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Vienna, Vienna (Area) to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $98: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Vienna, Austria
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Vienna 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.

$98 by trainBest price
748 kmDistance
4h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Vienna 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
Plane
Average Duration
4h  11m
Estimated price
$52-262
Recommended
Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Train
Average Duration
8h  52m
Estimated price
$98-134
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 748 km
Duration: 4h 11m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$87-300
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
13h  26m
Estimated price
$87-136
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
15h  27m
Estimated price
$98-520
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$143-374
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  47m
Estimated price
$143-523
Company
Nightjet
Train
Average Duration
10h  43m
Estimated price
$521-522

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $47 $31 $42 $31 $55 $44 $41
Train $65 $57 $65 $65 $58 $53 $60
Fly $86 $86 $93 $79 $96 $110 $213

Traveling From Vienna to Cologne

Traveling from Vienna to Cologne offers a fascinating contrast between Vienna's imperial elegance and Cologne's vibrant, youthful energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

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

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Home to iconic Cologne Cathedral.
• Charming streets filled with cafes and shops.
Belgian Quarter (Belgishe Viertel)
• Trendy area known for boutiques and galleries.
• Lively nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
Friesenviertel
• Packed with vibrant art and cultural scenes.
• Ideal for exploring craft beer and local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Maximize your Cologne experience by timing your visits to key attractions just right.

Cologne Cathedral
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and stunning lighting.
Museum Ludwig
Weekdays are ideal for exploring contemporary art without the hustle.
Hohenzollern Bridge
Sunset provides a breathtaking backdrop, perfect for photos and a peaceful stroll.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers, with rain spread fairly evenly throughout the year. Late spring and early autumn stand out as the best times to visit, providing pleasant weather that enhances your exploration of the city's attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

Don’t miss trying a hearty plate of Himmel un Ääd, a local dish featuring black pudding served with mashed potatoes and apple sauce, providing a comforting contrast to Vienna's lighter fare. The vibrant atmosphere of Cologne’s traditional breweries, where you can sip Kölsch beer while enjoying your meal, adds a lively touch that sets it apart from Vienna's more refined dining scene.

Vienna - Cologne operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
eurowings.com

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Cologne Bonn (CGN)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
521-2625

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
2626-527
Website
austrian.com

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Cologne Bonn (CGN)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
526-527

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
528-529

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Frankfurt (FRA)

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
2620-2621
Website
lufthansa.com

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Cologne Bonn (CGN) via Munich

Average Duration
3h 16m
Estimated price
2622-2623

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Dusseldorf (DUS) via Munich

Average Duration
3h 28m
Estimated price
134-2624
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Cologne Bonn (CGN)

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
2627-2628

Plane from Vienna (VIE) to Cologne Bonn (CGN) via Milan Bergamo

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
2627-2628
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
bahn.com

Train from Wien Hbf to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
8h 52m
Estimated price
98-134
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Vienna Central Station to Leverkusen

Average Duration
15h 27m
Estimated price
520-98

Bus from Vienna Stadioncenter to Nuremberg Central Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
876-2627
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
nightjet.com

all-pages.transport_night train from Wien Hbf to Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12

Average Duration
10h 43m
Estimated price
521-522
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Vienna to Cologne

Average Duration
7h 47m
Estimated price
143-523

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

Traveling between Vienna 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 road trip from Vienna to Cologne covering a distance of 560 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of Austria and Germany along the way. 💰 Explore different price options ranging from €147 to €230 for the journey by car. Choose a comfortable route that fits your budget and travel preferences. 🛣️ Experience the freedom of the open road as you drive for approximately 7 hours and 47 minutes from Vienna to the vibrant city of Cologne. Enjoy the adventure of discovering new towns and attractions on your journey through Central Europe.
Average price
€147 - €230
🌳 Enjoy approximately 8 hours and 52 minutes of picturesque landscapes as you make your way to Cologne. Explore the onboard amenities and relax in comfort during the journey. Arriving at Koeln Hbf station, you'll have ample time to discover the historic city and its iconic landmarks. 💶 Ticket prices for the Vienna to Cologne train range from €101 to €138, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers. Whether you're a tourist or a seasoned adventurer, the train ride offers a smooth and enjoyable experience to immerse yourself in the beauty of both Vienna and Cologne. 🌟
Departure Point
Wien Hbf station
Arrival Point
Koeln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The train services on the Vienna to Cologne route are typically provided by ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) and Deutsche Bahn (DB). ÖBB offers a selection of catering services in their Economy Class, including snack carts with sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. In First Class, you'll be offered a complimentary meal service and access to a wider range of drinks. DB provides a similar experience with onboard bistros and a mobile ordering service available via their DB Navigator app.
• Seating Options: For this journey, you have multiple seating options: Economy Class, Business Class, and First Class. Economy Class is budget-friendly and provides comfortable seating with foldable tables. Business Class offers more spacious seats with additional legroom and easier access to dining services. First Class includes premium seating, dedicated services, and complimentary refreshments. You can check the seating layout and availability during booking on the respective websites of ÖBB (oebb.at) and DB (bahn.com).
• Arrival Station Tip: Arriving at Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station), you'll find that it’s a major hub with easy navigation. There is a luggage storage facility available where you can safely leave your bags while you explore the city, and restrooms are located throughout the station. Showers are not typically available, but several nearby hotels offer day-use rooms if you're looking to freshen up. Be prepared for large crowds as the station is a busy transit point.
🛫 Ready to hop on a quick flight from Vienna to Cologne? The direct flight from Vienna Airport to Cologne Bonn Airport takes just 1 hour and 35 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers. 🌍 The total duration of the flight from Vienna to Cologne is approximately 4 hours and 11 minutes. Ticket prices for this route can range from €53 to €269, offering flexibility for different budget preferences.
Departure Point
Vienna Airport
Arrival Point
Cologne Bonn Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be aware that while the flight time is only about 1h 35m, check-in for your flight from Vienna International Airport (VIE) typically requires you to arrive at least 2 hours early, especially during peak travel times due to security checks.
• Upon arrival at Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), navigate the airport efficiently by using the clearly marked signs to reach the baggage claim area; remember that baggage delivery can sometimes take longer than expected, so give yourself extra time if you're catching a connecting transport.
• Expect to pay around €30-€40 for a taxi ride from Cologne Bonn Airport to the city center; alternatively, consider the Airport Express bus service (SB60) for a more economical option at about €11, running frequently every 20-30 minutes. For more details on transportation, visit KVB Cologne for schedules.
🛤️ The journey will include transfers and it will take approximately 15 hours and 27 minutes to reach Köln Heumarkt. 💰 Ticket prices for the Vienna to Cologne bus range from €69 to €101.
Departure Point
Vienna Central Station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Vienna to Cologne.

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The distance between Vienna and Cologne is approximately 465 miles. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. It takes about 8 hours and 52 minutes to reach Cologne from Vienna by train, 4 hours and 45 minutes by flying to Dusseldorf and then taking a train, 4 hours and 11 minutes by plane, 7 hours and 47 minutes by car from Vienna to Cologne, and 15 hours and 27 minutes by bus from Cologne to Vienna.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Vienna to Cologne is by bus, which costs around €68-€100 and takes 15 hours and 27 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking around 4 hours and 11 minutes and costing approximately €50-€272. It is important to consider both the budget and the amount of time available when deciding on the best transportation option for this journey.
The prices for a train ticket from Vienna to Cologne range from €100 to €136. On the other hand, bus tickets between Cologne and Vienna typically cost between €68 and €100. It's important to note that these prices can vary depending on the specific dates and times of travel, as well as the class of service chosen. Comparing prices and considering factors such as comfort, convenience, and travel time can help travelers make a decision that suits their preferences and budget.
To travel from Vienna to Cologne without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 560 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 47 minutes to complete the journey by car. However, it's important to note that the prices for renting a car and fuel costs may vary, ranging from €145 to €226 or even more depending on specific factors such as the type of vehicle and current fuel prices.
To travel from Vienna to Cologne without a car, the best option is to take a train which takes approximately 8 hours and 52 minutes and costs €100-€136. Another option is to fly, which takes about 4 hours and 11 minutes and costs €50-€272. If you prefer a cheaper alternative, you can take a bus which takes approximately 15 hours and 27 minutes and costs €68-€100.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Vienna and Cologne. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 52 minutes and operates every day. However, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities, with the journey taking approximately 15 hours and 27 minutes with transfers. It is recommended to take the train as it is the most convenient mode of transportation between Vienna and Cologne.
The flight between Vienna and Cologne typically takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes. The prices of flights between the two cities can range from €53 to €265 depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines to get the best deal for your travel needs.
There are over 1145 hotels available in Cologne offering a variety of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels in Cologne start at €41 per night. Some popular areas to stay near Cologne include the city center, Old Town, and the Deutz neighborhood, which are all easily accessible to attractions and public transportation. It is recommended to check availability and book in advance to secure the best rates and preferred location.