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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Cologne
Showing times and prices for 16 May
Cheapest price
£66
Average price
£109
Fastest journey
3 h 43 m
Average duration
3 h 48 m
Trains per day
32
Distance
378 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Cologne will cost around £109 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.
Fast trains
Of the 32 trains that leave Basel for Cologne every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 378 km distance in an average of 3 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 43 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 49 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.
ICE 274 · IC 234718:164h50Basel SBB23:06Cologne Hbf£661One-way1 change- ECE 8 · ICE 10126:463h43Basel SBB10:29Cologne Messe/Deutz£661One-way1 change
- ICE 376 · ICE 10496:164h49Basel SBB11:05Cologne Hbf£661One-way1 change
- ICE 278 · IC 194114:164h49Basel SBB19:05Cologne Hbf£841One-way1 change
- ICE 276 · ICE 164916:164h50Basel SBB21:06Cologne Hbf£841One-way1 change
- ECE 8 · ICE 10126:463h43Basel SBB10:29Cologne Messe/Deutz£661One-way1 change
- ICE 374 · ICE 6128:163h49Basel SBB12:05Cologne Hbf£1261One-way1 change
- ICE 372 · ICE 61010:163h49Basel SBB14:05Cologne Hbf£1171One-way1 change
- ICE 2009:163h49Basel SBB13:05Cologne Hbf£1261One-way0 changes
- ICE 10613:163h49Basel SBB17:05Cologne Hbf£1171One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Basel to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £23, and a flight costs an average of £333.
Distance: 378 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£119 Average Price | £36 Average Price Cheapest | £513 Average Price |
5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 5h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 10m Average total duration 6h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 14m Average total duration 8h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Basel to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday 16 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 204 | On time 5:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 9:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 376 · ICE 1049 | On time 6:16 Basel SBB | 4h49 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 376 · ICE 614 | On time 6:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 10:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
 ICE 376 · ICE 1049 | On time 6:16 Basel SBB | 4h49 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ECE 8 · ICE 1012 | On time 6:46 Basel SBB | 3h43 | 10:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
| ECE 8 · ICE 202 | On time 6:46 Basel SBB | 4h19 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 8:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 374 · IC 1947 | On time 8:16 Basel SBB | 4h49 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 374+ IC 1947 | On time 8:16 Basel SBB | 4h49 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 200 | On time 9:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 372 · ICE 1645 | On time 10:16 Basel SBB | 4h49 | 15:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 10:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 14:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 372 · ICE 1645 | On time 10:16 Basel SBB | 4h49 | 15:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 370 · IC 2012 | On time 12:16 Basel SBB | 4h50 | 17:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 370 · ICE 518 | On time 12:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 16:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| IC 2012+ICE 370 | Delayed 12:39 12:16Basel SBB | 4h50 | 17:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 106 | On time 13:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 17:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 278 · ICE 516 | On time 14:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 18:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 278 · IC 1941 | On time 14:16 Basel SBB | 4h49 | 19:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| IC 1941+ICE 278 | Delayed 14:39 14:16Basel SBB | 4h49 | 19:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ECE 4 · ICE 1254 | On time 14:46 Basel SBB | 3h57 | 18:43 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 276 · ICE 514 | On time 16:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 20:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 276 · ICE 1649 | On time 16:16 Basel SBB | 4h50 | 21:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 276 · ICE 1649 | On time 16:16 Basel SBB | 4h50 | 21:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 102 | On time 17:16 Basel SBB | 3h49 | 21:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 274 · IC 2347 | On time 18:16 Basel SBB | 4h50 | 23:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 274 · ICE 512 | On time 18:16 Basel SBB | 3h59 | 22:15 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 274+IC 2347 | On time 18:16 Basel SBB | 4h50 | 23:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 272 · ICE 920 | 20:16 Basel SBB | 5h54 | 2:10 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 272 · ICE 920 | 20:16 Basel SBB | 5h49 | 2:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Cologne by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train 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 Basel to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, FlixTrain and more offer trains services from Basel to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel 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 ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet or FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Basel 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Basel to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Basel to Cologne is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Basel to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Basel 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 Basel to Cologne.
Trains
from £62Coaches
from £22ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Basel to Cologne
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Free time during the tripDisadvantages
Cancellation excludedThe train ride was entertaining while I chatted with my seatmate.
The staff were friendly and ready to provide assistance.
The coffee is enjoyable and the toilets were clean and hygienic.
I was satisfied and will take a train ride again in the future.
Advantages
PunctualityEnvironmental friendlinessDisadvantages
ExpensiveMy train journey from Cologne to Basel was Instagram a fantastic experience that I would like to share. The outstanding positive features of this journey were the punctuality and the environmental friendliness.
The punctuality of the train deserves special recognition.
It is great to know that you can protect the environment while travelling. The environmental friendliness of the train was also impressive.
A small drawback was the price of the ticket, which was slightly higher. Nevertheless, the positive aspects of the trip far outweighed this small disadvantage.
Overall, my train journey from Cologne to Basel was extremely pleasant and satisfying. The punctuality, unfriendliness and quality of the train travel experience make this connection a recommendable option for travellers, even if it is a bit expensive.
Advantages
got my seatDisadvantages
unpunctualThe price-performance ratio was as always okay and not too expensive. There was a power socket for 2 seats, which also worked. The wifi on the train was ok due to low usage. The toilets were slightly dirty but still ok. I did not have to change trains. I reserved my seat in the quiet area and due to the low occupancy it was very quiet and you could sleep well.
Advantages
Comfortable seatsBistroDisadvantages
Constant delaysLong journey time due to delayNot good organisation of Deutsche BahnFacilities: It has wifi, which is very slow, but it works. Power outlets as well as reclining seats as needed.
Comfort: Comfortable well-padded seats, bistro with many drinks and food options.
Service: Staff occasionally grumpy. Reservation is very expensive 4.90.-. Information very spongy and not clear. Trains are not shown correctly on which track they are running.
Cleanliness: Depends, sometimes good, sometimes bad. I would never sit on the toilets.
Travel: Absolutely bad, delayed by 1h30min.
Price: There are good deals if you book early, but it can be very expensive.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Cologne
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Basel to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £28 but you can travel from only £23 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 378 km distance in 3h 43m.
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 £23
Distance 378 km |
Average train duration 5h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price £28 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 43m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 35 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
Coach from £23
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Basel to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB | Nightjet, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Basel and Cologne from £23. 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 43m
Cheapest Price
£38
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
4h 49m
Cheapest Price
£139
ÖBB | ICE frequency
2 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 49m
Cheapest Price
£155
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 52m
Cheapest Price
£100
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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 1m
Cheapest Price
£28
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
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
4h 46m
Cheapest Price
£139
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
2 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
£64
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day
FAQs: Basel to Cologne train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Basel to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £28, while the average price tends to be around £119.
The train journey from Basel to Cologne covers a distance of 378 km and takes approximately 3h 43m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Basel to Cologne is 378 km.
The first train from Basel to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Basel to Cologne departs at 23:58.
Trains from Basel to Cologne run approximately 11 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Basel and Cologne. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To get from Basel to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
Yes, there is a night train from Basel to Cologne.
The train station in Basel that goes to Cologne is Basel SBB, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £23.
Booking trains from Basel to Cologne 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 to Cologne is indeed scenic, offering picturesque views of the Rhine Valley, charming vineyards, and historic castles along the way.
A day trip from Basel to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 43m each way. However, there are 12 trains per day for this route. The distance is 378 km.
In Cologne, visitors can explore the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Gothic architecture, and visit the Museum Ludwig for modern art by artists like Picasso and Warhol. A Rhine River Cruise offers scenic views of the city's skyline and landmarks, while the Hohenzollern Bridge is known for love locks and panoramic river views. The Old Town (Altstadt) charms with historic streets and traditional beer halls. Families might enjoy the Cologne Zoo, which is rich in diverse animal species. For culture and entertainment, attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, or discover the Belgian Quarter’s trendy boutiques and cafes. The Cologne Chocolate Museum provides an interactive experience about chocolate history, and the Botanical Gardens Flora showcases beautiful plant species and floral displays.
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Cologne.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Basel and Cologne
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
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
2 kmNumber of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 330 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transport options for Basel Bad Bhf
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
Basel Markthalle
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityThe 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.
Köln Messe/Deutz
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
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Basel
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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