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  3. Cologne Central Station to Berlin Train

Cologne Central Station to Berlin train times

Find complete train schedules from Cologne Central Station to Berlin, highlighting the fastest travel time of 3 hours 58 minutes. With 37 daily departures, the first train departs at 04:00 and the last at 23:54. Get real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a seamless journey.

Average

€113.10

From 21 Dec to 27 Dec

Cheapest

€28.43󰄽

On Tue 23 Dec

  • €148.25󰄽
    Sun21 Dec
  • €55.20󰄽
    Mon22 Dec
  • Tue23 Dec
  • €64.31󰄽
    Wed24 Dec
  • €75.05󰄽
    Thu25 Dec
  • €67.09󰄽
    Fri26 Dec
  • €72.78󰄽
    Sat27 Dec

Cologne Central Station to Berlin train times

Find detailed train schedules from Cologne Central Station to Berlin, where the fastest trip duration is 3 hours 58 minutes. 37 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:00 and the last at 23:54. Review DB train schedules and fares to stay updated with live information on delays and cancellations for a seamless journey.

DepartsArrivesOperator

23:27

Cologne Central Station
6h 8m, Direct

05:35

Berlin Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
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23:27

Cologne Central Station
6h 16m, 1 change

05:43

Berlin Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
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23:27

Cologne Central Station
6h 21m, Direct

05:48

Berlin Central Station (Low Level)
Deutsche Bahn
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23:27

Cologne Central Station
6h 38m, Direct

06:05

Berlin Central Station (Low Level)
Deutsche Bahn
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23:52

Cologne Central Station
8h 59m, 4 change

08:51

Berlin Central Station
Deutsche Bahn
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Cologne Central Station to Berlin train journey information

Access detailed DB train information from Cologne Central Station to Berlin, including departure and arrival times, stops, distance, journey duration, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a hassle-free trip.

First train
04:00
Last train
23:54
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
3 hours 58 minutes
Distance
296 miles (477km)
Price
From €28.43
Train operators
FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn

Cologne Central Station to Berlin train travel guide

Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Cologne Central Station to Berlin. Benefit from an average travel time of 4 hours 40 minutes and the convenience of economical ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long does the train take from Cologne Central Station to Berlin?

The average travel time from Cologne Central Station to Berlin by train is 4 hours 40 minutes. For those in search of the fastest route, the quickest journey takes 3 hours 58 minutes. For detailed train information, accurate timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip smoothly.

2. Are there direct trains from Cologne Central Station to Berlin?

No, even if there are no direct trains from Cologne Central Station to Berlin. However, TrainPal can assist you in finding the optimal routes by providing detailed information on schedules, costs, and transfer options. Plan your journey effortlessly with the extensive travel information offered by TrainPal.

3. How much is a train ticket from Cologne Central Station to Berlin?

The lowest price for a train ticket from Cologne Central Station to Berlin is €28.43, with the average cost being around €113.10*. Ticket prices can change based on booking time, train service, and available discounts. Therefore, check the latest prices for the best discounts. Enjoy cost-effective and flexible travel choices.

4. How often do trains run from Cologne Central Station to Berlin?

There are frequent trains from Cologne Central Station to Berlin, with 37 trains running each day. Enjoy convenient and regular departures throughout the day, ensuring flexible travel options. Check the latest schedules for the most accurate and up-to-date information on train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Cologne Central Station to Berlin train?

Yes, you can bring your bicycle on the train from Cologne Central Station to Berlin. Be sure to book your bicycle ticket and parking space ahead of time to guarantee a hassle-free trip.

Key Points:

  • Train Types: Bicycles are permitted on local transportation (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) together with long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
  • Advance Booking:Reserve bicycle tickets, and parking space, and avoid busy periods.
  • Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, and local transit bicycle day tickets vary from €6 to €6.50.
  • Check Local Regulations: Bike transport regulations differ by region.
  • Properly Park Bicycle: Place your bike in the allocated area as instructed.
Combining train and bicycle travel is both sustainable and convenient.

2. What amenities are available on trains from Cologne Central Station to Berlin?

All ICE trains, some IC trains, and certain regional trains have WiFi. In first class on ICE and IC trains, passengers can enjoy quieter spaces, comfortable seating, access to first-class lounges, digital newspapers and magazines, and seat reservations for those with flexible fares. Priority travel is also accessible at designated stations. Enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free journey!

 Good to know

Good to know

1. Do I need to book train tickets in advance for Cologne Central Station to Berlin?

In Germany, last-minute train tickets from Cologne Central Station to Berlin are available for purchase online, at ticket machines, and station counters. Nonetheless, it is highly recommended to book your train tickets in advance for better availability and pricing. It is not mandatory, but especially during peak travel periods, booking in advance can guarantee better seat availability and typically lower prices. Make your travel arrangements stress-free by booking early and enjoying the benefits of planning ahead.

2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Cologne Central Station to Berlin

In Germany, the peak travel times for trains from Cologne Central Station to Berlin typically occur during weekday rush hours, roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Furthermore, weekends, particularly Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, along with holidays and school breaks, often see higher demand. It is recommended to book tickets in advance during these times to secure a seat and possibly get lower prices.

3. How early should I arrive at the station for my train from Cologne Central Station to Berlin

For a stress-free travel experience, it is typically advised to arrive at the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you plenty of time to find your platform, navigate through any crowds, and address any last-minute concerns like finding your seat or getting snacks. If you are unfamiliar with the station or it is quite large, arriving even earlier is a good idea to ensure a smooth start to your journey.

4. Can I use a regional day pass for the Cologne Central Station to Berlin train?

Yes, regional day passes are valid on DB trains in Germany, but they are confined to regional trains within the specified region. Passes like the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket offer unlimited travel for a day on regional trains (such as RE, RB, and IRE) and some local public transportation, including buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains. However, they do not apply to long-distance trains like ICE, IC, or EC. Make sure to check the exact terms and conditions of the regional day pass to ensure it applies to your intended travel routes.

5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Cologne Central Station to Berlin route?

Yes, a Eurail Pass can be used on DB trains in Germany. This pass is accepted on most DB services, including InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) trains. However, please note that for certain high-speed or overnight trains, seat reservations may be required and could involve extra charges. Be sure to verify the specific requirements for each train and make any necessary seat reservations to ensure a hassle-free journey.

6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Cologne Central Station to Berlin by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: Travelling within Germany on DB trains doesn't require a passport. However, it's advisable to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, particularly if identification is required for your ticket.
  • Visa: Having legal residency in Germany allows you to travel on DB trains within the country without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: For international journeys on DB trains, including trips to neighbouring countries, a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents are required.
  • Visa:
    • 1) Schengen Area: For travel to or from a Schengen Area country, separate visas for each Schengen Zone country are generally unnecessary if you have a valid Schengen visa or are from a visa-exempt nation.
    • 2) Non-Schengen Countries: Travel to or from a non-Schengen country might require a visa, depending on the specific entry requirements of that country.

Confirm the entry and travel criteria for your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Consulting the embassies or consulates will yield the most precise and up-to-date information.

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Exchange and cancellation

Instant ticket cancellation

  • Reserved your DB train ticket on TrainPal? You can cancel it for free within 3 hours of purchase and up to the day before its validity starts. Enjoy a full refund without any trouble!
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    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    Discover the cheapest train tickets with TrainPal. Compare second and first-class prices, and use our journey planner for the best deals. Save more with discount codes.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Second-class Super Saver fares start at €17.99, first class at €23.99.

    Book early for ICE trains

    Book German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early for lower prices, as they increase closer to the departure date.

    Regional Day Ticket

    Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) offers unlimited regional travel in Germany for one day, from €46.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Explore Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares starting at €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.

    Group travel for 6+ people

    Groups of six+ enjoy super saver fares in Germany from €8.90, and in Europe from €13.90 per person.

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    * The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.