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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Brussels
Showing times and prices for 10 Jan
Cheapest price
£41
Average price
£62
Fastest journey
1 h 52 m
Average duration
1 h 53 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
183 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Brussels is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Brussels will cost around £62 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £41.
Fast trains
Of the 7 trains that leave Cologne for Brussels every day 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 1 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 52 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 56 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.
941406:391h56
Cologne Hbf08:35Brussels-Midi
£411One-way
0 changes
ICE 31609:411h54
Cologne Hbf11:35Brussels-Midi
£571One-way
0 changes
ICE 31413:421h53
Cologne Hbf15:35Brussels-Midi
£571One-way
0 changes
ICE 1611:431h52
Cologne Hbf13:35Brussels-Midi
£571One-way
0 changes
942608:391h56
Cologne Hbf10:35Brussels-Midi
£681One-way
0 changes
ICE 1611:431h52
Cologne Hbf13:35Brussels-Midi
£571One-way
0 changes
947416:431h52
Cologne Hbf18:35Brussels-Midi
£781One-way
0 changes
ICE 31413:421h53
Cologne Hbf15:35Brussels-Midi
£571One-way
0 changes
ICE 31609:411h54
Cologne Hbf11:35Brussels-Midi
£571One-way
0 changes
941406:391h56
Cologne Hbf08:35Brussels-Midi
£411One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Brussels
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Brussels among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £12, and a flight costs an average of £336.
Distance: 183 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£61 Average Price | £20 Average Price Cheapest | £612 Average Price |
2h 41m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 4m Average total duration 9h 4m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Brussels train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Brussels trains for today, Friday 9 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 19:23
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 318 | Delayed 20:38 20:29Cologne Hbf | 2h06 | 22:35 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 10 January | |||||
| 9414 | 05:39 Cologne Hbf | 1h56 | 07:35 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9426 | 07:39 Cologne Hbf | 1h56 | 09:35 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 316 | Delayed 08:53 08:41Cologne Hbf | 1h54 | 10:38 10:38Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 16 | Delayed 10:54 10:43Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 12:39 12:39Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9450 | 11:39 Cologne Hbf | 1h56 | 13:35 Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 314 | Delayed 12:54 12:42Cologne Hbf | 1h53 | 14:38 14:38Brussels-Midi | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9474 | 15:43 Cologne Hbf | 1h52 | 17:35 Brussels-Midi | 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 Brussels 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Brussels?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Brussels is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Brussels route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Brussels per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Brussels.
Trains
from £31Coaches
from £16Flights
from £23ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Brussels
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
uncomplicatedPunctualDisadvantages
NoneThe train connection from Cologne to Brussels was generally on time.
However, there was a slight delay of about 10 minutes on the outward journey, which was not dramatic, but still worth noting. The cleanliness of the train was excellent. The seats, floors and windows were in a very neat condition.
The cleaning staff seemed to do their job very well.
There were power outlets at most seats, which was very convenient for charging electronic devices while travelling. The train was well accessible for people with reduced mobility. There were ramps and enough space for wheelchairs.
The toilets were clean and well maintained. There were enough toilets on the train. Overall, the train journey from Cologne to Brussels was very pleasant.
The punctuality, cleanliness and accessibility were particularly commendable.
Advantages
PunctualGood price-performance ratioDisadvantages
Everything okayThe punctuality of the train was very good. The train departed and arrived exactly on schedule. The ticket price was reasonable compared to other means of transport. The journey was comfortable and pleasant, the cleanliness of the train was impressive, the compartments were well maintained and the cleaning staff were always present. The toilets were clean but lacked some basic furniture. A refill of soap and paper towels would be desirable. The seats on the train were extremely comfortable and provided ample space. The backrests were adjustable and there was plenty of legroom. The cushioning was pleasant, which contributed to a relaxed and comfortable journey. Overall, the train journey was a positive experience, with punctuality and good seating comfort.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Brussels
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Cologne to Brussels run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:01. The fastest train covers the 183 km distance in 1h 49m.
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 £12
Distance 183 km |
Average train duration 2h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 1h 49m |
First train 00:10 |
Last train 23:01 |
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 £12
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Österreichische Bundesbahnen from Cologne to Brussels trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Österreichische Bundesbahnen trains will get you between Cologne and Brussels from £12. 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
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
£38
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
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 Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
£17
Eurostar frequency
8 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
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 44m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Cologne to Brussels train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Brussels 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 Brussels, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Brussels can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £61.
A day trip from Cologne to Brussels is feasible with a journey time of 1h 49m. The distance is 183 km, and there are 8 trains per day.
To explore Brussels' main attractions, including the Grand Place, Atomium, and various museums, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
The train journey from Cologne to Brussels offers a pleasant view of the countryside, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhineland and the scenic regions of Belgium, though it is not considered one of the most scenic routes in Europe.
Explore the vibrant Marolles district, known for its eclectic mix of antique shops and street art. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire, home to impressive arches and museums. Sample Belgian chocolates at renowned chocolatiers, and discover the lively atmosphere of the Saint-Géry district with trendy bars and cafes. Attend a performance at the historic La Monnaie opera house. Visit Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Atomium for panoramic city views, the famous Manneken Pis statue, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and the Magritte Museum for surrealist art.
Booking trains from Cologne to Brussels in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Brussels is by coach, costing approximately £12.
The train distance from Cologne to Brussels is 183 km.
The train journey from Cologne to Brussels covers a distance of 183 km and takes approximately 1h 49m. Trains run 8 per day.
The last train from Cologne to Brussels departs at 23:01.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Brussels is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Brussels-Midi.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Brussels. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Österreichische Bundesbahnen.
The first train from Cologne to Brussels leaves at 0:10.
Trains from Cologne to Brussels run approximately 8 times per day.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Brussels.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Brussels.
To get from Cologne to Brussels, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Brussels
Cologne
Brussels
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 Brussels.
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.
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/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
The major train station for arrivals in Brussels is Bruxelles-Midi. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bruxelles-Midi for your journey to Brussels from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 21:30
Wifi
- Wi-Fi is available for a fee.
Lockers
- Baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Dining
- Pullman Hotel Bar
- Quick Gare du Midi
- Subway
- EXKi Zuid
- Starbucks
- Häagen-Dazs
- Sbarro
- The Coffee Club
- The Belgian Chocolate House
- PAUL
- & many more
Accessibility
- Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Hotel
- Les Lofts De Styliste
- Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi
- Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
Information Desk
- Located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Dining
- Starbucks
- Brasserie 28 Brewery
- Panos
- Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Accessibility
- Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Hotel
- Hilton Brussels Grand Palace
- Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe
- Hôtel The Moon
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Public transport options for Bruxelles-Central
- Metro lines: 1, 5
- Train lines: IC, Intercity Direct 9200, RER (S1, S2, S3, S6, S8, S10)
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Rue du Progrès.
Dining
- Chabrol Brasserie
- Winok Café
- Félix Wine Bar
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Progress
- Hilton Brussels City
- Hotel Siru
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 7-12 for regional and local trains
Public transport options for Brussels-Nord
- Metro: Line 3, Line 4
- Tram: Line 25, Line 55
- Bus: Several lines available
More options for your journey from Cologne to Brussels
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brussels and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Brussels
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