Berlin, Brandenburg to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $22: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Berlin 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.
$22 RideshareBest price
576 kmDistance
1h 56m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Berlin 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.
See more options
Compare prices for your selected dates
| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $21 | $18 | $18 | $19 | $25 | $20 | $25 |
| Train | $19 | $11 | $11 | $14 | $25 | $11 | $16 |
| Fly | $69 | $76 | $77 | $79 | $86 | $86 | $107 |
Traveling From Berlin to Cologne
Traveling from Berlin to Cologne offers you a fascinating journey between the vibrant energy of a capital city and the charming, laid-back atmosphere of a historic Rhine metropolis.
Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne
Cologne boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.
Old Town (Altstadt)
• Cobblestone streets filled with history and charm.
• Close proximity to the Cologne Cathedral.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy bars, boutiques, and cafes abound.
• Vibrant arts scene with frequent events.
Lindenthal
• Peaceful parks and beautiful green spaces.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with local markets.
Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions
Maximize your experience in Cologne by knowing when to visit its iconic attractions.
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer fewer crowds and stunning light.
Schokoladenmuseum (Chocolate Museum)
Weekdays in the morning provide a quieter, more enjoyable chocolate experience.
Rheinauhafen (Rhine Harbor)
Evenings during sunset showcase beautiful views with less foot traffic.
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 enjoy outdoor attractions without harsh weather. Understanding the seasonal variations can help you pack appropriately and plan activities, ensuring a more comfortable travel experience.
Dining Recommendation in Cologne
Don't miss trying the traditional 'Himmel un Ääd,' a comforting dish made of black pudding, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce, which showcases local flavors and ingredients. Dining in Cologne often takes place in cozy, traditional pubs where the atmosphere differs from Berlin's trendy eateries, allowing you to savor your meal while soaking in the city's rich heritage.
Berlin - Cologne operators
Explore transport companies operating between Berlin and Cologne, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
eurowings.com
Plane from Berlin Brandenburg (BER) to Cologne Bonn (CGN)
Average Duration
1h 9mEstimated price
1026-1027Plane from Berlin Brandenburg (BER) to Dusseldorf (DUS)
Average Duration
1h 10mEstimated price
1026-1027Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33Website
https://www.bahn.com/en
Train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Köln Hbf
Average Duration
4h 25mEstimated price
36-98Contact phone
+49 1807 123 99 123Website
https://www.flixtrain.com/
Train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Cologne Central Station
Average Duration
5h 23mEstimated price
36-1021Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk
Bus from Berlin central bus station to Leverkusen
Average Duration
8h 30mEstimated price
45-63Bus from Berlin to Köln
Average Duration
12h 10mEstimated price
1020-1021Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228Website
https://www.blablacar.com
Other from Berlin to Cologne
Average Duration
6h 4mEstimated price
22-36Berlin to Cologne: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Berlin 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 covering 358 miles from Berlin to Cologne taking around 5 hours and 14 minutes to reach your destination.
💰 Experience flexibility in pricing, ranging from €83 to €129 for a comfortable journey by car from Berlin to Cologne. Take advantage of budget-friendly options for your travel needs.
Average price
€83 - €129
🚄 The journey from Berlin to Cologne takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes, covering a distance of 554 km. Operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express, the train offers a comfortable and scenic route through the German countryside.
🚄 Ticket prices for the Berlin to Cologne train vary from €37 to €101, making it an affordable option for travelers. With a reliable timetable and a straightforward route, this train journey allows you to enjoy a hassle-free trip between two vibrant German cities.
Departure Point
Berlin Hauptbahnhof station
Arrival Point
Köln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Berlin to Cologne, you can expect onboard catering services provided by Deutsche Bahn. They offer a variety of dining options ranging from light snacks to full meals. In First Class, you will receive complimentary meals and beverages, while in Business and Economy Classes, you can purchase items from the onboard bistro service. Be on the lookout for the meal cart, or you can pre-order meals online through the Deutsche Bahn website.
• The ICE trains operating from Berlin to Cologne provide several seating options including First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class features spacious seats with extra legroom, complimentary drinks, and a quiet zone. Business Class offers a more comfortable experience with similar amenities to First Class but at a lower price point. Economy Class is more budget-friendly and still provides comfort and access to the bistro. For more options, check the Deutsche Bahn website for pricing and availability.
• Several operators provide services on the Berlin to Cologne route, including Deutsche Bahn (DB), FlixTrain, and others. You can check schedules and book tickets at the following websites: Deutsche Bahn at bahn.com, and FlixTrain at flixtrain.com Make sure to compare prices and travel times to choose the best option that fits your schedule.
🛫 Start your journey from Berlin Brandenburg Airport, where you can catch a quick and direct flight to Cologne Bonn Airport with Eurowings, taking only 1 hour and 5 minutes.
🛄 Upon arrival in Cologne, after a comfortable flight lasting 1 hour and 56 minutes, you can explore the beautiful city known for its stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.
💸 Prices for flights between Berlin and Cologne typically range from €105 to €290, offering travelers a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two iconic German cities.
Departure Point
Berlin Brandenburg Airport
Arrival Point
Cologne Bonn Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight from Berlin to Cologne, consider Eurowings as they offer the quickest direct flights, but be aware that flight prices can range from €102 to €281, so booking in advance can save you money.
• Upon your arrival at Cologne Bonn Airport, navigate your way to baggage claim by following the clear signage; it’s a compact airport, and you should find your bags within 15-20 minutes after landing.
• Expect to pay around €30-€40 for a taxi from Cologne Bonn Airport to the city center, and for convenient access to public transport schedules, check the official website VRS for options like trains and buses.
🚌 Traveling from Berlin to Cologne by bus is a convenient option, with direct services available four times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The journey typically takes around 12 hours and 10 minutes.
🛣️ The bus route covers a distance of 533 kilometers from Berlin to Cologne, with one transfer along the way. The first step involves taking a FlixBus from Berlin to Düsseldorf central bus station, which lasts about 9 hours and 25 minutes.
🌆 The second step of the journey includes boarding a RegioJet bus from Düsseldorf to Cologne / Bonn Airport Busterminal, taking approximately 50 minutes. Overall, the trip from Berlin to Cologne by bus offers a scenic and comfortable way to travel between these two vibrant German cities.
Departure Point
Berlin central bus station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, check out the FlixBus timetable and dedicate time to understand the amenities offered onboard, such as Wi-Fi and power outlets, which can make your 12-hour journey more comfortable; visit flixbus.com for schedules and details.
• Since you will be arriving at Leverkusen station instead of directly in central Cologne, plan for an extra 20-30 minutes to take the regional train (S-Bahn) or a bus to reach your final destination in Cologne; local transport schedules can be found at bahn.com
• Upon arrival at Leverkusen station, look for the signs directing you to the train platforms, where you can catch the S6 or S11 train to Cologne; also, be sure to grab a quick bite at the nearby café or bakery for a nice meal before continuing your journey into the city.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Berlin to Cologne.
Or choose the category:
The distance between Berlin and Cologne is 299 miles or 355.9 miles by road. Traveling by train takes approximately 4 hours and 23 minutes, while taking a flight to Dusseldorf and then a train to Cologne takes around 3 hours and 38 minutes. Flying directly from Berlin to Cologne is the fastest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 4 minutes. Driving between the two cities takes approximately 5 hours and 9 minutes, and taking a bus can take up to 9 hours and 27 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Berlin to Cologne would be to fly. With a travel time of just 3 hours and 4 minutes, flying is the quickest way to reach your destination. While the cost of a flight can vary between €50 and €263, it offers a significant time-saving compared to other modes of transportation. However, traveling by rideshare is another cost-effective option, but it takes approximately 6 hours and 4 minutes.
The prices for a train ticket from Berlin to Cologne range from €27 to €86, depending on the class and type of ticket. On the other hand, bus tickets from Cologne to Berlin vary from €41 to €63. It is advisable to check for any promotions or discounts available to get the best price for your preferred mode of transportation.
To travel from Berlin to Cologne without using public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service, which offers rideshare options. This is a convenient and eco-friendly alternative if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Berlin and Cologne is approximately 356 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 9 minutes to drive. However, it's important to note that prices for carpooling vary and can range from €82 to €127.
To travel from Berlin to Cologne without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes around 4 hours and 23 minutes and costs between €27 and €86. Another option is to take a bus via Wiesdorf Leverkusen Mitte Bf, which takes approximately 9 hours and 27 minutes and costs €41 to €63. Alternatively, you can fly, which takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes and costs between €50 and €263.
Yes, there is a direct link between Berlin and Cologne. You can take a train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Köln Hbf, with services departing hourly and taking approximately 4 hours and 23 minutes. Alternatively, there is also a direct bus service from Berlin to Cologne, operated by FlixBus, with services departing four times a week and taking approximately 12 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight between Berlin and Cologne typically takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between €52 and €258, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best price for your flight.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Cologne. With over 1145 hotels to choose from, visitors have a wide range of choices based on their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Cologne start at €41 per night, making it possible to find affordable options for travelers. From luxury accommodations to budget-friendly stays, there is a suitable choice for everyone in Cologne.
Trips from Berlin
- Berlin to Copenhagen
- Berlin to Barcelona
- Berlin to Oslo
- Berlin to Milan
- Berlin to Florence
- Berlin to Madrid
- Berlin to Venice
- Berlin to Rome
- Berlin to Stockholm
- Berlin to Vienna
- Berlin to Stuttgart
- Berlin to Istanbul
- Berlin to Dublin
- Berlin to Brussels
- Berlin to Paris
- Berlin to Lisbon
- Berlin to Budapest
- Berlin to Dubai
- Berlin to Manchester
- Berlin to Hamburg
- Berlin to Dresden
- Berlin to Prague
- Berlin to Munich
- Berlin to Nuremberg
- Berlin to Warsaw
- Berlin to Dortmund
- Berlin to Amsterdam
- Berlin to Leipzig
- Berlin to London
- Berlin to Dusseldorf
- Berlin to Zurich
- Berlin to Potsdam
- Berlin to Poznan
- Berlin to Frankfurt am Main
- Berlin to Krakow
- Berlin to Oswiecim
- Berlin to Leizen
- Berlin to Abu Dhabi
- Berlin to Ziegendorf
- Berlin to Kashofen
Trips to Cologne
- Bonn to Cologne
- Hamburg to Cologne
- Munich to Cologne
- Prague to Cologne
- Aachen to Cologne
- Vienna to Cologne
- Frankfurt am Main to Cologne
- Milan to Cologne
- Paris to Cologne
- Brussels to Cologne
- Copenhagen to Cologne
- Dublin to Cologne
- Amsterdam to Cologne
- Dortmund to Cologne
- Stuttgart to Cologne
- Strasbourg to Cologne
- Dusseldorf to Cologne
- Geneva to Cologne
- London to Cologne
- Bremen to Cologne
- Pulheim to Cologne
- Ratingen to Cologne
- Neuss to Cologne
- Nice to Cologne
- Salzburg to Cologne
- Meinerzhagen to Cologne
- Lisbon to Cologne
- Bacharach to Cologne
- Marseille to Cologne
- Madrid to Cologne
- Manchester to Cologne
- Gothenburg to Cologne
- Zurich to Cologne
- Riyadh to Cologne
- Jackson to Cologne
- Katowice to Cologne
- Eichstätt to Cologne
- Santa Fe to Cologne
- Los Angeles to Cologne
- Atlanta to Cologne