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Brussels, Brussels Region to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $16: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Brussels, Belgium
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Brussels 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
183.5 kmDistance
1h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Brussels 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  43m
Estimated price
$21-55
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  47m
Estimated price
$16-16
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 183.5 km
Duration: 1h 43m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Nightjet
Train
Average Duration
2h  39m
Estimated price
$21-170
Company
BlaBlaCar Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  44m
Estimated price
$25-54
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  4m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
3h  51m
Estimated price
$60-157

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $11 $11 $11 $12 $11 $11 $14
Train $42 $37 $47 $43 $63 $43 $43
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Brussels to Cologne

The journey from Brussels to Cologne offers a fascinating contrast, with Brussels showcasing its vibrant mix of medieval architecture and modern creativity, while Cologne greets you with its impressive Gothic cathedral and rich historical roots.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

Cologne's neighborhoods each offer their own distinct vibe and attractions.

Belgian Quarter
• Trendy cafes and boutiques abound.
• Vibrant nightlife with eclectic bars.
Old Town (Altstadt)
• Historic charm with centuries-old buildings.
• Home of the iconic Cologne Cathedral.
Ehrenfeld
• Bohemian atmosphere with street art.
• Growing food scene featuring local flavors.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

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

Cologne Cathedral
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.
Hohenzollern Bridge
Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views and fewer tourists.
Museum Ludwig
Weekdays are ideal to explore modern art without the 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 the best times to visit for pleasant temperatures. The weather can impact your travel experience, so prepare for potential rain showers and adjust your plans accordingly.

Dining Recommendation

When in Cologne, savor the traditional dish of Himmel un Ääd, which consists of black pudding, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce, showcasing a hearty flavor profile distinct from Brussels' more refined cuisine. The casual, lively atmosphere of local eateries in Cologne brings you closer to the authentic German dining experience, highlighted by locally sourced ingredients that bring every bite to life.

Brussels - Cologne operators

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

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

Train from Bruxelles-Nord to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
$48-53
Contact phone
+32 70 79 79 79
Website
https://www.belgiantrain.be/en

Train from Bruxelles-Nord to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
2h 34m
Estimated price
$21-30
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Bruxelles Midi to Düsseldorf Hbf

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$45-110
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Brussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi to Duesseldorf Hbf

Average Duration
2h 22m
Estimated price
$70-140
Contact phone
+49 30 2970
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Düsseldorf Hbf to Köln Hansaring

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$11-17
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

Train from Bruxelles-Nord to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
2h 39m
Estimated price
$35-170
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk/

Bus from Brussels City Center - Midi Train station to Cologne - Airport

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$21-30
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Brussels South to Cologne Airport CGN

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$21-30
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Other from Brussels to Cologne

Average Duration
2h 47m
Estimated price
$16-16

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

Traveling between Brussels 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 Brussels to Cologne, covering a distance of 133 miles in just around 2 hours and 4 minutes of driving time. 💰 Prices for traveling by car from Brussels to Cologne range between €32 to €51, offering a budget-friendly and flexible way to reach your destination comfortably.
Average price
€32 - €51
🚆 The journey from Brussels to Cologne by train is a convenient and efficient option. The direct train departing from Bruxelles-Nord to Koeln Hbf operates hourly, making it easy to plan your trip any day of the week. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes, offering a relatively quick travel time between the two cities. 🚆 The train services between Brussels and Cologne are operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express, ensuring a comfortable and reliable trip. Both the departure and arrival stations are conveniently located at Bruxelles-Nord and Koeln Hbf, respectively. With a distance of 225 km, travelers can enjoy a smooth ride through scenic landscapes as they make their way from Belgium to Germany. 🚆 Travelers can expect varying prices for train tickets between Brussels and Cologne, typically ranging from €19 to €51. Whether you're looking to explore the historical sites in Brussels or the vibrant culture in Cologne, the train offers a hassle-free way to experience both cities in one trip.
Departure Point
Bruxelles-Nord station
Arrival Point
Koeln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: The Thalys train service operates on the Brussels to Cologne route, offering a range of onboard catering options. In the Standard and Comfort 1 classes, you can purchase light meals, snacks, and beverages from the food trolley. If you choose First Class, enjoy complimentary meals and drinks served directly at your seat.
Seating Options: For this route, Thalys offers several seating classes. Business Class (Comfort 1) features spacious reclining seats with power outlets and complimentary meals. First Class (Comfort 2) offers a more upscale experience with wider seats, while Economy (Standard) provides comfortable seating at a lower cost. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for First Class, to ensure availability.
Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), you'll find luggage lockers available for rent if you wish to explore the city without your bags. There are also restrooms located near the main concourse. To navigate the station easily, look for the clear signage in both German and English, and don’t hesitate to ask station staff for assistance.
Fastest Way to City Center: The fastest way to get from Cologne Central Station to the city center is to take the U-Bahn (Metro) line 16 or 18. Both lines run frequently and will take you to the Neumarkt stop in approximately 5-10 minutes. An alternative is to walk; it’s just a 15-minute walk to reach major attractions in the city center.
Multiple Operators: The main operators for the Brussels to Cologne route are Thalys and Deutsche Bahn (DB). You can book tickets and find schedule information on their respective websites: Thalys - thalys.com and Deutsche Bahn - bahn.com
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Brussels to Cologne, spanning approximately 3 hours and 44 minutes. Travel through picturesque landscapes and enjoy the comfort of a convenient mode of transportation. 💰 Explore affordable travel options between Cologne and Brussels, with bus fares ranging from €23 to €50. Choose a budget-friendly ticket and experience a cost-effective journey from one vibrant city to another.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Brussels to Cologne.

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The cheapest way to travel from Brussels to Cologne is to opt for ridesharing. There are various ridesharing platforms available such as BlaBlaCar, where drivers offer empty seats in their cars for a fee. The average cost for a rideshare from Brussels to Cologne is around €15, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to save money while still enjoying a comfortable and convenient journey.
The fastest way to travel from Brussels to Cologne is by train. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes. The ticket prices for the train range from €18 to €50, depending on the class and type of ticket. Taking the train is not only convenient and efficient, but it also allows you to enjoy the scenic views during the journey.
The distance between Brussels and Cologne is approximately 114 miles. If traveling by road, the distance is around 133.5 miles. Depending on the mode of transportation and route taken, the actual distance may vary. It is recommended to check with your preferred mode of transportation for the most accurate distance calculation.
The best way to travel from Brussels to Cologne without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes and the ticket prices range from €18 to €50. Trains run frequently between the two cities, making it a convenient and efficient option for travelers. Additionally, taking the train allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
The train is the fastest way to get from Brussels to Cologne, taking approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes. The train departs from Bruxelles-Nord station every two hours, allowing for convenient scheduling. It is important to note that the travel time may vary depending on the specific train and any transfers that need to be made.
There are numerous accommodations options available near Cologne. With over 1145+ hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable for your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Cologne start at €41 per night. It is recommended to explore different booking websites to find the best deals and options for your stay in Cologne.
Yes, you can share a ride from Brussels to Cologne through BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This is a great option for those who do not have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transportation. Simply search for available rides on the BlaBlaCar platform, choose a suitable ride, and contact the driver to arrange the details. Remember to check the reviews and ratings of the driver for a safe and comfortable journey.
Yes, you can drive from Brussels to Cologne. The driving distance between the two cities is 133 miles and it takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes to complete the journey by car. However, please note that there may be tolls and other road regulations to consider when driving across borders, so it's important to check with local authorities and plan your route accordingly.
Trains from Brussels to Cologne arrive at Koeln Hbf station. This is the main train station in Cologne, located in the city center. The station is well-connected to public transportation options, making it easy to reach your final destination in Cologne. It is also a major hub for regional and international train connections.
Yes, there is a direct train between Brussels and Cologne. The train departs from Bruxelles-Nord and arrives at Koeln Hbf. The train service operates every day and runs every two hours. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes.
To catch the train from Brussels to Cologne you will need to go to the Bruxelles-Nord station. The train services on this route are operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express. It is advisable to check the train schedule in advance and arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth boarding process. The train journey offers a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the two cities.
The cost of a train ticket from Brussels to Cologne can range from €18 to €50 depending on factors such as the class of service, time of travel, and if you book in advance or on the day of travel. It is recommended to check with various train operators such as Thalys or Deutsche Bahn to compare prices and select the most suitable option for your budget. Booking your ticket in advance, if possible, may help you secure a lower fare.
The cost of a bus ticket from Brussels to Cologne ranges between €23 and €51. The prices may vary depending on the bus company, route, and time of travel. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
The cost to drive from Brussels to Cologne ranges from €32 to €50. This estimate accounts for expenses such as fuel, tolls, and parking along the way. However, it's important to note that these costs are subject to change based on factors such as the type of vehicle and current fuel prices. Additionally, it's always a good idea to check for any road construction or traffic updates before embarking on your journey.