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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bielefeld to Cologne
Showing times and prices for 12 Nov
Cheapest price
£13
Average price
£38
Fastest journey
2 h 7 m
Average duration
2 h 10 m
Trains per day
25
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bielefeld to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bielefeld to Cologne will cost around £38 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.
Fast trains
Of the 25 trains that leave Bielefeld for Cologne every day 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 7 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 13 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.
FlixTrain15:252h21
Bielefeld Hbf17:46Cologne Hbf
£131One-way
0 changes
IC 204208:402h07
Bielefeld Hbf10:47Cologne Hbf
£281One-way
0 changes
ICE 642 · ICE 22911:282h19
Bielefeld Hbf13:47Cologne Hbf
£301One-way
1 change
ICE 644 · ICE 62509:282h14
Bielefeld Hbf11:42Cologne Messe/Deutz
£301One-way
1 change
ICE 644 · ICE 51709:282h19
Bielefeld Hbf11:47Cologne Hbf
£301One-way
1 change
IC 204208:402h07
Bielefeld Hbf10:47Cologne Hbf
£281One-way
0 changes
IC 2044 · ICE 10710:402h09
Bielefeld Hbf12:49Cologne Hbf
£341One-way
1 change
RE 89720 · ICE 95212:012h11
Bielefeld Hbf14:12Cologne Hbf
£491One-way
1 change
RE 89716 · ICE 95410:012h11
Bielefeld Hbf12:12Cologne Hbf
£491One-way
1 change
RE 89712 · ICE 95607:592h13
Bielefeld Hbf10:12Cologne Hbf
£391One-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 train with prices starting from £7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 16m. 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 train costs an average of £7, and a coach costs an average of £11.
Distance: 164 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£15 Average Price Cheapest | £15 Average Price |
2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration 2h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 today, Tuesday 11 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 05:59
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RE 89712 · ICE 956 | Delayed 06:59 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h13 | 09:21 09:21Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| IC 2042 | Delayed 07:40 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h07 | 09:58 09:58Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| RE 89714 · RE 17413 | On time 08:01 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h37 | 10:38 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| RE 89714 | On time 08:01 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h49 | 10:50 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 644 · ICE 625 | On time 08:28 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h14 | 10:42 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
| ICE 644 · ICE 517 | Delayed 08:28 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h19 | 11:04 11:04Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 1052 | On time 08:55 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h15 | 11:10 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| RE 89716 · ICE 954 | On time 09:01 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h11 | 11:12 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| RE 89716 | On time 09:01 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h51 | 11:52 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 14:25 Bielefeld Hbf | 2h21 | 16:46 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
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.
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12 Nov
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Bielefeld 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
Very positive experiencePunctual and uncomplicatedDisadvantages
Have noneThe 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
ComfortDisadvantages
DelayIt 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
Wifi and power sockets were availableno changeComfortable equipmentDisadvantages
short delayRelatively expensiveOverall, 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
Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. 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 6m.
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 16m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 6m |
First train 00:05 |
Last train 23:58 |
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, National Express, Eurobahn from Bielefeld to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, 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 6m
Cheapest Price
£9
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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
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 19m
Cheapest Price
£6
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
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Price
£33
National Express frequency
14 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Eurobahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Price
£39
Eurobahn frequency
2 a day
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.
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 distance from Bielefeld to Cologne is 164 km.
The train journey from Bielefeld to Cologne covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 2h 6m. Trains run 10 per day.
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 £15.
The cheapest way to get from Bielefeld to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £7.
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
The train station in Bielefeld that goes to Cologne is Bielefeld Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The first train from Bielefeld to Cologne leaves at 0:05.
Yes, you can take the train from Bielefeld to Cologne.
The last train from Bielefeld to Cologne departs at 23:58.
Trains from Bielefeld to Cologne run approximately 10 times per day.
There is no night train service from Bielefeld to Cologne.
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.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bielefeld and Cologne. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express.
To get from Bielefeld to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bielefeld and Cologne
Bielefeld
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Bielefeld is Bielefeld Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bielefeld Hbf for your trip from Bielefeld to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 06:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:30
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Dining
- McDonald's
- Mexims
- Entrada
- Lokma
Hotel
- Wali
- Altstadt Hotel Bielefeld
- Hotel Stadt Bremen
- Bielefelder Hof
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskBrake(b Bielefeld)
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
6 kmDining
- Braker Grill
- Holzweiler's Schnellimbiss
- Da Carmela
- La Perla
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Bielefeld.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
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
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
10 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Hotel
- Haus Wester
Köln-Chorweiler Nord
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
11 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
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 Airport-Businesspark
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Yilmaz
- Bistro im Park
- Restaurant Fernandes
- Orient Palais Restaurants & Catering
Köln-Nippes
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Hanoi46
- Aida
- Vasco da Gama
- Alforat Grill & Pizza
Köln, Porz Bf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskPorz-Wahn
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
12 kmDining
- Brauhaus Eltzhof
- Cafe Wanda
- East Time
- Olymp
Most popular train connections from Bielefeld
More options for your journey from Bielefeld to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Bielefeld
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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