A Quick Train Ride: Bonn To Cologne

The train from Bonn to Cologne is a quick and convenient way to travel between the two German cities. Covering a distance of approximately 25 kilometres, the journey takes around 17 to 20 minutes on average. With a direct train connection and up to 90 trains per day, travelling by rail is a popular option for commuters and tourists alike. The first train usually departs Bonn around 04:30, while the last train typically leaves at midnight. Ticket prices for this route start at €11.50, and there are several train companies operating on this route, including Intercity-Express (ICE) and Deutsche Bahn.

Bonn to Cologne train times

The train from Bonn to Cologne covers a distance of approximately 15 to 16 miles (24 to 25 km) and takes around 19 to 20 minutes. The first train from Bonn usually departs at around 04:33 on weekdays and weekends, while the last train typically leaves at around 00:33. There are about 74 to 90 trains travelling between Bonn and Cologne every day, with a train departing approximately every 12 to 17 minutes. The train companies operating on this route include Intercity-Express (ICE), Mitteldeutsche Regiobahn, and Mittelrhein Bahn (Trans Regio).

On the day of travel, a standard train ticket for this route will cost around €13. However, booking in advance can secure tickets for as low as $11.50 to $11.73.

How much are tickets from Bonn to Cologne?

The price of a train ticket from Bonn to Cologne varies depending on the time of booking and the date of travel. The cheapest tickets can be found for as little as $11.50/€12/US$12 if booked in advance. However, the average price of train tickets is $14/€13/US$13. Booking on the day of travel is likely to be more expensive, with prices starting from US$20.50.

The price of the ticket also depends on the class of the train carriage. For example, the Deutsche Bahn high-speed train offers a dining car, a children's compartment, and power sockets, and First Class includes perks such as complimentary food and drink and extra legroom.

How far in advance should I book my train ticket?

The journey from Cologne to Bonn by train takes around 17 to 20 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 25 kilometres. There are about 68 to 90 trains travelling between the two cities per day, with the first train departing Cologne at around 05:26 on weekdays and 05:53 on weekends. The last train usually leaves at 00:56.

Now, how far in advance should you book your train ticket? Well, trains in Germany typically open for booking around 6 months ahead of the travel date. It's a good idea to book your ticket as early as possible, as prices tend to be cheaper when booking opens. However, if you're looking at booking 30 or 7 days in advance, you can still find relatively affordable tickets, with prices usually fluctuating based on demand and availability. For instance, booking 30 days in advance might cost you around US$26.50, while booking 7 days ahead could bring the price down to approximately US$20.

If booking isn't open yet for your intended travel dates, you can set a booking alert to receive an email notification when the cheapest tickets are released. This way, you can take advantage of the lowest fares and avoid the risk of prices increasing as your travel date approaches.

What are the first and last train times from Bonn to Cologne?

The first and last train times from Bonn to Cologne vary depending on the day of the week.

On weekdays, the first train from Bonn to Cologne departs at around 5:45 am, whereas the last train leaves at around 10:45 pm. On Saturdays and Sundays, the first train of the day leaves Bonn at around 5:53 am, and the final departure is at 10:59 pm.

There are around 25 direct trains from Bonn to Cologne every day, covering the 15-mile (24-25 km) distance in an average of 20 minutes. The journey can take as little as 18 minutes on the fastest services.

What are the different train classes offered?

The different train classes offered on the route from Bonn to Cologne are:

Intercity Express (ICE)

In ICE's Second Class, you can enjoy free WiFi and purchase snacks and drinks from the bistro carriage. In First Class, you get all the perks of Second Class, plus more legroom, an in-seat meal service, Fast Track in some stations, and free access to DB lounges.

Intercity (IC)

IC trains offer comfortable seats with power outlets, fold-down tables, and free WiFi in Second Class. Some IC trains are double-decker trains (IC2). In First Class, you get to enjoy Fast Track in some German stations and free access to DB lounges.

EuroCity (EC)

EuroCity trains have an onboard restaurant and a bistro carriage. In First Class, you will be served complimentary food and drinks at your seat.

ÖBB ICE

The Economy Class on ÖBB's ICE trains comes with WiFi, a generous baggage allowance, and a restaurant and bistro car. In First Class, you get more legroom, adjustable seats, and an in-seat meal service.

Frequently asked questions