Berlin to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,RB,EC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 30 Apr

Cheapest price

£31

Average price

£46

Fastest journey

4 h 52 m

Average duration

5 h

Trains per day

Distance

479 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Berlin to Cologne will cost around £46 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £31.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Berlin for Cologne every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 479 km distance in an average of 5 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 52 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 11 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.

FlixTrain

08:345h11

Berlin Hbf

13:45Cologne Hbf

£311One-way

0 changes

FlixTrain

08:514h54

Berlin Spandau

13:45Cologne Hbf

£311One-way

0 changes

FlixTrain

16:514h52

Berlin Spandau

21:43Cologne Messe/Deutz

£451One-way

0 changes

FlixTrain

16:345h09

Berlin Hbf

21:43Cologne Messe/Deutz

£451One-way

0 changes

ICE 642 · ICE 629

08:464h56

Berlin Hbf

13:42Cologne Messe/Deutz

£771One-way

1 change

Live departures

Berlin to Cologne train times

Showing trains for today, Tuesday 29 April

Last updated at 17:33

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
ICE 842	On time 17:46 Berlin Hbf	5h11	22:57 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
Wednesday 30 April
FlixTrain	06:34 Berlin Hbf	5h11	11:45 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
ICE 642 · ICE 629	On time 06:46 Berlin Hbf	4h56	11:42 Cologne Messe/Deutz	1 change
FlixTrain	06:51 Berlin Spandau	4h54	11:45 Cologne Hbf	0 changesdirect
FlixTrain	14:34 Berlin Hbf	5h09	19:43 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
FlixTrain	14:51 Berlin Spandau	4h52	19:43 Cologne Messe/Deutz	0 changesdirect
This is the last train of the day.

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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Berlin to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Berlin to Cologne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Berlin to Cologne route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Berlin 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 Berlin to Cologne.

Trains

from £25

Coaches

from £23

Flights

from £197

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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Berlin 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.

Pro

The seats were very comfortable, I had good possibilities to stow my suitcase.

Cons

The food was no longer so warm and the train was 17 minutes late.

Unfortunately the wifi didn't work, but we are provided with a mobile hotspot connection. Generally gives it three stars as my food was not fresh. There were clean toilets, but it was a bit smelly. I was able to get through and fortunately did not have to change trains. However, as I said before, the train was a bit late. The train ticket was not very expensive, so I was able to buy it with my savings.

Pro

The food tasted good, nice staff

Cons

Delay, the toilets were not clean

This trip was actually relatively relaxed, as the staff were nice and the food tasted good. Unfortunately, the train was a few minutes late and the toilets were not really clean. My food was also delivered fresh and hot and tasted good. It was also great value for money. In general, it gets three stars out of five. Nevertheless, I can recommend it.

Pro

Good mobile phone reception

Cons

Cleanliness

I enjoyed the journey very much, although the compartments were not thoroughly cleaned. One positive thing I noticed was that there was excellent reception. There were also 2 power sockets. The service staff were also very nice. The journey was trouble-free and the train was on time. Therefore, I can still recommend the trip.

Pro

Favourable price

Cons

Poor service

Expensive food

Too Late Arrival

Since I very often have to travel from Cologne to Berlin and from Berlin to Cologne and it's not worth it by car in the long run, I only use the ICE because of the low price. The seats are bearable (enough). The wifi didn't work so I couldn't surf the internet with my mobile device. The food was way too expensive for a small amount. The service was also unfriendly. The hygiene on the train is also not the best. The toilets were dirty the table was not clean. The punctuality wasn't there either, the only thing that is good about Deutsche Bahn is the ticket prices and that you didn't have to change trains. I only give the trip 2/5 stars.

Pro

The seats were very comfortable

Cons

The product has no weaknesses

As I recently had to travel from Berlin to Cologne for work, I decided to take the train. The journey was very pleasant as the seats were very comfortable and there was no noise. The whole compartment was clean and the service was very friendly. Overall, I can recommend everyone to travel by train.

Pro

Nice staff

Cons

Food did not taste good

It was a great train ride. The train arrived on time. I had wifi on the train. My seat was very comfortable and the train was very clean, the toilets were also very clean. It's great value for money. But unfortunately, I didn't like the food, but I can still recommend it because it was so cheap.

Pro

Employees

It was a very relaxing train ride. Unfortunately, I didn't have wifi on the train, but that's not a bad thing as each seat had its own socket. The seats were very comfortable and it was very quiet in the train, only that one baby was loud. Very good service, they were very friendly, the staff lots of food options. It was very clean, respectively the toilets were very clean and we didn't have to change trains. The train was also very punctual.

Pro

Good connection with the Sprinter

Cons

Absolutely unnecessary communication by mail (confusing)

The connection itself is good, especially if you catch a sprinter. However, the wifi doesn't work very well - a hotspot is better. The toilet is OK and was quite clean. The price is a bit high if you don't get a saver fare. At least there was no need to change and I could work through at the place with a socket. Before departure, however, I was told 3 times that the train would be cancelled, only because of a track change in Berlin. This was very confusing and caused a lot of stress at the beginning of the journey.

Pro

Service is top

No change

Cons

Price

The journey was so relaxed because you don't have to change trains from Berlin to Cologne. You drive comfortably through within 4 hours. Unfortunately, we had a small delay of 35 minutes. The toilets were clean in the ICE and the staff were very nice. The on-board restaurant had delicious food and the wifi worked. Unfortunately, there were power sockets everywhere in all seats, but not in the restaurant.

Pro

Pleasant train ride

Cons

Nothing

I travelled from Berlin to Cologne for carnival with DB and was mega satisfied, as this was the first longer train journey for me. The journey lasted just under 4 hours, the toilets were very clean and the seats were also very comfortable. In addition, the volume was pleasant and reasonably quiet during the entire journey. The route we took was without any major obstacles that could have disrupted the journey. The staff inside the train were very friendly and accommodating. Gladly again.

Pro

The service was good

It was nice to be able to go to the toilet

Comfortable seats

Friendly staff

Cons

There was rubbish in my place

Very expensive

Took ages

Train was unfortunately 10 minutes late

My train journey from Berlin to Cologne was mostly positive, but the cleanliness of the trains was not entirely satisfactory. Despite regular cleaning of the toilets and compartments, I noticed some soiling, which detracted slightly from the travelling experience. Nevertheless, the service during the journey was excellent and the staff were always friendly and helpful. Clear information helped me to feel well looked after. The interior of the trains proved to be comfortable, with cosy seats and plenty of legroom. The presence of power sockets allowed me to use my electronic devices with ease. The journey time was acceptable, considering the journey to and from the airports. The train journey offered a relaxed alternative to other means of transport. I still found the price-performance ratio to be fair, especially when tickets were booked in advance. Overall, the train journey from Berlin to Cologne was a practical and environmentally friendly option, but improvements in terms of cleanliness would be desirable to further optimise the travel experience for all passengers.

Pro

Comfort

Punctuality

Service & Food

Cons

none found

I travelled from Berlin to Cologne by train and was very happy with the journey. The train was clean, spacious and had enough sockets for my devices. The seats were comfortable and I was able to sleep well. The journey took about four hours and the train arrived on time. The staff were friendly and helpful. I also tried the on-board restaurant and found the food delicious and reasonably priced. The scenery was beautiful and I took lots of photos. I would recommend this train journey to anyone travelling from Berlin to Cologne.

Pro

Cleanliness

Favourable

Fast

Cons

Passengers

Overall pleasant and provided a satisfactory experience, the wifi worked reliably which gave me the opportunity to be productive during the journey, the seats comfortable and ergonomically designed made the journey more relaxing, the formations were communicated clearly and promptly, the orientation facilitated cleanliness acceptable although a thorough clean would have been desirable, the journey was reasonable and he a punctual arrival at the destination in terms of price this seemed possibly slightly higher compared to other operators overall the train journey was a positive experience with positive aspects such as minor shortcomings in cleanliness.

Pro

Good comfort

Modern equipment

Very clean

Nice staff

Cons

High ticket price

Long journey duration

Travelling by train from Berlin to Cologne made a positive impression on me overall, and there were both pleasant and less pleasant moments. I would particularly like to praise the exceptional cleanliness of the train, which made the journey extremely pleasant. The staff were also very friendly and helpful. The equipment on the train was modern and very practical for passing the time. However, there were also negative aspects. The journey time was longer than expected, which was a disadvantage despite the overall comfortable environment. In addition, the price-performance ratio was not convincing in all respects, as the service provided did not always match the cost paid. However, this was mainly due to the high ticket price. Overall, however, I have fond memories of the train journey, particularly because of the outstanding cleanliness, the friendly staff, the comfort and the excellent facilities. Despite the points of criticism mentioned, the journey was enjoyable and worth recommending.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berlin to Cologne

Germany

Trains from Berlin to Cologne run on average 13 times per day, taking around 6h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.

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

Distance

478 km

Average train duration

6h 25m

Cheapest ticket price

£17

Trains per day

Direct trains

Train providers

Fastest train

4h 41m

First train

07:34

Last train

21:28

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain and FlixBus trains Berlin to Cologne

Find the best trains to Cologne from Berlin with Omio's travel partners Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain and FlixBus from £18. We can find you the best deals, timetables and tickets when comparing and booking the best route.

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is the main operator of train services in Germany, making on average 40,000 journeys per day. A special feature of Deutsche Bahn is its wide range of ticket types, savings offers including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible fares and discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50 and 100, which you can also use for your train between Berlin and Cologne. DB uses different types of trains such as the ICE (Intercity Express), IC (Intercity), EC (Eurocity), IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express) and RB (Regionalbahn) on its routes, which differ in terms of comfort and the time required to travel. For example, while toilets are standard amenities, services like an onboard restaurant or free WiFi are only available on certain trains.

Berlin to Cologne train information with Deutsche Bahn:

Average Duration: 3 h 59 min
Cheapest Price: £36
Deutsche Bahn frequency: 16 a day

FlixTrain is a German train company which is part of FlixMobility, the company who own FlixBus. Since 2018, FlixMobility has also offered the option of train travel to some of the largest German cities like Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart and Berlin including trains to Cologne from Berlin. FlixTrain has high speed comfortable trains with a guaranteed seat, foot space, reading lamp and a luggage rack to store your belongings as well as sockets on most trains and free Wi-Fi for all passengers. The most popualr routes in Germany for FlixTrain are from Berlin to Hamburg, Frankfurt to Stuttgart and Cologne to Hamburg. They also offer trains on the Sotckholm to Gothenburg route in Sweden.

Train information from Berlin to Cologne with FlixTrain:

Average Duration: 4 h 53 min
Cheapest Price: £18

FlixBus is one of the most popular low-cost train providers in Europe. Founded in Germany, FlixBus has expanded its services throughout Europe and even to the United States, giving travellers in both continents the option to take a long-distance train at an affordable price. FlixBus also operates overnight trains on select routes throughout Europe. FlixBus offers only the Standard ticket for all its routes, which allows you to bring one hand luggage and one hold luggage bag per person. Additional fees apply for bringing extra luggage and making specific seat reservations, such as if you want to book an Extra Seat, Table Seat or the Panorama Seat. Standard amenities onboard include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge your phone, tablet or laptop during long train journeys, extra legroom, luggage space and toilets.

Berlin to Cologne train information with FlixBus:

Average Duration: 4 h 54 min
Cheapest Price: £21
FlixBus frequency: 3 a day

Trains from Berlin to Cologne

Boarding a train from Berlin to Cologne is fast and stress-free. The fastest journey is 4 hours and 18 minutes. Passengers can catch an average of 17 trains a day between Berlin and Cologne. Trains leave the Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Hbf) station for Cologne every hour.

Berlin to Cologne train times: Daily departures

Depending on the day and passenger volume, people who want to take a train from Berlin to Cologne can expect between 11 and 22 trains daily. The first train leaves some minutes past midnight, and the last before midnight, but the times can change on weekends and during holidays and festivities. Passengers taking earlier and later trains may only have sleeper services to choose from.

How long is the journey by train from Berlin to Cologne?

The distance by train from Berlin to Cologne is approximately 298 miles. If travellers board the fastest train, they can get to Cologne in 4 hours and 18 minutes. The average duration for the journey depends on the number of changes, ticket class, time of the day, and other factors. Passengers travelling from Berlin to Cologne have up to 17 direct trains every day to choose from, especially if they book in advance.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Berlin to Cologne?

Departure train station: Trains travelling from Berlin to Cologne depart from Berlin Hbf at the heart of the city. Berlin's underground, municipal rail, and express buses connect the station to the airport and the city. Facilities at the station include toilets, disability assistance, luggage storage, ticket offices, waiting rooms, shops and bars, and a first-class lounge.

Arrival train station: The arrival station in Cologne is Köln Hbf. The station's central location makes it easily accessible via the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and city buses. It's located next to the magnificent Kölner Cathedral and other popular attractions. Passenger facilities include waiting rooms, shops, bars, toilets, luggage storage, disability assistance, ticket counters, and an information desk.

Which train companies travel from Berlin to Cologne?

Deutsche Bahn (DB) and FlixTrain operate trains between Berlin and Cologne. DB is owned by the German government, operates most of the intercity and regional trains in the country, and can run up to 20 Berlin-Cologne trains daily. Meanwhile, FlixTrain's services are limited to a few trains per week.

Deutsche Bahn Berlin to Cologne

Deutsche Bahn's hourly services between Berlin and Cologne offer direct and connecting trains. Travellers can choose from 10 to 20 DB trains going to Cologne from Berlin every day. Trains reach their destination in approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes.

FlixTrain Berlin to Cologne

FlixTrain operates trains and coaches all over Europe. Some of its trains service the Berlin-Cologne route, with some direct connections. Its trains are slower than DB's but more affordable.

Berlin to Cologne trains: Services on board

DB operates different types of trains, including high-speed ICE trains, intercity trains, and regional and local trains. Passengers riding in first class can expect complimentary snacks, drinks, newspapers, and unrestricted wireless internet access. Standard coaches are also spacious and comfortable.

Passengers can bring luggage on DB trains for free. Travelling with a bike on a long-distance journey needs a reservation. Guide dogs can ride DB trains without a ticket or a muzzle, but other pets may need to be restrained depending on their size. Larger dogs need a ticket to get on the train.

FlixTrain also offers first- and second-class seats. There is food on board, charging outlets, free WiFi, bathrooms, and more. The company helps passengers with reduced mobility and allows them to travel with wheelchairs and scooters weighing up to 350 kg. The luggage policy is generous, and passengers can transport a bicycle if they make a reservation. FlixTrain allows travelling with pets, but dogs need to be on a lead or muzzled.

How to find cheap train tickets from Berlin to Cologne

Finding cheap train tickets requires planning and flexibility. Travellers can get excellent deals on train tickets from Berlin to Cologne if they book in advance - buying a ticket on the departure day is often expensive. Passengers can also get low-cost tickets if they travel when most people aren't on the move or opt for slower journeys and connecting trains. Omio's user-friendly tools help find the cheapest tickets to travel by train from Berlin to Cologne.

FAQs: Berlin to Cologne train

FAQs: Travel by train from Berlin to Cologne easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Berlin to Cologne.

Cheap train tickets from Berlin to Cologne can start from as little as £10 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Berlin to Cologne is £33; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

The average journey time by train from Berlin to Cologne is 4 h 19 min to travel the 296 mile long route, with around there are 13 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.

The first train from Berlin to Cologne leaves at 00: 01. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.

The last train from Berlin to Cologne leaves at 23: 58.

Yes, it is possible to travel from Berlin to Cologne without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. There are 9 direct trains from Berlin to Cologne each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.

Take the Berlin to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. However, it's always good to check out all possible train providers for the route to Cologne from Berlin as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.

No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 58.

When departing from Berlin, you have various train station options to start your journey from including Berlin Hbf, Berlin Südkreuz station, Berlin Ostbahnhof, Berlin Spandau, Berlin-Gesundbrunnen station and Berlin Zoologischer Garten. When arriving in Cologne, you can end your route in train stations like Cologne Hbf, Cologne Messe/Deutz and Cologne Süd.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Berlin Hbf, which is located around 3.5 miles (5.6 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away from the city centre.

A trip to Cologne from Berlin is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 19 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.

The cheapest month to travel from Berlin to Cologne by train is May.

You have options as you can travel from Berlin to Cologne 3 different ways: coach, train or flight.

Important Stations and Airports in Berlin and Cologne

Berlin

Cologne

The major train station for departures in Berlin is Berlin Zoologischer Garten. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Berlin Zoologischer Garten for your trip from Berlin to Cologne.

Berlin Zoologischer Garten Wifi