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Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia to Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia from $5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Dortmund, Germany

How to Get from Cologne to Dortmund: 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.

$5 RideshareBest price
74.3 kmDistance
1h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Dortmund 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
1h  9m
Estimated price
$7-80
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  20m
Estimated price
$5-8
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 74.3 km
Duration: 1h

See more options

Pricing table
Company
self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$15-23
Company
Try Tours
Bus
Average Duration
1h  40m
Estimated price
$17-25

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $7 $6 $6 $7 $7 $7 $7
Train $7 $7 $7 $7 $7 $7 $7
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cologne to Dortmund

The journey between Cologne and Dortmund offers a fascinating contrast, with Cologne's vibrant culture and historical charm contrasting sharply with Dortmund's industrial roots and modern vibe.

Best Neighbourhoods in Dortmund

Dortmund features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and attractions.

Kreuzviertel
• Trendy cafes and independent shops abound.
• Beautiful parks for relaxing strolls.
Südviertel
• Lively nightlife with diverse bars and clubs.
• Cultural venues hosting live music and events.
Stadtmitte
• Central location for shopping and dining options.
• Home to historical sites and modern architecture.

Best Times To Visit Dortmund's Attractions

Planning your visits to Dortmund's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Signal Iduna Park
Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter tour experience.
Dortmund U-Tower
Late afternoons on weekdays offer fewer crowds for exploration.
Westfalenpark
Early spring mornings let you enjoy blooming gardens in peace.

Dortmund Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dortmund experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making it a comfortable destination throughout the year; late spring and early fall are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing, while rain can impact plans during the wetter months.

Dining Recommendation in Dortmund

In Dortmund, try the hearty 'Currywurst,' a local favorite that offers a spicy twist on the classic sausage, served with a rich tomato curry sauce; this dish showcases the city's more robust flavors and casual dining atmosphere, contrasting sharply with Cologne's emphasis on refined, traditional dishes like 'Himmel un Ääd'.

Cologne - Dortmund operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Dortmund, 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 Koeln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$32-36
Contact phone
0221 13 999 444
Website
https://nationalexpress.de

Train from Koeln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$18-27
Contact phone
+49 1807 123 99 123
Website
https://www.flixtrain.com/

Train from Cologne Central Station to Dortmund Central Station

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$7-11
Contact phone
+41 848 44 66 88
Website
https://www.sbb.ch/en

Train from Koeln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$35-70
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Köln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$17-40
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Koeln Hbf to Dortmund Hbf

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
$35-80
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+38139423824
Website
https://try-tours.com

Bus from Cologne to Dortmund

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$17-25
Contact phone
48/796 473 308
Website
https://autokarpolska.com.pl

Bus from Cologne to Dortmund

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$17-25
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://blablacar.com

Other from Cologne to Dortmund

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$5-8

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

Traveling between Cologne and Dortmund 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 picturesque journey from Cologne to Dortmund, covering a distance of 59 miles. The drive typically takes around 1 hour, offering a smooth and efficient travel experience. 💸 With car travel costs ranging from €14 to €21, driving from Cologne to Dortmund presents a budget-friendly option for exploring these charming German cities. Save money while enjoying the flexibility of your own vehicle.
Average price
€14 - €21
🚆 Traveling from Cologne to Dortmund by train is a convenient and efficient journey. The direct train operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express departs every 20 minutes from Cologne Hbf and arrives at Dortmund Hbf in approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes. 🛤️ The distance of the route between Cologne and Dortmund is 117 km, with various train options available for the trip. Depending on the route chosen, travelers can reach Dortmund in as little as 1 hour and 11 minutes or up to 1 hour and 29 minutes with transfers along the way. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the train between Cologne and Dortmund range from €6 to €74, offering travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred travel time and comfort level. For detailed schedules and booking information, travelers can visit the DB Fernverkehr AG or National Express websites to plan their journey seamlessly.
Departure Point
Koeln Hbf station
Arrival Point
Dortmund Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services between Cologne and Dortmund typically include a catering service offering snacks, beverages, and sometimes light meals. Depending on your train operator, you might find a moving bistro or trolley service. For instance, Deutsche Bahn usually provides a choice of hot and cold drinks, along with sweet and savory snacks.
• The seating options on this route generally include Economy Class, First Class, and occasionally Business Class. Economy Class tends to have more basic amenities but is comfortable and budget-friendly. First Class provides a quieter journey with more space, complimentary beverages, and sometimes access to lounge areas at certain stations. You can expect more comfortable seating arrangements on the faster Intercity Express (ICE) trains, which provide spacious seating even in Economy.
• The primary operators between Cologne and Dortmund are Deutsche Bahn (DB) and FlixTrain. You can find information and book tickets through their websites: Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain. Additionally, you can check real-time schedules, platform information, and ticket prices directly on these sites.
🚌 Travel from Cologne to Dortmund by bus is convenient and efficient. Services are available on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Departures are frequent, making it easy to plan your trip. 📍 The bus route from Cologne to Dortmund covers a distance of 117 km. The services are operated by Try Tours, ensuring a comfortable and reliable journey. Both Cologne and Dortmund stations are well-connected hubs for transportation. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Dortmund and Cologne range from €16 to €23. This budget-friendly option offers a quick and straightforward way to travel between these two cities in Germany.
Departure Point
Cologne station
Arrival Point
Dortmund station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Dortmund.

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The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Dortmund is by rideshare, which typically costs between €4-€7. This option allows you to share a ride with other passengers heading in the same direction, reducing the overall cost. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, providing a budget-friendly and efficient way to reach Dortmund from Cologne.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Dortmund is by driving yourself. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving includes fuel expenses and toll fees, which typically range from €14 to €21. Additionally, driving allows for flexibility and convenience as you can choose your departure time and make stops along the way if needed.
The distance from Cologne to Dortmund is approximately 46 miles. If you are traveling by car, the road distance is about 58.8 miles. The journey between the two cities typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The best way to travel from Cologne to Dortmund without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes, and ticket prices range from €15 to €78, depending on the class and type of train. Trains are frequent throughout the day, providing convenient options for travelers. Additionally, the train journey offers scenic views of the German countryside.
The train is the fastest way to travel from Cologne to Dortmund, taking approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes. There are frequent departures every 20 minutes, making it convenient to plan your trip. However, please note that the travel time may vary depending on the specific train and any necessary transfers.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Dortmund. There are over 639 hotels to choose from, offering a variety of price ranges and amenities. Prices start at €38, making it possible to find a suitable option for all budgets. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can share a ride from Cologne to Dortmund. One of the popular rideshare options is BlaBlaCar, which offers carpooling services between cities. It is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel, especially if you don't have a driver's license or prefer not to use public transportation. Just check the BlaBlaCar website or app for available rides and choose the one that suits your schedule and budget. Remember to coordinate with the driver and other passengers for the pick-up and drop-off locations.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Cologne to Dortmund. The driving distance between the two cities is about 59 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour to complete the journey. However, please keep in mind that traffic conditions and the chosen route may affect the travel time. It is also advisable to check for any road closures or construction before starting your journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus service available between Cologne and Dortmund. The bus departs twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays. The journey takes around 1 hour and 48 minutes. This is a convenient and affordable option for traveling between the two cities.
You can catch the bus from Cologne to Dortmund at the Cologne station. The bus services are operated by Autokar Polska. Make sure to check the departure times and platform number at the station before your trip. It is recommended to arrive at the station a bit early to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The bus from Cologne to Dortmund arrives at Dortmund station. This is the main transport hub in Dortmund and is well-connected to other parts of the city. From there, travelers can easily access public transportation or continue their journey on foot. Dortmund station is conveniently located near various amenities, including shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it a convenient destination for travelers.
Trains from Cologne to Dortmund arrive at Dortmund Hbf station. This is the main train station in Dortmund and is located in the city center. The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes and is operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express. Upon arrival at Dortmund Hbf, there are various public transportation options available to reach your final destination in the city.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Dortmund. The train departs from Koeln Hbf and arrives at Dortmund Hbf. The trains operate every day with a frequency of every 20 minutes. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes.
To catch the train from Cologne to Dortmund you will need to go to the Koeln Hbf station. This is the main train station in Cologne and is easily accessible by public transportation. Once at the station, look for the platforms and departure boards to find the correct train heading to Dortmund. The trains are operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express and offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the two cities.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Dortmund can range from €15 to €78, depending on the type of ticket and the train class. The price may vary depending on factors such as the time of day and how far in advance the ticket is booked. It is recommended to check the prices on the official website of the train operator or use a reliable travel search engine to compare prices and find the best deal.
The cost of a bus ticket from Cologne to Dortmund ranges from €16 to €22. This price may vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the bus company you choose. It is recommended to check with different bus operators to find the best deal that suits your budget.
The cost to drive from Cologne to Dortmund in Germany ranges from €14 to €21, depending on factors such as the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and current gas prices. This estimate covers the cost of fuel for the approximately 1-hour journey. However, toll fees or parking charges may apply and should be considered as additional expenses.