The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Basel
Cheapest price
€64
Average price
€168
Fastest journey
3 h 49 m
Average duration
3 h 51 m
Trains per day
44
Distance
378 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne 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 to Basel will cost around €168 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €64.
Of the 44 trains that leave Cologne for Basel on Fri, Jun 19, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 378 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 49 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 3 h 54 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 929 · ICE 1015 · ECE 95:53 PM5h17Cologne Hbf11:10 PMBasel SBB€641One-way2 transfers
ICE 827 · ICE 2733:21 AM5h27Cologne Hbf8:48 AMBasel SBB€831One-way1 transfer
ICE 2014:54 PM3h54Cologne Hbf8:48 PMBasel SBB€861One-way0 transfers
ICE 613 · ICE 3775:54 PM3h54Cologne Hbf9:48 PMBasel SBB€861One-way1 transfer
ICE 1011 · ICE 73:30 PM3h51Cologne Messe/Deutz7:21 PMBasel SBB€881One-way1 transfer
ICE 1013 · ICE 755:32 PM3h49Cologne Messe/Deutz9:21 PMBasel SBB€911One-way1 transfer
ICE 915 · ICE 719:31 AM3h50Cologne Messe/Deutz1:21 PMBasel SBB€1341One-way1 transfer
ICE 919 · ICE 731:30 PM3h51Cologne Messe/Deutz5:21 PMBasel SBB€901One-way1 transfer
ICE 1011 · ICE 73:30 PM3h51Cologne Messe/Deutz7:21 PMBasel SBB€881One-way1 transfer
ICE 10712:54 PM3h54Cologne Hbf4:48 PMBasel SBB€901One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Basel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €25, and a flight costs an average of €325.
Distance: 378 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€129 Average price | €36 Average price Cheapest | €627 Average price |
5h 38m Average total duration Fastest 5h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 44m Average total duration 8h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 20m Average total duration 5h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Basel train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Basel trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 921 · ICE 511 · ICE 275 | Delayed 2:10 AM 3:49 AMCologne Hbf | 5h59 | 9:48 AM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 921 · 4251 · ICE 511 · ICE 275 | Delayed 2:10 AM 3:49 AMCologne Hbf | 5h59 | 9:48 AM Basel SBB | 3 transfers | |
ICE 201 | Delayed 4:01 PM 4:54 PMCologne Hbf | 3h54 | 7:27 PM 7:27 PMBasel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 929 · ICE 1015+ EC 9 | 5:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h17 | 11:10 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 319 · IC 60403 | On time 10:18 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h03 | 6:21 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 619 · IC 60403 | On time 11:55 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 6h26 | 6:21 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, June 19 | |||||
ICE 827 · ICE 273 | Delayed 3:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h27 | 6:48 AM 6:48 AMBasel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 511 · ICE 275 | On time 5:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h00 | 9:48 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 23 · ICE 513 · ICE 277 | On time 6:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h15 | 11:48 AM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 23 · ICE 513 · ICE 277 | On time 6:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h15 | 11:48 AM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 101 | On time 6:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 10:48 AM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 25 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h28 | 1:21 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 25 · ICE 279 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h55 | 1:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 513 · ICE 277 | On time 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 11:48 AM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 103 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 12:48 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 9:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h50 | 1:21 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 27 · ICE 225+ EC 5 | 9:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h28 | 3:21 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 515 · ICE 279 | On time 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 1:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
9438+ 9219 | 10:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 8h47 | 7:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
9438+ 9223 | 10:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 10h47 | 9:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
9438+ 9563+ 96231 | 10:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 7h59 | 6:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
9438+ 12131+ 96247 | 10:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h59 | 8:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
9438+ 9517+ 96241 | 10:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h59 | 10:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
IC 2013+ ICE 371 | On time 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h55 | 3:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
IC 2013 · ICE 371 | On time 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h55 | 3:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 105 | On time 10:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 2:48 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 225 · ECE 5 | On time 11:18 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h03 | 3:21 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 29 · ICE 919 · ICE 73 | On time 11:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h28 | 5:21 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 29 · ICE 373 | On time 11:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h55 | 5:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 517 · ICE 371 | On time 11:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 3:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
9450+ 2377+ 96241 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 9h59 | 10:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
9450+ 9223 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h47 | 9:26 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
9450+ 9531+ 96247 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h59 | 8:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
9450+ 12131+ 96247 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 7h59 | 8:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
9450+ 9517+ 96241 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 9h59 | 10:38 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
9450+ 9579+ 96239 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h29 | 9:08 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 107 | On time 12:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 4:48 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 919 · ICE 73 | On time 1:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h51 | 5:21 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 229 · ICE 375 | On time 1:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h55 | 7:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 229 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7 | On time 1:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h28 | 7:21 PM Basel SBB | 2 transfers | |
ICE 519 · ICE 373 | On time 1:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 5:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 109 | On time 2:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 6:48 PM Basel SBB | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 1011 · ICE 7 | On time 3:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h51 | 7:21 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 927 · ICE 75 | On time 3:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h28 | 9:21 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
ICE 611 · ICE 375 | On time 3:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h54 | 7:48 PM Basel SBB | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Basel 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.
Jun 19
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Jul 01
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Why should you book Cologne to Basel trains with Omio?
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 ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) or ÖBB | InterCity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Basel.
- 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 Cologne to Basel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Basel.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Basel?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Basel
Trains from Cologne to Basel run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €45 but you can travel from only €25 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 378 km distance in 3h 50m.
Distance 378 km |
Average train duration 5h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price €45 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 50m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Nightjet, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Basel from €25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | Nightjet
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | InterCity
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Basel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Basel
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only
- There are luggage lockers in the station
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
- Outside the main entrance
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
- CHF 2
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- 800 places, covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- 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
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
- Outside the main entrance
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
- CHF 1
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
- Located in the main hall
- 330 places, covered
- Avis
- Europcar
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Basel
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