- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Major art museum with one of Europe’s best collections from medieval painting to modern masters, including notable Impressionist works.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Berlin to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $99 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 27m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $99, while a flight costs an average of $430.
Distance: 504 miles (812 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$99 Average price Cheapest | $430 Average price | $106 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 6m Average total duration 16h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 27m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 11h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Berlin to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $99.
This is compared to other travel options from Berlin to Cologne:
A bus is $330 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin to Cologne costing on average $430.
The fastest way to travel from Berlin to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berlin and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin to Cologne among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $99 compared to roughly $106 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $7. The journey takes 16h 36m versus 11h 36m 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.
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.
Berlin to Cologne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 21h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:03PM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 19h12 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $146 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 16h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $136 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 20h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $125 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 29h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $141 |
Live departures
Berlin to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Cologne buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:03 PM Berlin | 19h12 | 1:15 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Berlin to Cologne by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Why should you book Berlin to Cologne buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Berlin to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berlin to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Berlin to Cologne
Germany
Italy
Buses from Berlin to Cologne run on average 26 times per day, taking around 16h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $82 but you can travel from only $61 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 03:20, the last at 22:50. The fastest bus covers the 504 miles (812 km) distance in 14h 10m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $61
Distance 504 miles (812 km) |
Average bus duration 16h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $82 |
Buses per day 26 |
Fastest bus 14h 10m |
First bus 3:20 AM |
Last bus 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $61
Bus providers: FlixBus from Berlin to CologneYou can travel by bus between Berlin to Cologne with FlixBus for as low as $61. 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
14h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$82
FlixBus frequency
26 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.
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
Leading museum of modern and contemporary art, known for Picasso, Pop Art, and major postwar European collections.
- Recommended
Romano-Germanic Museum
Large archaeology museum presenting Cologne’s Roman past through mosaics, glass, inscriptions, and everyday artifacts.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic old town lanes with colorful houses, breweries, and churches; ideal for wandering between the Rhine and cathedral.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
Lively riverside promenade with classic skyline views, boat traffic, and easy walks connecting the old town and southern harbor.
- Recommended
Rheinauhafen
Modern harbor redevelopment known for the dramatic Kranhaus buildings, waterfront paths, and a polished urban atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
Canederli
Canederli are bread dumplings from the Alpine north, often served in broth or with butter. They reflect Tyrolean influence and are a classic local comfort dish.
- Gluten-free
Speck Alto Adige
Speck is lightly smoked, cured ham from South Tyrol. It is prized for its mountain-aging tradition and is commonly served with bread, cheese, or dumplings.
- Vegetarian
Schlutzkrapfen
Schlutzkrapfen are half-moon pasta filled with spinach and ricotta, usually dressed with butter and chives. They are a hallmark of the region’s Alpine cuisine.
Restaurant Zur Rose
Michelin-starred dining with creative tasting menus rooted in local ingredients. Elegant atmosphere for a high-end South Tyrolean meal.
Wirtshaus Vögele
Historic traditional restaurant known for South Tyrolean classics, wood-paneled rooms, and a refined but welcoming atmosphere in the old town.
Forsterbräu Central
Well-known local tavern serving canederli, schnitzel, and regional wine in a rustic setting popular with residents and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe; hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and public transport are generally manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
FAQs: Bus from Berlin to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Berlin to Cologne can start from as little as $82 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Berlin to Cologne is $99 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Berlin to Cologne is 14h 10m to travel the 504 miles (812 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Berlin to Cologne leaves at 3:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Berlin to Cologne leaves at 10:50 PM.
There are 26 buses a day from Berlin to Cologne which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Berlin to Cologne, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Berlin and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Berlin , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz, Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB), Berlin, Alexanderplatz, Berlin, Central Station (Invalidenstraße), Berlin, Karolinenstraße (Alt-Tegel) . When arriving in Cologne , you can end your journey in bus stations like Orio al Serio, Milan Bergamo Airport (Bus station), Brescia, Poliambulanza metro station, Brescia, Autostazione .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz, which is located around 3 miles (6 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Orio al Serio, Milan Bergamo Airport (Bus station), located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cologne from Berlin is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Berlin to Cologne is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berlin and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Berlin to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Berlin to Cologne depends on the bus companies:
- 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 FlixBus.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Berlin to Cologne:
- 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 Berlin to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Berlin 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 Berlin to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Berlin and Cologne are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin to Cologne among Omio's users.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and around popular attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Staying alert and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Berlin to Cologne
Most Berlin to Cologne buses use the Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz to Orio al Serio, Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio (Stazione degli autobus) station pair. Use this guide to compare Berlin and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Berlin
Arrival bus stations in Cologne
Which Berlin station do buses to Cologne leave from?
Buses from Berlin to Cologne leave from Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz. The station is 3 miles (6 km) from Berlin city centre at Hildegard-Knef-Platz 1, 10829 Berlin, Germany.
Berlin, Bahnhof SüdkreuzHildegard-Knef-Platz 1, 10829 Berlin, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz from Berlin city centre
Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz is 6 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainFex, Re20, Re4, Re5, Re3 · 7m · $1 · every ~18 min
S26, S25, S2 · 13m · $4 · every ~25 min
Bus025, N67, N44, 065, 032 · 25m · $1
248 · 34m · $4 · every ~11 min
Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz bus station facilities and services
Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz: Elevators, ramps.
Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB)Masurenallee 4-6, 14057 Berlin, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) from Berlin city centre
Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) is 9 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainU2 · 35m · $4 · every ~27 min
S41, S42 · 45m · $4 · every ~44 min
BusN232, N70, N1387, N44, 032, 157A, 157 · 20m · $1
N2 · 47m · $5 · every ~1 min
Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) bus station facilities and services
Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Berlin (in the station), Schnitzel Express (0.5 km), Currywurst Haus (0.7 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and inside the waiting area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB): Elevators, ramps.
Berlin, AlexanderplatzAlexanderplatz, 10178 Berlin, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin, Alexanderplatz from Berlin city centre
TRUE
Berlin, Alexanderplatz bus station facilities and services
Berlin, Alexanderplatz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple restaurants around the area.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Available in nearby cafes. ATMs are several ATMs in close proximity.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin, Alexanderplatz.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin, Alexanderplatz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin, Alexanderplatz: Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Most popular bus connections from Berlin
More options for your journey from Berlin to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cologne and Berlin
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