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Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia to Madrid, Community of Madrid from $60: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cologne, Germany
to
Madrid, Spain

How to Get from Cologne to Madrid: 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.

$60 - PlaneBest price
1438 kmDistance
4h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cologne to Madrid 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
Plane
Average Duration
5h  50m
Estimated price
$86-290
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  16m
Estimated price
$60-292
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1438 km
Duration: 4h 38m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  2m
Estimated price
$81-288
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  38m
Estimated price
$84-300
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$110-860
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
14h  19m
Estimated price
$290-605
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
20h  17m
Estimated price
$900-905
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
25h  53m
Estimated price
$910-911
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  1m
Estimated price
$911-912
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
31h  5m
Estimated price
$912-913
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  21m
Estimated price
$914-2710

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $55 $64 $65 $66 $69 $68 $71
Fly $196 $169 $205 $190 $237 $179 $287
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cologne to Madrid

The journey from Cologne to Madrid takes you from Germany's charming blend of medieval architecture and vibrant festivals to Spain's lively streets filled with tapas and rich cultural history.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madrid

Madrid boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and atmospheres.

Malasaña
• Hip, bohemian vibe with quirky shops
• Famous for vibrant nightlife and street art
La Latina
• Best known for traditional tapas bars
• Picturesque streets perfect for leisurely strolls
Chueca
• Trendy area celebrated for LGBTQ+ culture
• Bustling plazas filled with cafes and boutiques

Best Times To Visit Madrid's Attractions

Timing your visits to Madrid's attractions can enhance your experience and comfort.

Prado Museum
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
Retiro Park
Weekdays are ideal, especially early mornings, to avoid weekend crowds.
Royal Palace
Go during the evening for fewer visitors and stunning sunset views.

Madrid Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madrid enjoys a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, making summer months ideal for sun-seekers, while spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring the city. Understanding the weather patterns can help you pack appropriately and plan your activities to maximize enjoyment.

Dining Recommendation in Madrid

For a truly authentic experience, try savoring a plate of cocido madrileño, a hearty traditional stew that showcases Madrid's love for rich, flavorful ingredients. The vibrant atmosphere of local tapas bars, where you can enjoy a lively social dining experience, contrasts distinctly with the more subdued, structured meals often found in Cologne.

Cologne - Madrid operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cologne and Madrid, 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 Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
2734-2735

Train from Koeln Hbf to Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
2736-2737

Train from Köln Hbf to Bruxelles-Nord

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
2738-2739

Train from Köln Hbf to Koblenz Hauptbahnhof

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
790-791
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Koeln Hbf to Duesseldorf Flughafen

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
2751-2711

Train from Koeln Hbf to Paris Nord

Average Duration
3h 22m
Estimated price
2715-2754
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Köln Hbf to Paris Nord

Average Duration
3h 32m
Estimated price
2716-2750

Train from Köln Hbf to D-Flughafen Bf

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
796-797
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.ryanair.com

Plane from Cologne Bonn (CGN) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
2711-552

Plane from Dusseldorf (DUS) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
2716-2717
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Leverkusen to Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
2752-764

Bus from Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine to Estación Sur de Autobuses

Average Duration
16h 20m
Estimated price
550-557
Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk/

Bus from Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine to Estación Sur de Autobuses

Average Duration
16h 10m
Estimated price
551-2715
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home

Bus from Paris City Centre - Bercy Seine to Estación Sur de Autobuses

Average Duration
16h 30m
Estimated price
7920-7930

Bus from Burgos to Intercambiador Av América Bus Interurbano

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
2757-2758
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
0221 13 999 444
Website
https://www.nationalexpress.de

Other from Koeln Hbf to Duesseldorf Flughafen

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
792-793

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

Traveling between Cologne and Madrid 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 Madrid covering a distance of 1094 miles, offering a mix of scenic highways and charming pit stops along the way. 💰 Depending on your choice of route and stops, the cost of driving from Cologne to Madrid ranges between €295 to €434, providing flexibility for budget-conscious travelers as well as those seeking a more luxurious journey. 🌆 Reach the vibrant city of Madrid after approximately 16 hours and 21 minutes of driving, ready to explore the Spanish capital's rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and lively atmosphere.
Average price
€295 - €433
🚄 The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 14 hours and 19 minutes. Passengers will first board a train operated by SNCF in Cologne and then transfer to a Renfe AVE service upon reaching Madrid. The prices for this train route can range from €281 to €570. 🌍 There are different route options available for the Cologne to Madrid train journey, each varying in distance, number of transfers, and total duration. Travelers can choose between routes that offer diverse experiences and scenic views throughout the 2,281 km to 2,399 km trip.
Departure Point
Köln Hbf station
Arrival Point
Estación de tren de Atocha station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Cologne to Madrid, you'll mainly be traveling with RENFE or DB (Deutsche Bahn). Meals are typically offered as part of their catering services, including options like sandwiches, salads, and a selection of beverages. Make sure to check the onboard catering menu when you board, as it can vary by train class and route.
• The train service offers three classes: First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class provides more spacious seating and additional amenities, such as complimentary meals. Business Class offers enhanced comfort and newer train variants, while Economy Class, though less spacious, still provides a comfortable travel experience. If you're looking for value, Economy Class is a good choice, while First Class is best for those seeking luxury and extra space.
• Upon arriving at Madrid's Atocha Station, you'll find that it is equipped with facilities to make your journey easier. You can leave your luggage at the left luggage service (Consigna), which is located on the ground floor. Additionally, the station has restrooms, and you can find a few cafes and shops to grab a bite or drink. The fastest way to reach the city center from Atocha is by Metro; take Line 1 (the light blue line) towards Pinar de Chamartín and it's just a few stops to key areas like Gran Vía and Sol.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Cologne to Madrid is by plane, with a direct flight from Dusseldorf Airport to Madrid Airport taking only 2 hours and 40 minutes. 💰 Flights between Madrid and Cologne have a price range of €57 to €282, offering affordable options for those looking to explore these vibrant European cities.
Departure Point
Dusseldorf Airport
Arrival Point
Madrid Airport
🚌 The entire bus journey from Cologne to Madrid, operated by FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus, takes approximately 25 hours and 53 minutes, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the scenic route. With comfortable amenities onboard, the trip offers a unique way to explore the European landscapes. 🚌 Prices for the bus ticket between Madrid and Cologne typically range from €114 to €203, offering budget-friendly options for those looking to travel across countries by bus. Booking in advance can often lead to cost savings and a smoother travel experience.
Departure Point
Leverkusen station
Arrival Point
Estación Sur de Autobuses station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cologne to Madrid.

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The distance between Cologne and Madrid is approximately 893 miles by air. The typical travel time by train is 14 hours and 24 minutes. Alternatively, taking a combination of train and flight can reduce the travel time to 6 hours and 17 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes around 16 hours and 21 minutes, while the bus journey takes about 29 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cologne to Madrid is by train and fly. This option costs €56-€241 and takes approximately 8 hours and 58 minutes. However, if time is more important, the quickest way to reach Madrid from Cologne is also by train and fly, which takes around 6 hours and 4 minutes but costs slightly more at €93-€334. Both options provide a good balance between cost and travel time.
The prices for a train ticket from Cologne to Madrid range from €240 to €559. On the other hand, bus tickets from Madrid to Cologne can cost anywhere from €153 to €239. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel and availability. It is recommended to check with different providers for the best deals and fares.
To travel from Cologne to Madrid without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 1094 miles, and it takes about 16 hours and 21 minutes to drive from Cologne to Madrid. However, keep in mind that the prices to rent a car and cover the fuel costs can range from €297 to €436.
To travel from Cologne to Madrid without a car, the best options are by train or by flying. The train journey takes approximately 14 hours and 24 minutes, with tickets costing between €232 and €603. Flying is a faster option, with the duration of the trip being around 7 hours and 28 minutes, and ticket prices ranging from €56 to €278. Another possibility is taking a bus via Vitoria-Gasteiz, which takes around 29 hours and 5 minutes and costs between €148 and €241.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cologne and Madrid but it requires multiple modes of transportation. The quickest option is to take a train from Cologne to Madrid, which takes approximately 14 hours and 24 minutes with transfers in Paris and Barcelona. Another option is to travel by bus, which departs from Cologne-Main Station and takes approximately 3 days and 8 hours to reach Madrid.
The flight between Cologne and Madrid typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between €58 and €270, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Madrid. There are over 1356 hotels available, so you have many choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Madrid start at €38 per night, making it accessible for various budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, you should have no trouble finding a suitable place to stay in Madrid.