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Trip Summary
There are 9 daily trains from Berlin to Cologne. Traveling by train from Berlin to Cologne usually takes around 5 hours and 35 minutes, but the fastest FlixTrain train can make the trip in 4 hours and 48 minutes.
| Distance | 297 mi (477 km) |
| Fastest train | 4h 48m |
| Lowest price | $14.51 |
| Trains per day | 7 |
| Most frequent service | FlixTrain |
| Train lines | 1 |
Price trends for trains from Berlin to Cologne
Monthly average prices
Prices as travel date approaches
Which train should you take from Berlin to Cologne?
FlixTrain is the one and only train line which connects Berlin to Cologne. However, there are 9 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 9 | 5h 36m | $45.51 |
Part of the FlixBus family, FlixTrain launched in 2018 to offer affordable and sustainable train travel in Germany. Its trains provide Wi-Fi, power outlets, air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and access to an entertainment portal full of movies, games, and music. In addition, each passenger gets a guaranteed seat, so you don't have to worry about standing in any aisles. FlixTrain operates 9 daily trips to Cologne from Berlin. The train usually departs from Berlin-Spandau in Berlin and arrives at Cologne Central Station in Cologne after about 5 hours and 36 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Berlin and Cologne is approximately 297 miles, or 477 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 5 hours and 35 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 48 minutes.
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Monday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Berlin to Cologne. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Monday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Wednesday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Berlin at 7:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 9 scheduled trains on most days. 7 of these are direct connections to Cologne. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Cologne to Berlin.
City Information
Berlin
Berlin is one of the most exciting destinations in Europe for all travelers. One of the most unique landmarks in Berlin is its famous Brandenburg Gate, which was built for King Frederick Wilhelm II. The Gate now represents German unity, and it is perhaps the most photogenic landmark in the capital city. Modern art enthusiasts should visit the Urban Nation Museum for Urban Contemporary Art which is Germany’s first street art museum. Opened in 2017, the museum displays works from various graffiti artists from around the world and it’s located in Schöneberg, one of the city’s edgier areas. If you’re simply looking to enjoy a stroll, the Tiergarten, which spans 519 acres from central Berlin, will offer the relaxing vibes you need.
Berlin has an expansive and vibrant food scene with a good variety. Those looking for traditional German dishes should head over to Zur letzten Instanz, which is the oldest restaurant in Berlin. For a special twist, don’t hesitate to visit the Turkish Market, which offers amazing Turkish delicacies.
The main hub for intercity bus services is the Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof Berlin. For rail services, the Berlin Hauptbahnhof is the main train station. The Berlin Brandenburg Airport, located just outside of the city’s south-eastern border, is the main air travel hub of the city.
Cologne
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Pixabay
There's no shortage of sights, culture, history, and adventure in Cologne, an alluring city on the Rhine. One of the most famous landmarks of the city is the Cologne Cathedral. This Gothic building and UNESCO World Heritage site remains the most iconic structure in the city. In fact, the Cologne Cathedral is the most visited landmark in Germany. Next door, the Museum Ludwig contrasts the cathedral's sense of history with an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol.
Cologne's breadth of museums also caters to a younger crowd. Families with children should head to the Cologne Chocolate Museum along the river or the Cologne Zoological Garden for memorable, kid-friendly experiences.
Foodies, rejoice! Cologne is home to mouthwatering German delicacies and upscale restaurants. Start your day with breakfast at Café Sehnsucht. For lunch, visit Herings Im Martinswinkel, and for dinner, head over to Bei Oma Kleinmann to feel like you're visiting your long-lost German grandmother.
Trains like Deutsche Bahn, DB Intercity, and FlixTrain connect Cologne to other major European cities, including Munich, Paris, and Vienna. You can also catch a bus from Cologne on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Sindbad, Union Ivkoni, or Columbuzz. Plus, the Cologne Bonn Airport is a large, well-outfitted airport with daily international flights for travelers coming from afar.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Berlin?
Main departure station: Berlin-Spandau
Because some trains make multiple stops before leaving the city, there are 6 stops and stations in Berlin where you can board the train.
All train stations in Berlin:
Berlin-Spandau
Berlin Central Station
Berlin Ostbahnhof
Berlin-Lichtenberg
Berlin Gesundbrunnen(S)
Berlin Südkreuz
Where is the train station in Cologne?
Main arrival station: Cologne Central Station
There are more train stations and stops in Cologne than most cities. Most trains from Berlin will stop at one (or more) of the 3 following stations in Cologne:
Train stations in Cologne:
Cologne Central Station
Leverkusen
Cologne Messe Deutz Station - FlixTrain
Get around town with Moovit
Need a return trip from Cologne to Berlin?
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