- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, especially strong in Pop Art, Picasso, and postwar European art.



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Cheapest price
$25
Average price
$39
Fastest journey
3h 40m
Average duration
5h 5m
Buses per day
19
Distance
230 km
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Amsterdam to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a flight costs an average of $290.
Distance: 132 miles (214 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$32 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price | $611 Average price | $58 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 21m Average total duration 5h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 54m Average total duration 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Amsterdam to Cologne:
A bus is $39 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Amsterdam to Cologne costing on average $72 (€59).
A bus is $579 (€476) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Amsterdam to Cologne costing on average $611 (€502).
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 24m.
Bus takes on average 5h 51m.
Tickets start at around $32 (€26) compared to roughly $58 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $26 (€22). The journey takes 5h 51m versus 3h 14m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:45AM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 05:43PM | Duration 5h13 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 05:43PM | Duration 4h53 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator RegioJet a.s. | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 06:56PM | Duration 4h41 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 02:15AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
The table below shows live departures for Amsterdam to Cologne buses for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 7:45 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h40 | 12:25 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
1646 · 50458 | 8:55 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 7h55 | 4:50 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 9:00 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h25 | 1:25 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 9:00 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h41 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 9:50 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h55 | 2:45 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:45 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 5h20 | 4:05 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 12:00 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h30 | 4:30 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 12:30 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 5h13 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 12:50 PM Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1 | 4h53 | 5:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
(Amsterdam -> Prague) | 2:00 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 5h40 | 7:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:15 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h10 | 7:25 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:15 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h50 | 9:05 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 4:15 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h41 | 8:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 4:50 PM Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1 | 6h30 | 11:20 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 6:00 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h40 | 9:40 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 7:30 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h55 | 11:25 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
1698 · 50448 | 9:30 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 8h55 | 6:25 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 9:45 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h05 | 1:50 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:30 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h45 | 2:15 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 10 | |||||
FlixBus | 12:45 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h55 | 4:40 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Amsterdam to Cologne run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€16) if you book in advance.
There are 12 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 3h 40m.
Distance 132 miles (214 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€16) |
Buses per day 16 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 3h 40m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, especially strong in Pop Art, Picasso, and postwar European art.
One of Germany’s key fine art museums, known for medieval painting, Gothic works, and major Impressionist holdings.
Cologne’s documentation center on National Socialism, housed in the former Gestapo headquarters with preserved prison cells.
Historic Old Town square surrounded by traditional facades and lively pedestrian streets, ideal as a base for central sightseeing.
Large central square in the Altstadt known for events, open space, and easy access to the Rhine promenade.
Trendy inner-city neighborhood popular for independent shops, street life, and photogenic urban corners beyond the main tourist core.
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small Stangen glasses and central to the city’s brewing culture.
A classic Cologne rye roll with aged Gouda, mustard, and onion. Despite the name, it contains no chicken and is a beloved beer-hall snack.
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes with apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The name means ‘Heaven and Earth.’
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant offering modern tasting menus and polished service for a high-end culinary experience in Cologne.
Historic brewery and restaurant loved for house-brewed Kölsch and authentic local specialties in a rustic traditional atmosphere.
Well-known casual restaurant famous for oversized schnitzels and hearty German comfort food with a friendly, classic atmosphere.
Moderate by German standards. Public transport is fair, while central hotels and dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is common for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.
Official public transport app
Köln ZOB, Cologne -> Köln Hauptbahnhof, Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Amsterdam to Cologne by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Amsterdam to Cologne buses use the Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Amsterdam and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) is 3 km from Amsterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Sloterdijk (in the station), Burger King (in the station), Julia's (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the shopping area.
Ticket office support is available at Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk).
Available at Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk): Elevators, ramps.
Amsterdam, De Ruijterkade is 1 km from Amsterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Amsterdam, De Ruijterkade has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam, De Ruijterkade: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance and baggage claim area.
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, ZOB is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln, ZOB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria im ZOB (in the station), McDonald's (0.2 km), Vapiano (0.5 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Köln, ZOB.
Available at Köln, ZOB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, ZOB: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need