1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Ghent
Showing times and prices for 17 Dec
Cheapest price
£56
Average price
£62
Fastest journey
2 h 25 m
Average duration
2 h 34 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
227 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Ghent is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Ghent will cost around £62 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £56.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Ghent 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 227 km distance in an average of 2 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 37 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.
07:412h38
Cologne10:19Ghent
£561One-way
0 changes
11:422h37
Cologne14:19Ghent
£561One-way
0 changes
05:412h25
Cologne08:06Ghent
£621One-way
0 changes
19:422h37
Cologne22:19Ghent
£671One-way
0 changes
13:252h50
Cologne16:15Ghent
£671One-way
0 changes
05:412h25
Cologne08:06Ghent
£621One-way
0 changes
13:412h34
Cologne16:15Ghent
£811One-way
0 changes
09:422h37
Cologne12:19Ghent
£751One-way
0 changes
11:422h37
Cologne14:19Ghent
£561One-way
0 changes
19:422h37
Cologne22:19Ghent
£671One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne to Ghent
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Ghent among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 33m. 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 £11, and a flight costs an average of £270.
Distance: 227 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£72 Average Price | £28 Average Price Cheapest | £587 Average Price |
3h 3m Average total duration Fastest 2h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration 4h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 10m Average total duration 5h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg 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 Ghent train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ghent trains for today, Tuesday 16 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 04:09
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 18 · IC 2831 | On time 06:43 Cologne Hbf | 2h36 | 09:19 Ghent St Pieters | 1 change | |
| ICE 316 · IC 2833 | On time 08:41 Cologne Hbf | 2h38 | 11:19 Ghent St Pieters | 1 change | |
| ICE 16 · IC 2835 | On time 10:43 Cologne Hbf | 2h36 | 13:19 Ghent St Pieters | 1 change | |
| ICE 314 · IC 2837 | On time 12:42 Cologne Hbf | 2h37 | 15:19 Ghent St Pieters | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Ghent 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.
Tue
16 Dec
16 Dec
Wed
17 Dec
17 Dec
Thu
18 Dec
18 Dec
Fri
19 Dec
19 Dec
Sat
20 Dec
20 Dec
Sun
21 Dec
21 Dec
Mon
22 Dec
22 Dec
Tue
23 Dec
23 Dec
Wed
24 Dec
24 Dec
Thu
25 Dec
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec
26 Dec
Sat
27 Dec
27 Dec
Sun
28 Dec
28 Dec
Mon
29 Dec
29 Dec
Tue
30 Dec
30 Dec
Wed
31 Dec
31 Dec
Thu
01 Jan
01 Jan
Fri
02 Jan
02 Jan
Sat
03 Jan
03 Jan
Sun
04 Jan
04 Jan
Mon
05 Jan
05 Jan
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Ghent?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Ghent is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Ghent route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Ghent 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 Ghent.
Trains
from £35Coaches
from £15Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Ghent
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Cologne to Ghent run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £28 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 227 km distance in 2h 25m.
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 £11
Distance 227 km |
Average train duration 2h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price £28 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 25m |
First train 00:07 |
Last train 23:55 |
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 £11
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, PKP Intercity from Cologne to Ghent trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, PKP Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Ghent from £11. 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 25m
Cheapest Price
£43
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.
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
2h 33m
Cheapest Price
£28
Eurostar frequency
3 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
PKP 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
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
FAQs: Cologne to Ghent train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Ghent 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 Ghent, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
In Ghent, visitors can explore the charming Patershol neighbourhood, known for its narrow streets and diverse dining options. The city is also renowned for its vibrant street art scene, with murals and installations scattered throughout. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Design Museum Ghent and the Museum of Fine Arts, which showcase contemporary and historical pieces. For a glimpse into Ghent's history, visit the medieval Gravensteen castle and Saint Bavo's Cathedral with its famous Ghent Altarpiece. Enjoy panoramic views from the Belfry of Ghent or take a boat tour along the canals for a unique perspective. Additionally, a bike ride along the city's extensive cycling paths offers a leisurely way to explore. Don't miss Graslei and Korenlei, picturesque streets along the river lined with historic guild houses.
Booking trains from Cologne to Ghent in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cologne to Ghent offers scenic views of the rolling countryside, picturesque towns, and charming landscapes typical of the regions it traverses.
You typically need about two to three days in Ghent to explore its historic sites, such as Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral, enjoy its vibrant arts scene, and experience local cuisine and culture.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Ghent can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £28, while the average price tends to be around £72.
The train journey from Cologne to Ghent covers a distance of 227 km and takes approximately 2h 25m. Trains run 6 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Ghent is by coach, costing approximately £11.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Ghent is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Ghent St Pieters.
The train distance from Cologne to Ghent is 227 km.
The first train from Cologne to Ghent leaves at 0:07.
Trains from Cologne to Ghent run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Ghent.
The last train from Cologne to Ghent departs at 23:55.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Ghent.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Ghent.
To get from Cologne to Ghent, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
A day trip from Cologne to Ghent is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 25m. There are 6 trains per day covering a distance of 227 km.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Ghent
Cologne
Ghent
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 Ghent.
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-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
The major train station for arrivals in Ghent is Gent St Pieters. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gent St Pieters for your journey to Ghent from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 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 via Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Restaurant Patrick Foley's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- NH Gent Sint Pieters
- Hotel Carlton
- Astoria Hotel Gent
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 Gent St Pieters
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 4
- Bus: Several lines available
Gent-Dampoort
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Kasteellaan.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Amadeus Ghent 1
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
- Hotel Cathedral
- Ibis Gent Centrum St-Baafs Kathedraal
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to Antwerp, Brussels, and local destinations
Public transport options for Gent-Dampoort
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 4
Merelbeke
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityBike ParkingBike RentalMost popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Ghent
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ghent and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Ghent
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
