Lille to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)

Wed 03 Jun
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lille to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 03 Jun

Cheapest price

£84

Average price

£87

Fastest journey

3 h 5 m

Average duration

3 h 20 m

Trains per day

8

Distance

276 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lille to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Lille to Cologne will cost around £87 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £84.

Fast trains

To travel from Lille to Cologne you need to make at least one change.

  • TER | SNCF19905+Deutsche BahnICE 15+Intercity3207
    7:324h43
    Lille Flandres
    12:15Cologne Hbf
    £841One-way
    2 changes
  • TER | SNCF19701+Intercity2807+Eurostar9411
    7:094h06
    Lille Flandres
    11:15Cologne Hbf
    £861One-way
    2 changes
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI9884+Deutsche BahnICE 315
    10:353h40
    Lille-Europe
    14:15Cologne Hbf
    £871One-way
    1 change
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI9886+Deutsche BahnICE 315
    10:353h40
    Lille-Europe
    14:15Cologne Hbf
    £871One-way
    1 change
  • SNCF | TGV INOUI9852+Deutsche BahnICE 315
    9:105h05
    Lille-Europe
    14:15Cologne Hbf
    £871One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Lille to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Lille to Cologne 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 41m. 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 train costs an average of £49.

Distance: 276 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

£100

Average Price

£25

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 30m

Average total duration

5h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar Bus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Lille to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Lille to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 3 June. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
SNCF | TGV INOUI9809+Deutsche BahnICE 137:04 Lille-Europe
3h12
10:16 Cologne Hbf1 change
TER | SNCF19701+Intercity2807+Eurostar94117:09 Lille Flandres
4h06
11:15 Cologne Hbf2 changes
TER | SNCF19905+Intercity3207+Deutsche BahnICE 15
On time
7:32 Lille Flandres
4h43
12:15 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
SNCF | TGV INOUI9852+Deutsche BahnICE 15
On time
9:10 Lille-Europe
3h05
12:15 Cologne Hbf
1 change
SNCF | TGV INOUI9890+Deutsche BahnICE 15
On time
9:10 Lille-Europe
3h05
12:15 Cologne Hbf
1 change
SNCF | TGV INOUI9852+Deutsche BahnICE 3159:10 Lille-Europe
5h05
14:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCF | TGV INOUI9884+Deutsche BahnICE 31510:35 Lille-Europe
3h40
14:15 Cologne Hbf1 change
SNCF | TGV INOUI9886+Deutsche BahnICE 31510:35 Lille-Europe
3h40
14:15 Cologne Hbf1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lille to Cologne by train or coach

Compare train 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.

Wed
03 Jun
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Why should you book Lille to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) offer trains services from Lille to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lille to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) to find the best option for your trip from Lille to Cologne.
  • 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 bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lille to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) to find the best option for your trip from Lille to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Lille to Cologne.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Lille to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Lille to Cologne is 6 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Lille to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Lille 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 Lille to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lille to Cologne

FranceFrance
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lille to Cologne run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £49 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 01:40, the last at 22:09. The fastest train covers the 276 km distance in 2h 45m.

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
276 km
Average train duration
2h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
£49
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
2h 45m
First train
1:40
Last train
22:09
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
63 days
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, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Lille to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Lille and Cologne 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
4h 2m
Cheapest Price
£66
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.
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.
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.
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 45m
Cheapest Price
£70
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

Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
£121
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Lille to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lille 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Lille to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £49, while the average price tends to be around £100.
The train journey from Lille to Cologne covers a distance of 276 km and takes approximately 2h 45m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Lille to Cologne is 276 km.
The first train from Lille to Cologne leaves at 1:40.
The last train from Lille to Cologne departs at 22:09.
Trains from Lille to Cologne run approximately 2 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lille to Cologne.
To get from Lille to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Lille to Cologne.
The train station in Lille that goes to Cologne is Lille-Europe, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lille to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £12.
Booking trains from Lille 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 Lille to Cologne is moderately scenic, offering views of charming countryside landscapes, picturesque towns, and lush greenery, particularly as you travel through Belgium and into Germany.
A day trip from Lille to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 45m one way. There is a frequency of 1 train per day.
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 Lille to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Lille and Cologne

Lille
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Lille is Lille-Europe. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lille-Europe for your trip from Lille to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 06:30 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Wi-Fi is available for a fee.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Staffed luggage counter is open daily from 07:30 to 20:00 and is located in Hall 1.
Dining
Dining
  • Costa Coffee
  • Factory & Co.
  • PAUL
  • Selecta
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • The station is fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, a magnetic induction loop for people with hearing loss and a guidance system for people with visual impairments. Staff can provide additional assistance, and wheelchairs are available.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Novotel Suites Gare Lille Europe
  • Hôtel Lille Europe - Euralille
  • Kyriad Lille Gare - Grand Palais
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 06:30 - 20:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in Hall 2 and Hall 3.
Public transport options for Lille-Europe
  • Metro lines: 2
  • Tram lines: R, T
  • Bus lines: 12, 16, 18, 35, 36, 51, 86, 88, L5, L90, L91, Charleroi Airport shuttle
  • Train lines: TGV, TGV INOUI, TER GV, Eurostar, Thalys
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Sat: 08:00 - 19:30
  • Sun: 09:00 - 19:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available after creating an account and connecting to "CONNECTION."
Dining
Dining
  • Chopsticks & Co
  • McDonald's
  • Subway
  • Black Coffee
  • Eric Kayser
  • So! Coffee
  • Aux Merveilleux de Fred
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets, services to assist disabled passengers.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Le Napoleon
  • Hotel Chopin
  • Ibis Styles Lille Centre Grand Place
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Sat: 08:00 - 19:30
  • Sun: 09:00 - 19:30
Public transport options for Lille Flandres
  • Metro lines: 1, 2
  • Bus lines: CIT1, CIT2, 86, 88, 12, L91, L91 Express, 51, 10, 50, 14, 56
  • Tram lines: R, T
  • Train lines: TGV, TGV INOUI, OUIGO, TER Hauts-de-France, INTERCITED

More options for your journey from Lille to Cologne

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