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Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia to Munich, Bavaria from $24: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Munich, Germany

How to Get from Cologne to Munich: 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.

$24 RideshareBest price
285 milesDistance
3h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Munich 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
4h  21m
Estimated price
$95-110
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$24-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 285 miles
Duration: 3h

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  3m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
Nightjet
Train
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$55-180
Company
Lufthansa, Eurowings
Plane
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$80-258
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  48m
Estimated price
$90-140
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$94-365
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  33m
Estimated price
$99-371
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  37m
Estimated price
$142-407

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $21 $17 $22 $61 $49 $53 $46
Train $84 $44 $67 $66 $67 $80 $56
Fly $56 $56 $57 $59 $66 $111 $69
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cologne to Munich

The journey from Cologne to Munich offers a fascinating shift from the vibrant, modern energy of the Rhineland to the rich Bavarian traditions and stunning architecture of southern Germany.

Best Neighbourhoods in Munich

Munich’s neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and vibrant atmospheres.

Altstadt-Lehel
• Home to iconic Marienplatz.
• Historic buildings and charming streets abound.
Schwabing
• Known for its bohemian vibe and art scene.
• Lively cafes and trendy boutiques fill the area.
Haidhausen
• Features picturesque streets and traditional beer gardens.
• A blend of modern and historic architecture.

Best Times To Visit Munich's Attractions

Timing your visits to Munich's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Marienplatz
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to enjoy fewer crowds and beautiful light.
Nymphenburg Palace
Visit on weekdays for a peaceful tour of the gardens and museum.
English Garden
Late spring or early fall offers mild weather and fewer visitors.

Munich Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Munich experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and early fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather can influence your travel plans, as rainy days may limit outdoor activities while sunny days invite exploration of the city's parks and attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Munich

Try the traditional Weisswurst, a light and flavorful Bavarian sausage served with sweet mustard, at the iconic Viktualienmarkt, where local vendors create a lively atmosphere filled with fresh ingredients and regional specialties. This dish offers a delightful contrast to the heartier, more robust flavors typical of Cologne's cuisine, inviting you to savor the subtleties of Bavarian flavors in a bustling market setting.

Cologne - Munich operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Munich, 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 Köln Messe/Deutz Bf to München Hbf

Average Duration
4h 21m
Estimated price
$95-110

Train from Köln Hbf to München Hbf

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
$55-180

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
$25-29

Train from Koeln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$41-46
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

all-pages.transport_night train from Köln Hbf to München Hbf

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
$55-180

all-pages.transport_night train from Köln Hbf to Munich East Station

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$100-130
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Leverkusen to Munich central bus station

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$45-70
Plane Show flights
Website
lufthansa.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Munich (MUC)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$75-300
Website
eurowings.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Munich (MUC)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$60-310
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
blablacar.com

Other from Cologne to Munich

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$24-45

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

Traveling between Cologne and Munich 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 an exciting road trip from Cologne to Munich, covering a picturesque distance of 359 miles through the heart of Germany. Enjoy the journey as you drive for approximately 4 hours and 48 minutes, taking in the scenic beauty along the way. 💰 Explore the flexibility of travel costs, ranging from €83 to €129 for a car journey from Cologne to Munich. Consider various factors such as gas prices and tolls while planning your budget for this convenient mode of transportation.
Average price
€83 - €129
🌆 Enjoy a scenic journey through the beautiful German countryside as you make your way from Cologne to Munich. The train ride takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes, allowing you to relax and take in the views along the way. 💰 Ticket prices for trains between Cologne and Munich can vary from €87 to €101, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a fare that suits their budget and travel preferences. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the hassle-free journey from Cologne to Munich by train.
Departure Point
Köln Messe/Deutz Bf station
Arrival Point
München Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard the ICE trains operated by Deutsche Bahn, you can enjoy a variety of catering services. The onboard dining is typically provided through a bistro service, offering snacks, light meals, and beverages including coffee, soft drinks, and alcoholic options. In First Class, you may also receive complimentary meals, depending on the duration of your journey.
• When traveling from Cologne to Munich, Deutsche Bahn offers several seating options: First Class provides spacious seating, complimentary food and beverages, and a quieter atmosphere. Business Class is not available on this specific route, but Economy Class is perfect for budget-conscious travelers with comfortable seating and standard amenities. Make sure to reserve your seats in advance, especially during peak travel times.
• There are multiple operators for this route, including Deutsche Bahn (DB) and FlixTrain. Visit their respective websites for timetables and booking: Deutsche Bahn - bahn.com and FlixTrain - flixtrain.com
🛫 Experience a swift journey from Cologne to Munich with a direct flight lasting only 1 hour and 5 minutes. Choose between flights offered by Eurowings and Lufthansa departing from Cologne Bonn Airport. 🌍 Enjoy a seamless transition from the bustling city of Cologne to the vibrant metropolis of Munich in just 3 hours by air. Take in the scenic views from above as you travel across Germany. 💸 Flight prices between Munich and Cologne range from €74 to €238, providing options for a budget-friendly or more luxurious travel experience. Explore the rich history and cultural treasures of Munich after a convenient and efficient flight from Cologne.
Departure Point
Cologne Bonn Airport
Arrival Point
Munich Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight early to secure the best rates on the busy Cologne to Munich route, as prices can range from €72 to €231 and tend to rise closer to departure.
• Upon arrival at Munich Airport (München Flughafen), follow the signs for 'S-Bahn' to access the train system; purchasing a ticket from the vending machines can save time and ensure you get to the city center quickly.
• Expect to pay around €60-€70 for a taxi from Munich Airport to the city center, but consider using public transportation as the S8 or S1 trains offer a cheaper alternative ($€11) and take approximately 40-45 minutes.
🚌 Starting your journey from Cologne to Munich by bus will involve a transfer at Leverkusen station. The trip, inclusive of transfers, typically lasts around 9 hours and 3 minutes. 🚌 With ticket prices ranging from €42 to €65, securing your seat for this long-haul bus journey can provide an affordable and comfortable means of traveling between the two cities.
Departure Point
Leverkusen station
Arrival Point
Munich central bus station