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

Wed 14 Jan
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Berlin

Showing times and prices for 15 Jan

Cheapest price

£19

Average price

£59

Fastest journey

4 h 8 m

Average duration

4 h 17 m

Trains per day

31

Distance

478 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Berlin will cost around £59 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £19.

Fast trains

Of the 31 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Berlin every day 15 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 478 km distance in an average of 4 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 8 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 31 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.

Deutsche BahnICE 1541
23:226h26
Cologne Hbf
05:48Berlin Hbf
£191One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 619 · ICE 698
23:548h12
Cologne Hbf
08:06Berlin Hbf
£211One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 1541 · 3704
23:226h21
Cologne Hbf
05:43Berlin Hbf
£231One-way
1 change
FlixTrainFlixTrain
08:145h12
Cologne Hbf
13:26Berlin Hbf
£281One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
08:145h26
Cologne Hbf
13:40Berlin Ostbahnhof
£281One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne Hbf to Berlin

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Berlin among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £15. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £15, and a flight costs an average of £45.

Distance: 478 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£38

Average Price

£30

Average Price

Cheapest

£189

Average Price

5h 36m

Average total duration

5h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 10m

Average total duration

7h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 28m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Berlin train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Berlin trains for today, Wednesday 14 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 04:15
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 853
Delayed
04:44 Cologne Hbf
4h32
09:17 09:17Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 553
Delayed
05:45 Cologne Hbf
4h10
10:01 10:01Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 855
On time
06:45 Cologne Hbf
4h31
11:16 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 857
On time
08:22 Cologne Hbf
4h54
13:16 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn17322 · ICE 857
On time
08:25 Cologne Hbf
4h51
13:16 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 121 · ICE 930
On time
08:28 Cologne Hbf
5h26
13:54 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahn28510 · ICE 621 · ICE 930
On time
08:31 Cologne Hbf
5h23
13:54 Berlin Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahn17330 · ICE 859
On time
10:25 Cologne Hbf
4h51
15:16 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahn28514 · ICE 625 · ICE 838
On time
10:31 Cologne Hbf
5h23
15:54 Berlin Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahn17338 · ICE 951
On time
12:25 Cologne Hbf
4h51
17:16 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 651 · ICE 641
On time
13:44 Cologne Hbf
4h32
18:16 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahn17346 · ICE 953
On time
14:25 Cologne Hbf
4h51
19:16 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 125 · ICE 834
On time
14:28 Cologne Hbf
5h26
19:54 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahn28522 · ICE 723 · ICE 834
On time
14:31 Cologne Hbf
5h23
19:54 Berlin Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahn17354 · ICE 955
On time
16:25 Cologne Hbf
4h55
21:20 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1159
On time
17:18 Cologne Hbf
4h08
21:26 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 655
On time
17:44 Cologne Hbf
4h19
22:03 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn17430 · ICE 947
On time
18:21 Cologne Hbf
5h05
23:26 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 129 · ICE 274
On time
18:28 Cologne Hbf
6h27
00:55 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahn28530 · ICE 821 · ICE 274
On time
18:31 Cologne Hbf
6h24
00:55 Berlin Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 1541 · 73713
On time
22:27 Cologne Hbf
6h30
04:57 Berlin Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1541
On time
22:27 Cologne Hbf
6h34
05:01 Berlin Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 619 · ICE 698
On time
22:54 Cologne Hbf
8h12
07:06 Berlin Hbf
1 change
Thursday 15 January
deutsche_bahnICE 54103:12 Cologne Hbf
5h04
08:16 Berlin Hbf0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Berlin by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach and flight 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.

Thu
15 Jan
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Tue
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Wed
04 Feb

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Berlin

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
IconPunctuality
Iconvery good food
My train arrived on time. I really have to mention that the food I ate on the train was very tasty. The staff were, very pleasant, I felt very comfortable and also when using the toilets. The heaters were on, the train looked very nice inside and out and the view was great too. I am very happy to recommend this trip, five out of five stars.
Advantages
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconPeople who do not keep to the seat reservation
The train journey from Cologne to Berlin by train was relatively acceptable. There were free power sockets, free wifi, good service and you didn't have to change trains. Let's move on to the seats. Some passengers do not pay attention to the fact that some people have reserved a seat and sit down somewhere. The seats were relatively comfortable, but after sitting for a long time, your 4 letters hurt. The toilets were not cleaned, but it was enough for a little pee break. DB and punctuality is also never the truth Conclusion: The ride was Ok, for the price you can possibly get something better.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
IconComfortable
When I arrived at the station, the train was nice and on time and when I got on, I was greeted nicely. The staff were in a very good mood and there were many staff. It was very clean on the train and I liked the food. The wifi was good and I was comfortable on the train and also had sockets at the seat. I am happy to pass on the trip.
Advantages
IconThere was a power socket so I could charge my mobile phone
IconVery stable wifi
Disadvantages
IconThe train was a little late
There was stable wifi and also a power socket so I could charge my mobile phone. The seats were very comfortable and the train ride was very quiet. The ticket was not too expensive and I also had the reservation. Price performance just top, I can recommend to everyone. this was my outward journey in second class, I travelled alone. I would also like to mention the punctuality of the train.
Advantages
Iconkind staff
IconA TV
You had a lot of space at the place and a table at seat. What was also very good was that there were dishes from many cakes. The best thing was that the staff were very cheerful and very nice. The amazing thing was that they had a TV, which is amazing. The volume on the train was very pleasant. The train looked very modern. The ride was very good(5out of 5 stars), I recommend the ride to everyone. Cleanliness was definitely there. Also, this was my return journey in 2nd class.
Advantages
IconOn time
IconDirect connection
IconQuick
Disadvantages
IconExpensive
The train left Cologne on time and arrived in Berlin without delay. As it was a night journey, it was very quiet in the compartment. One could sleep well. The train was very sour, there was no rubbish lying around. The toilet worked and were also sour. The on-board restaurant was also open. Despite Sparpreis and BahnCard, the train was very expensive.
Advantages
Iconnice employees
Iconclean train
The train was very nice inside, it was clean, I sat very comfortably on the seat, the windows were clean, the toilets inside were perfectly clean, I used the internet to drink my cafe, took a video on social media and made a comment, I recommend it to everyone, I want to share something with you without forgetting that the workers are very respectful and friendly.
Advantages
Iconsharp conductor
IconPunctuality
We would like to thank the nice and very attentive conductor. He welcomed us in a friendly manner from the very beginning and was patient and kind all the way to the end of the journey. Thank you very much again! The staff were extremely friendly. The train arrived on time. The on-board restaurant was open and the coffee there is really delicious. The seats were very comfortable. It was a great ride, so I recommend it to others.
Advantages
Iconpunctual
Iconrapid travel
Icongood wifi
Disadvantages
Iconlittle space for large suitcases
We travelled from Cologne to Berlin by ICE in November 2022 and had a great outward journey overall. The train arrived on time and was also at the destination at the specified time. We had reserved seats as we had already been shown a high occupancy rate before booking. This was definitely very advantageous as the train was very crowded. The seats were comfortable and offered enough space. The wifi was good and offered a stable internet connection even in rural areas. The toilets were very clean and the staff very helpful. The only criticism is the limited storage space for larger luggage, as we had two large suitcases with us. Overall, however, it was a very pleasant train journey. Thank you for that!
Advantages
IconVery good service
Icontasty food
It was a wonderful trip, incredible and good journey on the train because all the staff provided absolutely very good service to the people. I was more than satisfied with the travel. I travelled for about 4 hours and those 4 hours felt very good. The atmosphere was great, the service was also great as I said. There were many desserts, cold and hot drinks and many types of food. Very hospitable and unique staff who served the passers-by all the time. I recommend it to everyone to travel with this train as everything was great, I am very positively surprised. Such a great thing for such a price, absolutely great ride and deserves 5 stars. Also a very clean train.
Advantages
IconRelaxed
Disadvantages
IconNone
I was surprised how relaxed the journey was, mainly because I didn't have to change trains and the train was on time. The service was good, the staff were friendly and you were always informed exactly where you were. The seats were comfortable and I had plenty of legroom. The train was clean and tidy. For these reasons, I think the value for money is very good
Advantages
IconGood service
IconGood comfort
IconVery clean
IconModern equipment
Disadvantages
IconLong journey
IconExpensive ticket
My train journey from Cologne to Berlin was fabulous, except for the long journey and the expensive ticket. Both were really expensive and took a lot of time, but everything else was perfect. The service was extremely nice, courteous and always available. The seats were very comfortable and there was plenty of legroom. Hygiene was also good throughout the train, especially in the toilets, where it was very important to me personally. Modern equipment and by that I mean the wifi and power sockets were both available and functional. As I said, almost perfect.
Advantages
IconService
IconComfort
Disadvantages
IconSockets
IconHygiene
The perfect thing about travelling with Deutsche Bahn is that you don't have any stress on the train itself. The journey was very comfortable and convenient. The railway staff are always friendly and helpful. I sometimes travel in 1st or 2nd class and I have to say that the seats are very comfortable everywhere. What bothers me a lot are the few power sockets, as I have to work a lot on the train with my laptop and mobile phone.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Berlin

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Berlin run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £10 if you book in advance.

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:13, the last at 21:49. The fastest train covers the 478 km distance in 4h 17m.

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
5h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
£10
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
8
Fastest train
4h 17m
First train
04:13
Last train
21:49
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 from Cologne Hbf to Berlin trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Berlin from £10. 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
4h 21m
Cheapest Price
£33
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
4h 56m
Cheapest Price
£10
FlixTrain frequency
4 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

FAQs: Cologne Hbf to Berlin train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Berlin 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 Berlin, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Berlin can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £10, while the average price tends to be around £38.
The train journey from Cologne Hbf to Berlin covers a distance of 478 km and takes approximately 4h 17m. Trains run 13 per day.
The train distance from Cologne Hbf to Berlin is 478 km.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Berlin leaves at 4:13.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Berlin departs at 21:49.
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Berlin run approximately 13 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne Hbf and Berlin. The service operates 8 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
To get from Cologne Hbf to Berlin, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Cologne Hbf to Berlin.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Berlin is by train, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Cologne Hbf to Berlin in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Berlin offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, with views of the Rhine River, rolling countryside, and glimpses of historic towns and cities along the route.
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Berlin is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 17m. Trains run 13 times per day over a distance of 478 km.
In Berlin, you can explore the vibrant street art scene in Kreuzberg and enjoy a leisurely boat tour on the River Spree. Visit the bustling markets at Mauerpark and experience the nightlife in the trendy district of Friedrichshain. Don't miss attending a classical concert at the Berlin Philharmonic. For sightseeing, the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island, Reichstag Building, and Charlottenburg Palace offer rich historical and cultural experiences.
To fully experience Berlin, a visit of 3 to 4 days is recommended, allowing time to explore key attractions such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, and Museum Island.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Berlin.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cologne Hbf and Berlin

Cologne
Berlin
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Berlin.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

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