Bern to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Sat 29 Aug
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Deutsche Bahn
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Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bern to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 29 Aug

Cheapest price on 29 Aug

£70

Average ticket price on 29 Aug

£143

Fastest journey on 29 Aug

4 h 56 m

Average journey duration on 29 Aug

4 h 59 m

Trains on 29 Aug

11

Distance

445 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bern to Cologne will cost around £143 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £70.

Fast trains

To travel from Bern to Cologne you need to make at least one change.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228
    9:336h39
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    16:12Cologne Hbf
    £701One-way
    4 changes
  • Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918
    9:334h56
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    14:29Cologne Messe/Deutz
    £811One-way
    2 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 372 · IC 2545
    9:046h02
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    15:06Cologne Hbf
    £901One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnICE 372 · ICE 610
    9:045h01
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    14:05Cologne Hbf
    £901One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnIC 960 · ICE 200
    8:045h01
    Bern Hauptbahnhof
    13:05Cologne Hbf
    £901One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Bern to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bern to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £49 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 31m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £49, while a train costs an average of £99.

Distance: 445 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£99

Average Price

£49

Average Price

Cheapest

5h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 59m

Average total duration

8h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Bern to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Bern to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 960 · ICE 200
On time
8:04 Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
13:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
ÖBB | InterCityIC 960+ÖBB | ICEICE 200
On time
8:04 Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
13:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 372 · IC 2545
On time
9:04 Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
15:06 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 372 · ICE 610
On time
9:04 Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
14:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 372+ÖBB | InterCityIC 2545
On time
9:04 Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h02
15:06 Cologne Hbf
1 change
ÖBB | ICEICE 372 · ICE 610
On time
9:04 Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h01
14:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918
On time
9:33 Bern Hauptbahnhof
4h56
14:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 changes
Deutsche BahnIC 612 · ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 2289:33 Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h39
16:12 Cologne Hbf4 changes
ÖBB | InterCityIC 612+ÖBB | ICEICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 2289:33 Bern Hauptbahnhof
6h39
16:12 Cologne Hbf4 changes
ÖBB | InterCityIC 612+ÖBB | ICEICE 6 · ICE 918
On time
9:33 Bern Hauptbahnhof
4h56
14:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz
2 changes
ÖBB | InterCityIC 612+ÖBB | ICEICE 6 · ICE 918+ÖBBDB S199:33 Bern Hauptbahnhof
5h06
14:39 Cologne Hbf3 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bern to Cologne by train or coach

Compare train and coach 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.

Sat
29 Aug
Sun
30 Aug
Mon
31 Aug
Tue
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
Thu
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept

Why should you book Bern to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ÖBB | ICE or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Bern to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bern 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 or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Bern 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bern to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bern to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bern to Cologne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Bern to Cologne run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £39 but you can travel from only £30 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 445 km distance in 4h 56m.

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 £30
Distance
445 km
Average train duration
5h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
£39
Trains per day
13
Fastest train
4h 56m
First train
0:01
Last train
23:58
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
14 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 £30

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Bern to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Bern and Cologne from £30. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 56m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£39
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.
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.
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.
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 ÖBB | ICE Duration
6h 33m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
£171
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

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
5h 1m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
£110
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
7 a day

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.

  • Recommended

Museum Schnütgen

Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.

FAQs: Bern to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bern to Cologne by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Bern to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £39, while the average price tends to be around £99.
The train journey from Bern to Cologne covers a distance of 445 km and takes approximately 4h 56m. Trains run 13 per day.
The train distance from Bern to Cologne is 445 km.
The first train from Bern to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Bern to Cologne departs at 23:58.
Trains from Bern to Cologne run approximately 13 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bern to Cologne.
To get from Bern to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Bern to Cologne.
The train station in Bern that goes to Cologne is Bern Hauptbahnhof, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bern to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £30.
Booking trains from Bern 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 Bern to Cologne offers scenic views, especially through the Swiss countryside and along the Rhine River in Germany, showcasing charming villages, lush landscapes, and historic castles.
A day trip from Bern to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 56m each way. The distance between the two cities is 445 km and there are 9 trains per day.
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 Bern to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Bern and Cologne

Most Bern to Cologne trains use the Bern Hauptbahnhof to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Bern and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Bern
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Bern station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Bern to Cologne leave from Bern Hauptbahnhof. The station is 1 km from Bern city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 3011 Bern, Switzerland.
Bern HauptbahnhofBahnhofplatz, 3011 Bern, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Bern Hauptbahnhof from Bern city centre

Tram3, 6, 7, 8, 9 · 3m · £2 · every ~59 min

Bern Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services

Bern Hauptbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Lötschberg, Tibits Bern Gurtengasse

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bern Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bern Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bern Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa, Hotel Savoy Bern, Best Western Plus Hotel Bern.

More options for your journey from Bern to Cologne

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

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

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