroi to Cologne.
Since both Charleroi 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 Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleroi 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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 Charleroi to Cologne
Charleroi
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Charleroi is Charleroi-Sud. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Charleroi-Sud for your trip from Charleroi to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Rue de la Villette.
Dining
- La Manufacture Urbaine
- Le Pain Quotidien
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare
- Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center
- Novotel Charleroi Centre
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 7-10 for local and regional trains
Public transit options for Charleroi-Sud
- Bus: TEC lines 1, 3, 4, 18
- Metro: Line M1, Line M2
Lodelinsart
Amenities at train station
DiningAccessibilityBike ParkingAmenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available near the station with access from Rue de la Digue.
Dining
- Restaurant Le Pain Quotidien
- La Table de la Manufacture Urbaine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center
- Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for regional trains
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Charleroi-Ouest
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Line M1
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 Charleroi.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike 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.
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
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
Most popular train connections from Charleroi
More options for your journey from Charleroi to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Charleroi
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