- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Cheapest price on 05 Oct
£50
Average ticket price on 05 Oct
£139
Fastest journey on 05 Oct
4 h 55 m
Average journey duration on 05 Oct
4 h 57 m
Trains on 05 Oct
52
Distance
413 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Cologne will cost around £139 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £50.
On Mon 05 Oct, we found 52 trains from Zurich to Cologne, including 5 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 413 km distance in an average of 4 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 55 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 6 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 272 · ICE 920
IC 60409 · IC 60402
IC 782 · ICE 100
ICE 272 · ICE 510
RE 4936 · 3073 · 4826 · ICE 618
IC 558 · ICE 74 · ICE 1010
ICE 6 · ICE 918+
TGV 9210
ICE 70 · ICE 912+
TGV 9226
IC 578 · ICE 2 · ICE 910
IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610Trains from Zurich to Cologne run on average 31 times per day, taking around 5h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £30 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 413 km distance in 4h 20m.
Distance 413 km |
Average train duration 5h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 31 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 4h 20m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 77 days |
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Monday 5 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IR 2252 · ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020 | On time 5:08 Zurich HB | 6h57 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
IR 2252 · ECE 8 · ICE 1012 | On time 5:08 Zurich HB | 5h21 | 10:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
EC 8+ ICE 1012 · ICE 1020+ IR 2252 | 5:08 Zurich HB | 6h57 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
9206+ 9459 | 6:59 Zurich HB | 12h16 | 19:15 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
9206+ 9471 | 6:59 Zurich HB | 14h16 | 21:15 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 374 · ICE 612+ TGV 9206 | Delayed 6:16 6:59Zurich HB | 5h06 | 12:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 374 · IC 2047+ TGV 9206 | Delayed 6:16 6:59Zurich HB | 6h07 | 13:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 374+ IC 2047+ TGV 9206 | Delayed 6:16 6:59Zurich HB | 6h07 | 13:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 558 · ICE 74 · ICE 1010 | On time 7:34 Zurich HB | 4h55 | 12:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
IC 558+ ICE 74 · ICE 1010 · ICE 926 | 7:34 Zurich HB | 6h32 | 14:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 200 | On time 7:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 13:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 794 · ICE 372 · IC 2045 | On time 8:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 15:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 794+ ICE 372+ IC 2045 | On time 8:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 15:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 794 · ICE 372 · ICE 610 | 8:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 14:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228+ TGV 9210 | 9:34 Zurich HB | 6h32 | 16:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 6 · ICE 918+ TGV 9210 | 9:34 Zurich HB | 4h55 | 14:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
ICE 6 · ICE 918 · ICE 228+ TGV 9210 | 9:34 Zurich HB | 6h32 | 16:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 108 | On time 9:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 15:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 370 · ICE 2012 | 10:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 17:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 770 · ICE 106 · ICE 710 · ICE 28 | 11:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 18:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
IC 770+ ICE 106 · ICE 710 · ICE 28 | 11:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 18:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
IC 188 · ICE 224 | On time 12:37 Zurich HB | 6h06 | 18:43 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 772+ ICE 278+ IC 2041 | On time 12:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 19:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 772 · ICE 278 · IC 2041 | On time 12:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 19:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 772 · ICE 278 · ICE 516 | On time 12:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 18:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
EC 4+ ICE 224 · ICE 26+ TGV 9222 | 13:34 Zurich HB | 6h32 | 20:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ECE 4 · ICE 224+ TGV 9222 | Delayed 12:46 13:34Zurich HB | 5h09 | 18:43 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ECE 4 · ICE 224 · ICE 26+ TGV 9222 | Delayed 12:46 13:34Zurich HB | 6h32 | 20:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 104 | On time 13:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 19:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
EC 150 · ICE 514 | On time 14:34 Zurich HB | 5h31 | 20:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 776+ ICE 276+ IC 2349 | On time 14:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 21:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 776 · ICE 276 · IC 2349 | On time 14:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 21:06 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 776 · ICE 276 · ICE 514 | On time 14:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 20:05 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
ICE 70 · ICE 912+ TGV 9226 | Delayed 14:46 15:34Zurich HB | 4h55 | 20:29 Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 changes | |
ICE 70 · ICE 912 · ICE 24+ TGV 9226 | Delayed 14:46 15:34Zurich HB | 6h32 | 22:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 70 · ICE 912 · ICE 24+ TGV 9226 | Delayed 14:46 15:34Zurich HB | 6h32 | 22:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 102 | 15:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 21:05 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 274+ IC 2347 | On time 16:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 23:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 274 · ICE 512 | On time 16:59 Zurich HB | 5h06 | 22:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 274 · IC 2347 | On time 16:59 Zurich HB | 6h07 | 23:06 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 578+ ICE 2 · ICE 910 · ICE 22 | 17:34 Zurich HB | 6h32 | 0:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
IC 578 · ICE 2 · ICE 910 | On time 17:34 Zurich HB | 4h56 | 22:30 Cologne Hbf | 2 changes | |
IC 578 · ICE 2 · ICE 910 · ICE 22 | 17:34 Zurich HB | 6h32 | 0:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
IC 782 · ICE 100 | 17:59 Zurich HB | 5h11 | 23:10 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 272 · ICE 920 | On time 18:59 Zurich HB | 7h06 | 2:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 272 · ICE 920 | On time 18:59 Zurich HB | 7h06 | 2:05 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 272 · ICE 510 | On time 18:59 Zurich HB | 5h11 | 0:10 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 60402 | On time 19:05 Zurich HB | 10h39 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 60409 · IC 60402 | On time 19:59 Zurich HB | 9h45 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
IC 60409 · IC 60402 | On time 19:59 Zurich HB | 9h45 | 5:44 Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
RE 4936 · 3073 · 4826 · ICE 618 | 20:05 Zurich HB | 10h01 | 6:06 Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
IC 1056 · 5338 · 4700 · ICE 378 | 21:34 Zurich HB | 10h31 | 8:05 Cologne Hbf | 4 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.
Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.
Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.
Historic old town lanes and squares by the Rhine, packed with colourful houses, churches and viewpoints. Ideal for a classic Cologne stroll.
Long Rhine promenade with bridge, cathedral and river views. Popular for walking, photography and watching boats pass through the city centre.
Lively square in the old town framed by historic buildings and museums. A useful base for sightseeing and one of Cologne’s best-known public spaces.
Rye bread with butter, cheese, ham or sausage, traditionally served in Cologne breweries as a simple local snack with Kölsch.
Hearty dish of black pudding with fried onions and mashed potatoes, a Rhineland classic closely associated with Cologne home cooking.
Slow-cooked horsemeat in a sweet-sour raisin sauce, a historic Rhineland speciality still served in a few traditional Cologne restaurants.
Classic Brauhaus serving Päffgen Kölsch and Rhineland favourites in a bustling, wood-panelled setting popular with locals.
Traditional brewery venue by Heumarkt with house Kölsch and dependable regional cooking in a spacious historic hall.
Long-established restaurant for refined German and Rhineland cooking, with a more formal atmosphere than a typical Brauhaus.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.
Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.
Official public transport app
Cologne Hbf -> Neumarkt, Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.

Most Zurich to Cologne trains use the Zürich HB to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Zürich Hardbrücke is 3 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich Hardbrücke has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Brisket Southern BBQ & Bar, Les Halles
Free.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Hardbrücke. Information desks are located on the main concourse.
Available at Zürich Hardbrücke: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich Hardbrücke: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Hardbrücke: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include 25hours Hotel Zürich West, Sheraton Zürich Hotel, Novotel Zurich City West.
Zürich Stadelhofen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Outback Lodge, Tibits
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Opera Zurich, Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich, Hotel Seehof.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
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