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Frankfurt am Main, Hesse to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from €6.73: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Frankfurt am Main 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.

$6.73 RideshareBest price
191 kmDistance
1h 5m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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  5m
Estimated price
€40.37-46.63
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  12m
Estimated price
€6.73-17.29
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 191 km
Duration: 1h 5m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Try Tours
Bus
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
€0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  44m
Estimated price
€29.11-408.58
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
2h  42m
Estimated price
€32.63-162.58
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  12m
Estimated price
€39.62-55.94
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  8m
Estimated price
€408.73-409.71

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 $21 $19 $19 $21 $26 $31 $20
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Frankfurt am Main to Cologne

The journey from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne presents travelers with a rich contrast between Frankfurt's financial hustle and Cologne's vibrant cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

Cologne boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and charm.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral.
• Lively atmosphere with historic charm and cobbled streets.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy area with stylish boutiques and cafes.
• Known for its vibrant nightlife and art scene.
Ehrenfeld
• Bohemian vibe with street art and creative spaces.
• Hosts numerous festivals and cultural events year-round.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cologne's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds.
Museum Ludwig
Midweek visits, especially on Wednesdays, tend to be less busy.
Rheinauhafen District
Evenings during weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere and beautiful sunset views.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early fall ideal for visits. Understanding the weather can help you plan activities, from outdoor explorations to cozy indoor sites.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

In Cologne, savor the local specialty of Himmel un Ääd, a dish featuring black pudding, apple sauce, and mashed potatoes, which beautifully contrasts with Frankfurt's more international culinary scene. The city's cozy taverns and vibrant markets create an inviting atmosphere that enhances the flavors of regional ingredients, offering you a truly immersive dining experience.

Frankfurt am Main - Cologne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt(Main)Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
38-43

Train from Neuwied Bf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
389-430
all-pages.transport_night train
Contact phone
+43 51717
Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home

all-pages.transport_night train from Frankfurt(Main)Hbf to Köln Messe/Deutz Bf

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
31-152
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+38139423824
Website
http://try-tours.com

Bus from Frankfurt to Cologne

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
lufthansa.com

Plane from Frankfurt (FRA) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
383-384
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Frankfurt to Cologne

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
6.3-16
Drive

Drive from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
27-380

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

Traveling between Frankfurt am Main 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 road trip from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne, covering 119 miles of picturesque German countryside in just 1 hour and 44 minutes. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from €28 to €42 for the journey by car, making it a cost-effective and convenient way to reach your destination.
Average price
€28 - €42
🚆 The direct train from FrankfurtHbf to Köln Hbf is a convenient option for travelers, with services departing hourly and operating every day. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it a quick and efficient way to travel between the two cities. 🛤️ Covering a distance of approximately 180 km, the train ride from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne offers scenic views and comfortable seating onboard. Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express operates this route, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable travel experience for passengers. Prices for the train tickets can range from €40 to €44, depending on the class and booking time.
Departure Point
Frankfurt(Main)Hbf station
Arrival Point
Köln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard the trains operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB) and other providers, you'll find catering services such as the 'Bordbistro' offering a selection of snacks, drinks, and light meals, served directly at your seat. Make sure to check the menu as options may vary depending on the time of day you are traveling.
• The trains on the Frankfurt to Cologne route offer a variety of seating options including First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class features spacious seating with more legroom and complimentary services, while Business Class provides comfort for those traveling for work. Economy Class is the most affordable option but still offers comfortable seating and good amenities for short journeys. Be sure to choose the class that fits your budget and comfort needs.
• Multiple operators service the route from Frankfurt to Cologne, primarily Deutsche Bahn (DB) and FlixTrain. For schedules, pricing, and bookings, you can visit their websites at bahn.com (DB) and flixtrain.com (FlixTrain). Additionally, Mainz-based Eurobahn operates some regional services. Useful links for local transport in Cologne can be found at kvb.koeln (for local public transport schedules and maps).
🛫 Experience a seamless journey from Frankfurt Airport to Dusseldorf Airport with a quick direct flight lasting just 50 minutes. Lufthansa, a trusted airline carrier, provides convenient flights along this route.
Departure Point
Frankfurt Airport
Arrival Point
Dusseldorf Airport
🚌 The journey between these two German cities takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes by bus. Departing from Frankfurt station, the bus arrives at Cologne station, making it a convenient and efficient way to travel. 🚌 With comfortable seating and scenic views along the route, passengers can sit back and relax as they make their way from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne by bus in under 3 hours.
Departure Point
Frankfurt station
Arrival Point
Cologne station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to double-check the bus schedule, as the direct service from Frankfurt to Cologne only operates twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays; you can find the schedule on Try Tours' website at trytours.de
• When you arrive in Cologne, the bus will stop at Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), which is right in the heart of the city; from there, you can easily access local transportation options like trams and trains to explore the city further.
• If your journey time overlaps with lunchtime, consider stopping by the numerous eateries within the bus station in Frankfurt or grab a quick bite at the restaurants in Cologne's Central Station, where you’ll find a mix of German and international options, ensuring you have a pleasant dining experience on your trip.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne is by ridesharing. Ridesharing services offer shared rides with other travelers heading in the same direction, allowing you to split the cost. This option typically costs between €6 and €16 and takes approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes. It is a budget-friendly and convenient way to reach your destination.
The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes and tickets cost between €32 and €46. Trains in Germany are known for their efficiency and reliability, making it a convenient option for travelers seeking a quick journey between the two cities. Make sure to check the train schedule and book your ticket in advance to secure your seat.
The distance from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne is approximately 95 miles. If traveling by road, the distance is about 118.7 miles. This can vary depending on the specific route taken. It is advisable to check for any updates on road conditions or traffic before starting the journey.
The most convenient and efficient way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, and the tickets cost between €32 and €46. You can check for train schedules and book your tickets in advance online or at the train station. Additionally, the train route offers scenic views of the countryside, making your journey enjoyable and relaxing.
The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, including transfers. Trains depart every two hours from FrankfurtHbf. It is recommended to check the train schedules and plan your journey accordingly.
There are numerous hotels available near Cologne with over 1145 options to choose from. Prices for accommodation start at €41, varying depending on the location, amenities, and the type of hotel you prefer. It is recommended to book your hotel in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Yes, you can share a ride from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne. Blablacar offers carpooling services that connect the two cities. It is a convenient and cost-effective option, especially if you do not have a driver's license or prefer not to use public transport. Simply check the Blablacar website or app for available rideshare options between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne.
Yes, you can drive from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne. The driving distance is about 119 miles and it usually takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is a straightforward route along the A3 highway, which connects the two cities. Keep in mind that there might be tolls and parking fees to consider when driving.
There are multiple airlines that operate flights between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne. Lufthansa is one of the major airlines that offers flights from Frankfurt Airport to Dusseldorf Airport. Other airlines that provide this route include Eurowings and Ryanair. It is recommended to check with these airlines or travel websites for the most up-to-date flight schedules and fares.
The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from Frankfurt Airport to Dusseldorf Airport, which takes around 50 minutes. Lufthansa offers flights on this route, providing convenient options for travelers. Flying is not only the fastest but also a comfortable way to reach your destination in Cologne.
The flight from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne takes approximately 50 minutes. This is the quickest and most convenient option for travel between the two cities. There are direct flights available from Frankfurt Airport to Dusseldorf Airport, which is the closest airport to Cologne. It is recommended to check the flight schedules and book tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient journey.
Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne arrive at Köln Hbf station, which is the main train station in Cologne. This station is conveniently located in the city center and offers easy access to various attractions and amenities. Köln Hbf is well-connected to other parts of the city through public transportation, making it a convenient starting point for exploring Cologne.
Yes, there is a direct train between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne. The train departs from FrankfurtHbf and arrives at Köln Hbf. Trains operate every two hours, providing daily service. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
To catch the train from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne you will need to go to FrankfurtHbf station. This is the main train station in Frankfurt and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. Make sure to check the train schedules in advance and arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth journey.
The cost of a train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne ranges from €32 to €46. The price may vary depending on the class of the ticket and the type of train service chosen. It is recommended to check the prices and availability in advance, as they may change depending on the time and date of travel. Additionally, booking tickets online or in advance can sometimes offer discounted fares.
The cost of a bus ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne varies between €19 and €46. The price depends on factors such as the bus company, the time of travel, and the type of ticket purchased. It is advisable to book your ticket in advance to secure the best possible price.
The cost of driving from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne typically ranges from €28 to €41, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. This estimate accounts for the distance of approximately 190 kilometers between the two cities and assumes a standard car with average fuel efficiency. However, keep in mind that these costs may vary based on your specific vehicle and individual driving habits.

Trips from Frankfurt am Main