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Paris to Cologne from $37: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Paris, France
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Paris to Cologne: 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.

$37 - OtherBest price
404.33 kmDistance
3h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Paris 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
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  21m
Estimated price
$95-240
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
5h  47m
Estimated price
$37-37
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 404.33 km
Duration: 3h 21m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  42m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$81-356
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
4h  28m
Estimated price
$85-130
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
$115-400
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  24m
Estimated price
$148-364

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $20 $20 $20 $20 $23 $24 $31
Train $104 $88 $86 $88 $124 $117 $138
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Paris to Cologne

Embarking on a journey from Paris to Cologne reveals a shift from the romantic allure of Parisian streets to the vibrant, artistic pulse of Cologne's old town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

Cologne boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and atmosphere.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Historic buildings and vibrant market squares.
• Iconic Cologne Cathedral as a stunning backdrop.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy cafes and boutique shops throughout the area.
• A hub for art and cultural events.
Ehrenfeld
• Eclectic mix of street art and nightlife options.
• Known for its innovative eateries and craft breweries.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Maximizing your visit means timing your trips to Cologne's highlights just right.

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Mornings offer tranquility with fewer visitors, perfect for exploration.
Museum Ludwig
Weekdays draw smaller crowds, enhancing your art viewing experience.
Hohenzollern Bridge
Sunset provides stunning views; evenings are more peaceful and less crowded.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it comfortable for travel year-round. Late spring and early autumn often provide the best conditions for outdoor activities, while rainy days are common, so packing accordingly can enhance your experience.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

Savor the hearty flavors of Himmel un Ääd, a local dish of black pudding served with mashed potatoes and apple sauce, which showcases Cologne's rustic culinary roots. Dining here provides a cozy, communal atmosphere that contrasts with the elegance of Parisian cafes, spotlighting local ingredients and traditional recipes that warm both the palate and the spirit.

Paris - Cologne operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Paris Nord to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
3h 21m
Estimated price
$95-210

Train from D-Flughafen Bf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$10-21
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Paris Nord to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$120-240

Train from Duesseldorf Flughafen to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$28-65
Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine to Köln Heumarkt

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
$40-60

Bus from Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine to Leverkusen

Average Duration
7h 42m
Estimated price
$40-60
Plane
Website
https://www.airfrance.com

Plane from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to Cologne Bonn (CGN)

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$110-500
Website
https://www.lufthansa.com

Plane from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$130-650

Plane from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to Frankfurt (FRA)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$100-440
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Other from Paris to Cologne

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$37-37

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

Traveling between Paris 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 Paris to Cologne covering a distance of 486.0 km, taking around 4 hours and 28 minutes by car. 💶 Explore budget-friendly options for your road trip adventure, with prices ranging from €78 to €119 for the trip from Paris to Cologne by car.
Average price
€78 - €120
🌍 Covering a distance of 536 km, the train ride from Paris to Cologne takes approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes. 💶 Ticket prices for the Paris to Cologne train range from €87 to €221, offering different fare options to suit your budget. With SNCF as the operating train service provider, you can expect a comfortable and efficient trip to explore the cultural delights of Cologne after your time in Paris.
Departure Point
Paris Nord station
Arrival Point
Köln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard the Thalys or ICE trains between Paris and Cologne, you'll find catering services that include a range of options from light snacks to full meals. Thalys offers a 'Carte' menu featuring local specialties, as well as a selection of beverages including wine. ICE trains usually provide a dining car where you can purchase meals and drinks, with a menu that often features seasonal offerings.
• For this journey, Thalys offers two seating classes: Standard (Economy) and Premium (First Class). Economy seats feature comfortable seating but are more basic, while Premium seats provide more space, power outlets, and complimentary meals. ICE trains also offer First Class and Second Class options, with First Class having more spacious seats, a quieter atmosphere, and complimentary snacks and drinks in some cases.
• The primary operators for the route from Paris to Cologne include Thalys (thalys.com) and Deutsche Bahn (ICE) (bahn.com). It’s a good idea to check both websites for ticketing options and to see if there are any special deals. Useful links: Thalys train schedules (thalys.com), and Cologne transport options (kvb.koeln).
🛫 Experience a smooth and quick journey from Paris to Cologne by taking a direct flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Dusseldorf Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. 🏙️ Once you land in Dusseldorf, a vibrant city in Germany, it's just a short 45-minute train ride to reach Cologne, where you can explore the historic landmarks and cultural attractions. Prices for a flight between Cologne and Paris range from €74 to €327, offering flexibility for different budgets.
Departure Point
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
Arrival Point
Dusseldorf Airport
🚌 While there is no direct bus from Paris to Cologne, travelers can take a service departing from Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine and arriving at Köln Heumarkt via Wiesdorf Leverkusen Mitte Bf. The total journey duration, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 42 minutes. 💰 For those considering this bus trip, the prices for a ticket between Cologne and Paris range from €37 to €55.
Departure Point
Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your FlixBus ticket in advance, as prices can fluctuate between €36 and €54; this route usually has limited direct services, so securing your seat early will save you money and ensure availability. Check the schedule here: flixbus.com
• During your journey, take advantage of the transfer at Leverkusen by using your waiting time to grab a quick snack at the nearby shopping center, which offers several dining options including quick bites and coffee shops, ensuring you’re refreshed for the final leg to Cologne.
• Upon arriving at Köln Heumarkt, make sure to follow the signs to the U-Bahn station located directly beneath the bus terminal for easy access to the city's public transport system, allowing you to reach popular destinations like the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) within minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Paris to Cologne.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Paris and Cologne is approximately 403.9 km by direct route, or 486.3 km by road. Traveling by train, it typically takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes to reach Cologne from Paris. Alternatively, flying to Dusseldorf and then taking a train can take about 4 hours and 47 minutes, while a direct flight from Paris to Cologne typically takes 6 hours and 22 minutes. Driving by car can take approximately 4 hours and 28 minutes, while taking a bus between the two cities usually takes around 7 hours and 42 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Paris to Cologne is ridesharing, at €34, though it takes the longest time of 5 hours and 47 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, taking the train is the best choice, with a travel time of 3 hours and 21 minutes. While the train is more expensive, costing between €87 to €221, it is the fastest way to reach Cologne from Paris.
When traveling from Paris to Cologne, the prices of a train ticket range from €87 to €221. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Cologne to Paris typically vary between €37 and €55.
You can opt to use Blablacar's carpooling service for a rideshare option from Paris to Cologne, which is a convenient alternative to public transportation. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 486.0 km, and it takes about 4 hours and 28 minutes to drive between them. Prices for carpooling services from Paris to Cologne typically range from €78 to €119, offering an affordable and flexible travel option.
The most convenient way to travel from Paris to Cologne without a car is by taking the train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes and costs between €87 to €221. Alternatively, you can opt for the bus, which takes around 7 hours and 42 minutes and costs between €37 to €55. Another option is to fly, which takes about 6 hours and 22 minutes and costs between €74 to €331.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Paris and Cologne. The train operated by SNCF departs from Paris Nord and arrives at Köln Hbf, with services running every day and the journey taking approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes. However, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities, with transfer services available that can extend the travel time to around 7 hours and 42 minutes.
The quickest direct flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Dusseldorf Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. The prices for flights between Cologne and Paris can range from €74 to €327, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Cologne with over 1282 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at €42 per night, offering a range of choices to suit various budgets.