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Milan, Lombardy to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $61: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Milan, Italy
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Milan 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.

$61 - PlaneBest price
634 kmDistance
2h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Milan 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
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
2h  43m
Estimated price
$113-390
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$61-239
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 634 km
Duration: 2h 43m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$141-377
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
11h  23m
Estimated price
$225-1030
Company
Swiss Railways (SBB/CFF/FFS)
Train
Average Duration
9h  31m
Estimated price
$254-454
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
16h  36m
Estimated price
$1031-1032
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
14h  48m
Estimated price
$1033-1034
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  39m
Estimated price
$1035-1036

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $38 $34 $33 $36 $43 $44 $43
Fly $100 $93 $72 $62 $62 $204 $100
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Milan to Cologne

Journeying from Milan to Cologne offers a fascinating contrast between Milan's vibrant fashion and historic architecture and Cologne's rich cultural heritage and stunning Gothic cathedral.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

Cologne features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Altstadt (Old Town)
• Home to Cologne Cathedral and vibrant squares.
• Offers authentic local cuisine and beer gardens.
Belgian Quarter
• Known for boutique shops and trendy cafes.
• Bustling nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
Ehrenfeld
• Renowned for its street art and creative scene.
• Hosts eclectic markets and cultural festivals.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Make the most of your visit to Cologne by timing your trips to its major attractions just right.

Cologne Cathedral
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Museum Ludwig
Weekdays are ideal, especially mid-morning, for a quieter experience.
Hohenzollern Bridge
Sunset offers a mesmerizing view with fewer tourists around.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early autumn the best times to visit. Weather can influence outdoor activities, so packing layers for varying conditions can enhance your travel experience.

Culinary Delights in Cologne

Try the hearty "Himmel un Ääd," a traditional dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce paired with black pudding, offering a stark contrast to the lighter, more refined Milanese cuisine. Dining in Cologne often features cozy breweries with lively atmospheres, letting you savor local flavors while enjoying the vibrant, communal spirit of the city.

Milan - Cologne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Milan and Cologne, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
lufthansa.com

Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
610-611

Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Frankfurt (FRA)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
612-3659
Website
eurowings.com

Plane from Milan Malpensa (MXP) to Cologne Bonn (CGN)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
3653-614

Plane from Milan Linate (LIN) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
1039-3657
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+41 848 44 66 88
Website
sbb.ch

Train from Milano Centrale Station to Basel SBB

Average Duration
4h 12m
Estimated price
1038-1036

Train from Basel SBB to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
2391-2392

Train from Milano Centrale to Zürich Hb

Average Duration
4h 17m
Estimated price
1414-1415
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
bahn.com

Train from Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbf to Koeln Messe/Deutz

Average Duration
2h 14m
Estimated price
619-2390

Train from Basel SBB to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
2391-2392
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano to Leverkusen

Average Duration
16h 36m
Estimated price
1037-1038
all-pages.transport_train, night train

all-pages.transport_train, night train from Milano Porta Garibaldi to Chiasso

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
1033-1034

all-pages.transport_train, night train from Zürich Hb to Bonn Hbf

Average Duration
7h 31m
Estimated price
3658-1413
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Milan to Cologne

Average Duration
7h 39m
Estimated price
1035-1036

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

Traveling between Milan 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 an exciting road trip from Milan to Cologne, covering a distance of 515 miles through picturesque European landscapes. 💰 The cost to travel by car from Milan to Cologne ranges from €129 to €202, offering budget-friendly options for every traveler. ⏱️ Enjoy a leisurely drive of approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes, allowing you to soak in the charming sights and culture along the way before reaching the vibrant city of Cologne in Germany.
Average price
€129 - €203
🚂 Traveling from Milan to Cologne by train requires a transfer in Basel SBB. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 31 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the Milan to Cologne train range from €261 to €467, offering travelers a comfortable and scenic route through Europe.
Departure Point
Milano Centrale Station
Arrival Point
Köln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The train operators for your Milan to Cologne route include Deutsche Bahn and Trenitalia. Both services offer onboard catering with options ranging from snacks to full meals, along with beverages. Deutsche Bahn provides an on-demand menu you can purchase at your seat, whereas Trenitalia often features a dining car with a wider array of choices. Be sure to check their websites for the latest menus: Deutsche Bahn and Trenitalia.
• On this route, you can choose between First Class and Second Class seating. First Class offers more spacious seating with complimentary drinks, power outlets, and quieter cabins, while Second Class is more economical with comfortable seating but less privacy. If you want a bit more comfort without breaking the bank, consider purchasing an upgrade to First Class for part of your journey.
• Upon arriving in Cologne, the main station (Köln Hauptbahnhof) offers facilities for travelers including luggage storage and clean restrooms. You can leave your luggage at the DB Schalter service point for a fee. The restrooms are located on different levels of the station, and there are no showers available, but several nearby hotels and gyms offer day access.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Milan to Cologne is by taking a direct flight from Milan Linate Airport to Dusseldorf Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Departure Point
Milan Linate Airport
Arrival Point
Dusseldorf Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight from Milan Linate to Dusseldorf Airport, consider using Eurowings for competitive pricing and direct service; their website is eurowings.com
• Upon arrival at Dusseldorf Airport, take note that the airport offers a dedicated train service to Cologne that can be quicker than a taxi; check the schedule at bahn.com for timing details.
• Taxi fares from Dusseldorf Airport to Cologne city center typically range from €60 to €80, so consider taking the train for a more economical option and faster journey.
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Milan to Cologne, travelers can make the journey with transfers along the way. The trip, including transfers, typically takes around 16 hours and 36 minutes to reach its destination. 🚌 Travelers can expect the prices for a bus ticket between Cologne and Milan to vary, generally ranging from €66 to €103. Overall, the bus journey offers a budget-friendly option for those looking to travel between these two vibrant European cities.
Departure Point
Milano, Autostazione Lampugnano station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Milan to Cologne.

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The distance between Milan and Cologne is approximately 394 miles or 515.4 miles by road. The typical travel time by train is 8 hours and 39 minutes, while the combination of flying from Milan Linate to Dusseldorf and then taking a train takes around 4 hours and 36 minutes. Alternatively, a direct flight from Milan to Cologne takes about 4 hours and 35 minutes. If driving, it would take around 7 hours and 39 minutes, while taking a bus would take approximately 16 hours and 37 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Milan to Cologne is by bus, which costs between €63 and €100 and takes approximately 16 hours and 37 minutes. However, if you're looking for a quicker option, you can consider taking a train and then flying, which costs between €45 and €281 and takes about 4 hours and 27 minutes. These options provide a balance between cost and time efficiency for your journey.
The prices for a train trip between Milan and Cologne range from €154 to €328. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip between Cologne and Milan range from €65 to €92. It is important to note that these prices can vary depending on factors such as time of travel, class of service, and availability. It is advisable to check with the respective transport providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
If you prefer not to use public transportation, the most convenient option to travel from Milan to Cologne would be to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 515 miles and takes around 7 hours and 39 minutes. Keep in mind that the cost of fuel and tolls may vary, but on average, the prices range from €127 to €199.
To travel from Milan to Cologne without a car, the best option is to take the train, which takes approximately 8 hours and 39 minutes. This option is convenient and allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. Another option is to fly, which is faster, taking about 4 hours and 35 minutes. However, it may be more expensive than taking the train. If you prefer a more affordable option, you can also consider taking the bus, which takes approximately 16 hours and 37 minutes.
There is no direct link between Milan and Cologne. However, there are options available for travel between the two cities. You can take a train from Milan to Cologne with a transfer in Mannheim, which takes approximately 8 hours and 39 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which also includes transfers and takes approximately 16 hours and 37 minutes. It is important to note that these travel times are subject to change and it is advisable to check for the most up-to-date information before making your travel plans.
The flight between Milan and Cologne typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from €49 to €330. It is recommended to check with different airlines or search for deals to find the best price for your desired travel dates.
There are numerous accommodations available near Cologne. With over 1145 hotels to choose from, you have a wide range of options. Prices for hotels in the area start at €41 per night. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious stay, you'll be able to find a suitable hotel near Cologne to meet your needs.