- 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.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight 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 an average ticket price of $131 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 30m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $131, while a flight costs an average of $445.
Distance: 485 miles (782 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$131 Average price Cheapest | $445 Average price | $252 Average price | $164 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 33m Average total duration 17h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 11h 34m Average total duration 11h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
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 $131.
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna Airport to Cologne:
A bus is $120 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna Airport to Cologne costing on average $252.
A bus is $313 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna Airport to Cologne costing on average $445.
The fastest way to travel from Bologna Airport to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 4m.
Bus takes on average 17h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna Airport and Cologne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
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 08:30AM | Arrival Time 04:35AM | Duration 20h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $146 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 04:45AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $143 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $169 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $169 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 16h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $174 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $150 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 01:56PM | Duration 22h56 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $167 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 26h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $216 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 18h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:55AM | Duration 15h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $125 |
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 $82 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 16h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $121 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 16h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $168 |
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 | Cheapest price $89 |
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 04:00PM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:20PM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 16h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $167 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 09:19PM | Duration 21h49 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $155 |
Live departures
Bologna Airport to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna Airport to Cologne buses for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 5:00 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 15h55 | 8:55 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:50 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 16h15 | 12:05 PM Leverkusen, Bf Mitte | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:20 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 16h45 | 3:05 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 11:30 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 21h49 | 9:19 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:30 PM Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) | 17h15 | 4:45 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna Airport to Cologne by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 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, train and flight 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, train and flight 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 7 times per day, taking around 17h 3m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $88 but you can travel from only $23 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 14h 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 $23
Distance 485 miles (782 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 14h 55m |
First bus 9:20 AM |
Last bus 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
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 $23
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Bologna Airport to CologneYou can travel by bus between Bologna Airport to Cologne with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as $23. 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 55m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$88
FlixBus frequency
9 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
24h 20m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
$142
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.
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
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.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
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.
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 $88 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bologna Airport to Cologne is $131 ; 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 14h 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 7 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 14h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna Airport and Cologne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bologna Airport to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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
Most Bologna Airport to Cologne buses use the Bologna, Autostazione (Piazza XX Settembre) to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Bologna Airport and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Bologna
Arrival bus stations in Cologne
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 8m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · $5
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)Kennedystrasse, 51147 Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 16m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · $5
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · $6
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 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 entrance and baggage claim area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, ZOBBreslauer Platz, 50668 Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, ZOB from Cologne city centre
Köln, ZOB is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 57m · every ~3 min
14 · 58m
Bus238, 216, N1 · 1h 55m · every ~2 min
Köln, ZOB bus station facilities and services
Köln, 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 im ZOB (in the station), McDonald's (0.2 km), Vapiano (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, ZOB.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, ZOB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, ZOB: Elevators, ramps.
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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