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Dortmund to Cologne from $4.5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Dortmund, Germany
to
Cologne, Germany

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

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$4.5 RideshareBest price
98 kmDistance
1h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dortmund to Cologne 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
1h  12m
Estimated price
$6.3-71
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  22m
Estimated price
$4.5-9.8
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 98 km
Duration: 1h 2m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  2m
Estimated price
$14-21
Company
Ecolines
Bus
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$21-31

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $7 $7 $7 $7 $7 $7 $7
Train $6 $7 $6 $7 $7 $6 $7
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Traveling From Dortmund to Cologne

This route connects Dortmund's industrial charm with Cologne's vibrant culture, offering you a delightful contrast of experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

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

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Rich history with stunning architecture and cobblestone streets.
• Vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy area filled with boutiques and cafes.
• Art scene thrives with quirky galleries and events.
Ehrenfeld
• Creative vibe with street art and music venues.
• Popular for its multicultural restaurants and shops.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Maximize your Cologne experience by visiting attractions at the right times.

Cologne Cathedral
Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter and offer stunning light for photography.
Museum Ludwig
Weekdays attract fewer visitors, allowing for a more peaceful art experience.
Old Town (Altstadt)
Late afternoon showcases the vibrant atmosphere before evening crowds arrive.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early fall the ideal times to visit. Weather can influence your plans, so be prepared for occasional rain showers and varying temperatures throughout the year.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

Try the traditional Kölsch beer paired with a hearty plate of Himmel und Ääd, a dish of black pudding served with mashed potatoes and apple sauce, found in many local Brauhaus. This culinary experience in Cologne immerses you in a lively atmosphere, showcasing regional flavors and local ingredients that distinctly contrast with Dortmund's more industrial-style dining.

Dortmund - Cologne operators

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

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

Train from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
29-32
Contact phone
0221 13 999 444
Website
https://nationalexpress.de

Train from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
6.3-6.31
Contact phone
+49 1807 123 99 123
Website
https://www.flixtrain.com/

Train from Dortmund Central Station to Cologne Central Station

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
6.3-9.8
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
6.32-6.34
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
31-71
Bus
Contact phone
+371 67214512
Website
https://ecolines.net

Bus from Dortmund to Köln

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
21-31
Contact phone
+38139423824
Website
https://try-tours.com

Bus from Dortmund to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
0-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://blablacar.com

Other from Dortmund to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
4.5-9.8

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

Traveling between Dortmund and Cologne 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 journey from Dortmund to Cologne, covering 61 miles of picturesque German countryside in just over an hour. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you make your way towards the bustling city of Cologne. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel with prices ranging from €15 to €22 for the trip by car. Take advantage of the cost-effective option of driving yourself or sharing a ride through carpooling services like Blablacar - a convenient alternative to public transport.
Average price
€15 - €22
🚆 Traveling from Dortmund to Cologne by train is convenient and efficient. The direct train service departs every 20 minutes from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf, making it easy to plan your journey. 🌇 The train ride from Dortmund to Cologne offers scenic views of the German countryside and takes approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the comfortable ride as you head towards your destination. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between Dortmund and Cologne range from €6 to €74, providing affordable options for travelers looking to explore both cities. Whether you're commuting for work or enjoying a leisurely trip, the train offers a hassle-free way to travel between these two vibrant destinations.
Departure Point
Dortmund Hbf station
Arrival Point
Köln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains typically include a bistro car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Additionally, some Intercity trains provide a food service to your seat in First Class, offering a wider selection of refreshments.
• The trains on this route mainly offer three seating options: First Class, which has spacious seating and more amenities; Second Class (sometimes referred to as Economy), which is comfortable and suitable for most travelers; and Business Class, typically available on some operators for increased comfort on longer journeys. DB trains allow you to choose your class while booking tickets online, and you can easily check seating arrangements on their website.
• For your trip from Dortmund to Cologne, the primary operators are Deutsche Bahn (DB) and flixtrain. You can visit their websites at: DB and flixtrain. These sites also provide train schedules, ticket booking, and additional route information.
🚌 Experience a convenient and direct journey from Dortmund to Cologne with a bus operated by Ecolines. Services are available four times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, with the trip lasting approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Departing from Dortmund station, you'll arrive at Köln station without any hassle. 🚌 Enjoy the scenic route as you travel between these two vibrant German cities, with comfortable and reliable bus services provided by Ecolines. Plan your trip ahead to secure your seat, as prices for a bus ticket between Cologne and Dortmund typically range from €22 to €32. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the journey as you head towards your destination.
Departure Point
Dortmund station
Arrival Point
Köln station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dortmund to Cologne.

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The distance between Dortmund and Cologne is 74.0 km by road and 97.7 km by train. The typical travel time by train is 1 hour and 19 minutes from Dortmund to Cologne. If you prefer to travel by car, it takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes to reach Dortmund from Cologne. Alternatively, if you opt for a bus, the typical travel time is 2 hours and 12 minutes from Dortmund to Cologne.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Dortmund to Cologne is to rideshare, with prices ranging from €4 to €9 and a travel time of 1h 22m. This is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, for those looking for the quickest option, driving would be the best choice, with a travel time of 1h 2m. Although it is slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from €15 to €22, it provides the advantage of flexibility and convenience.
The prices for train travel between Dortmund and Cologne range from €14 to €78, depending on the type of ticket purchased and the class of travel.
To travel from Dortmund to Cologne without using public transportation, I recommend using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. It offers rideshare options, which is great if you don't have a driver's license or want to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Dortmund and Cologne is approximately 98.2 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes to drive between the two cities. The prices for carpooling between Dortmund and Cologne typically range from €15 to €22.
The most convenient way to travel from Dortmund to Cologne without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes, and ticket prices range from €14 to €78. There are several trains available throughout the day, providing a frequent and efficient transportation option. Alternatively, you could also consider taking a bus, which takes approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes, but the train is generally the faster and more comfortable choice.
Yes, there is a direct link between Dortmund and Cologne. Trains operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express run every day, with departures every 20 minutes, taking approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes. Additionally, FlixBus operates direct bus services four times a week, departing from Dortmund central bus station and arriving at Köln Heumarkt station, with a travel time of around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Cologne with over 1145 hotels available. Prices start at €41 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and luxury options. Some popular areas to stay in Cologne include the city center, Old Town, and near the Cologne Cathedral.