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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Zurich
Showing times and prices for 01 Apr
Cheapest price
£64
Average price
£64
Fastest journey
5 h 7 m
Average duration
5 h 7 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
225 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Zurich will cost around £64 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £64.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cologne for Zurich every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 225 km distance in an average of 5 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 7 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 7 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.
16:205h07Cologne21:27Zurich£641One-way0 changes
- 16:205h07Cologne21:27Zurich£641One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, flight and coach for Cologne to Zurich
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 7m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £30, and a flight costs an average of £79.
Distance: 225 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£54 Average Price | £99 Average Price | £30 Average Price Cheapest |
5h 37m Average total duration Fastest 5h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 45m Average total duration 11h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 5m Average total duration 7h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cologne to Zurich train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Zurich trains for today, Tuesday 31 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Regionale TRENORD 10112 · Regionale TRENORD 2216+EuroCity 12 | 04:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 09:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10114 · Regionale TRENORD 2218+EuroCity 14 | 05:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 10:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10118 · Regionale TRENORD 2222+EuroCity 150 | 07:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 12:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10120 · Regionale TRENORD 2224+EuroCity 30 | 08:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 13:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10123 · Regionale TRENORD 2626+EuroCity 16 | 08:40 Cologne station | 5h47 | 14:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10124 · Regionale TRENORD 2228+EuroCity 32 | 10:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 15:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10126 · Regionale TRENORD 2230+EuroCity 20 | 11:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 16:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10128 · Regionale TRENORD 2232+EuroCity 22 | 12:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 17:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10130 · Regionale TRENORD 2234+EuroCity 24 | 13:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 18:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10133+EuroCity 36 | 13:40 Cologne station | 5h47 | 19:27 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10132 · Regionale TRENORD 2236+EuroCity 36 | 14:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 19:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10134 · Regionale TRENORD 2238+EuroCity 26 | 15:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 20:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Regionale TRENORD 10136 · Regionale TRENORD 2240+EuroCity 28 | 16:20 Cologne station | 5h07 | 21:27 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Zurich by train, flight or coach
Compare train, flight 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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01 Apr
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07 Apr
07 Apr
Why should you book Cologne to Zurich trains with Omio?
ÖBB | Nightjet as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Cologne to Zurich.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ÖBB | Nightjet tickets.
Why book with Omio vs ÖBB | Nightjet?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ÖBB | Nightjet, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Zurich.
- 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 ÖBB | Nightjet with all available travel options, which are train, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Zurich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Zurich
Italy
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne to Zurich run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £44 but you can travel from only £30 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 06:33, the last at 18:33. The fastest train covers the 225 km distance in 5h 7m.
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 £30
Distance 225 km |
Average train duration 5h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price £44 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 5h 7m |
First train 06:33 |
Last train 18:33 |
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 £30
Train companies: ÖBB | Nightjet, Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Zurich trainsÖBB | Nightjet, Deutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Zurich from £30. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
ÖBB | Nightjet
About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 12m
Cheapest Price
£132
ÖBB | Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
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
5h 5m
Cheapest Price
£107
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
FAQs: Cologne to Zurich train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Zurich 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 Zurich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Zurich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £44, while the average price tends to be around £54.
The train journey from Cologne to Zurich covers a distance of 225 km and takes approximately 5h 7m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Zurich is 225 km.
The first train from Cologne to Zurich leaves at 6:33.
The last train from Cologne to Zurich departs at 18:33.
Trains from Cologne to Zurich run approximately 11 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cologne to Zurich.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Zurich. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by ÖBB | Nightjet.
To get from Cologne to Zurich, you can choose from several travel options including train, flight and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Cologne to Zurich.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Zurich is Cologne station, and it arrives at Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Zurich is by coach, costing approximately £30.
Booking trains from Cologne to Zurich 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 Zurich is indeed scenic, as it takes you through picturesque landscapes, including the beautiful Rhine Valley with its vineyards, castles, and charming towns.
A day trip from Cologne to Zurich is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 7m. Trains run 11 times per day covering a distance of 225 km.
In Zurich, you can hike or take a train to the summit of Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding Alps. Indulge in shopping along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets. Explore the diverse habitats and wildlife at Zurich Zoo, or enjoy a performance at the renowned Opera House. Wander through the serene Botanical Garden with its wide variety of plant species. Visit the picturesque Lake Zurich for recreational activities, or stroll through the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings and cultural landmarks. Discover art at Kunsthaus Zurich and explore Swiss cultural history at the Swiss National Museum. Relax in Lindenhof park, offering beautiful city views and a glimpse into Zurich's Roman history.
To fully experience Zurich, spending three to four days allows time to explore its cultural landmarks, enjoy the picturesque Lake Zurich, and visit nearby attractions like Uetliberg Mountain.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Zurich.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Zurich
Cologne
Zurich
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Cologne. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cologne for your trip from Cologne to Zurich.
Cologne
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
The major train station for arrivals in Zurich is Zürich HB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich HB for your journey to Zurich from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
TaxisAccessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
26Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
- Cost CHF 12
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transport options for Zürich HB
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
More options for your journey from Cologne to Zurich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zurich and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Zurich
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