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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ghent to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jan 03
Cheapest price
€90
Average price
€95
Fastest journey
2 h 34 m
Average duration
2 h 34 m
Trains per day
3
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 €95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €90.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Ghent to Cologne without transferring at least once.
IC 2812 · ICE 1701:41PM2h34
Ghent St Pieters04:15PMCologne Hbf
€901One-way
1 transfer
IC 2808 · ICE 1509:41AM2h34
Ghent St Pieters12:15PMCologne Hbf
€971One-way
1 transfer
IC 2810 · ICE 31511:41AM2h34
Ghent St Pieters02:15PMCologne Hbf
€971One-way
1 transfer
IC 2812 · ICE 1701:41PM2h34
Ghent St Pieters04:15PMCologne Hbf
€901One-way
1 transfer
IC 2808 · ICE 1509:41AM2h34
Ghent St Pieters12:15PMCologne Hbf
€971One-way
1 transfer
IC 2810 · ICE 31511:41AM2h34
Ghent St Pieters02:15PMCologne Hbf
€971One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Ghent to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ghent to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 24m. 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 €9, and a train costs an average of €56.
Distance: 227 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€80 Average price | €25 Average price Cheapest |
2h 54m Average total duration Fastest 2h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 42m Average total duration 4h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Ghent to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Ghent to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Saturday, January 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 6:52 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2808 · ICE 15 | On time 8:41 AM Ghent St Pieters | 2h34 | 11:15 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2810 · ICE 315 | On time 10:41 AM Ghent St Pieters | 2h34 | 1:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| IC 2812 · ICE 17 | On time 12:41 PM Ghent St Pieters | 2h34 | 3:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Ghent to Cologne 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Ghent to Cologne?
The best time to book your train from Ghent to Cologne is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Ghent to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Ghent 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 Ghent to Cologne.
Trains
from €42Buses
from €16Journey information
Overview: Train from Ghent to Cologne
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Ghent to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €56 but you can travel from only €9 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:55. 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 €9
Distance 227 km |
Average train duration 2h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price €56 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 49m |
First train 00:07 |
Last train 23:55 |
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 €9
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB from Ghent to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, SNCB trains will get you between Ghent and Cologne from €9. 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
2h 32m
Cheapest Price
€49
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.
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
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
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
€56
Eurostar frequency
2 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
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
€51
SNCB frequency
10 a day
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.
Cheap train tickets from Ghent to Cologne can start from as little as €31 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Ghent to Cologne is €61; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Ghent to Cologne train time is 2 h 30 min covering the 226 km long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Ghent to Cologne leaves at 02: 09. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Ghent to Cologne leaves at 21: 54.
There are 6 trains a day from Ghent to Cologne which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar or SNCB. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
Yes, there's a high-speed train to Cologne. Take the fast train with Eurostar from Ghent to Cologne.
The high-speed Eurostar train from Ghent to Cologne takes 2 h 36 min on average.
For the best Ghent to Cologne train to purchase, you can travel safely and comfortably with Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar or SNCB. However, it's always good to check all possible train providers with services from Ghent to Cologne to compare what amenities they may offer.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 21: 54.
A trip to Cologne from Ghent is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 30 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Ghent to Cologne by train is February.
You have options as you can travel from Ghent to Cologne 2 different ways: train or coach.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Ghent to Cologne
Ghent
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Ghent is Gent St Pieters. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gent St Pieters for your trip from Ghent to Cologne.
Gent St Pieters
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
1 km
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Restaurant Patrick Foley's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- NH Gent Sint Pieters
- Hotel Carlton
- Astoria Hotel Gent
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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 Gent St Pieters
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 4
- Bus: Several lines available
Gent-Dampoort
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Kasteellaan.
Dining
- De Graslei
- Amadeus Ghent 1
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
- Hotel Cathedral
- Ibis Gent Centrum St-Baafs Kathedraal
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains to Antwerp, Brussels, and local destinations
Public transit options for Gent-Dampoort
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 4
Wondelgem
Amenities at train station
DiningWCBike ParkingBike RentalThe major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Ghent.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Most popular train connections from Ghent
More options for your journey from Ghent to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Ghent
Most popular train connections to Cologne
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