- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Olten
Olten’s main art museum, showing Swiss and regional art in a manageable setting close to the old town and station.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Olten
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 11 Oct
Cheapest price on 11 Oct
£75
Average ticket price on 11 Oct
£93
Fastest journey on 11 Oct
4 h 35 m
Average journey duration on 11 Oct
5 h 26 m
Trains on 11 Oct
5
Distance
404 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Olten is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Olten will cost around £93 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £75.
Fast trains
On Sun 11 Oct, we found 5 trains from Cologne to Olten, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 404 km distance in an average of 5 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 35 m .
The slowest trains will take 6 h 32 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.
ICE 229 · ICE 37513:536h32Cologne Hbf20:25Olten station£751One-way1 change- ICE 919 · ICE 373 · IC 98113:304h55Cologne Messe/Deutz18:25Olten station£891One-way2 changes
- IC 1644 · ICE 109 · IC 98312:536h32Cologne Hbf19:25Olten station£891One-way2 changes
- ICE 109 · IC 98314:484h37Cologne Hbf19:25Olten station£1071One-way1 change
- ICE 10712:504h35Cologne Hbf17:25Olten station£1071One-way0 changes
- ICE 10712:504h35Cologne Hbf17:25Olten station£1071One-way0 changes
- ICE 109 · IC 98314:484h37Cologne Hbf19:25Olten station£1071One-way1 change
- ICE 919 · ICE 373 · IC 98113:304h55Cologne Messe/Deutz18:25Olten station£891One-way2 changes
- IC 1644 · ICE 109 · IC 98312:536h32Cologne Hbf19:25Olten station£891One-way2 changes
- ICE 229 · ICE 37513:536h32Cologne Hbf20:25Olten station£751One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Olten
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Olten run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £50 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:47, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 404 km distance in 4h 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
Distance 404 km |
Average train duration 4h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £50 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 4h 10m |
First train 0:47 |
Last train 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Live departures
Cologne to Olten train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Olten trains for tomorrow, Sunday 11 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 107 | On time 12:50 Cologne Hbf | 4h35 | 17:25 Olten station | 0 changesdirect | |
| IC 1644 · ICE 109 · IC 983 | On time 12:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h32 | 19:25 Olten station | 2 changes | |
| ICE 919 · ICE 373 · IC 981 | Delayed 11:35 13:30Cologne Messe/Deutz | 4h55 | 18:25 Olten station | 2 changes | |
| ICE 229 · ICE 375 | On time 13:53 Cologne Hbf | 6h32 | 20:25 Olten station | 1 change | |
| ICE 109 · IC 983 | On time 14:48 Cologne Hbf | 4h37 | 19:25 Olten station | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Olten trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Olten.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Olten.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Olten.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Olten.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Olten trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Olten from £50. 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
4h 10m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£50
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
Complete guide to Olten
Things to do in Olten
Discover the best of Olten — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Olten trip today.
Historisches Museum Olten
Literary museum dedicated to writer Martin Disteli and related collections, offering insight into regional culture and history.
Naturmuseum Olten
Natural history museum with accessible displays on local wildlife, geology, and environment, suitable for families and casual visits.
- Recommended
Altstadt Olten
Atmospheric old town area with historic houses, independent shops, and easy walking routes to bridges, churches, and the river.
- Recommended
Aarequai
Riverside promenade along the Aare, ideal for a relaxed walk with views of bridges, birds, and the town skyline.
- Recommended
Säliwald
Wooded local recreation area above Olten with walking trails, picnic spots, and viewpoints over the town and Jura landscape.
- Gluten-free
Solothurner Rösti
A rich potato rösti from nearby Solothurn, often topped with bacon, onion and cheese. It is a staple across north-western Switzerland and common in local inns.
Solothurner Mehlsuppe
A rustic soup from the Solothurn region made with flour, onions and stock, often enriched with cream. It is a traditional warming dish in local Swiss cooking.
- Vegetarian
Käsefondue
Classic Swiss melted cheese served with bread, popular in Olten in cooler months. It reflects the strong cheese tradition of the surrounding cantons.
Restaurant Salmen
Established restaurant serving Swiss and seasonal cuisine in a warm, traditional atmosphere. Good choice for regional specialities.
Oltner Biergarten
Traditional brewery venue known for local beer, Swiss dishes and a lively casual setting close to the centre.
Restaurant Pavillon
Elegant riverside dining with refined seasonal cooking and a calmer atmosphere, suitable for a more polished meal in Olten.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Olten is costly versus most European cities. Hotels, dining and local transport are priced at typical Swiss levels, though it is often a little cheaper than Zurich.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 15-25 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up a little in restaurants, cafés and taxis for good service, such as CHF 1-5 or the next franc.
FAIRTIQ
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.20
- Day pass
- CHF 8.40
To the city centre
Olten Bahnhof -> Olten city centre
- Distance
- 700 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- A-Welle covers Olten in Zone 520. Buy your ticket before boarding; FAIRTIQ check-in is officially supported in the area.
- At A-Welle sales points in the Olten area, card payment is shown as available, but not every vehicle is listed for direct card payment on board.
Best day trips from Olten by train
The most popular day trips by train from Olten are Zurich, Basel, Bern, Lucerne and Geneva. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Olten on Omio.
Day trip from Olten to Zurich by train
Why visit Zurich for the day?
Zurich combines a global financial role with a calm lakeside setting and a well-kept Altstadt. It is known for banking and shopping, but also for art, river bathing and a distinctly orderly Swiss feel.
How to get from Olten to Zurich by train?
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 49 km distance in 30m.
Day trip from Olten to Basel by train
Why visit Basel for the day?
Basel is known for its art museums, Rhine setting and well-kept old town. On Switzerland’s northern border, it feels both historic and distinctly international.
How to get from Olten to Basel by train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 25m.
Day trip from Olten to Bern by train
Why visit Bern for the day?
Bern is Switzerland’s capital, known for its sandstone Old City, arcades and the Aare around its centre. It combines medieval character with a calm, everyday feel and a strong link to Albert Einstein.
How to get from Olten to Bern by train?
There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 56 km distance in 26m.
Day trip from Olten to Lucerne by train
Why visit Lucerne for the day?
Lucerne is known for its medieval old town, the Chapel Bridge and its setting on Lake Lucerne beneath the mountains. Historic streets and a calm waterfront give the city a distinctly Swiss character.
How to get from Olten to Lucerne by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 45 km distance in 35m.
Day trip from Olten to Geneva by train
Why visit Geneva for the day?
Geneva is known for diplomacy, watchmaking and its setting on Lake Geneva. It feels international yet compact, with elegant streets, a historic old town and strong French influence.
How to get from Olten to Geneva by train?
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:37. The fastest train covers the 185 km distance in 2h 9m.
FAQs: Cologne to Olten train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Olten 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 Olten, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Olten can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £50, while the average price tends to be around £83.
The train journey from Cologne to Olten covers a distance of 404 km and takes approximately 4h 10m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Olten is 404 km.
The first train from Cologne to Olten leaves at 0:47.
The last train from Cologne to Olten departs at 23:55.
Trains from Cologne to Olten run approximately 4 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Olten.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Olten.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Olten is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Olten station.
Booking trains from Cologne to Olten in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Olten.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Olten
Most Cologne to Olten trains use the Köln Hbf to Olten station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Olten train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Olten
Which Cologne station do trains to Olten leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Olten leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 1 km from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · £6 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £4 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £4 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · £3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · £2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Which Olten station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Olten arrive at Olten. Olten is from Olten city centre.
OltenBahnhofstrasse 22, 4600 Olten, Switzerland+41 58 668 86 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Olten from Olten city centre
TrainS20, S · 3m · £0.89 · every ~5 min
Bus501, 503, 505, 507, 509 · 6m · £2 · every ~18 min
N55 · 3m
Olten train station facilities and services
Olten 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: Restaurant Aarhof, Restaurant Salmen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Olten. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Olten. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Olten: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Olten: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Olten: Elevators, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Olten Swiss Quality, Hotel Amaris, Hotel Astoria.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Olten
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
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