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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lugano to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Apr 06
Cheapest price
$276
Average price
$285
Fastest journey
7 h 59 m
Average duration
8 h 42 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
568 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lugano to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lugano to Cologne will cost around $285 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $276.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lugano to Cologne without transferring at least 2 times.
EC 10 · IC 280 · ICE 916 · ICE 288:30 AM10h03Lugano station6:33 PMCologne Hbf$2761One-way3 transfers- EC 10 · IC 280 · ICE 9168:30 AM7h59Lugano station4:29 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$2761One-way2 transfers
- EC 12 · IC 488 · ICE 218 · ICE 129:30 AM8h10Lugano station5:40 PMCologne Hbf$2931One-way3 transfers
- EC 12 · IC 488 · ICE 5169:30 AM8h35Lugano station6:05 PMCologne Hbf$2931One-way2 transfers
- EC 10 · IC 280 · ICE 9168:30 AM7h59Lugano station4:29 PMCologne Messe/Deutz$2761One-way2 transfers
- EC 12 · IC 488 · ICE 218 · ICE 129:30 AM8h10Lugano station5:40 PMCologne Hbf$2931One-way3 transfers
- EC 12 · IC 488 · ICE 5169:30 AM8h35Lugano station6:05 PMCologne Hbf$2931One-way2 transfers
- EC 10 · IC 280 · ICE 916 · ICE 288:30 AM10h03Lugano station6:33 PMCologne Hbf$2761One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lugano to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lugano to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $41. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, and a flight costs an average of $36.
Distance: 352 miles (568 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $170 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest |
7h 51m Average total duration 7h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 48m Average total duration 10h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Lugano to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Lugano to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Sunday, April 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 10 · IC 280 · ICE 916 · ICE 28 | 6:30 AM Lugano station | 10h03 | 4:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| EC 10 · IC 280 · ICE 916 | 6:30 AM Lugano station | 7h59 | 2:29 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2 transfers | |
| EC 12 · IC 488 · ICE 218 · ICE 12 | 7:30 AM Lugano station | 8h10 | 3:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| EC 12 · IC 488 · ICE 516 | 7:30 AM Lugano station | 8h35 | 4:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lugano to Cologne by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Mon
Apr 06
Apr 06
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Apr 07
Apr 07
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Apr 12
Why should you book Lugano to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Trenitalia EuroCity or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Lugano to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lugano to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia EuroCity or Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Lugano to Cologne.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lugano to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Lugano to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lugano to Cologne
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Lugano to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€52) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 352 miles (568 km) distance in 6h 59m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $36 (€29)
Distance 352 miles (568 km) |
Average train duration 7h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€52) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 6h 59m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $36 (€29)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lugano to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lugano and Cologne from $36 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 3m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€52)
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 3m
Cheapest Price
$199 (€162)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
2 a day
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 3m
Cheapest Price
$225 (€183)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
5 a day
FAQs: Trains from Lugano to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lugano to Cologne by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lugano to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€52), while the average price is around $119 (€97).
The train from Lugano to Cologne takes 6h 59m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Lugano to Cologne is 352 miles (568 km).
The first train from Lugano to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Lugano to Cologne leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lugano to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lugano to Cologne.
The train station in Lugano that goes to Cologne is Lugano station, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lugano to Cologne is by flight, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Lugano to Cologne offers scenic views, particularly through the Swiss Alps and past Lake Lucerne, providing picturesque landscapes and charming villages along the route.
A day trip from Lugano to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 59m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit for a day trip. The distance is 352 miles (568 km), with 10 train trips available per day.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Lugano to Cologne.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Lugano to Cologne
Lugano
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Lugano is Lugano. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lugano for your trip from Lugano to Cologne.
Lugano
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with access from Via Basilea.
Dining
- Ristorante Grand Café Al Porto
- Ristorante La Cucina di Alice
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano
- Hotel Lugano Dante Center
- Hotel Federale Lugano
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 640 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Italy and regional destinations
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Lugano
- Bus: Several lines available
- Funicular: Lugano Città–Stazione funicular
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Lugano.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Lugano
More options for your journey from Lugano to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Lugano
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