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Amsterdam to Cologne from €16: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Amsterdam, Netherlands
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Amsterdam 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.

$16 RideshareBest price
264 kmDistance
2h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Amsterdam 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
Dutch Railways (NS), various
Train
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
27-67
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
16-18
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 264 km
Duration: 2h 30m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
21-31
Company
Nightjet
Train
Average Duration
2h  48m
Estimated price
27-152
Company
Dutch Railways (NS), various
Train
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
39-114
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
270-271
Company
KLM, various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
2h  55m
Estimated price
272-273

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $12 $17 $13 $12 $16 $11 $16
Train $51 $53 $39 $45 $57 $48 $51

Traveling From Amsterdam to Cologne

Travelers can journey from the vibrant canals and artistic charm of Amsterdam to Cologne's striking Gothic architecture and rich history, experiencing a delightful contrast between the two cities.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

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

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral.
• Lively atmosphere with many bars and restaurants.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy area filled with boutiques and cafes.
• Vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
Ehrenfeld
• Known for its artistic vibe and street art.
• Offers a mix of international cuisine and local hangouts.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Planning your visits around peak times can enhance your Cologne experience.

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Mornings or late afternoons during weekdays offer quieter exploration.
Museum Ludwig
Visit on weekday mornings for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Cologne Old Town (Altstadt)
Early mornings or late evenings are ideal for fewer crowds.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early fall ideal for comfortable exploration. Weather can impact your travel experience, so keeping an eye on forecasts helps you plan outdoor activities and ensure you're prepared for occasional rain.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

Try the local specialty, Himmel un Äd, a flavorful dish made of black pudding served with apple compote and mashed potatoes, showcasing the hearty German cuisine that contrasts with Amsterdam's lighter fare. Dining in Cologne often provides a cozy, traditional atmosphere filled with local charm, enhancing the experience of savoring authentic regional flavors.

Amsterdam - Cologne operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+31 30 751 5155
Website
https://www.ns.nl/en

Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
27-67

Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Arnhem Centraal

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
27-31

Train from Arnhem Centraal to Duesseldorf Flughafen

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
670-671

Train from Duesseldorf Flughafen to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
672-673

Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Köln Messe/Deutz Bf

Average Duration
2h 48m
Estimated price
27-152
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
3h 17m
Estimated price
270-277

Train from D-Flughafen Bf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
278-279
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

all-pages.transport_night train from Amsterdam Centraal to Köln Messe/Deutz Bf

Average Duration
2h 48m
Estimated price
676-152
Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Leverkusen

Average Duration
4h 47m
Estimated price
21-31
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Amsterdam to Cologne

Average Duration
3h 17m
Estimated price
16-18
Plane
Contact phone
N/A
Website
https://www.klm.com

Plane from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
152-2710
Drive
Contact phone
N/A
Website
N/A

Drive from Amsterdam to Cologne

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
270-271

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

Traveling between Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam to Cologne, covering a distance of 164 miles in just 2 hours and 40 minutes by car. Enjoy the picturesque drive through the Dutch and German countryside, with smooth roads and clear signages leading the way. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options ranging from €46 to €74 for a road trip from Amsterdam to Cologne. Whether you're a solo traveler or with friends, carpooling services like Blablacar offer convenient rideshare solutions for those without a driver's license or looking to skip public transportation.
Average price
€46 - €74
🚆 The direct train from Amsterdam to Cologne departs from Amsterdam Centraal and arrives at Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12, with services operating every four hours every day. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. 🌍 Route options for the trip from Amsterdam to Cologne include transfers in cities like Frankfurt and Duisburg, depending on the chosen itinerary. Each route offers a unique travel experience, with varying durations ranging from 2 hours 37 minutes to 2 hours 51 minutes. 💰 The prices for train tickets between Amsterdam and Cologne can range from €28 to €69, offering travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred route and service provider for this scenic journey through the Netherlands and into Germany.
Departure Point
Amsterdam Centraal station
Arrival Point
Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12 station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train from Amsterdam to Cologne typically include a catering option that provides light snacks and beverages. Operators like NS International and Thalys offer a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and drinks that can be purchased during the journey. Check the respective operator's menu on their website before departure for specific offerings.
• The train operators on this route, NS International and Thalys, provide distinct seating options. NS International typically offers Economy (Standard) and First Class. In First Class, you'll enjoy more spacious and comfortable seats, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a quieter environment. Thalys offers similar classifications: Standard (Economy) and Premium (First Class), with additional perks including meals that are served at your seat in Premium. For the most comfortable experience, consider booking First or Premium Class.
• Upon arriving at Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station), you'll find several amenities to ease your transit. There are luggage lockers available for storage, as well as clean restrooms. Showers are available at certain hotels nearby but not directly at the station. For navigating the area after arrival, the fastest way to reach the city center is by catching Tram 1 or 7 from the station. They frequently run to popular destinations such as the Cologne Cathedral and shopping areas, ensuring you reach your next stop efficiently.
🛫 Flying from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Dusseldorf Airport is the quickest way to travel between the two cities, with a direct flight lasting only 45 minutes.
Departure Point
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Arrival Point
Dusseldorf Airport
🚌 When traveling from Amsterdam to Cologne by bus, be prepared for a journey that includes transfers. The total travel time is approximately 4 hours and 47 minutes. 🚌 FlixBus operates the bus services from Amsterdam to Cologne, offering a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation. Prices for the bus ticket between the two cities typically range from €22 to €32, providing an affordable travel option for your trip.
Departure Point
Amsterdam Sloterdijk station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station

Trips from Amsterdam