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Cologne to Munich from $24: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Munich, Germany

How to Get from Cologne to Munich: 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.

$24 RideshareBest price
285 milesDistance
3h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Munich 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
Train
Average Duration
4h  21m
Estimated price
$95-110
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$24-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 285 miles
Duration: 3h

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  3m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
Nightjet
Train
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$55-180
Company
Lufthansa, Eurowings
Plane
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$80-258
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  48m
Estimated price
$90-140
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$94-365
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  33m
Estimated price
$99-371
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  37m
Estimated price
$142-407

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $21 $17 $21 $60 $49 $52 $45
Train $83 $43 $66 $65 $67 $79 $55
Fly $55 $55 $57 $58 $65 $110 $68

Traveling From Cologne to Munich

The journey from Cologne to Munich presents an intriguing contrast, with Cologne’s vibrant, modern skyline and rich history beautifully juxtaposed against Munich’s traditional Bavarian charm and enchanting landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Munich

Munich boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Altstadt-Lehel
• Home to iconic Marienplatz and stunning architecture.
• Vibrant cafes and shops create lively street scenes.
Schwabing
• Known for its artsy vibe and bohemian atmosphere.
• Lush parks and trendy restaurants attract locals and tourists.
Maxvorstadt
• Hub for art lovers with numerous galleries and museums.
• Bustling nightlife scene with lively bars and clubs.

Best Times To Visit Munich's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Munich experience.

Marienplatz
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Englischer Garten
Weekday visits in spring offer a peaceful outdoor setting.
Nymphenburg Palace
Late afternoon tours provide stunning light for photography.

Munich Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Munich experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and early autumn the ideal times for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Being mindful of seasonal changes can greatly influence your travel experience, such as enjoying festive atmospheres in late autumn or engaging in winter sports in the snow-covered Alps nearby.

Dining Recommendation in Munich

Savoring Weisswurst, a traditional Bavarian sausage, at the historic Viktualienmarkt gives you a taste of Munich's hearty and rustic culinary style, contrasting sharply with Cologne's renowned Kölsch beer and hearty dishes. The bustling market atmosphere, paired with the fresh local ingredients and unique regional flavors, creates a dining experience that speaks to Bavarian culture like nowhere else.

Cologne - Munich operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Munich, 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 Messe/Deutz Bf to München Hbf

Average Duration
4h 21m
Estimated price
$95-110

Train from Köln Hbf to München Hbf

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
$55-180

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
$25-29

Train from Koeln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$41-46
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

all-pages.transport_night train from Köln Hbf to München Hbf

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
$55-180

all-pages.transport_night train from Köln Hbf to Munich East Station

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$100-130
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Leverkusen to Munich central bus station

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$45-70
Plane Show flights
Website
lufthansa.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Munich (MUC)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$75-300
Website
eurowings.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Munich (MUC)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$60-310
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
blablacar.com

Other from Cologne to Munich

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$24-45

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

Traveling between Cologne and Munich 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.

🚗 Enjoy a scenic drive through Germany from Cologne to Munich, covering a distance of 577.8 km. The journey takes around 4 hours and 48 minutes, offering picturesque views along the way. 💰 Save money on your trip by driving from Cologne to Munich, with car travel costs ranging from €83 to €129. Budget-conscious travelers can also consider carpooling options through services like Blablacar for shared rides between the cities.
Average price
€83 - €129
🚄 The journey from Cologne to Munich by train is a convenient and efficient option, with direct trains departing from Köln Messe/Deutz Bf and arriving at München Hbf. 🕰️ The trip duration between Cologne and Munich is approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes, allowing passengers to sit back and enjoy the scenic views along the way. The train services are operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express, ensuring a comfortable and smooth travel experience. 💶 Ticket prices for the train from Cologne to Munich range from €88 to €101, offering travelers affordable options to reach their destination.
Departure Point
Köln Messe/Deutz Bf station
Arrival Point
München Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
Be sure to check the onboard catering options with Deutsche Bahn (DB). They offer a variety of food and beverage choices, including snacks, hot meals, and beverages in the dining car. Depending on your class of service, you can also order at your seat through their 'DB Navigator' app.
For your trip from Cologne to Munich, you will have options for different seating classes: First Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and a quiet zone, while Business Class provides comfortable seating with power outlets. Economy Class is the most affordable option but still offers decent comfort for the journey. Book in advance through the following operators' websites: Deutsche Bahn (DB) - ">">bahn.com FLIXTRAIN - ">">flixtrain.com
Upon arrival at Munich Hauptbahnhof (main station), note that there are luggage storage services available where you can leave your bags for a few hours while you explore the city. You can also find restrooms and showers at the station. To get to the city center quickly, take the U-Bahn line U2 towards 'Erkner' or buses 162 or 100, which frequently connect to various central destinations such as Marienplatz.
🛫 Experience a swift and convenient journey from Cologne to Munich with a direct flight that takes only 1 hour and 5 minutes. Airlines like Eurowings and Lufthansa operate regular flights between Cologne Bonn Airport and Munich Airport. ✈️ Cover the distance of 3 hours by plane and arrive in Munich, ready to explore the Bavarian city's rich history and vibrant culture. Experience seamless travel with reliable airlines offering connecting flights at competitive prices ranging from €74 to €238.
Departure Point
Cologne Bonn Airport
Arrival Point
Munich Airport
🚌 Departing from Köln Heumarkt, the FlixBus service to Munich has a transfer in Leverkusen. 🛤️ The journey, with transfers, takes approximately 9 hours and 3 minutes to reach Munich central bus station. 💰 Ticket prices for this route range from €42 to €65, offering an affordable way to travel between Cologne and Munich by bus.
Departure Point
Leverkusen station
Arrival Point
Munich central bus station