Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE)

Tue, Oct 27
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Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
VIAS Rail GmbH
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Eurostar
VIAS Rail GmbH
Renfe AVANT
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 27

Cheapest price on Oct 27

€28

Average ticket price on Oct 27

€47

Fastest journey on Oct 27

1 h 50 m

Average journey duration on Oct 27

1 h 50 m

Trains on Oct 27

9

Distance

183 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf will cost around €47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €28.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 3618 · ICE 313
    7:14 PM2h10
    Brussels-Central
    9:24 PMCologne Hbf
    €281One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 4517 · ICE 19
    6:25 PM1h50
    Brussels-Central
    8:15 PMCologne Hbf
    €381One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3610 · ICE 311
    11:14 AM2h10
    Brussels-Central
    1:24 PMCologne Hbf
    €411One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 3214 · ICE 317
    4:22 PM1h53
    Brussels-Central
    6:15 PMCologne Hbf
    €411One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIC 4513 · ICE 17
    2:25 PM1h50
    Brussels-Central
    4:15 PMCologne Hbf
    €441One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €3 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:14, the last at 22:25. The fastest train covers the 183 km distance in 1h 44m.

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
183 km
Average train duration
2h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
€3
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
1h 44m
First train
4:14 AM
Last train
10:25 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
35 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

Live departures

Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Monday, October 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 4507 · ICE 13
On time
8:25 AM Brussels-Central
1h51
10:16 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 4509 · ICE 15
On time
10:25 AM Brussels-Central
1h50
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 3610 · ICE 311
On time
11:14 AM Brussels-Central
2h10
1:24 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 4511 · ICE 315
On time
12:25 PM Brussels-Central
1h50
2:15 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 4513 · ICE 17
On time
2:25 PM Brussels-Central
1h50
4:15 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 3214 · ICE 317
On time
4:22 PM Brussels-Central
1h53
6:15 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 4517 · ICE 19
On time
6:25 PM Brussels-Central
1h50
8:15 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 3618 · ICE 313
On time
7:14 PM Brussels-Central
2h10
9:24 PM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 518 · R 5021 · 268418:01 PM Brussels-Central
3h43
11:44 PM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 519 · R 18977 · 268439:01 PM Brussels-Central
3h43
12:44 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 3204 · ICE 11
On time
6:22 AM Brussels-Central
1h54
8:16 AM Cologne Hbf		1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar or VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf.

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 VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf.

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 VIAS Rail GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Brussels-Central and Cologne Hbf from €3. 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
1h 44m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€3
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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 Eurostar Duration
1h 49m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
€35
Eurostar frequency
6 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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
5h 18m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
€90
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Brussels-Central and Cologne Hbf

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a train from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH for the best way to get you to Cologne Hbf. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Brussels-Central and Cologne Hbf and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.

FAQs: Trains from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf can start from as little as €3 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf is €56; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf is 1h 44m to travel the 183 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf leaves at 4:14 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf leaves at 10:25 PM.
There are 4 trains a day from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
A day trip to Cologne Hbf from Brussels-Central is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 44m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brussels-Central and Cologne Hbf including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf

Most Brussels-Central to Cologne Hbf trains use the Bruxelles-Midi to Köln Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Brussels-Central and Cologne Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Brussels
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Bruxelles-CentralCarr de l'Europe, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium+32 25282828WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bruxelles-Central from Brussels city centre

Bus29, 63, 65, 66, 87, 89 · 5m · €3 · every ~17 min
Subway1, 5 · 1m · €3 · every ~38 min

Bruxelles-Central train station facilities and services

Bruxelles-Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Starbucks, Brasserie 28 Brewery, Panos, Delitraiteur Eat & Go

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks. ATMs are aTM machine is downstairs from the main entrance on the right side.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00. Information desks are travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bruxelles-Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bruxelles-Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Central: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hilton Brussels Grand Palace, Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe, Hôtel The Moon.

More about Bruxelles-Central
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyBrussels-Central to Cologne Hbf train

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