- Must visit
Dortmunder U
A Major Art And Culture Center In A Former Brewery Tower With Exhibitions, Media Art, And Panoramic City Views.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Dortmund
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $11
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $12
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 1 h 45 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 2 h 24 m
- Buses on Nov 03
- 6
- Distance
- 74 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Dortmund is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Dortmund will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast buses
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 6 buses from Cologne to Dortmund, including 6 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct buses cover the 74 km distance in an average of 2 h 24 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 45 m .
On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest buses will take 3 h 10 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.
FlixBus8:50 AM 2h00 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 10:50 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $11 1 One-way 0 transfers- FlixBus
5:10 AM 3h10 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 8:20 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $11 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
9:20 AM 1h45 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 11:05 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $11 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
5:30 AM 2h50 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 8:20 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $12 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
5:45 PM 3h25 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 9:10 PM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $12 1 One-way 0 transfers
- FlixBus
9:20 AM 1h45 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 11:05 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $11 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
8:50 AM 2h00 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 10:50 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $11 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
11:35 PM 2h15 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 1:50 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $13 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
5:30 AM 2h50 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 8:20 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $12 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
5:10 AM 3h10 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 8:20 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf $11 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Dortmund
GermanyGermany
Buses from Cologne to Dortmund run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $6 but you can travel from only $6 by train.
There are 8 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 45 miles (74 km) distance in 1h 45m.
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 $6
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance45 miles (74 km)
- Average bus duration2h 38m
- Cheapest ticket price$6
- Buses per day8
- Direct buses8
- Fastest bus1h 45m
- First bus3:40 AM
- Last bus11:55 PM
- Cheapest MonthMay
- Cheapest DayMon
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Busiest DaySat
- Least Busy DayFri
- Best time to book28 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $6
Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Dortmund trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Dortmund.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Dortmund can start from as little as $6 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Dortmund is $10 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Cologne to Dortmund leaves at 3:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Dortmund leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 8 direct buses a day from Cologne to Dortmund with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Cologne to Dortmund Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 06:20AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 1h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $6 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $6 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 1h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $6 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $10 |
Live departures
Cologne to Dortmund bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Dortmund buses for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 10:10 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h55 | 1:05 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:35 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h15 | 1:50 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, November 3 | |||||
| FlixBus | 5:10 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 3h10 | 8:20 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 5:30 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h50 | 8:20 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:50 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 2h00 | 10:50 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 9:20 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1h45 | 11:05 AM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 5:45 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 3h25 | 9:10 PM Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Dortmund buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Cologne to Dortmund.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Dortmund.
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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Dortmund.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Dortmund.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Cologne to Dortmund
Buses from Cologne to Dortmund with FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
1h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$6
FlixBus frequency
8 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Dortmund
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Dortmund, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Dortmund. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Dortmund and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Dortmund:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Dortmund for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Dortmund 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cologne to Dortmund.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Dortmund:
- 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 Dortmund:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cologne to Dortmund. 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 Dortmund with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Dortmund with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Dortmund with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to Dortmund
Things to do in Dortmund
Discover the best of Dortmund — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dortmund trip today.
- Must visit
Deutsches Fußballmuseum
One Of Europe'S Leading Football Museums, Presenting German Football History Through Trophies, Media, And Interactive Displays.
- Recommended
Museum Ostwall Im Dortmunder U
Dortmund'S Main Art Museum Shows Modern And Contemporary Works, Including Important Graphics And Painting Collections.
- Must visit
Alter Markt
Dortmund'S Central Square Hosts The Old Town'S Main Events And Christmas Market Around Historic Civic Buildings.
- Must visit
Phoenix-See
A Large Urban Lake Area With Promenades, Cafes Nearby, And Great Walks Popular With Locals And Visitors.
- Must visit
Rombergpark
One Of Germany'S Largest Botanical Parks, Featuring Themed Gardens, Woodland Paths, And A Relaxed Green Escape.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Dortmunder Export
A top-fermented pale lager long brewed in Dortmund. It is a defining local beer style tied to the city’s industrial and brewing heritage.
Westfälische Kartoffelsuppe
A hearty potato soup common in Westphalia, often enriched with vegetables and sausage. It is classic comfort food in the Ruhr area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
A traditional rye bread from Westphalia, dense, dark and slightly sweet. It is a regional staple often served with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
The Stage
Refined modern tasting menus in an elegant setting. One of Dortmund’s best-known fine dining addresses with polished service.
Hövels Hausbrauerei
Traditional brewery restaurant serving Dortmund beer and hearty regional dishes in a lively, historic atmosphere near the city center.
The ASH Dortmund
Well-established steakhouse known for quality beef, classic sides and dependable service in a smart but relaxed setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany; hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and local transit is fairly priced for city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is standard. Round taxi fares up; leave small change at cafes.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city center
Dortmund ZOB am Hbf -> Dortmund Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App or from ticket machines before boarding. Validators are used for some paper tickets, so check the ticket instructions.
- Contactless card payment is commonly available at ticket machines, but not always on board every bus or tram. The VRR App is the most reliable cashless option.
Plan your visit to Dortmund
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Dortmund.
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 Dortmund, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and individuals offering unsolicited help with ticket machines or currency exchange, which can lead to overcharging. Staying alert in busy areas and using official services 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.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Dortmund
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Dortmund including taking a train and bus.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cologne to Dortmund
Most Cologne to Dortmund buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Dortmund 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 Dortmund
Which Cologne station do buses to Dortmund leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Dortmund 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 · $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.
Which Dortmund station do buses from Cologne arrive at?
Buses from Cologne to Dortmund arrive at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf. Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Dortmund city centre.
Dortmund, ZOB am HbfSteinstrasse 54, 44147 Dortmund, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf from Dortmund city centre
Bus452, 453, 460 Metro: U41, U45, U47, U49 Train: S1, S2, S5
Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf bus station facilities and services
Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Express (in the station), Bistro Central (0.2 km), Restaurant Heimatliebe (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf: Elevators, ramps.
Bus stations for Cologne to Dortmund
Check bus stations information for Cologne and Dortmund, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Cologne , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen), Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) . When arriving in Dortmund , you can end your journey in bus stations like Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen), which is located around 8 miles (13 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf, located 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular buses to and from Dortmund and Cologne
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