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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Bielefeld
Showing times and prices for 21 Dec
Cheapest price
£5
Average price
£23
Fastest journey
2 h 7 m
Average duration
2 h 30 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld will cost around £23 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £5.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Bielefeld every day 5 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 30 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 50 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.
06:142h21
Cologne08:35Bielefeld
£51One-way
0 changes
14:142h21
Cologne16:35Bielefeld
£141One-way
0 changes
07:092h07
Cologne09:16Bielefeld
£261One-way
0 changes
12:072h50
Cologne14:57Bielefeld
£351One-way
0 changes
14:072h50
Cologne16:57Bielefeld
£351One-way
0 changes
07:092h07
Cologne09:16Bielefeld
£261One-way
0 changes
06:142h21
Cologne08:35Bielefeld
£51One-way
0 changes
14:142h21
Cologne16:35Bielefeld
£141One-way
0 changes
12:072h50
Cologne14:57Bielefeld
£351One-way
0 changes
14:072h50
Cologne16:57Bielefeld
£351One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cologne to Bielefeld
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bielefeld among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 17m. 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 £5, and a coach costs an average of £10.
Distance: 164 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£15 Average Price Cheapest | £15 Average Price |
2h 47m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 19m Average total duration 2h 49m 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
Cologne to Bielefeld train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bielefeld trains for today, Saturday 20 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:59
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 07:14 Cologne Hbf | 2h24 | 09:38 Bielefeld Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 555 | On time 07:44 Cologne Hbf | 1h41 | 09:25 Bielefeld Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 89715 | 08:07 Cologne Hbf | 2h50 | 10:57 Bielefeld Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 204 · IC 2441 | On time 08:11 Cologne Hbf | 2h07 | 10:18 Bielefeld Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 857 · 89715 | On time 08:45 Cologne Hbf | 2h12 | 10:57 Bielefeld Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 2204 · ICE 1547 | On time 08:46 Cologne Hbf | 2h17 | 11:03 Bielefeld Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixTrain | 11:14 Cologne Hbf | 2h24 | 13:38 Bielefeld Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bielefeld 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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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Bielefeld
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
Fast and affordableDisadvantages
NoneThe train service was generally reliable. And was rarely late. There were a few incidents where there were slight delays. The price-performance ratio was excellent, the ticket price was fair, especially considering the quality and comfort offered. The cleanliness of the train was mostly satisfactory. There was regular cleaning, but sometimes the parts were not as clean as you would expect. The wifi on board was stable and reliable. The connection speed made it possible to surf and work comfortably during the journey. The toilets were mostly clean and well maintained. Overall, a very satisfactory train journey.
Advantages
PriceWIFICleanlinessDisadvantages
UnpunctualI travelled from Cologne to Bielefeld for a notary appointment.
The train arrived a little late, but that was still okay, so within reason.
I had to change trains once during the journey. However, the trains made a modern, clean and well-kept impression. The sanitary facilities were also clean. The wifi offered on the ICE worked quite well. I would always prefer to take the train to relieve traffic congestion and protect the environment.
Advantages
speedEquipmentPriceDisadvantages
NoneThe train journey from Cologne to Bielefeld went very well and I am extremely satisfied. I travelled on the ICE and arrived at my destination very quickly, and the train was also on time. There was nothing missing in terms of facilities and I was able to surf the internet and charge my laptop without any problems. The price-performance ratio is marvellous and if the opportunity arises, I will travel again!
Advantages
Wifi and power socket was availableFriendly serviceVery cleanDisadvantages
Loud and fullThe journey from Cologne to Bielefeld was very smooth overall. Apart from the fact that the train was very crowded and noisy due to an event in Cologne, it was a quick journey with no delays and no changes. The train was clean and the price for this problem-free journey was fine.
Advantages
convenientFast and quietFew stopsLargely cleaninexpensiveDisadvantages
Unpunctuallittle legroomDespite the slight delay of around 30 minutes, the journey on ICE 557 from Cologne to Bielefeld was a relaxed and pleasant way to travel. The spacious seats and free wifi ensured comfort and entertainment during the journey. Despite the slight delay due to repair work, we reached our destination thanks to the fast journey time of just 1 hour and 40 minutes. In addition, great attention was paid to cleanliness throughout the train.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Bielefeld
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Bielefeld run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 164 km distance in 2h 9m.
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 17m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 2h 9m |
First train 00:07 |
Last train 23:51 |
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 from Cologne to Bielefeld trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express trains will get you between Cologne and Bielefeld from £5. 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 7m
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 21m
Cheapest Price
£5
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 26m
Cheapest Price
£33
National Express frequency
16 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.
FAQs: Cologne to Bielefeld train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
To explore Bielefeld's main attractions such as Sparrenburg Castle, the Old Market Square, and the Botanical Garden, a stay of two to three days is recommended.
In Bielefeld, visitors can enjoy hiking and nature trails in the scenic Teutoburg Forest, visit Tierpark Olderdissen to see native animals, and experience performances at the historic Bielefeld City Theatre. The Japanese Garden offers relaxation with its traditional design, while Heimat-Tierpark Olderdissen provides a family-friendly zoo experience. Key sights include Sparrenburg Castle for panoramic views, the historic Old Market Square, Kunsthalle Bielefeld for modern art, the serene Botanischer Garten Bielefeld, and Dr. Oetker Welt, an interactive museum about the famous food company.
Booking trains from Cologne to Bielefeld in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £5, while the average price tends to be around £15.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Bielefeld. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Bielefeld is by train, costing approximately £5.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Bielefeld is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Bielefeld Hbf.
To get from Cologne to Bielefeld, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
The train distance from Cologne to Bielefeld is 164 km.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Bielefeld.
The train journey from Cologne to Bielefeld covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 2h 9m. Trains run 11 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Bielefeld leaves at 0:07.
The last train from Cologne to Bielefeld departs at 23:51.
Trains from Cologne to Bielefeld run approximately 11 times per day.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Bielefeld.
The train journey from Cologne to Bielefeld offers a pleasant experience with views of the German countryside, including rolling hills and occasional river scenes, though it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in Germany.
A day trip from Cologne to Bielefeld is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 9m. However, there are 11 train trips available per day for this 164 km journey.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Bielefeld
Cologne
Bielefeld
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 Bielefeld.
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
- 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/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
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
The major train station for arrivals in Bielefeld is Bielefeld Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bielefeld Hbf for your journey to Bielefeld from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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
Bielefeld-Senne
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Wölke
- Tebie Grill
Brake(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
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Bielefeld
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bielefeld and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Bielefeld
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