Bielefeld to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC)

Tue 11 Aug
+ Add return
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Eurobahn
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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  • Deutsche Bahn89714 · ICE 956
    9:002h07
    Bielefeld Hbf
    11:07Cologne Hbf
    £241One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche Bahn89714
    9:002h52
    Bielefeld Hbf
    11:52Cologne Hbf
    £461One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn89716
    10:002h52
    Bielefeld Hbf
    12:52Cologne Hbf
    £461One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn89716 · 17415
    10:002h38
    Bielefeld Hbf
    12:38Cologne Hbf
    £461One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Bielefeld to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bielefeld to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £9, and a train costs an average of £7.

Distance: 164 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£17

Average Price

£14

Average Price

Cheapest

2h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 6m

Average total duration

2h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Bielefeld to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Bielefeld to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 11 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn89714 · ICE 956
Delayed
9:00 Bielefeld Hbf
2h07
9:42 9:42Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn897149:00 Bielefeld Hbf
2h52
11:52 Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn8971610:00 Bielefeld Hbf
2h52
12:52 Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn89716 · 1741510:00 Bielefeld Hbf
2h38
12:38 Cologne Hbf1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bielefeld 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.

Tue
11 Aug
Wed
12 Aug
Thu
13 Aug
Fri
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug
Sun
16 Aug
Mon
17 Aug

Why should you book Bielefeld to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurobahn and more offer trains services from Bielefeld to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bielefeld 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 FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Eurobahn to find the best option for your trip from Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld to Cologne.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Bielefeld to Cologne

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
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
IconVery positive experience
IconPunctual and uncomplicated
Disadvantages
IconHave none
The train connection was very punctual. The train arrived exactly at the scheduled departure time and reached its destination without any delays. This allowed for a stress-free journey planning. The ticket price was reasonable and affordable compared to other means of transport, but it would be desirable if there were even cheaper fares or discounts for travellers. The overall cleanliness of the train was good, the seats and floor were tidy and there were no obvious defects. However, regular cleaning during the journey could further improve the overall impression. The availability of free wifi on the train was a big plus, the connection was stable and allowed for reliable internet use throughout the journey. The toilets on the train were functional, but there were slight cleanliness issues. More intensive cleaning and regular checks would improve hygiene conditions. The seats were comfortable and ergonomically designed. There was sufficient legroom, and the ability to recline the seat contributed to a pleasant travelling experience.
Advantages
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconDelay
It was almost a given that the train would be late, so I didn't get upset at all. When we set off after a fifteen-minute delay, the rest of the journey was fine. My seat was clean and comfortable, so you feel at ease and not disgusted. The price was also good.
Advantages
IconWifi and power sockets were available
Iconno change
IconComfortable equipment
Disadvantages
Iconshort delay
IconRelatively expensive
Overall, the journey from Bielefeld to Cologne was very smooth and pleasant. Apart from the fact that the train was a few minutes late, there were no shortcomings during the journey. The availability of wifi, power sockets, WCs and friendly service made the journey even more pleasant. The short journey caused little inconvenience as there was no need to change trains.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bielefeld to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 164 km distance in 2h 10m.

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
164 km
Average train duration
2h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
£7
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
2h 10m
First train
0:05
Last train
23:58
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
28 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurobahn from Bielefeld to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurobahn trains will get you between Bielefeld and Cologne from £7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
£9
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.
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

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
2h 17m
Cheapest Price
£7
FlixTrain frequency
2 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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
£38
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
8 a day

Eurobahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 9m
Cheapest Price
£47
Eurobahn frequency
1 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: Bielefeld to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £7, while the average price tends to be around £17.
The train journey from Bielefeld to Cologne covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 2h 10m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Bielefeld to Cologne is 164 km.
The first train from Bielefeld to Cologne leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Bielefeld to Cologne departs at 23:58.
Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne run approximately 10 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bielefeld and Cologne. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To get from Bielefeld to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Bielefeld to Cologne.
The train station in Bielefeld that goes to Cologne is Bielefeld Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bielefeld to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £7.
Booking trains from Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Travellers can enjoy views of the Teutoburg Forest and the scenic countryside interspersed with glimpses of industrial regions, providing a varied visual experience.
A day trip from Bielefeld to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 10m, exceeding the 120-minute limit. However, trains run 10 times per day. The distance is 164 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 Bielefeld to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Bielefeld and Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Bielefeld
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Bielefeld station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne leave from Bielefeld Hbf. The station is from Bielefeld city centre at Bielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 Bielefeld.
Bielefeld HbfBielefeld Hbf, Am Bahnhof 1b, 33602 BielefeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bielefeld Hbf from Bielefeld city centre

Bus351, 350 · 3m · every ~4 min
Tram4, 3, 2, 1 · 3m · £2 · every ~32 min
2, 1, 3, 4 · 4m · £2 · every ~21 min

Bielefeld Hbf train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: McDonald's, Mexims, Entrada, Lokma

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bielefeld Hbf. ATMs are available at Bielefeld Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Information desks are available at Bielefeld Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bielefeld Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bielefeld Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bielefeld Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wali, Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld, Hotel Stadt Bremen, Bielefelder Hof.

BrackwedeBrackwede, Eisenbahnstr. 42, 33647 BielefeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Brackwede from Bielefeld city centre

Brackwede is 4 km from Bielefeld city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb75, Rb74 · 4m · £5 · every ~6 min
Bus88, 48 · 6m · every ~3 min
Tram1 · 11m · £2 · every ~12 min

Brackwede train station facilities and services

Brackwede has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Brackwede.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Brackwede. Information desks are available at Brackwede.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Brackwede. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brackwede: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Brackwede: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brackwede.

Bielefeld-SenneBielefeld-Senne, Windelsbleicher Straße, 33647 BielefeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bielefeld-Senne from Bielefeld city centre

Bielefeld-Senne is 7 km from Bielefeld city centre. Public transport options include:

BusN6 · 16m
Tram1 · 17m · £2 · every ~2 min
1 · 19m · £2 · every ~2 min

Bielefeld-Senne train station facilities and services

Bielefeld-Senne has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Wölke, Tebie Grill

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bielefeld-Senne. ATMs are available at Bielefeld-Senne.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bielefeld-Senne. Information desks are available at Bielefeld-Senne.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Bielefeld-Senne. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bielefeld-Senne: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bielefeld-Senne: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bielefeld-Senne.

Most popular train connections from Bielefeld

More options for your journey from Bielefeld to Cologne

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