- Must visit
Kunsthalle Bielefeld
Bielefeld’s leading art museum, designed by Philip Johnson, presents major modern and contemporary works in a celebrated building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Bielefeld
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
€10
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€11
Fastest journey on Sep 18
1 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
2 h 10 m
Buses on Sep 18
5
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld will cost around €11 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €10.
Fast buses
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 5 buses from Cologne to Bielefeld, including 5 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct buses cover the 164 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 50 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest buses will take 2 h 20 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.
8:00 PM2h20Cologne10:20 PMBielefeld€101One-way0 transfers- 3:30 PM2h10Cologne5:40 PMBielefeld€111One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 PM2h10Cologne7:20 PMBielefeld€111One-way0 transfers
- 11:50 AM2h20Cologne2:10 PMBielefeld€111One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM1h50Cologne8:50 AMBielefeld€121One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM1h50Cologne8:50 AMBielefeld€121One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 PM2h10Cologne5:40 PMBielefeld€111One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 PM2h10Cologne7:20 PMBielefeld€111One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 PM2h20Cologne10:20 PMBielefeld€101One-way0 transfers
- 11:50 AM2h20Cologne2:10 PMBielefeld€111One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Bielefeld
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bielefeld among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €23 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 46m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €23, while a flight costs an average of €560.
Distance: 101 miles (164 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€23 Average price Cheapest | €43 Average price | €560 Average price | €28 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration 2h 35m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Bielefeld is a bus with an average price of €23.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Bielefeld:
A bus is €20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Bielefeld costing on average €43.
A bus is €537 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Bielefeld costing on average €560.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Bielefeld is by train with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Other travel options to Bielefeld take longer:
Flight takes on average 2h 35m.
Bus takes on average 4h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Bielefeld including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Bielefeld 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 €23 compared to roughly €28 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €5. The journey takes 4h 15m versus 2h 15m 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.
Direct services are operated by BlaBlaCar, FlixBus.
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.
Cologne to Bielefeld Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:05AM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €14 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05AM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 08:50AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €12 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €14 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €14 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €10 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €15 |
Live departures
Cologne to Bielefeld bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bielefeld buses for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM Cologne | 1h50 | 8:50 AM Bielefeld | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:50 AM Cologne | 2h20 | 2:10 PM Bielefeld | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:30 PM Cologne | 2h10 | 5:40 PM Bielefeld | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:10 PM Cologne | 2h10 | 7:20 PM Bielefeld | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:00 PM Cologne | 2h20 | 10:20 PM Bielefeld | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bielefeld 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Cologne to Bielefeld buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Cologne to Bielefeld.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Bielefeld.
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 Cologne to Bielefeld.
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 Cologne to Bielefeld.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Bielefeld
GermanyGermany
Buses from Cologne to Bielefeld run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €11 but you can travel from only €5 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 3h 30m.
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 €5
Distance 101 miles (164 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price €11 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 3h 30m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 €5
Bus providers: FlixBus from Cologne to BielefeldYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Bielefeld with FlixBus for as low as €5. 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
3h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€11
FlixBus frequency
1 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 Bielefeld
Things to do in Bielefeld
Discover the best of Bielefeld — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bielefeld trip today.
- Recommended
Historisches Museum Bielefeld
This museum explores local and regional history from medieval times to the modern city through objects, documents, and exhibitions.
- Recommended
Museum Huelsmann
Located at Sparrenburg, the museum explains the fortress’s military past and gives context to Bielefeld’s best-known landmark.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Bielefeld’s historic old town is ideal for walking, with restored facades, churches, shops, and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Teutoburger Wald
A large forested ridge south of the center, perfect for hiking, viewpoints, and combining nature with the Sparrenburg visit.
- Recommended
Bahnhofstraße
This broad pedestrian street is the city’s main shopping axis and a lively place to experience daily urban life.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Matjes
Pickled herring fillets in a creamy sauce with apples, onions and gherkins. A classic Westphalian fish dish often served with potatoes.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Schinken
Hearty Westphalian ham, traditionally cured and lightly smoked over beechwood. It is a regional staple prized for its deep savory flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Coarse rye bread baked with whole grains. Dense, slightly sweet and long-lasting, it is one of Westphalia’s most iconic everyday foods.
GLUECKUNDSELIGKEIT
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for creative modern cuisine and polished service in a refined atmosphere.
Kohlsmann
Established restaurant with classic regional and German cooking, offering a cozy atmosphere suited to trying Westphalian specialties.
Bernstein
Traditional brewery-style venue serving hearty German dishes and beer in a lively, rustic setting popular with locals.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and everyday costs stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes if service was good.
moBiel YOU
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €8.10
To the city center
Bahnhof Brackwede -> Bielefeld Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use the moBiel YOU app for route planning and mobile tickets on StadtBahn and buses.
- Contactless card payment is available in the moBiel YOU app; onboard payment options can vary by vehicle.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Bielefeld
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Bielefeld can start from as little as €11 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Bielefeld is €23 ; 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 Cologne to Bielefeld is 3h 30m to travel the 101 miles (164 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 Cologne to Bielefeld leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Bielefeld leaves at 11:40 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Cologne to Bielefeld with BlaBlaCar, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Bielefeld, you can count on BlaBlaCar, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Bielefeld. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Bielefeld and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cologne , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), Leverkusen, Bf Mitte, Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2), Bonn, Museumsmeile . When arriving in Bielefeld , you can end your journey in bus stations like Bielefeld, Bahnhof Brackwede, Gütersloh, ZOB .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), which is located around 8 miles (13 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Bielefeld, Bahnhof Brackwede, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Bielefeld from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cologne to Bielefeld is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Bielefeld including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Bielefeld:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Bielefeld for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bielefeld are:
- Sparrenburg Castle, a restored medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding area
- Old Market Square, a historic square featuring traditional architecture and vibrant local markets
- Kunsthalle Bielefeld, a modern art museum with a diverse collection of contemporary works
- Botanischer Garten Bielefeld, a serene botanical garden showcasing a wide variety of plant species
- Dr. Oetker Welt, an interactive museum dedicated to the history and products of the famous food company.
The best things to do in Bielefeld include:
- Teutoburg Forest, enjoy hiking and nature trails in the scenic forest surrounding Bielefeld
- Tierpark Olderdissen, visit a wildlife park featuring native animals in a natural setting
- Bielefeld City Theatre, experience a variety of performances from opera to drama in a historic venue
- Japanese Garden, relax in a beautifully landscaped garden inspired by traditional Japanese design
- Heimat-Tierpark Olderdissen, explore a family-friendly zoo with a focus on local wildlife.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld 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 Cologne to Bielefeld.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Bielefeld:
- 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 Cologne to Bielefeld:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cologne to Bielefeld. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cologne to Bielefeld with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Bielefeld with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Bielefeld with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Cologne and Bielefeld 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Bielefeld 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 Bielefeld, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as public transport and market places. While violent crime is low, it is recommended to stay vigilant at night in less populated districts. Common scams include overcharging in taxi services and fake charity collectors near popular sites. Using official transport options 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 Cologne to Bielefeld
Most Cologne to Bielefeld buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to Bielefeld, Bahnhof Brackwede station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Bielefeld bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cologne
Arrival bus stations in Bielefeld
Which Cologne station do buses to Bielefeld leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Bielefeld leave from Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). The station is 8 miles (13 km) from Cologne city centre at Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany.
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 · €4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · €4
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 · €4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · €4
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · €5
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.
Bielefeld, Bahnhof BrackwedeBielefeld Eisenbahnstrasse, Eisenbahnstraße 39, 33647
City-centre transport
Getting to Bielefeld, Bahnhof Brackwede from Bielefeld city centre
TrainRb75, Rb74 · 4m · €6 · every ~6 min
Bus88, 48 · 6m · every ~3 min
Tram1 · 11m · €2 · every ~12 min
Most popular bus connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Bielefeld
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bielefeld and Cologne
Most popular bus connections to Bielefeld
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
