- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum known for its Picasso collection, Pop Art, and works by leading 20th-century artists beside the cathedral.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bologna Airport to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 01
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$90
Fastest journey
16 h 45 m
Average duration
18 h 52 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
782 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bologna Airport to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna Airport to Cologne will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Fast buses
Of the 5 buses that leave Bologna Airport for Cologne on Mon, Jun 01, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 01 the direct buses cover the 782 km distance in an average of 18 h 52 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 16 h 45 m .
On Mon, Jun 01 the slowest buses will take 21 h 40 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.
4:15 PM18h45Bologna Airport11:00 AMCologne$631One-way0 transfers- 5:20 PM18h40Bologna Airport12:00 PMCologne$641One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 PM21h40Bologna Airport6:40 PMCologne$671One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM18h30Bologna Airport4:00 PMCologne$801One-way0 transfers
- 1:40 PM16h45Bologna Airport6:25 AMCologne$1751One-way0 transfers
- 1:40 PM16h45Bologna Airport6:25 AMCologne$1751One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM18h30Bologna Airport4:00 PMCologne$801One-way0 transfers
- 5:20 PM18h40Bologna Airport12:00 PMCologne$641One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 PM18h45Bologna Airport11:00 AMCologne$631One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 PM21h40Bologna Airport6:40 PMCologne$671One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Bologna Airport to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bologna Airport to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $63. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, and a train costs an average of $72.
Distance: 485 miles (782 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$102 Average price Cheapest | $167 Average price | $258 Average price | $164 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 45m Average total duration 17h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 48m Average total duration Fastest 1h 48m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 19m Average total duration 11h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna Airport to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $102 (€82).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna Airport to Cologne:
A bus is $64 (€52) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna Airport to Cologne costing on average $167 (€134).
A bus is $156 (€125) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna Airport to Cologne costing on average $258 (€208).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna Airport to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 48m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 49m.
Bus takes on average 17h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna Airport and Cologne including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna Airport to Cologne among Omio's users.
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.
Bologna Airport to Cologne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 04:45AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $143 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 16h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $175 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 06:55AM | Duration 15h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 18h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 18h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 16h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator RegioJet a.s. | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 37h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $130 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 16h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 17h30 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 21h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 22h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $75 |
Live departures
Bologna Airport to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna Airport to Cologne buses for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 (Rome -> Prague) · (Vienna -> Prague) · (Prague -> Amsterdam) | 6:35 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 37h30 | 8:05 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna Airport to Cologne by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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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Jun 01
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Why should you book Bologna Airport to Cologne buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Bologna Airport to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bologna Airport 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 bus, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna Airport to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Bologna Airport to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne
Italy
Germany
Buses from Bologna Airport to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 17h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $63 (€50) but you can travel from only $30 (€24) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 09:20, the last at 21:30. The fastest bus covers the 485 miles (782 km) distance in 15h 55m.
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 $30 (€24)
Distance 485 miles (782 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 (€50) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 15h 55m |
First bus 9:20 AM |
Last bus 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $30 (€24)
Bus providers: FlixBus from Bologna Airport to CologneYou can travel by bus between Bologna Airport to Cologne with FlixBus for as low as $30 (€24). 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 Duration
15h 55m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€50)
FlixBus frequency
10 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.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
One of Germany’s important fine art museums, with medieval painting, Baroque masters, and strong 19th-century holdings in the city center.
- Recommended
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Key archaeological museum for Cologne’s Roman heritage. The main building has been under redevelopment, but the collection remains a city highlight.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular riverside promenade and steps on the Deutz side, famous for one of the best panoramic views of Cologne Cathedral and the skyline.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic Old Town square lined with traditional façades and lively public space, ideal for soaking up Cologne’s central atmosphere.
- Recommended
Heumarkt
Large central square in the Old Town, often used for events and a convenient base for exploring nearby historic streets and the riverfront.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s iconic pale ale, traditionally served in small Stangen glasses. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a classic brauhaus.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The sweet-savory combination is a Rhineland favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye roll with Gouda cheese, butter, mustard, and onions. It is a traditional brauhaus snack served with Kölsch.
Ox und Klee
A respected fine-dining restaurant offering creative modern cuisine and tasting menus, representing Cologne’s upscale food scene.
Päffgen
Historic brewery tavern with its own Kölsch, appreciated for authentic Cologne food, old-world atmosphere, and communal wooden tables.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
A long-established, casual local favorite especially known for large schnitzels and hearty Rhineland comfort food in a friendly atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate for Germany: museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and dining in central areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is customary in restaurants. Round up in taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff.
KVB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.70 EUR
- Day pass
- 9.00 EUR
To the city center
Köln ZOB, Cologne -> Köln Hauptbahnhof, Cologne
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can buy tickets in the KVB App, at ticket machines, and on many trams and buses; card payment is widely accepted at machines and in the app.
- Validate paper tickets if required and keep them until the end of your journey, as inspections are common.
FAQs: Bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna Airport 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 Bologna Airport to Cologne can start from as little as $63 (€50) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bologna Airport to Cologne is $102 (€82) ; 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 Bologna Airport to Cologne is 15h 55m to travel the 485 miles (782 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 Bologna Airport to Cologne leaves at 9:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne leaves at 9:30 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Bologna Airport 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 Bologna Airport 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 Bologna Airport and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cologne from Bologna Airport is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 15h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna Airport and Cologne including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cologne are:
- Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic Gothic masterpiece with twin spires
- Museum Ludwig, renowned for its extensive collection of modern art including works by Picasso and Warhol
- Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its thousands of love locks and panoramic views of the Rhine River
- Old Town (Altstadt), a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional beer halls
- Cologne Zoo, one of the oldest and most diverse zoos in Germany, home to a wide variety of animal species.
The best things to do in Cologne include:
- Cologne Chocolate Museum, an interactive museum dedicated to the history and production of chocolate
- Rhine River Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Cologne's skyline and iconic landmarks
- Visit the Botanical Gardens Flora, a beautiful park with diverse plant species and stunning floral displays
- Explore the Belgian Quarter, known for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and vibrant street art
- Attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and diverse musical performances.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bologna Airport 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 Bologna Airport to Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bologna Airport 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 Bologna Airport to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Bologna Airport 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 Bologna Airport to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Bologna Airport 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 Bologna Airport to Cologne among Omio's users.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Bologna Airport to Cologne
Bologna
Cologne
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Accessibility
WCinformation
Distance to city center
13 km
Car connection
KennedystraßeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
13 kmCar connection
KennedystrasseWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside Terminal 2 arrivals area.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
- Bus: SB60 Train: S13, S19
Köln, ZOB
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Breslauer PlatzWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria im ZOB (in the station)
- McDonald's (0.2 km)
- Vapiano (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, ZOB
- Bus: 132, 133, 250 Metro: U5, U18 Train: S6, S11, S12
Most popular bus connections from Bologna Airport
More options for your journey from Bologna Airport to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cologne and Bologna Airport
Most popular bus connections to Cologne
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