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Cologne to Leipzig from $16: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Leipzig, Germany

How to Get from Cologne to Leipzig: 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.

$16 RideshareBest price
383.4 kmDistance
3h 24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Leipzig 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
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  31m
Estimated price
$122-197
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$16-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 383.4 km
Duration: 3h 24m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  58m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
Nightjet
Train
Average Duration
11h  23m
Estimated price
$75-201
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  10m
Estimated price
$80-120
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  3m
Estimated price
$85-293
Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Train
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$95-105
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  33m
Estimated price
$102-363
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$110-387
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  57m
Estimated price
$126-451
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  26m
Estimated price
$130-336
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  3m
Estimated price
$131-310

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $21 $19 $19 $21 $22 $21 $25
Train $23 $30 $45 $26 $24 $23 $26
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cologne to Leipzig

Traveling from Cologne to Leipzig offers a fascinating contrast between Cologne's vibrant, modern culture and Leipzig's rich historical charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Leipzig

Leipzig boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Plagwitz
• Known for its vibrant art scene.
• Features scenic canals and green spaces.
Connewitz
• A hub for alternative culture and nightlife.
• Offers eclectic shops and cafes.
Altstadt (Old Town)
• Rich in history with beautiful architecture.
• Home to many museums and landmarks.

Best Times To Visit Leipzig's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Leipzig's top spots.

Leipzig Zoo
Early mornings during weekdays offer quieter views of animals.
St. Thomas Church
Visit during weekday afternoons for a calmer atmosphere and stunning acoustics.
Monument to the Battle of the Nations
Late afternoons are perfect for avoiding crowds and enjoying sunset views.

Leipzig Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Leipzig experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making spring and early autumn ideal for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Be mindful that winter can bring cold temperatures, which may affect your sightseeing plans, while summer can be warm and vibrant.

Dining Recommendation in Leipzig

A visit to Leipzig isn't complete without trying the hearty 'Leipziger Allerlei,' a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and local herbs, often served with delicious sauces that highlight regional flavors. Unlike Cologne's lighter cuisine, Leipzig's dining scene offers a rustic charm with cozy, traditional restaurants that embrace a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Cologne - Leipzig operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Leipzig, 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 Koeln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$41-46

Train from Frankfurt to Erfurt Hbf

Average Duration
2h 36m
Estimated price
$55-65

Train from Erfurt Hbf to Leipzig Hbf

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$34-39

Train from Köln Hbf to Leipzig Hbf

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
$95-105

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
$25-29
Contact phone
+31 30 751 5155
Website
https://www.ns.nl/en

Train from Koeln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
$21-55
Contact phone
0800 2235546
Website
http://www.abellio.de

Train from Erfurt Hbf to Leipzig Hbf

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$22-30
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

all-pages.transport_night train from Bonn Hbf to Halle(Saale)Hbf

Average Duration
8h 42m
Estimated price
$60-180
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Leverkusen to Leipzig central train station

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$40-65
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk

Rideshare from Cologne to Leipzig

Average Duration
5h 4m
Estimated price
$16-35
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.lufthansa.com/

Plane from Dusseldorf to Leipzig

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$170-550
Website
https://www.eurowings.com/

Plane from Dusseldorf to Leipzig

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$170-450

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

Traveling between Cologne and Leipzig 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 Leipzig covering a distance of 498.9 km, allowing you to soak in the beautiful German countryside along the way. 💰 Prices for the journey by car range from €74 to €110, offering flexibility in budget options for travelers looking to explore Germany's cities at their own pace.
Average price
€74 - €111
🚆 The journey from Cologne to Leipzig by train is direct and convenient, with services departing every four hours and operating daily. The trip takes approximately 6 hours and 8 minutes. 💰 The prices for a train ticket between Cologne and Leipzig range from €112 to €181, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. With a travel time of 5 hours and 31 minutes, this train journey promises to be both cost-effective and time-efficient.
Departure Point
Koeln Hbf station
Arrival Point
Leipzig Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Intercity Express (ICE) trains operating from Cologne to Leipzig, you'll find catering services that include a bistro car offering a selection of snacks, hot meals, and beverages, including regional specialties. It's advisable to check the menu online ahead of your trip, as seasonal items may be available.
• The ICE trains provide several seating options: First Class offers spacious seats with more legroom, complimentary snacks, and access to the Quiet Zone. Business Class seats are slightly more affordable than First but still offer a comfortable experience with additional amenities. Economy Class is the most economical choice, with standard seating but less privacy and space.
• Multiple operators run the route from Cologne to Leipzig, including Deutsche Bahn (DB) and FlixTrain. For more information, you can visit their official websites: Deutsche Bahn - bahn.com and FlixTrain - flixtrain.com
🛫 Flying from Cologne to Leipzig is a convenient and quick option with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Departure Point
Dusseldorf Airport
Arrival Point
Leipzig Airport
🎫 Tickets for the bus service between Leipzig and Cologne typically range from €37 to €60, offering an affordable travel option for budget-conscious travelers. ⏱️ The total travel time for this bus journey, including transfers, is approximately 8 hours and 58 minutes, providing a comfortable and scenic route through Germany.
Departure Point
Leverkusen station
Arrival Point
Leipzig central train station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Leipzig.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cologne and Leipzig is approximately 383.0 km by road and 498.3 km by train. By train, the typical travel time is 5 hours and 11 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train to Frankfurt and then fly to Leipzig, which takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes. If you prefer flying directly, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 39 minutes. Finally, by car, it takes about 4 hours and 10 minutes to reach Leipzig from Cologne, while the bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Cologne to Leipzig is by rideshare, which takes around 5h 4m and costs between €14 and €32. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, taking a train and then flying is the best choice. This option takes 3h 15m and costs between €119 and €312.
When traveling from Cologne to Leipzig the prices for train tickets can range from €97 to €175. Alternatively, if you choose to take the bus, the prices can range from €37 to €55.
If you want to avoid public transportation, a convenient option is to use Blablacar's carpooling service. It allows you to find rideshares between Cologne and Leipzig. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 498.9 km, and it takes around 4 hours and 10 minutes to drive. Depending on the carpool, prices can vary between €73 and €110.
The best way to travel from Cologne to Leipzig without a car is by train via Frankfurt Airport. This journey takes approximately 5 hours and 11 minutes and costs between €92 and €183. Another option is to take a bus, which takes 8 hours and 55 minutes and costs between €37 and €55. Lastly, you can also fly from Cologne to Leipzig, which takes 4 hours and 39 minutes and costs between €69 and €294.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Cologne and Leipzig. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and departs every four hours, operating daily. However, there is no direct bus link between the two cities, and the journey by bus takes around 8 hours and 55 minutes, including transfers.
The flight duration between Cologne and Leipzig varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes. However, there is no direct flight available between the two cities, which means that most flights will have at least one stopover. The cost of a flight between Leipzig and Cologne typically ranges from €73 to €289, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and available deals.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Leipzig with over 971 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at €41 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and upscale choices.