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Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $3: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Aachen, Germany
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Aachen 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.

$3 RideshareBest price
40 milesDistance
36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Aachen 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
36m
Estimated price
$5-70
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  6m
Estimated price
$3-8
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 40 miles
Duration: 36m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$12-18
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
1h  23m
Estimated price
$14-41
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$170-210

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $7 $3 $8 $4 $9 $8 $10
Train $26 $22 $28 $31 $31 $22 $22
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Aachen to Cologne

The journey from Aachen to Cologne offers a fascinating contrast between Aachen's historical charm and Cologne's vibrant urban energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

Cologne boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Home to the stunning Cologne Cathedral.
• Charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy cafes and boutique shops abound.
• Known for its lively arts and nightlife scene.
Ehrenfeld
• A hub for creative culture and street art.
• Diverse dining options reflecting global cuisines.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience at Cologne's attractions.

Cologne Cathedral
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer fewer crowds and stunning light.
Ludwig Museum
Weekdays, particularly Tuesday or Wednesday, provide a more relaxed atmosphere.
Rheinauhafen District
Visit during weekdays for a tranquil stroll along the waterfront.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making spring and early fall the most attractive times to visit. Be prepared for occasional rain throughout the year, as it can influence outdoor plans and festival enjoyment.

Dining Recommendation

Don’t miss trying the iconic Kolsch beer paired with a hearty serving of Himmel un Äd, a traditional dish made of black pudding and apple sauce at a local brewery like Gaffel am Dom. This lively atmosphere and bold flavors reflect Cologne's more spirited culinary scene, distinct from Aachen's more subdued, classical fare.

Aachen - Cologne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Aachen 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 Aachen Hbf to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
$5-70
Contact phone
0221 13 999 444
Website
https://nationalexpress.de

Train from Aachen Hbf to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$14-21
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Aachen Hbf to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$13-28
Contact phone
+49 30 2970
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Aachen Hbf to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$14-21
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Aachen Hbf to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$30-70
Contact phone
+49 1807 123 99 123
Website
https://www.flixtrain.com/

Train from Aachen Central Station to Cologne Central Station

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$5-8
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Aachen station west to Cologne Airport CGN

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$10-14
Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk

Bus from Aachen - Heinricistraße to Cologne - Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$12-18
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Other from Aachen to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$3-8
Contact phone
+49 241 900700
Website
https://minicar-aachen.de

Other from Aachen to Cologne

Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$170-210
Contact phone
+49 241 919 93399
Website
https://ocher-wagen-funkmietwagen.business.site

Other from Aachen to Cologne

Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$170-210
Contact phone
+49 241 33311
Website
https://city-fuchs.de

Other from Aachen to Cologne

Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$170-210

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

Traveling between Aachen 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 Aachen to Cologne, spanning 46 miles of picturesque German countryside. In just 43 minutes, you'll find yourself immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Cologne. 💰 Discover affordable travel options ranging from €11 to €17 for a car ride between Aachen and Cologne, allowing you to explore without breaking the bank. Consider using Blablacar's convenient carpooling service for a budget-friendly and eco-conscious travel experience.
Average price
€11 - €17
🚆 Experience a seamless journey from Aachen to Cologne by train with direct services departing every 30 minutes and operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express. The trip takes just 36 minutes, offering a quick and convenient way to travel between the two cities. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between Aachen and Cologne range from €5 to €64, providing flexibility for different budgets. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, the efficient train connection allows you to make the most of your time in both Aachen and Cologne while enjoying the scenic journey through the German countryside.
Departure Point
Aachen Hbf station
Arrival Point
Koeln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train journey from Aachen to Cologne are typically provided by the Deutsche Bahn (DB). You can expect a variety of catering options including light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages from the train's bistro or dining car. Be sure to check their website for the latest menu offerings and onboard service details.
• The train line on this route primarily offers seating options in First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class provides more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments, while Business Class has reserved seating with better amenities. Economy seats are comfortable enough for the short ride but are less spacious. You can visit the Deutsche Bahn website to compare these options and reserve seats accordingly.
• There are multiple operators for this route, the main one being Deutsche Bahn (DB). You can find schedules and ticket information on their website: bahn.com Additionally, FlixTrain also operates on this route, and you can check their services at flixtrain.com For planning local transport, you might want to visit the Cologne public transport website at kvb.koeln
🚌 The trip from Aachen to Cologne by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two German cities. 💰 Bus ticket prices between Aachen and Cologne can vary, with fares typically ranging from €13 to €38, offering budget-friendly transportation for those looking to save money on their journey.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Aachen to Cologne.

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The distance between Aachen and Cologne is approximately 40 miles by road. The road distance is slightly longer at 46 miles. If traveling by train, it takes about 44 minutes to reach Cologne from Aachen. Alternatively, taking a combination of Line 2729 bus and train will take around 1 hour and 16 minutes. If driving by car from Cologne to Aachen, it takes approximately 1 hour.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Aachen to Cologne is to rideshare, which costs between €3 and €7 and takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes. This is a popular choice among budget travelers. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to take a taxi, which takes around 43 minutes but can be quite expensive, costing between €146 and €183. It ultimately depends on whether cost or time is more important to the traveler.
When traveling from Aachen to Cologne the prices of a train ticket range from €7 to €64. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the type of train, the class of ticket, and the time of travel. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Aachen to Cologne without using public transportation, you can consider carpooling options available through services like Blablacar. This is a convenient option if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Aachen and Cologne is 46 miles, and it takes approximately 43 minutes to drive. The cost of carpooling can vary between €11 to €16 depending on the service and arrangements made with the driver.
The best way to travel from Aachen to Cologne without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 53 minutes and the ticket prices range from €7 to €64. Trains are a convenient and efficient mode of transportation in Germany, offering comfortable and reliable service between the two cities. Other options like buses or taxis are also available, but the train is generally the fastest and most cost-effective choice for this route.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Aachen and Cologne. The train departs from Aachen Hbf and arrives at Koeln Hbf. The trains operate every day, with departures every 30 minutes, and the journey typically takes around 53 minutes. This provides a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities without the need for transfers or additional modes of transportation.
There are more than 1145 hotels available near Cologne with prices starting at €41. Some popular options include the Hyatt Regency Cologne and Marriott Hotel Cologne. These hotels offer a range of amenities and are conveniently located near attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral and Old Town. Additionally, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations and boutique hotels to choose from in the area.