Brussels to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE,IC)

Fri, May 15
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Eurostar
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Alibus
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels to Cologne

Showing times and prices for May 15

Cheapest price

€36

Average price

€70

Fastest journey

1 h 49 m

Average duration

1 h 50 m

Trains per day

23

Distance

183 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Brussels to Cologne will cost around €70 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €36.

Fast trains

Of the 23 trains that leave Brussels for Cologne on Fri, May 15, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, May 15 the direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 1 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 49 m .

On Fri, May 15 the slowest trains will take 1 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 319
    8:22 PM1h53
    Brussels-Midi
    10:15 PMCologne Hbf
    361One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 11
    6:23 AM1h53
    Brussels-Midi
    8:16 AMCologne Hbf
    461One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 19
    6:25 PM1h50
    Brussels-Midi
    8:15 PMCologne Hbf
    521One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 315
    12:25 PM1h50
    Brussels-Midi
    2:15 PMCologne Hbf
    581One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 13
    8:25 AM1h51
    Brussels-Midi
    10:16 AMCologne Hbf
    581One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Brussels to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 54m. 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 bus costs an average of €12, and a flight costs an average of €360.

Distance: 183 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€73

Average price

€25

Average price

Cheapest

€584

Average price

3h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 43m

Average total duration

3h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 22m

Average total duration

5h 22m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Brussels to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, May 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 317
Delayed
4:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h50
4:17 PM 4:17 PMCologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Eurostar94595:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h50
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 19
On time
6:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h50
8:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Eurostar94717:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h50
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 319
On time
8:22 PM Brussels-Midi
1h53
10:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Eurostar94778:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h57
10:22 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnIC 519 · 18977 · 268438:56 PM Brussels-Midi
3h48
12:44 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Friday, May 15
Deutsche BahnIC 522 · R 5005 · 2680912:20 AM Brussels-Midi
7h24
7:44 AM Cologne Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 11
On time
6:23 AM Brussels-Midi
1h53
8:16 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 13
On time
8:25 AM Brussels-Midi
1h51
10:16 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Intercity1930+Eurostar94119:06 AM Brussels-Central
2h09
11:15 AM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Intercity507+Eurostar94119:08 AM Brussels-North
2h07
11:15 AM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Eurostar94119:25 AM Brussels-Midi
1h50
11:15 AM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 15
On time
10:25 AM Brussels-Midi
1h50
12:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Intercity1932+Eurostar942311:06 AM Brussels-Central
2h09
1:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Intercity509+Eurostar942311:08 AM Brussels-North
2h07
1:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Eurostar942311:25 AM Brussels-Midi
1h50
1:15 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 315
On time
12:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h50
2:15 PM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Intercity1934+Eurostar94351:06 PM Brussels-Central
2h08
3:14 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Intercity511+Eurostar94351:08 PM Brussels-North
2h06
3:14 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Eurostar94351:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h49
3:14 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 172:25 PM Brussels-Midi
1h50
4:15 PM Cologne Hbf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brussels to Cologne by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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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Why should you book Brussels to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar, Union Ivkoni, Alibus, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Brussels to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels 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, Union Ivkoni, Alibus or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Brussels 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels 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, Union Ivkoni, Alibus or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Brussels to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Brussels to Cologne.

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

The best time to book your train from Brussels to Cologne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Brussels to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Brussels 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 Brussels to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brussels to Cologne

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Brussels to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €40 but you can travel from only €12 by bus.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:35. The fastest train covers the 183 km distance in 1h 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
Bus from €12
Distance
183 km
Average train duration
2h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
€40
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
1h 45m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
77 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
Bus from €12

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Alibus, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB from Brussels to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Alibus, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB trains will get you between Brussels 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
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
€48
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
€40
Eurostar frequency
7 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

Alibus

About
European Sleeper is a Belgian-Dutch train company launched in 2021, operating night train services between Germany and Belgium three times a week, with plans to expand to daily service and extend routes to cities such as Dresden and Prague. Passengers can choose from standard seats, couchettes, or sleeper cabins. Couchettes include free drinks and power outlets, while sleeper cabins offer power outlets and complimentary meals. All tickets are sold as Flex Night fares, which are non-exchangeable but can be canceled up to 48 hours before departure.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
€49
Alibus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of hold luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car serving breakfast, drinks and snacks available for purchase
Seat reservation
Seat or berth reservation mandatory and included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, staff assistance
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest Price
€44
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
7 a day

SNCB

About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Price
€24
SNCB frequency
2 a day

FAQs: Trains from Brussels to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels 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
Cheap train tickets from Brussels to Cologne can start from as little as €40 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Brussels to Cologne is €73; 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 to Cologne is 1h 45m 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 to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Brussels to Cologne leaves at 11:35 PM.
Yes,there are 9 direct trains a day from Brussels to Cologne with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Alibus, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Brussels to Cologne, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, Union Ivkoni, Alibus, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), SNCB for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Brussels and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
Yes, you can take a night train from Brussels to Cologne with Alibus. Find all the info regarding night trains in Europe.
A day trip to Cologne from Brussels is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Brussels to Cologne is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brussels and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Brussels to Cologne

Brussels
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Brussels is Bruxelles-Midi. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bruxelles-Midi for your trip from Brussels 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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Wi-Fi is available for a fee.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Dining
Dining
  • Pullman Hotel Bar
  • Quick Gare du Midi
  • Subway
  • EXKi Zuid
  • Starbucks
  • Häagen-Dazs
  • Sbarro
  • The Coffee Club
  • The Belgian Chocolate House
  • PAUL
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Les Lofts De Styliste
  • Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi
  • Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
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: 06:15 - 22:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Dining
Dining
  • Starbucks
  • Brasserie 28 Brewery
  • Panos
  • Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hilton Brussels Grand Palace
  • Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe
  • Hôtel The Moon
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Public transit options for Bruxelles-Central
  • Metro lines: 1, 5
  • Train lines: IC, Intercity Direct 9200, RER (S1, S2, S3, S6, S8, S10)
Brussels-NordWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
12
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Rue du Progrès.
Dining
Dining
  • Chabrol Brasserie
  • Winok Café
  • Félix Wine Bar
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • €0.50
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Progress
  • Hilton Brussels City
  • Hotel Siru
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
  • Hall 2: platform 7-12 for regional and local trains
Public transit options for Brussels-Nord
  • Metro: Line 3, Line 4
  • Tram: Line 25, Line 55
  • Bus: Several lines available

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