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Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia to Frankfurt am Main, Hesse from $6.6: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

How to Get from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main: 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.

$6.6 - OtherBest price
192 kmDistance
1h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main 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  13m
Estimated price
$21.2-52.5
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  13m
Estimated price
$6.6-17.4
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 192 km
Duration: 1h 13m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Try Tours
Bus
Average Duration
2h  46m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  43m
Estimated price
$27-216
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  12m
Estimated price
$39.7-55.7
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
2h  29m
Estimated price
$43.5-48.5
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$215.6-216.7

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $9 $9 $9 $9 $9 $9 $9
Train $37 $29 $27 $43 $36 $32 $20

Traveling From Cologne to Frankfurt am Main

The journey from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main takes you from the historic charm of Gothic architecture and the iconic Cologne Cathedral to the modern skyline and financial pulse of Frankfurt.

Best Neighbourhoods in Frankfurt am Main

Frankfurt am Main offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character.

Alt-Sachsenhausen
• Famous for its traditional apple wine taverns.
• Quaint streets with vibrant nightlife and dining options.
Nordend
• Trendy cafes and boutiques line the streets.
• Green parks perfect for relaxing afternoons.
Bockenheim
• Home to the prestigious Goethe University.
• Eclectic mix of art galleries and international cuisine.

Best Times To Visit Frankfurt am Main's Attractions

Experiencing Frankfurt’s attractions at the right time can enhance your visit.

Römer
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Palmengarten
Best enjoyed on weekdays during spring for blooming flowers and fewer visitors.
Städel Museum
Late afternoons or Thursday evenings allow for a quieter, more relaxed experience.

Frankfurt am Main Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Frankfurt experiences a temperate oceanic climate with warm summers and cool winters, making spring and early autumn the best times to explore the city. Weather can influence outdoor activities and local events, so packing accordingly enhances your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Frankfurt am Main

For an authentic taste of Frankfurt, try the Handkäse mit Musik, a tangy cheese dish served with onions and vinegar, offering a sharp contrast to Cologne’s richer culinary flavors. The vibrant atmosphere of local apple wine taverns in Frankfurt invites you to enjoy traditional dishes alongside a refreshing glass of local cider, creating a uniquely communal dining experience.

Cologne - Frankfurt am Main operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main, 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 Frankfurt(Main)Hbf

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
20-49

Train from Köln Hbf to Neuwied Bf

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
209-490

Train from Neuwied to Frankfurt(Main)Hbf

Average Duration
2h 27m
Estimated price
206-208

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
206-207
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Cologne to Frankfurt

Average Duration
2h 13m
Estimated price
6.3-16
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+38139423824
Website
http://try-tours.com

Bus from Cologne to Frankfurt

Average Duration
2h 46m
Estimated price
0-0
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

all-pages.transport_night train from Köln Hbf to Frankfurt(Main)Hbf

Average Duration
2h 29m
Estimated price
43-48
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.lufthansa.com

Plane from Düsseldorf (DUS) to Frankfurt (FRA)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
204-205
Drive

Drive from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
27-200

Cologne to Frankfurt am Main: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main 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.

🚗 Experience a scenic drive covering 119 miles from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main in just 1 hour and 43 minutes. 💰 Explore cost-effective travel options ranging from €28 to €46 for your journey by car to Frankfurt am Main from Cologne.
Average price
€28 - €46
🚆 Traveling from Cologne to Frankfurt by train is convenient and efficient. The direct train operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express departs from Koeln Hbf and arrives at FrankfurtHbf, with services running hourly every day, completing the journey in approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. 🌉 The distance between Cologne and Frankfurt is 221 km, and there are multiple route options to consider. Whether you opt for a high-speed train journey via Wien Hbf, a route with transfers through Siegen and Eltville Bahnhof, or other combinations, there are varied travel times and distances to choose from based on your preferences. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train ride from Cologne to Frankfurt can range between €20 to €51, offering travelers a range of options depending on their budget and preferred travel time. With the convenience of frequent departures and a relatively short journey duration, exploring the route by train is a great way to experience the sights and cities along the way.
Departure Point
Koeln Hbf station
Arrival Point
Frankfurt(Main)Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main, Deutsche Bahn (DB) offers catering services including a dining car where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. You can also order food directly to your seat via the onboard app or through the train staff, and options might vary depending on the time of day. For a taste of the region, try local specialties like 'Rheinischer Sauerbraten' (marinated beef) if available!
• This route is serviced primarily by Deutsche Bahn (DB), offering two main seating options: First Class and Second Class (often referred to as Economy). First Class features larger, more comfortable seats with additional legroom, power outlets, and quieter carriages, while Second Class is still comfortable and comes with amenities like power sockets but with slightly less space. If you want to travel in style, consider upgrading to First Class, especially for longer journeys.
• Upon arrival at Frankfurt am Main Hauptbahnhof (Main Station), expect a modern and well-signposted facility. You can leave your luggage at the station's luggage storage service located on the ground floor, which is a great option if you want to explore the city unencumbered. There are also public restrooms available, but showers are not provided in the station.
🛫 Flying from Cologne to Frankfurt is a convenient and fast way to travel within Germany. The direct flight offered by Lufthansa from Dusseldorf Airport to Frankfurt Airport takes only 50 minutes, making it a quick journey.
Departure Point
Dusseldorf Airport
Arrival Point
Frankfurt Airport
🚌 Departing from Cologne station, Try Tours operates the bus service that will take you to Frankfurt station in approximately 2 hours and 46 minutes. 🚌 Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route as you travel from Cologne to Frankfurt by bus in under 3 hours with Try Tours.
Departure Point
Cologne station
Arrival Point
Frankfurt station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan your trip for either Wednesday or Saturday, as these are the only days with direct bus services from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main operated by Try Tours. Check the schedule at Try Tours to ensure you catch your desired departure.
• Consider packing snacks or refreshments for the 2-hour and 46-minute journey, as the bus may not provide food services. There are several convenience stores near the Cologne bus station where you can purchase items before departure.
• Upon arrival at Frankfurt am Main's central bus station, familiarize yourself with the layout by checking the station map available online at Frankfurt Central Bus Station Map to navigate easily to the city center and nearby public transport connections.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main.

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The distance between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main is approximately 95 miles by road, or 119.1 miles by train. The typical travel time by train is about 1 hour and 3 minutes. If you prefer a combination of train and air travel, it would take around 3 hours and 17 minutes. On the other hand, by car, you can expect the journey between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne to be around 1 hour and 43 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main is to rideshare, which can cost between €6 and €16 and takes approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes. However, if you're looking to save time, the fastest option is by train, which takes only 1 hour and 3 minutes and costs between €20 and €50. Whether you prioritize cost or time, both options provide efficient transportation between the two cities.
When traveling from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main by train, the prices vary between €20 and €50. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to secure the best fares. Additionally, there may be special deals or promotions available at certain times, so it's always a good idea to check for discounts when planning your trip.
To travel from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main without using public transportation, you can consider using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This option allows you to find rideshare opportunities between the two cities. The driving distance between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main is approximately 119 miles, and it takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes to drive between the two cities. The cost of a car journey from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main by carpooling can vary between €27 and €46.
The best way to travel from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes and costs around €20-€50. Trains are frequent and reliable, making it a convenient option for transportation between the two cities. Additionally, taking the train allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery during the journey.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main. The train operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express departs from Köln Messe/Deutz Bf station and arrives at FrankfurtHbf station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes, and the service operates hourly, seven days a week.
The flight from Dusseldorf Airport to Frankfurt Airport typically takes about 50 minutes. The cost can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but it is generally affordable. Once you arrive at Frankfurt Airport, there are multiple transportation options to reach Frankfurt am Main. You can take a taxi, which usually takes around 20-30 minutes and costs around 30-40 euros. Alternatively, you can take the S-Bahn train or the regional train, which takes about 10-15 minutes and costs around 4-5 euros.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Frankfurt am Main. With over 946 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Hotel prices start at €42, making it possible to find affordable options. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, you will have no trouble finding a suitable place to stay near Frankfurt am Main.

Trips to Frankfurt am Main