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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for 02 Dec
Cheapest price
£37
Average price
£42
Fastest journey
3 h 53 m
Average duration
5 h 30 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
380 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf will cost around £42 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £37.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Basel SBB for Cologne Hbf every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 380 km distance in an average of 5 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 53 m .
The slowest trains will take 6 h 44 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 6040223:136h44
Basel SBB05:57Cologne Hbf
£371One-way
0 changes
ICE 4 · ICE 92020:135h52
Basel SBB02:05Cologne Hbf
£421One-way
1 change
ICE 4 · ICE 51020:133h53
Basel SBB00:06Cologne Hbf
£461One-way
1 change
ICE 4 · ICE 51020:133h53
Basel SBB00:06Cologne Hbf
£461One-way
1 change
ICE 4 · ICE 92020:135h52
Basel SBB02:05Cologne Hbf
£421One-way
1 change
IC 6040223:136h44
Basel SBB05:57Cologne Hbf
£371One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 3m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, and a flight costs an average of £165.
Distance: 380 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£78 Average Price | £31 Average Price Cheapest | £382 Average Price |
5h 33m Average total duration Fastest 5h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 13m Average total duration 6h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 39m Average total duration 9h 39m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Monday 1 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 03:15
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:13 Basel SBB | 4h53 | 11:06 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 09:06 Basel SBB | 5h38 | 14:44 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 09:13 Basel SBB | 5h31 | 14:44 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:27 Basel SBB | 4h39 | 17:06 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 14:13 Basel SBB | 4h53 | 19:06 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:13, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 380 km distance in 3h 52m.
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
Coach from £17
Distance 380 km |
Average train duration 5h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 52m |
First train 03:13 |
Last train 21:13 |
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
Coach from £17
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet, Trenitalia EuroCity from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet, Trenitalia EuroCity trains will get you between Basel SBB and Cologne Hbf from £17. 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
3h 52m
Cheapest Price
£35
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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 | 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 13m
Cheapest Price
£140
ÖBB | ICE frequency
4 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 | 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
4h 53m
Cheapest Price
£140
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
2 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
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
6h 44m
Cheapest Price
£92
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
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 5m
Cheapest Price
£121
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The train journey from Basel SBB to Köln Hbf offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes along the Rhine River, charming villages, and rolling hills, particularly as the train travels through the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A day trip from Basel SBB to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 52m and the distance is 380 km. However, there are 13 trains per day available for this route.
The cost of a train ticket from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £78.
The cheapest way to get from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf is by coach, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf covers a distance of 380 km and takes approximately 3h 52m. Trains run 13 per day.
The train distance from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf is 380 km.
The first train from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf leaves at 3:13.
The last train from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf departs at 21:13.
Trains from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf run approximately 13 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train between Basel SBB and Cologne Hbf. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB Nightjet.
Yes, there is a night train from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf.
To get from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Basel SBB and Cologne Hbf
Basel
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your trip from Basel to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
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
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transport options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
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 Basel.
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.
Most popular train connections from Basel SBB
More options for your journey from Basel SBB to Cologne Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Basel SBB
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