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The cheapest and fastest trains from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne
Showing times and prices for 20 Jan
Cheapest price
£20
Average price
£41
Fastest journey
3 h 2 m
Average duration
4 h 4 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
333 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £20.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Freiburg im Breisgau for Cologne every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 333 km distance in an average of 4 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 2 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 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.
IC 6040200:075h50
Freiburg Hbf05:57Cologne Hbf
£201One-way
0 changes
5338 · 4700 · ICE 378 · ICE 61600:107h55
Freiburg Hbf08:05Cologne Hbf
£281One-way
3 changes
ICE 376 · ICE 102006:555h10
Freiburg Hbf12:05Cologne Hbf
£301One-way
1 change
ICE 20405:553h10
Freiburg Hbf09:05Cologne Hbf
£461One-way
0 changes
ICE 76 · ICE 101405:273h02
Freiburg Hbf08:29Cologne Messe/Deutz
£541One-way
1 change
ICE 76 · ICE 101405:273h02
Freiburg Hbf08:29Cologne Messe/Deutz
£541One-way
1 change
ICE 20405:553h10
Freiburg Hbf09:05Cologne Hbf
£461One-way
0 changes
ICE 376 · ICE 61406:553h10
Freiburg Hbf10:05Cologne Hbf
£661One-way
1 change
ICE 376 · ICE 102006:555h10
Freiburg Hbf12:05Cologne Hbf
£301One-way
1 change
IC 6040200:075h50
Freiburg Hbf05:57Cologne Hbf
£201One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, and a flight costs an average of £73.
Distance: 333 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£64 Average Price | £29 Average Price Cheapest | £167 Average Price |
4h 56m Average total duration 4h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 16m Average total duration 5h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne trains for today, Monday 19 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:59
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 07:55 Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 11:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 374 · IC 2967 | On time 07:55 Freiburg Hbf | 4h37 | 12:32 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 74 · ICE 1010 | On time 08:27 Freiburg Hbf | 3h02 | 11:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 change | |
| ICE 200 | On time 08:55 Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 372 · ICE 610 | On time 09:55 Freiburg Hbf | 3h10 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
| 5338 · 4700 · ICE 378 · ICE 616 | 23:10 Freiburg Hbf | 7h55 | 07:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train 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 Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne 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 Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne.
Trains
from £21Coaches
from £20Flights
from £170ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne
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
Environmentally friendlyEconomicalUse timeDisadvantages
UnpunctualityThis trip was really great, I could use the time to study, unfortunately the wifi didn't work. I was able to protect the environment. In addition, I was able to save money with the saver fare. But the unpunctuality really gets on my nerves and the railway urgently needs to improve this.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 333 km distance in 3h 0m.
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 333 km |
Average train duration 4h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 0m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
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, ÖBB Nightjet from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Freiburg im Breisgau and Cologne from £17. 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
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
£24
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
6h 45m
Cheapest Price
£17
FlixTrain frequency
1 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
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
5h 48m
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
FAQs: Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £64.
The train journey from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne covers a distance of 333 km and takes approximately 3h 0m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne is 333 km.
The first train from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne departs at 23:58.
Trains from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne run approximately 9 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Freiburg im Breisgau and Cologne. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet.
To get from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
Yes, there is a night train from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne.
The train station in Freiburg im Breisgau that goes to Cologne is Freiburg Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne is considered scenic as it passes through picturesque landscapes, including the beautiful Black Forest region, rolling hills, and the scenic Rhine Valley, offering passengers lovely views of vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles along the way.
A day trip from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 0m each way. Trains run 9 times per day over a distance of 333 km.
In Cologne, visitors can explore the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Gothic architecture, and visit the Museum Ludwig for modern art by artists like Picasso and Warhol. A Rhine River Cruise offers scenic views of the city's skyline and landmarks, while the Hohenzollern Bridge is known for love locks and panoramic river views. The Old Town (Altstadt) charms with historic streets and traditional beer halls. Families might enjoy the Cologne Zoo, which is rich in diverse animal species. For culture and entertainment, attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, or discover the Belgian Quarter’s trendy boutiques and cafes. The Cologne Chocolate Museum provides an interactive experience about chocolate history, and the Botanical Gardens Flora showcases beautiful plant species and floral displays.
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Freiburg im Breisgau and Cologne
Freiburg im Breisgau
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Freiburg im Breisgau is Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Freiburg(Breisgau) Hbf for your trip from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne.
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
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:30 - 19:00
- Sunday: 08:30 - 20:00
Dining
- Cafe Einstein
- Pizzaria Picasso
- Babeuf
- Café Hermann
Hotel
- Hotel Minerva
- Hotel Barbara
- Parkhotel Post
- Hotel Oberkirch
Freiburg im Breisgau, Hauptbhf/ZOB
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Freiburg-Littenweiler
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Pizza Boxx
- Heitzmann
- Lindenmatte
- La Playa Tapas Bar
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Freiburg im Breisgau.
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 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
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
More options for your journey from Freiburg im Breisgau to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Freiburg im Breisgau
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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