Amsterdam, North Holland to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from €16: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Amsterdam to Cologne: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$16 RideshareBest price
264 kmDistance
2h 30m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Amsterdam 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.
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| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $12 | $17 | $13 | $12 | $16 | $11 | $16 |
| Train | $51 | $53 | $39 | $45 | $57 | $48 | $51 |
Traveling From Amsterdam to Cologne
The route from Amsterdam to Cologne offers a fascinating contrast between Amsterdam's vibrant canals and eclectic architecture, and Cologne's stunning Gothic cathedral and rich cultural heritage.
Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne
Cologne boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience for visitors.
Altstadt (Old Town)
• Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral.
• Charming cobblestone streets filled with history.
Belgian Quarter
• Trendy cafes and boutique shops abound.
• Vibrant nightlife scene with eclectic bars.
Ehrenfeld
• Known for its creative arts and culture.
• Unique street art adds character to the area.
Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions
Timing your visits to Cologne's attractions can elevate your experience and help you avoid the crowds.
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for quieter moments.
Ludwig Museum
Weekdays, especially in the late mornings, attract fewer visitors.
Rheinauhafen District
Opt for weekday afternoons to enjoy the waterfront without the rush.
Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Cologne experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather can influence your travel plans, so be prepared for occasional rain and varying temperatures throughout the year.
Dining Recommendation in Cologne
Try the traditional dish 'Himmel un Ääd,' a comforting blend of black pudding, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce, at an authentic local restaurant like Restaurant Päffgen. This culinary experience showcases hearty flavors and local ingredients, offering a cozy ambiance that distinctly contrasts with Amsterdam's more international dining scene.
Amsterdam - Cologne operators
Explore transport companies operating between Amsterdam and Cologne, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+31 30 751 5155Website
https://www.ns.nl/en
Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12
Average Duration
2h 30mEstimated price
27-67Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Arnhem Centraal
Average Duration
1h 4mEstimated price
27-31Train from Arnhem Centraal to Duesseldorf Flughafen
Average Duration
1h 39mEstimated price
670-671Train from Duesseldorf Flughafen to Koeln Hbf
Average Duration
39mEstimated price
672-673Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Köln Messe/Deutz Bf
Average Duration
2h 48mEstimated price
27-152Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33Website
https://www.bahn.com/en
Train from Amsterdam Centraal to Köln Hbf
Average Duration
3h 17mEstimated price
270-277Train from D-Flughafen Bf to Köln Hbf
Average Duration
32mEstimated price
278-279Contact phone
+43 51717Website
https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home
all-pages.transport_night train from Amsterdam Centraal to Köln Messe/Deutz Bf
Average Duration
2h 48mEstimated price
676-152Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk
Bus from Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Leverkusen
Average Duration
4h 47mEstimated price
21-31Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228Website
https://www.blablacar.com
Rideshare from Amsterdam to Cologne
Average Duration
3h 17mEstimated price
16-18Contact phone
N/AWebsite
https://www.klm.com
Plane from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to Dusseldorf (DUS)
Average Duration
47mEstimated price
152-2710Contact phone
N/AWebsite
N/A
Drive from Amsterdam to Cologne
Average Duration
2h 40mEstimated price
270-271Amsterdam to Cologne: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam to Cologne, covering a distance of 164 miles in just 2 hours and 40 minutes by car. Enjoy the picturesque drive through the Dutch and German countryside, with smooth roads and clear signages leading the way.
💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options ranging from €46 to €74 for a road trip from Amsterdam to Cologne. Whether you're a solo traveler or with friends, carpooling services like Blablacar offer convenient rideshare solutions for those without a driver's license or looking to skip public transportation.
Average price
€46 - €74
🚆 The direct train from Amsterdam to Cologne departs from Amsterdam Centraal and arrives at Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12, with services operating every four hours every day. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
🌍 Route options for the trip from Amsterdam to Cologne include transfers in cities like Frankfurt and Duisburg, depending on the chosen itinerary. Each route offers a unique travel experience, with varying durations ranging from 2 hours 37 minutes to 2 hours 51 minutes.
💰 The prices for train tickets between Amsterdam and Cologne can range from €28 to €69, offering travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred route and service provider for this scenic journey through the Netherlands and into Germany.
Departure Point
Amsterdam Centraal station
Arrival Point
Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12 station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train from Amsterdam to Cologne, you can enjoy onboard catering services that include a selection of snacks, drinks, and light meals. The train operators often have a restaurant car or trolley service offering beverages like coffee, tea, and beer, as well as quick bites such as sandwiches and pastries. Look for the onboard menu displayed near your seating area.
• The trains on this route usually offer three seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class offers spacious seats with power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary refreshments. Business Class provides a comfortable experience with ergonomic seating and access to exclusive lounges at the station. Economy Class is budget-friendly and still provides decent comfort, though with less legroom and fewer amenities.
• Several operators service the route from Amsterdam to Cologne, including Thalys and NS International. For booking and additional information, visit their websites: Thalys (thalys.com) and NS International (ns.nl). These sites can help you compare options and check train schedules.
🛫 Flying from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Dusseldorf Airport is the quickest way to travel between the two cities, with a direct flight lasting only 45 minutes.
Departure Point
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Arrival Point
Dusseldorf Airport
🚌 When traveling from Amsterdam to Cologne by bus, be prepared for a journey that includes transfers. The total travel time is approximately 4 hours and 47 minutes.
🚌 FlixBus operates the bus services from Amsterdam to Cologne, offering a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation. Prices for the bus ticket between the two cities typically range from €22 to €32, providing an affordable travel option for your trip.
Departure Point
Amsterdam Sloterdijk station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan your trip using FlixBus, which operates the route from Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Cologne, and check their website for real-time schedules and ticket availability: flixbus.com
• Be prepared for a transfer at Leverkusen Mitte; when you arrive, follow the signs to the bus terminal where you will switch buses for your final leg to Köln Heumarkt, ensuring you have all necessary tickets ready.
• Upon arriving at Köln Heumarkt, you will be at the heart of the city; consider checking out nearby dining options like 'Peters Brauhaus' for traditional German fare or 'Patisserie Heinemann' for a sweet treat, ensuring you fuel up before exploring.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Amsterdam to Cologne.
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The cheapest way to travel from Amsterdam to Cologne is by ridesharing, where you can find options for as low as €16-€18. Ridesharing is a convenient option as it allows you to share the cost of the journey with other passengers heading in the same direction. The journey time is approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes, making it a cost-effective and relatively fast option for traveling between the two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Amsterdam to Cologne is by train. This option will take approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes. The train journey offers a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation, allowing you to reach your destination quickly. Tickets for the train can cost around €27-€69, depending on the class and type of ticket selected.
The distance from Amsterdam to Cologne is approximately 134 miles. If you were to drive, the road distance is about 163.9 miles.
The best way to travel from Amsterdam to Cologne without a car is by taking a train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes, and ticket prices range from €27 to €69, depending on the class and availability. Trains from Amsterdam to Cologne are operated by Deutsche Bahn, and it is advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure the best fares. You can check the train schedules and purchase tickets online or at the train station.
The train journey from Amsterdam to Cologne takes approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes, including transfers. Trains depart regularly from Amsterdam Centraal station to Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12 every three hours. The duration of the trip may vary depending on the specific train and any potential delays. It is advisable to check the schedule in advance and arrive at the station with ample time before departure.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Cologne. With over 1145+ hotels to choose from, you are sure to find one that suits your needs and budget. Prices for hotels in Cologne start at around €41 per night and go up depending on the location and amenities. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can share a ride from Amsterdam to Cologne. One option to consider is using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service, which connects drivers with available seats in their cars with passengers heading in the same direction. It's a great option if you don't have a driver's licence or prefer to avoid public transport. Simply search for available rides on the BlaBlaCar platform and choose the one that suits your preferences in terms of timing and cost.
Yes, you can drive from Amsterdam to Cologne. The driving distance between the two cities is around 164 miles. It usually takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to drive from Amsterdam to Cologne. However, keep in mind that traffic conditions and any potential detours may affect the duration of the journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Amsterdam to Cologne. However, you can take a bus from Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Wiesdorf Leverkusen Mitte Bf and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Köln Heumarkt. This journey will take approximately 4 hours and 47 minutes. Keep in mind that the total duration includes transfers.
To catch the bus from Amsterdam to Cologne you need to go to Amsterdam Sloterdijk station. This is where the bus services operated by FlixBus depart from. Make sure to check the schedule and arrive at the station on time to board the bus to Cologne.
The bus from Amsterdam to Cologne arrives at Leverkusen station. This is a convenient location for passengers as it is well-connected to public transportation options within Cologne. Leverkusen station is centrally located and provides easy access to popular sights and attractions in the city. Passengers can easily continue their journey from Leverkusen station to their desired destination in Cologne.
KLM is the main airline that offers flights between Amsterdam and Cologne. The flights operated by KLM depart from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and land at Dusseldorf Airport, which is the closest airport to Cologne. It is recommended to check the KLM website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to get from Amsterdam to Cologne is by taking a direct flight from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Dusseldorf Airport. This flight takes approximately 45 minutes. KLM offers flights on this route, making it a convenient and efficient option for travelers.
The flight from Amsterdam to Cologne takes approximately 45 minutes. This is the quickest option for travel between the two cities. The flight route is direct and goes from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Dusseldorf Airport. It is a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination in a short amount of time.
Trains from Amsterdam to Cologne arrive at Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12 station. This is the main station in Cologne and is conveniently located near the city center. From there, you can easily access various transportation options to reach your final destination in Cologne. Make sure to check the train schedule and platform information before your journey to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Yes, there is a direct train between Amsterdam and Cologne. The train departs from Amsterdam Centraal and arrives at Koeln Messe/Deutz Gl.11-12. The train service operates every day and departs every three hours. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes.
To catch the train from Amsterdam to Cologne you need to go to Amsterdam Centraal station. This is the main railway station in Amsterdam and serves as the departure point for many domestic and international train journeys. From there, you can easily board the train operated by Dutch Railways that will take you to Cologne. The station is well-connected and easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.
The cost of a train from Amsterdam to Cologne varies depending on the type of ticket and class you choose. On average, prices range from €27 to €69. It is recommended to book your train tickets in advance to secure the best prices. Additionally, keep in mind that prices may be higher during peak travel periods or if you choose a faster train option.
The cost of a bus ticket from Amsterdam to Cologne ranges from €21 to €32. This price can vary depending on the bus company, the time of travel, and how far in advance you book your ticket. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal.
The cost of driving from Amsterdam to Cologne can range from €46 to €74, depending on factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and the vehicle's fuel efficiency. It's important to consider additional expenses like parking fees and potential road tolls along the way. Additionally, it is advisable to check for any traffic updates or potential road closures before embarking on the journey.
Trips from Amsterdam
- Amsterdam to Rotterdam
- Amsterdam to Stockholm
- Amsterdam to Oslo
- Amsterdam to The Hague
- Amsterdam to Copenhagen
- Amsterdam to Lisbon
- Amsterdam to Rome
- Amsterdam to Geneva
- Amsterdam to Nice
- Amsterdam to Dublin
- Amsterdam to Giethoorn
- Amsterdam to Antwerp
- Amsterdam to Maastricht
- Amsterdam to Venice
- Amsterdam to Madrid
- Amsterdam to Utrecht
- Amsterdam to Prague
- Amsterdam to Florence
- Amsterdam to Bruges
- Amsterdam to Paris
- Amsterdam to Budapest
- Amsterdam to Barcelona
- Amsterdam to Milan
- Amsterdam to Delft
- Amsterdam to Luxembourg
- Amsterdam to Munich
- Amsterdam to Frankfurt am Main
- Amsterdam to Hamburg
- Amsterdam to Haarlem
- Amsterdam to Vienna
- Amsterdam to Ghent
- Amsterdam to Brussels
- Amsterdam to Eindhoven
- Amsterdam to Athens
- Amsterdam to Zurich
- Amsterdam to Berlin
- Amsterdam to London
- Amsterdam to Dusseldorf
- Amsterdam to Zurich
- Amsterdam to Fuji (Shizuoka)
Trips to Cologne
- Bonn to Cologne
- Hamburg to Cologne
- Munich to Cologne
- Prague to Cologne
- Aachen to Cologne
- Vienna to Cologne
- Frankfurt am Main to Cologne
- Milan to Cologne
- Paris to Cologne
- Brussels to Cologne
- Copenhagen to Cologne
- Dublin to Cologne
- Dortmund to Cologne
- Stuttgart to Cologne
- Strasbourg to Cologne
- Dusseldorf to Cologne
- Berlin to Cologne
- Geneva to Cologne
- London to Cologne
- Bremen to Cologne
- Pulheim to Cologne
- Ratingen to Cologne
- Neuss to Cologne
- Nice to Cologne
- Salzburg to Cologne
- Meinerzhagen to Cologne
- Lisbon to Cologne
- Bacharach to Cologne
- Marseille to Cologne
- Madrid to Cologne
- Manchester to Cologne
- Gothenburg to Cologne
- Zurich to Cologne
- Riyadh to Cologne
- Jackson to Cologne
- Katowice to Cologne
- Eichstätt to Cologne
- Santa Fe to Cologne
- Los Angeles to Cologne
- Atlanta to Cologne