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Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $4.5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Dortmund, Germany
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Dortmund 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.

$4.5 RideshareBest price
98 kmDistance
1h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dortmund 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.

Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Train
Average Duration
1h  12m
Estimated price
$6.3-71
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  22m
Estimated price
$4.5-9.8
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 98 km
Duration: 1h 2m

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Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  2m
Estimated price
$14-21
Company
Ecolines
Bus
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$21-31

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $7 $7 $7 $7 $7 $7 $7
Train $6 $7 $6 $7 $7 $6 $7
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Dortmund to Cologne

The journey from Dortmund to Cologne introduces you to the industrial charm of Dortmund and the vibrant cultural scene of Cologne, showcasing a fascinating contrast between the two cities.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

Cologne offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Lively nightlife and historic buildings abound.
• Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy cafes and chic boutiques line the streets.
• A hub for local art and culture.
Ehrenfeld
• Eclectic street art and creative atmosphere flourish.
• Affordable eateries and diverse international cuisine.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Planning your visit to Cologne can elevate your experience at its attractions.

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Museum Ludwig
Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience with the modern art.
Rhine River Promenade
Enjoy strolls in the late evening when the lights create a magical atmosphere.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The best times to visit are late spring and early fall, as comfortable temperatures enhance your exploration of the city while avoiding extreme weather conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

When in Cologne, don’t miss out on trying the local specialty, Himmel un Ääd, a dish made from black pudding, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce, which reflects the city’s rich culinary heritage. Unlike Dortmund’s hearty industrial fare, Cologne’s dining scene often features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere, offering a delightful twist on traditional German cuisine.

Dortmund - Cologne operators

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

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
29-32
Contact phone
0221 13 999 444
Website
https://nationalexpress.de

Train from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
6.3-6.31
Contact phone
+49 1807 123 99 123
Website
https://www.flixtrain.com/

Train from Dortmund Central Station to Cologne Central Station

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
6.3-9.8
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
6.32-6.34
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
31-71
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+371 67214512
Website
https://ecolines.net

Bus from Dortmund to Köln

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
21-31
Contact phone
+38139423824
Website
https://try-tours.com

Bus from Dortmund to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
0-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://blablacar.com

Other from Dortmund to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
4.5-9.8

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

Traveling between Dortmund 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 journey from Dortmund to Cologne, covering 61 miles of picturesque German countryside in just over an hour. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you make your way towards the bustling city of Cologne. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel with prices ranging from €15 to €22 for the trip by car. Take advantage of the cost-effective option of driving yourself or sharing a ride through carpooling services like Blablacar - a convenient alternative to public transport.
Average price
€15 - €22
🚆 Traveling from Dortmund to Cologne by train is convenient and efficient. The direct train service departs every 20 minutes from Dortmund Hbf to Köln Hbf, making it easy to plan your journey. 🌇 The train ride from Dortmund to Cologne offers scenic views of the German countryside and takes approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the comfortable ride as you head towards your destination. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between Dortmund and Cologne range from €6 to €74, providing affordable options for travelers looking to explore both cities. Whether you're commuting for work or enjoying a leisurely trip, the train offers a hassle-free way to travel between these two vibrant destinations.
Departure Point
Dortmund Hbf station
Arrival Point
Köln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your trip from Dortmund to Cologne, you can expect a range of onboard catering services provided by Deutsche Bahn if you are traveling on their Intercity Express (ICE) or Intercity (IC) trains. In First Class, you'll enjoy complimentary beverages and a selection of snacks, while a dining car offers meals for purchase in Second Class. In addition, you may find a trolley service that brings light snacks and drinks directly to your seat.
• The train service between Dortmund and Cologne primarily operates through Deutsche Bahn, which offers various seating options. First Class seats provide more space and comfort, along with quiet carriages and complimentary refreshments. Business Class is a great option for working passengers, with tables and power outlets available. Economy (Second Class) seats are generally comfortable and affordable, making it a popular choice for everyday travelers. Check their official website for more details: bahn.com
• Upon arriving at Cologne Central Station (Kölner Hauptbahnhof), the station offers luggage storage services located near the platforms, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. The station also has clean restrooms but does not provide shower facilities. Afterward, to reach the city center quickly, take the tram from the station: tram lines 1, 7, and 9 head directly toward popular destinations like the Cathedral and the Old Town. For your travel plan, consider using public transport apps or the local transport website: kvb.koeln
🚌 Experience a convenient and direct journey from Dortmund to Cologne with a bus operated by Ecolines. Services are available four times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, with the trip lasting approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Departing from Dortmund station, you'll arrive at Köln station without any hassle. 🚌 Enjoy the scenic route as you travel between these two vibrant German cities, with comfortable and reliable bus services provided by Ecolines. Plan your trip ahead to secure your seat, as prices for a bus ticket between Cologne and Dortmund typically range from €22 to €32. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the journey as you head towards your destination.
Departure Point
Dortmund station
Arrival Point
Köln station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dortmund to Cologne.

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The distance between Dortmund and Cologne is 46 miles or 60.7 miles by road. The typical travel time by train is 1 hour and 19 minutes, while driving by car takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes. If taking the bus, the typical travel time is around 2 hours and 12 minutes. It is worth noting that these times can vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Dortmund to Cologne is to rideshare. It is the cheapest way, with prices ranging from €4 to €9, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes. If time is the primary concern, driving is the quickest way to reach Cologne from Dortmund. It takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes and costs between €15 and €22.
The prices for a train journey between Dortmund and Cologne can range from €14 to €77, depending on factors such as class of travel, time of booking, and type of train. It is recommended to check the specific prices and availability on the website of the train operator. It is also worth considering other modes of transportation such as car or bus, as they may provide alternative options at different price points.
If you prefer not to use public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare options between Dortmund and Cologne. This can be a convenient option if you don't have a driver's licence or simply want to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Dortmund and Cologne is approximately 61 miles and it takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes to drive. Prices for carpooling services from Dortmund to Cologne can range between €15 and €22.
To travel from Dortmund to Cologne without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey typically takes 1 hour and 19 minutes, and ticket prices range from €14 to €77, depending on the class and type of ticket. Trains provide a convenient and efficient means of transportation between the two cities, and they offer a comfortable and scenic ride.
There is a direct link between Dortmund and Cologne. You can travel by train, with services departing every 20 minutes and the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes. There is also a direct bus service that operates four times a week, taking approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Both the train and bus services offer convenient options for traveling between Dortmund and Cologne.
There are many options for accommodations near Cologne with over 1145 hotels to choose from. Prices start at €41 per night, ensuring there is something for every budget. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, Cologne offers a variety of options for travelers to choose from. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.