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Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia to Bern, Bern (Area) from $93: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Bern, Switzerland

How to Get from Cologne to Bern: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$93 - Night train, TrainBest price
586 kmDistance
4h 28m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Bern with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express / Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Train
Average Duration
5h  14m
Estimated price
$120-134
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Train
Average Duration
7h  51m
Estimated price
$93-243
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 586 km
Duration: 4h 28m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$104-162
Company
Try Tours / FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  19m
Estimated price
$106-101
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$118-401
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$179-1624
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  28m
Estimated price
$1201-1202
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$1203-1204
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  29m
Estimated price
$1205-401

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $37 $36 $33 $31 $35 $32 $39
Train $72 $51 $55 $72 $81 $65 $58
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cologne to Bern

The journey from Cologne to Bern offers an exciting contrast between Cologne's vibrant urban energy and Bern's charming medieval ambiance.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bern

Bern's neighborhoods each offer a distinctive character and charm.

Old Town
• A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning medieval architecture.
• Vibrant cafes and shops line the picturesque cobblestone streets.
KchwBärn
• Known for its trendy vibe and eclectic art scene.
• Popular destination for local markets and live events.
Matte
• Offers beautiful views of the Aare River and cityscape.
• A peaceful area with charming houses and gardens.

Best Times To Visit Bern's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Bern.

Zytglogge Clock Tower
Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and get great photos without the crowds.
Bern Cathedral
Late afternoon visits offer stunning light for photography and slightly fewer tourists.
Rosengarten
Spring mornings are best for seeing blooming roses and enjoying breathtaking views of the city.

Bern Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bern experiences a moderate climate with warm summers and chilly winters, making it a year-round destination for travelers. Timing your visit around the pleasant months of late spring and early autumn can enhance outdoor exploration and cultural experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Bern

Don't miss out on trying a hearty plate of Rösti at Restaurant Lötschberg, where the crispy potato dish offers a comforting taste of Swiss tradition. This experience contrasts with Cologne's more casual dining scene, as Lötschberg's warm atmosphere and focus on locally sourced ingredients reflect Bern's culinary heritage.

Cologne - Bern operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Bern, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Köln Hbf to Basel SBB

Average Duration
3h 52m
Estimated price
1514-886

Train from Koeln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
887-888

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
889-2240
Contact phone
+41 848 44 66 88
Website
https://www.sbb.ch/en

Train from Basel Sbb to Bern

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
2241-1138

Train from Zürich Flughafen to Bern

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
2242-2243

Train from Genève-Aéroport to Bern

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
2244-2245
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+31 30 751 5155
Website
https://www.ns.nl/en

all-pages.transport_night train from Koeln Hbf to Basel Sbb

Average Duration
6h 29m
Estimated price
2244-2246
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

all-pages.transport_night train from Koeln Hbf to Basel Sbb

Average Duration
6h 38m
Estimated price
2244-2249
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+38139423824
Website
http://try-tours.com

Bus from Cologne to Mannheim

Average Duration
4h 3m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Mannheim central bus station to Bern

Average Duration
5h 16m
Estimated price
987-2242
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.swiss.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Zürich (ZRH)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1138-1139
Website
https://www.eurowings.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Zürich (ZRH)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1138-1139
Website
https://www.lufthansa.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Zürich (ZRH)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1138-1139

Cologne to Bern: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cologne and Bern offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Cologne to Bern, covering a distance of 364 miles through stunning landscapes and charming towns. 💰 Prices for the journey by car range from €101 to €157, offering flexibility for different budget preferences. 🏔️ Arrive in Bern after approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes of driving, ready to explore the picturesque Swiss capital nestled in the heart of the Alps.
Average price
€102 - €157
🚂 Despite there being no direct train from Cologne to Bern, travelers can easily reach their destination with a transfer in Basel SBB. The journey, including transfers, typically takes around 5 hours and 14 minutes. 🎟️ Ticket prices for trains between Cologne and Bern can range from €116 to €156. With its efficient connections and scenic views along the way, traveling by train offers a comfortable and convenient way to reach the vibrant city of Bern from Cologne.
Departure Point
Köln Hbf station
Arrival Point
Bern station
🛫 Taking a direct flight from Cologne Bonn Airport to Zurich Airport is the quickest way to get to Bern with a flight time of just 1 hour. Enjoy the convenience of airlines like Swiss, Eurowings, and Lufthansa offering flights on this route.
Departure Point
Cologne Bonn Airport
Arrival Point
Zurich Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Swiss or Eurowings for direct options; they usually offer more convenient schedules and seamless check-in experiences, with the flight taking just 1 hour.
• Once you arrive at Zurich Airport, follow the signs for the train station located in the airport terminal; it's well-marked and the train to Bern runs frequently, taking about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Expect taxi fares from Bern's main train station to the city center to be around 10-15 Swiss francs, but using tram lines, which are often faster due to traffic, is a budget-friendly alternative at 3.60 francs for a ticket.
🌍 The journey, which includes transfers, lasts around 10 hours and 19 minutes. ⏱️
Departure Point
Cologne station
Arrival Point
Bern station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Bern.

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The distance between Cologne and Bern is 278 miles. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes to reach Bern from Cologne by train. Alternatively, one can take a train to Frankfurt and then fly to Basel, which takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes. If traveling by car, it typically takes 5 hours and 3 minutes to reach Cologne from Bern.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Cologne to Bern is by train, with tickets costing around €68-€100 and a travel time of approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes. This option is relatively affordable and provides a direct connection between the two cities. However, for those seeking a quicker journey, taking a train to Frankfurt and then flying to Basel is the most time-efficient option, with a travel time of 4 hours and 7 minutes, but at a higher cost of €136-€425.
The prices for a train journey from Cologne to Bern usually range from €69 to €91. However, please note that these prices can vary depending on factors such as the class of travel, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with the specific train operator or travel agency for the most accurate and up-to-date ticket prices.
If you prefer not to use public transportation, you can travel by car from Cologne to Bern. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 364 miles and it takes around 5 hours and 3 minutes to complete the journey. However, it's important to note that the cost of the trip by car can vary, typically ranging from €100 to €154.
The most convenient way to travel from Cologne to Bern without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes and fares range from €68 to €100. Taking the train allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. Other options, such as flying to Basel and then continuing by train, are also possible but may require more time and potentially higher costs.
Yes, there is a link between Cologne and Bern although it is not a direct one. One option is to take a train from Cologne to Basel, and then transfer to another train to reach Bern. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes, including the transfers. Both Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express and Swiss Railways operate train services between the two cities.
The flight between Cologne and Bern typically takes around 45 minutes when flying direct from Frankfurt Airport to Basel Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but on average, it can range from $100 to $200. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best price for your specific travel dates.
There are plenty of hotels available near Bern. There are over 205 hotels to choose from, with prices starting as low as €53. This gives travelers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a more budget-friendly option, there is a variety of accommodation available near Bern.