Ghent to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Fri, Oct 02
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VIAS Rail GmbH
Intercity
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn
Renfe AVANT
2,000+ travel companies
VIAS Rail GmbH
Intercity
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn
Renfe AVANT
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ghent to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 02

Cheapest price on Oct 02

€79

Average ticket price on Oct 02

€93

Fastest journey on Oct 02

2 h 33 m

Average journey duration on Oct 02

2 h 34 m

Trains on Oct 02

7

Distance

227 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ghent to Cologne will cost around €93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €79.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Ghent to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • SNCB2818+Eurostar9477
    7:41 PM2h41
    Ghent St Pieters
    10:22 PMCologne Hbf
    €791One-way
    1 transfer
  • SNCB2817+Eurostar9471
    6:41 PM2h34
    Ghent St Pieters
    9:15 PMCologne Hbf
    €791One-way
    1 transfer
  • SNCB2807+Eurostar9411
    8:41 AM2h34
    Ghent St Pieters
    11:15 AMCologne Hbf
    €991One-way
    1 transfer
  • SNCB7013+Eurostar9411
    7:46 AM3h29
    Ghent-Dampoort
    11:15 AMCologne Hbf
    €991One-way
    1 transfer
  • SNCB2815+Eurostar9459
    4:41 PM2h34
    Ghent St Pieters
    7:15 PMCologne Hbf
    €991One-way
    1 transfer

Live departures

Ghent to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Ghent to Cologne trains for today, Thursday, October 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2814 · ICE 317
On time
3:41 PM Ghent St Pieters
2h34
6:15 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
SNCB2815+Eurostar94594:41 PM Ghent St Pieters
2h34
7:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB2817+Eurostar94716:41 PM Ghent St Pieters
2h34
9:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB2818+Eurostar94777:41 PM Ghent St Pieters
2h41
10:22 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Friday, October 2
SNCB7013+Eurostar94117:46 AM Ghent-Dampoort
3h29
11:15 AM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB2807+Eurostar94118:41 AM Ghent St Pieters
2h34
11:15 AM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB2809+Eurostar942310:41 AM Ghent St Pieters
2h34
1:15 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
SNCB2811+Eurostar943512:41 PM Ghent St Pieters
2h33
3:14 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Ghent to Cologne trains with Omio?

VIAS Rail GmbH as well as Intercity, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn and more offer trains services from Ghent to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ghent to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs VIAS Rail GmbH?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for VIAS Rail GmbH, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Ghent 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 VIAS Rail GmbH with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ghent to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Ghent 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 Ghent to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ghent to Cologne

BelgiumBelgium
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Ghent to Cologne run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €19 but you can travel from only €14 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 227 km distance in 1h 49m.

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 €14
Distance
227 km
Average train duration
2h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
€19
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
1h 49m
First train
12:03 AM
Last train
11:48 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
42 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 €14

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH, Intercity from Ghent to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, VIAS Rail GmbH, Intercity trains will get you between Ghent and Cologne from €14. 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
2h 11m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€31
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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 Eurostar Duration
1h 49m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
€19
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 11m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
€101
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
1 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

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \InterCity\" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, \"Intercity\" or \"IC\" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph)."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
4h 11m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€53
Intercity frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Ghent to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ghent 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 Ghent to Cologne can start from as little as €19 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Ghent to Cologne is €70; 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 Ghent to Cologne is 1h 49m to travel the 227 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 Ghent to Cologne leaves at 12:03 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Ghent to Cologne leaves at 11:48 PM.
There are 4 trains a day from Ghent to Cologne which require at least one change with VIAS Rail GmbH, Intercity, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
Yes, there are multiple high-speed train options for your journey from Ghent to Cologne. You can choose between Eurostar. Eurostar trains take around 1h 49m
When taking a train from Ghent to Cologne, you can count on VIAS Rail GmbH, Intercity, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Ghent and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A day trip to Cologne from Ghent is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 49m 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 Ghent and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Ghent to Cologne

Most Ghent to Cologne trains use the Gent St Pieters to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Use this guide to compare Ghent and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Ghent
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Ghent station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Ghent to Cologne leave from Gent St Pieters. The station is 2 km from Ghent city centre at Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
Gent St PietersKoningin Maria Hendrikaplein, 9000 Ghent, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Gent St Pieters from Ghent city centre

Gent St Pieters is 1 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus60 · 8m · €3 · every ~3 min
TramT1, Gf, T3, T4 · 14m · €3 · every ~32 min

Gent St Pieters train station facilities and services

Gent St Pieters has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: De Graslei, Restaurant Patrick Foley's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Gent St Pieters. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Gent St Pieters. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Gent St Pieters: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Gent St Pieters: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Gent St Pieters: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include NH Gent Sint Pieters, Hotel Carlton, Astoria Hotel Gent.

Gent-DampoortKasteellaan 447, 9000 Ghent, Belgium+32 9 241 22 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Gent-Dampoort from Ghent city centre

Gent-Dampoort is 1 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus10, 11, 12a, 12b · 9m · €3 · every ~20 min

Gent-Dampoort train station facilities and services

Gent-Dampoort 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, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: De Graslei, Amadeus Ghent 1

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Gent-Dampoort. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Gent-Dampoort. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Gent-Dampoort: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Gent-Dampoort: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Gent-Dampoort: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort, Hotel Cathedral, Ibis Gent Centrum St-Baafs Kathedraal.

WondelgemWondelgemstationplein 36, 9032 Gent, BelgiumDiningWCBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Wondelgem from Ghent city centre

Wondelgem is 4 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS51, L, S52 · 6m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus5a, G56, 55, 562, 563, 564, 565, 56 · 11m · €3 · every ~33 min
5b, 55, 562, 563, 564, 565, 56 · 18m · €3 · every ~18 min
56, 5b, 55, G56, 565, 562, 563, 564 · 23m · €3 · every ~19 min
5a, 55, 562, 563, 564, 565, 56 · 24m · €3 · every ~31 min

Wondelgem train station facilities and services

Wondelgem has practical services for this route, including Dining, WC, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Wondelgem.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Wondelgem: WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Wondelgem: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

More options for your journey from Ghent to Cologne

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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