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Rotterdam to Cologne from $15: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Rotterdam, Netherlands
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Rotterdam 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.

$15 - OtherBest price
256 kmDistance
2h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rotterdam 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)
Train
Average Duration
3h  39m
Estimated price
$35-87
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
3h  15m
Estimated price
$15-15
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 256 km
Duration: 2h 36m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$22-32
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  50m
Estimated price
$39-107
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  36m
Estimated price
$48-76
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$354-355

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $16 $16 $14 $16 $18 $12 $18
Train $56 $50 $56 $56 $56 $56 $56
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Rotterdam to Cologne

The journey from Rotterdam to Cologne offers a fascinating contrast between Rotterdam's modern maritime charm and Cologne's rich historical architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

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

Altstadt (Old Town)
• Home to Cologne Cathedral and historic sites.
• Vibrant atmosphere with charming cafes and shops.
Ehrenfeld
• Trendy area known for street art and music scenes.
• Offers a diverse selection of eateries and bars.
Belgisches Viertel (Belgian Quarter)
• Features stylish boutiques and quirky galleries.
• Lively nightlife with popular bars and restaurants.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Planning your visits can greatly enhance your Cologne experience.

Cologne Cathedral
Mornings or late afternoons provide quieter moments for exploration.
Roman-Germanic Museum
Visit on weekdays for a calmer, more focused visit.
Rheinboulevard
Early evenings offer stunning sunset views without the daytime crowds.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early autumn the most pleasant times to visit. Be prepared for potential rain at any time, as the weather can influence outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

A visit to Cologne isn’t complete without trying 'Himmel un Ääd'—a comforting dish of black pudding served with mashed potatoes and applesauce, showcasing the city’s hearty fare. This culinary experience stands in stark contrast to Rotterdam’s seafood-rich cuisine, offering you a taste of Germany’s local ingredients and warm, inviting atmosphere.

Rotterdam - Cologne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam Centraal to Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12

Average Duration
3h 39m
Estimated price
33-81

Train from Rotterdam Blaak to Venlo

Average Duration
3h 7m
Estimated price
810-811

Train from Venlo to Neuss Hbf

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
334-812

Train from Rotterdam Centraal to Schiphol Airport

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
334-335
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Rotterdam Central Station to Leverkusen

Average Duration
5h 42m
Estimated price
21-31
Plane
Website
klm.com

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

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
333-710
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
blablacar.com

Other from Rotterdam to Cologne

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
14-14

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

Traveling between Rotterdam 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.

Average price
€46 - €73
Departure Point
Rotterdam Centraal station
Arrival Point
Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12 station
Departure Point
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Arrival Point
Dusseldorf Airport
Departure Point
Rotterdam Central Station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Rotterdam to Cologne.

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The distance between Rotterdam and Cologne is approximately 204.4 km by road. If you prefer traveling by train, it takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes to reach Cologne from Rotterdam. Another option is to take a train from Rotterdam and then fly to Cologne, which typically takes about 3 hours and 4 minutes. If you prefer driving, it takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes to reach Rotterdam from Cologne by car. Alternatively, taking a bus from Rotterdam to Cologne usually takes around 5 hours and 42 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Rotterdam to Cologne would be to rideshare. It is cheaper, costing only €15, and takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. However, if time is a priority, driving would be the quickest option, taking 2 hours and 36 minutes. Although it is slightly more expensive, costing between €46 to €73, it allows for more flexibility and convenience.
The prices for traveling from Rotterdam to Cologne vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking the train can cost between €33 to €82, while the bus prices range from €21 to €32.
To travel from Rotterdam to Cologne without using public transportation, you can consider using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. It offers rideshare options between the two cities, which is a convenient alternative if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Rotterdam and Cologne is approximately 255.9 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 36 minutes to drive from Rotterdam to Cologne. Prices for carpooling vary, ranging from €46 to €73.
The best way to travel from Rotterdam to Cologne without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes and ticket prices range from €32 to €87.
Yes, there is a connection between Rotterdam and Cologne. You can travel between the two cities by train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes including transfers. Another option is to take a train from Rotterdam to Cologne and then fly, which takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes. If you prefer driving, it would take approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes to travel by car from Rotterdam to Cologne. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which takes around 5 hours and 42 minutes including transfers.
The flight duration from Rotterdam in the Netherlands to Cologne in Germany is approximately 45 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. Generally, prices for this route can range from around €100 to €200.
There are many options for accommodation near Cologne. With over 1145 hotels available, visitors can choose from a range of prices and amenities to suit their needs. Prices start at €41, making it possible to find affordable lodging options in the area.