Basel to Cologne bus with FlixBus

Mon, Nov 02
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FlixBus
BlaBlaCar Bus
Alsa
Rede Expressos
Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
BlaBlaCar Bus
Alsa
Rede Expressos
Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Basel to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
Cheapest price on Nov 02
€38
Average ticket price on Nov 02
€53
Fastest journey on Nov 02
6 h 51 m
Average journey duration on Nov 02
8 h 11 m
Buses on Nov 02
7
Distance
378 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Basel to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Basel to Cologne will cost around €53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €38.

Fast buses

On Mon, Nov 02, we found 7 buses from Basel to Cologne, including 2 direct services.

On Mon, Nov 02 the direct buses cover the 378 km distance in an average of 8 h 11 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 51 m .

On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest buses will take 8 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Basel to Cologne

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of bus

Buses from Basel to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 17m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €20 if you book in advance.

There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 234 miles (378 km) distance in 7h 5m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
234 miles (378 km)
Average bus duration
8h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
€20
Buses per day
6
Direct buses
3
Fastest bus
7h 5m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
42 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Frequently asked questions about your Basel to Cologne trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Basel to Cologne.

Cheap bus tickets from Basel to Cologne can start from as little as €20 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Basel to Cologne is €39 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Basel to Cologne leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Basel to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Basel to Cologne with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.

Basel to Cologne Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:05AM
Arrival Time
08:25AM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
€27
Operator
BlaBlaCar Bus
Departure Time
01:05AM
Arrival Time
02:25PM
Duration
13h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Sat
Cheapest price
€49
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:55AM
Arrival Time
11:45AM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
€51
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
03:05PM
Duration
10h15
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Sat
Cheapest price
€33
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:05AM
Arrival Time
04:20PM
Duration
8h15
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
€27
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:44AM
Arrival Time
03:35PM
Duration
6h51
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
€36
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
04:00PM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
€37
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
€48
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
10:10PM
Duration
9h40
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
€32
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
12:50PM
Arrival Time
06:10PM
Duration
5h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
€46
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
€39
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
02:40PM
Arrival Time
08:00PM
Duration
5h20
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
€51
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
5h20
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
€50
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:40PM
Arrival Time
02:55AM
Duration
9h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
€32
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
06:10PM
Arrival Time
11:10PM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
€53
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:40PM
Arrival Time
03:35AM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
€32
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
12:20AM
Duration
5h20
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
€42
Operator
BlaBlaCar
Departure Time
08:20PM
Arrival Time
01:50AM
Duration
5h30
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
€47
Operator
BlaBlaCar Bus
Departure Time
10:00PM
Arrival Time
05:50PM
Duration
19h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
€86
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:40PM
Arrival Time
06:45AM
Duration
8h05
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
€25

Live departures

Basel to Cologne bus times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Cologne buses for tomorrow, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
BlaBlaCar Bus4739 · 521191:05 AM Basel, Meret Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB)
13h20
2:25 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus2:55 AM Basel, Bahnhof
8h50
11:45 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus8:05 AM Basel, Bahnhof
8h15
4:20 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain8:44 AM Basel Bad Bhf
6h51
3:35 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:40 PM Basel, Bahnhof
9h15
2:55 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:40 PM Basel, Bahnhof
8h55
3:35 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus10:40 PM Basel, Bahnhof
8h05
6:45 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Basel to Cologne buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses services from Basel to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Cologne.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Cologne.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Cologne.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Cologne.

Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Basel to CologneYou can travel by bus between Basel to Cologne with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as €20. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
7h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€20
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

BlaBlaCar Bus

About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
11h 30m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
€41
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Basel and Cologne

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a bus from Basel to Cologne, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Basel and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Basel to Cologne for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Basel to Cologne:
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Accessible seating options.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Basel to Cologne depends on the bus companies:
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Basel to Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Basel to Cologne:
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Basel to Cologne:
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Basel to Cologne. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Basel to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Basel to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Basel to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

Plan your visit to Cologne

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.

Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

FAQs: Bus from Basel to Cologne

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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.

FAQs
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basel and Cologne including taking a train and bus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Basel to Cologne

Most Basel to Cologne buses use the Basel, Bahnhof to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Basel and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Basel
Arrival bus stations in Cologne

Which Basel station do buses to Cologne leave from?

Buses from Basel to Cologne leave from Basel, Bahnhof. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Basel city centre at Basel, Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
Basel, BahnhofBasel, Centralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, SwitzerlandWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel, Bahnhof from Basel city centre

Basel, Bahnhof is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 5m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · €2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · €2
1, 3, 2 · 7m · €2 · every ~25 min

Basel, Bahnhof bus station facilities and services

Basel, Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Food outlets available inside the station.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Basel, Bahnhof. ATMs are aTMs available in the station concourse.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel, Bahnhof.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel, Bahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel, Bahnhof: Station is accessible to those with reduced mobility.

Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB)Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse, 4053 Basel, SwitzerlandWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB) from Basel city centre

Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB) is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainTer · 5m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 5m · €2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 7m · €2
1, 3, 2 · 9m · €2 · every ~25 min

Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB) bus station facilities and services

Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafeteria Swiss (in the station), Italian Bistro (in the station), Café Express (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and throughout the station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB): Elevators, ramps.

Bus stations for Basel to Cologne

Check bus stations information for Basel and Cologne, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.

When departing from Basel , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Basel, Bahnhof, Basel Meret-Oppenheim-Strasse (Bahnhof SBB) . When arriving in Cologne , you can end your journey in bus stations like Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen), Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Basel, Bahnhof, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen), located 13 away from the city centre.

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