- 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 bus as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €85. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 39m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €85, and a flight costs an average of €95.
Distance: 504 miles (812 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€108 Average price | €161 Average price | €85 Average price Cheapest | €86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
21h 58m Average total duration 21h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 39m Average total duration Fastest 3h 39m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 27m Average total duration 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Berlin to Cologne is a train with an average price of €85.
This is compared to other travel options from Berlin to Cologne:
A train is €23 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Berlin to Cologne costing on average €108.
A train is €75 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin to Cologne costing on average €161.
The fastest way to travel from Berlin to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 39m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 57m.
Bus takes on average 21h 28m.
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.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan 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 €100 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:03PM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 19h12 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €119 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 16h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €111 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 20h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €103 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 29h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €115 |
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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Berlin to Cologne
Germany
Italy
Buses from Berlin to Cologne run on average 33 times per day, taking around 21h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €100 but you can travel from only €85 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 03:20, the last at 22:50. The fastest bus covers the 504 miles (812 km) distance in 16h 35m.
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
Train from €85
Distance 504 miles (812 km) |
Average bus duration 21h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price €100 |
Buses per day 33 |
Fastest bus 16h 35m |
First bus 3:20 AM |
Last bus 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
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
Train from €85
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 €100 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Berlin to Cologne is €108 ; 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 16h 35m 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.
When departing from Berlin , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB), Berlin, Bahnhof Südkreuz, Berlin, Alexanderplatz, Berlin, Karolinenstraße (Alt-Tegel), Berlin, Central Station (Invalidenstraße), Berlin, Kronprinzessinnenweg (Wannsee) . 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, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB), which is located around 5 miles (9 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 16h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Berlin to Cologne is July.
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.
No, the bus from Berlin to Cologne has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
No, luggage for the bus from Berlin to Cologne needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Berlin to Cologne.
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.
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, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) 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, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB). The station is 5 miles (9 km) from Berlin city centre at Masurenallee 4-6, 14057 Berlin, Germany.
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 · €3 · every ~27 min
S41, S42 · 45m · €3 · every ~44 min
BusN232, N70, N1387, N44, 032, 157A, 157 · 20m · €1
N2 · 47m · €4 · 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, 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 · €3 · every ~25 min
Bus025, N67, N44, 065, 032 · 25m · €1
248 · 34m · €3 · 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, Alexanderplatz
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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