Cologne Bonn Airport CGN: Departures and guide

Flying from/to Cologne/Bonn Airport

Find out the best way to get from Cologne/Bonn Airport to the city centre by doing some research in advance. Should you take a train, bus or a tram from the airport to and from the city centre? Our guide to Cologne/Bonn Airport and the facilities mean you can find your way around the terminal upon arriving and plan the rest of your trip—whether its for a short weekend or a little longer.

Travel from Cologne/Bonn city center to Cologne/Bonn Airport

The western German city of Cologne straddles the Rhine river and has been a flourishing city since before the Middle Ages. Known for its world class museums and cultural institutions, Cologne is connected to other German and European cities via its extensive network of trams, buses and regional (RE) and S-Bahn trains. Cologne/Bonn Airport is just over nine miles (14.5 kilometers) southeast of Cologne city center. There are two terminals at the airport packed with great facilities for passengers, whether they are traveling for vacation or business. The best way to reach the airport is by RE6, RE8, or S19 trains. Passengers with limited mobility or those who wish to drive but avoid the airport parking costs can also use car-sharing platforms Car2Go and DriveNow to go by car to the airport. 

What's the best way to get to Cologne/Bonn Airport from Cologne/Bonn city center?

The best way to get from Cologne city center to the Cologne/Bonn Airport is by RE6, RE8, or S19 trains. Trains depart Cologne Central Station and there are only two stops to the airport, which takes 15 minutes to reach. Cologne Central Station is just under half a mile from the city center, which takes five to ten minutes to walk. The next best mode of transportation is by ridesharing, especially for passengers with limited mobility or for whom carrying luggage on and off trains is challenging. The rideshare companies serving the area are Car2Go and DriveNow, and there are designated drop-off locations at the airport. 

How far is it from Cologne/Bonn city center to Cologne/Bonn Airport

Cologne/Bonn Airport is just over nine miles (14.5 kilometers) southeast of Cologne city center. It is recommended that passengers leave at least 30 minutes and closer to one hour to make the journey from Cologne city center to the airport. Cars and trains follow a relatively similar route to the airport, and both cover the distance in roughly 15 minutes. When there is heavy traffic, trains are the most reliable way to reach the airport.

What facilities are there at the Cologne/Bonn Airport?

There are long and short stay parking garages right at the airport, as well as a train station. Cologne/Bonn Airport provides free WiFi for all passengers, and observation decks for aviation-lovers to watch planes take off and land. There is a business lounge with work stations and relaxation areas for travelers wanting to unwind before a business trip. As for shopping, a range of luxury, commercial and family retail outlets help keep passengers entertained before boarding. Passengers won't go hungry with the dining options at the airport, including fast food, restaurants and cafes for snacks and light food as well as pre-flight meals. 

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Cologne is a highly accessible city for those with limited mobility. Passengers with limited mobility can travel easily to the airport, as the terminals and train stations have elevators. There are a number of reserved disabled parking spaces in each of the parking garages and intercoms for easy communication with the airport staff. Public transit including trains are accessible to those in wheelchairs. Assistance should be booked 48 hours in advance and is provided by the German Red Cross, who meet such passengers upon arrival and guide them through the airport until they are seated on their flight ready to depart. 

Local tips: how to travel to Cologne/Bonn Airport like a local

Cologne locals love public transportation. It is by far the easiest and most reliable way to get around the city, as well as to most other German and French cities. They purchase bakery food and a coffee at the Cologne Central Station before their train, or spend their time waiting at the nearby Cologne Cathedral, a massive Gothic establishment dating back to the 1200s. On good weather days, locals with more time to spare might walk the ten minutes to the Rhine Garden, a park running parallel to the Rhine river, and enjoy the light river breeze and pocket of nature in this big city.