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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Basel
Showing times and prices for Dec 30
Cheapest price
€126
Average price
€155
Fastest journey
3 h 54 m
Average duration
4 h 19 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
379 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Basel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Basel will cost around €155 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €126.
Fast trains
Of the 7 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Basel on Tue, Dec 30, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Dec 30 the direct trains cover the 379 km distance in an average of 4 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 54 m .
On Tue, Dec 30 the slowest trains will take 4 h 55 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 2540 · ICE 27908:53AM4h55
Cologne Hbf01:48PMBasel SBB
€1261One-way
1 transfer
ICE 10308:54AM3h54
Cologne Hbf12:48PMBasel SBB
€1401One-way
0 transfers
10909 · ICE 915 · ICE 7109:22AM3h59
Cologne Hbf01:21PMBasel SBB
€1441One-way
2 transfers
ICE 515 · ICE 27909:54AM3h54
Cologne Hbf01:48PMBasel SBB
€1561One-way
1 transfer
IC 2013+
ICE 37110:53AM4h55
Cologne Hbf03:48PMBasel SBB
€1731One-way
1 transfer
ICE 10308:54AM3h54
Cologne Hbf12:48PMBasel SBB
€1401One-way
0 transfers
ICE 515 · ICE 27909:54AM3h54
Cologne Hbf01:48PMBasel SBB
€1561One-way
1 transfer
10909 · ICE 915 · ICE 7109:22AM3h59
Cologne Hbf01:21PMBasel SBB
€1441One-way
2 transfers
IC 2540 · ICE 27908:53AM4h55
Cologne Hbf01:48PMBasel SBB
€1261One-way
1 transfer
IC 2013+ICE 37110:53AM4h55
Cologne Hbf03:48PMBasel SBB
€1731One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne Hbf to Basel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €21, and a train costs an average of €31.
Distance: 379 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€78 Average price | €33 Average price Cheapest |
5h 45m Average total duration Fastest 5h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 37m Average total duration 7h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cologne Hbf to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Basel trains for today, Monday, December 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 3:55 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 201 | Delayed 4:41 PM 3:54 PMCologne Hbf | 3h54 | 8:07 PM 8:07 PMBasel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, December 30 | |||||
| IC 2540+ICE 279 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h55 | 12:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2540 · ICE 279 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h55 | 12:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 103 | On time 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 11:48 AM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10909 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 8:22 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h59 | 12:21 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 27 · ICE 225+ EC 5 | 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h28 | 2:21 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 515 · ICE 279 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 12:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2013+ICE 371 | 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h55 | 2:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Basel by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Tue
Dec 30
Dec 30
Wed
Dec 31
Dec 31
Thu
Jan 01
Jan 01
Fri
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Jan 02
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Jan 05
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Basel
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Basel run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €31 but you can travel from only €21 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 14:53. The fastest train covers the 379 km distance in 3h 52m.
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 €21
Distance 379 km |
Average train duration 5h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price €31 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 52m |
First train 04:55 |
Last train 14:53 |
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 €21
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) from Cologne Hbf to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Basel from €21. 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 53m
Cheapest Price
€30
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.
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
ÖBB | ICE
About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 34m
Cheapest Price
€137
ÖBB | ICE frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
ÖBB | InterCity
About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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
6h 38m
Cheapest Price
€100
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
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 43m
Cheapest Price
€152
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Basel 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 Basel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cologne Hbf to Basel can start from as little as €30 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne Hbf to Basel is €68; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The train time between Cologne Hbf and Basel is on average 4 h 19 min for the 378 km long journey, but the time it takes to go to Basel from Cologne Hbf by train can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Basel leaves at 00: 04. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Basel leaves at 14: 53.
Yes, there are 5 direct trains a day from Cologne Hbf to Basel with Deutsche Bahn. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
Yes, there's a high-speed train to Basel. Take the fast train with ÖBB | ICE from Cologne Hbf to Basel.
For the route from Cologne Hbf to Basel you can take a train with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE or ÖBB | Euro City (EC). Be sure to check out all possible train companies that offer services between Cologne Hbf and Basel on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
A trip to Basel from Cologne Hbf is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 19 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Cologne Hbf to Basel by train is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Cologne Hbf to Basel including taking a coach or train.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne Hbf to Basel
Cologne
Basel
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Basel.
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
- 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.
The major train station for arrivals in Basel is Basel SBB. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel SBB for your journey to Basel from Cologne.
Basel SBB
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
Basel Bad Bhf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
2 kmNumber of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 330 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
Basel, Badischer Bahnhof
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingCar RentalMore options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Cologne Hbf
Most popular train connections to Basel
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