Trains from Berlin to Cologne

Window of Berlin Train Station
Berlin Main Train Station

Trains from Berlin to Cologne (Koln) are a great way to travel when you are visiting Germany.

Trains on this route are run by Deutsche Bahn, which operate high-quality rail services throughout the country. Trains run once an hour throughout the day, making it easy to find a service that suits your needs.

Trains depart from the Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and arrive at the Cologne Hauptbahnhof.

All trains from Berlin to Cologne are direct. Both InterCity Express and InterCity services operate on this route. The former are faster, less expensive, and much more frequent than the latter, so it is advisable to take them.

The journey time between the two cities ranges from 4 hours and 20 minutes on InterCity Express trains to 5 hours and 17 minutes on InterCity trains.

The price of one-way tickets to Cologne varies by time and departure date. Train tickets can cost from 29 euros in second class and 49 euros in first class if you book online in advance and get special Savings Fares. Reservations on trains from Berlin to Cologne are not required but are strongly recommended, as trains are often crowded, especially at peak times.

Germany Train Guide

This Germany train guide will help you learn about how to travel by train in Germany and how to get the best deals on train tickets while you are there.

Germany Train Guide: How to Travel

Travelling by train in Germany is a great way to get around the country. The German rail network is vast, and there are links to all major and minor cities as well as international destinations.

Most large German cities have multiple train stations, including a central station, which is called a Hauptbahnhof in German. Smaller cities tend to only have one railway station. You can find out which trains depart from and arrive at which stations by checking timetables.

Most German trains are new and nice, and there are many options for high-speed trains that make travelling long distances fast and easy. There are first and second class options on many trains in Germany, too.

Germany Train Guide: Tickets

Train tickets for Germany are available for purchase both online and at the train stations. If you purchase your tickets in advance, you can often get special discounted fares that are only offered online. Concessions are available for many types of passengers, including students, seniors, children, and groups. If you qualify, make sure to specify when you are booking in order to get a discount.

Augustiner Tent: Best Family Tent at Oktoberfest

The best family tent at Oktoberfest is the Augustiner tent.

Every Tuesday at the Augustiner tent is Childrens’ Day, so a family-friendly atmosphere takes over from the usual raucous Oktoberfest scene.

However, if it’s good food you’re after, try the Kafers Wies’n-Schanke tent.

It is considered to have the best food at Oktoberfest and generally has a laid-back atmosphere that families will feel comfortable in.