Charleroi to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Tue 20 Oct
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleroi to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct

Cheapest price on 20 Oct

£29

Average ticket price on 20 Oct

£61

Fastest journey on 20 Oct

2 h 45 m

Average journey duration on 20 Oct

2 h 51 m

Trains on 20 Oct

19

Distance

186 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Charleroi to Cologne will cost around £61 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £29.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnIC 5718 · ICE 313
    18:392h45
    Charleroi-Sud
    21:24Cologne Hbf
    £291One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3816 · ICE 19
    17:182h57
    Charleroi-Sud
    20:15Cologne Hbf
    £341One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3812 · ICE 17
    13:182h57
    Charleroi-Sud
    16:15Cologne Hbf
    £361One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3814 · ICE 317
    15:182h57
    Charleroi-Sud
    18:15Cologne Hbf
    £361One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnIC 4505 · ICE 11
    5:242h52
    Charleroi-Sud
    8:16Cologne Hbf
    £431One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Charleroi to Cologne

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Charleroi to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £28 but you can travel from only £8 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 01:23, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 186 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £8
Distance
186 km
Average train duration
2h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
£28
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 10m
First train
1:23
Last train
23:15
Cheapest Month
Sept
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Tue
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £8

Live departures

Charleroi to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Charleroi to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 20 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 4505 · ICE 11
On time
5:24 Charleroi-Sud
2h52
8:16 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 3806 · ICE 13
On time
7:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h58
10:16 Cologne Hbf
1 change
SNCB3807+Eurostar94118:10 Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
11:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCB3807+Eurostar94118:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
11:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 3808 · ICE 15
On time
9:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
12:15 Cologne Hbf
1 change
SNCB3809+Eurostar942310:10 Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
13:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCB3809+Eurostar942310:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
13:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 5710 · ICE 311
On time
10:39 Charleroi-Sud
2h45
13:24 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 3810 · ICE 315
On time
11:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
14:15 Cologne Hbf
1 change
SNCB3811+Eurostar943512:10 Marchienne-au-Pont
3h04
15:14 Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCB3811+Eurostar943512:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h56
15:14 Cologne Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 3812 · ICE 17
On time
13:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
16:15 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 3814 · ICE 317
On time
15:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
18:15 Cologne Hbf
1 change
SNCB3815+Eurostar945916:10 Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
19:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCB3815+Eurostar945916:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
19:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 3816 · ICE 19
On time
17:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
20:15 Cologne Hbf
1 change
SNCB3817+Eurostar947118:10 Marchienne-au-Pont
3h05
21:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCB3817+Eurostar947118:18 Charleroi-Sud
2h57
21:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 5718 · ICE 313
On time
18:39 Charleroi-Sud
2h45
21:24 Cologne Hbf
1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Charleroi to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Intercity, Eurostar, SNCB and more offer trains services from Charleroi to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Charleroi 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 Intercity, Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Eurostar or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Charleroi to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Charleroi to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB, Eurostar, Intercity from Charleroi to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB, Eurostar, Intercity trains will get you between Charleroi and Cologne from £8. 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
2h 10m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£28
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurostar Duration
2h 33m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
£35
Eurostar frequency
15 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \InterCity\" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, \"Intercity\" or \"IC\" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph)."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Intercity Price
£47
Intercity frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

SNCB

About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCB Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest SNCB Price
£51
SNCB frequency
8 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.

Best day trips from Cologne by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cologne are Bonn, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Koblenz and Dortmund. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cologne on Omio.

A view of Bonn

Day trip from Cologne to Bonn by train

Why visit Bonn for the day?

Bonn is best known as Beethoven’s birthplace and the former capital of West Germany. Set on the Rhine, it feels calm and cultured, with museums, leafy neighbourhoods and a strong university presence.

How to get from Cologne to Bonn by train?

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 19m.

A view of Düsseldorf

Day trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train

Why visit Düsseldorf for the day?

Düsseldorf is known for fashion, contemporary art and its lively Altstadt on the Rhine. Sleek shopping streets, traditional breweries and bold modern architecture give it a polished yet sociable character.

How to get from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train?

There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 14m.

A view of Aachen

Day trip from Cologne to Aachen by train

Why visit Aachen for the day?

Aachen is best known for its cathedral and its close ties to Charlemagne and imperial history. Near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, it feels compact, youthful and international, with thermal spa traditions and a busy university scene.

How to get from Cologne to Aachen by train?

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 63 km distance in 31m.

A view of Koblenz

Day trip from Cologne to Koblenz by train

Why visit Koblenz for the day?

Koblenz sits at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle, with a historic centre shaped by Roman beginnings and river trade. It is known for the Deutsches Eck and Ehrenbreitstein, while vineyards and waterfront views give it a calm, lived-in feel.

How to get from Cologne to Koblenz by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 78 km distance in 44m.

A view of Dortmund

Day trip from Cologne to Dortmund by train

Why visit Dortmund for the day?

Dortmund is a Ruhr city known for football, brewing heritage and its industrial roots. Former worksites, parks and modern cultural venues give it a practical, lively character.

How to get from Cologne to Dortmund by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 74 km distance in 57m.

FAQs: Charleroi to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £28, while the average price tends to be around £62.
The train journey from Charleroi to Cologne covers a distance of 186 km and takes approximately 2h 10m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Charleroi to Cologne is 186 km.
The first train from Charleroi to Cologne leaves at 1:23.
The last train from Charleroi to Cologne departs at 23:15.
Trains from Charleroi to Cologne run approximately 7 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Charleroi to Cologne.
Yes, there is a night train from Charleroi to Cologne.
The train station in Charleroi that goes to Cologne is Charleroi-Sud, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
Booking trains from Charleroi 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 Charleroi to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Belgian countryside, charming small towns, and the gradual transition to the industrial landscapes of Germany as you approach Cologne.
Yes, you can take the train from Charleroi to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Charleroi and Cologne

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

Departure train stations in Charleroi
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Charleroi station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Charleroi to Cologne leave from Charleroi-Sud. The station is 1 km from Charleroi city centre at Place Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium.
Charleroi-SudPlace Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Charleroi-Sud from Charleroi city centre

SubwayM2, M3 · 3m · £2 · every ~15 min

Charleroi-Sud train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: La Manufacture Urbaine, Le Pain Quotidien

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Charleroi-Sud. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Charleroi-Sud. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Charleroi-Sud: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Charleroi-Sud: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Charleroi-Sud: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare, Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center, Novotel Charleroi Centre.

Lodelinsart6042 Charleroi, BelgiumDiningAccessibilityBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Lodelinsart from Charleroi city centre

Lodelinsart is 2 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainL, S61 · 4m · £1 · every ~2 min
BusBus · 11m
18 · 20m · £2 · every ~5 min

Lodelinsart train station facilities and services

Lodelinsart has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Lodelinsart.

Bike and car services

Available at Lodelinsart: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lodelinsart.

Marchienne-au-Pont6030 Charleroi, BelgiumDiningBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Marchienne-au-Pont from Charleroi city centre

Marchienne-au-Pont is 3 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIc, S62, S19, L, S1, P, T, Ext · 4m · £1 · every ~12 min
Bus43, 71, 83 · 12m · £2 · every ~9 min

Marchienne-au-Pont train station facilities and services

Marchienne-au-Pont has practical services for this route, including Dining and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Marchienne-au-Pont.

Bike and car services

Available at Marchienne-au-Pont: Bike Parking.

More options for your journey from Charleroi to Cologne

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

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