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  3. Cologne to Berlin Central Station Train

Cologne to Berlin Central Station train times

Look up thorough train timetables from Cologne to Berlin Central Station, where the fastest journey lasts 6h 24m. 4 trains are operating daily, with the first train departing at 23:12 and the last at 23:55. Check DB train schedules and prices to get real-time updates on any delays and cancellations, ensuring a hassle-free trip.

DepartsArrivesOperator

23:55

Cologne Central Station
8h 21m, 2 change

08:16

Berlin Central Station (Low Level)
Deutsche Bahn
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23:55

Cologne Central Station
8h 52m, 1 change

08:47

Berlin Central Station (Low Level)
Deutsche Bahn
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Cologne to Berlin Central Station train journey information

Find detailed DB train schedules from Cologne to Berlin Central Station, including first and last departure times, stops, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a smooth journey.

First train
23:12
Last train
23:55
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
6h 24m
Distance
295 miles (475km)
Price
From €100.07
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Cologne to Berlin Central Station train travel guide

Discover the advantages of choosing Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains for your trip from Cologne to Berlin Central Station. Experience an average journey time of 8h 34m and enjoy the comfort and affordability of ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average travel time from Cologne to Berlin Central Station on a train is 8h 34m. For those seeking the quickest option, the fastest travel time is 6h 24m. To get more detailed train information, precise timings, and schedules, explore TrainPal and plan your trip effectively.

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

Yes, direct train services from Cologne to Berlin Central Station are available. With TrainPal, you can access detailed information on stops, times, departure and arrival stations, and train types, such as high-speed ICE and regional trains. To secure the best fares, consider ticket options like Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis.

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

The lowest price for a train ticket from Cologne to Berlin Central Station is €100.07, with the average cost being around €116.15*. 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. Are there frequent trains from Cologne to Berlin Central Station?

The route from Cologne to Berlin Central Station has a daily frequency of 4 trains, ensuring frequent service. This allows you to enjoy convenient and efficient departures throughout the day, giving you flexibility in your travel plans. Refer to the most recent schedules for the most precise and current information on train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

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

Yes, you can carry your bike on the train from Cologne to Berlin Central Station. Remember to book your bike ticket and reserve a space in advance to ensure an effortless journey.

Key Points:

  • Train Types: Bikes are allowed on local transport (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) as well as long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
  • Advance Booking: Book your bike ticket, reserve a space, and avoid peak times.
  • Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, while local transport bike day tickets range from €6 to €6.50.
  • Check Local Regulations:Specific regulations for bike transport vary by region.
  • Properly Park Bike:Place your bike in the designated area as required.
Travelling by train and bike is both green and convenient.

2. Is Wi-Fi available on the ICE train from Cologne to Berlin Central Station?

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. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne to Berlin Central Station

In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne to Berlin Central Station online, at ticket machines, and at station counters. However, it is strongly advised to book your train tickets ahead of time for better availability and pricing. While it is not required, booking in advance, especially during busy travel periods, can ensure better seat availability and often lower prices. Plan ahead to secure your journey effortlessly and benefit from the advantages of early reservations.

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

In Germany, the peak travel times for trains from Cologne to Berlin Central Station 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 to Berlin Central Station

For a trouble-free travel experience, it is often recommended to reach the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. This provides you with enough time to locate your platform, pass through any crowds, and resolve last-minute tasks such as finding your seat or purchasing snacks. If you are not familiar with the station or if it is especially large, consider arriving even earlier to ensure a smooth beginning to your trip.

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

Yes, Regional day passes can be used on DB trains in Germany, but their use is confined to regional trains within the designated area. Passes such as the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket provide unlimited travel for a full day on regional trains (including RE, RB, and IRE) and certain local public transportation modes, such as buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains. However, they do not apply to long-distance trains including ICE, IC, or EC. Be certain to examine the specific terms and conditions of the regional day pass to confirm it covers the routes you plan to take.

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

Yes, you can utilise a Eurail Pass on DB trains within Germany. The pass is valid on most DB trains, such as InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) services. Nonetheless, for some high-speed or overnight trains, you might need to reserve a seat in advance, which could come with an extra fee. Check the particular train requirements and make the required reservations to guarantee a smooth trip.

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

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: For domestic travel on DB trains in Germany, no passport is needed. However, it's recommended to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, especially if your ticket requires identification.
  • Visa: With legal residency in Germany, you can travel domestically on DB trains without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: When using DB trains for international travel, such as trips to neighbouring countries, you will need a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents.
  • 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.

Find cheap Cologne to Berlin Central Station ticket prices

Sparpreis tickets

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Saver Fare

Super Sparpreis tickets

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Super Saver Fare

Flexpreis tickets

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Flexible Fare
 Find cheap Cologne to Berlin Central Station ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

  • Super Saver Fare:No exchange or cancellation.
  • Saver Fare: No exchange. Cancel for a €10 fee and receive a voucher refund.
  • Flexible Fare:No exchange. Free cancellation before the start of validity; €19 fee on or after the start date.
  • Regional Day TicketsNo exchange or cancellation.
  • Train fare typesEXchangeCancellation
    Super saver fare󱕤󱕤
    Saver fare󱕤 €10 cancellation fee, refund as a voucher
    Flexible fare󱕤

    - Cancel for free before the first day of validity

    - Cancelling on or after the first day of validity costs €19

    Regional day ticket in Germany󱕤󱕤

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    TrainPal offers the cheapest train tickets, listing second and first-class prices. Our journey planner finds the best prices for you, and discount codes add extra savings.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Super Saver fares start at €17.99 for second class and €23.99 for first class.

    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

    Journey to 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+ get 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.