- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts Ghent
Major fine arts museum with Flemish masters, Belgian art, and rotating exhibitions. Essential for understanding Ghent's artistic heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Ghent
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€22
Average price
€30
Fastest journey
5 h 20 m
Average duration
6 h 44 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
227 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Ghent is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Ghent will cost around €30 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €22.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Cologne for Ghent on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 227 km distance in an average of 6 h 44 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 20 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 8 h 30 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.
FlixBus3:05 AM5h20Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)8:25 AMGent, Ghent€221One-way0 transfers- FlixBus9:15 AM5h45Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)3:00 PMGent, Ghent€261One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:20 PM7h20Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)8:40 PMGent, Ghent€331One-way1 transfer
50429 · 167111:55 AM8h30Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)8:25 PMGent, Ghent€381One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus3:05 AM5h20Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)8:25 AMGent, Ghent€221One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:15 AM5h45Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)3:00 PMGent, Ghent€261One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:20 PM7h20Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)8:40 PMGent, Ghent€331One-way1 transfer
- 50429 · 167111:55 AM8h30Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)8:25 PMGent, Ghent€381One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Ghent
Germany
Belgium
Buses from Cologne to Ghent run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €15 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 21:15. The fastest bus covers the 141 miles (227 km) distance in 4h 50m.
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
Distance 141 miles (227 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price €15 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 4h 50m |
First bus 2:05 AM |
Last bus 9:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 days |
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
Cologne to Ghent Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:01PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 5h39 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €47 |
Live departures
Cologne to Ghent bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Ghent buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 9:15 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 5h45 | 3:00 PM Gent, Ghent | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 50429 · 1671 | 11:55 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 8h30 | 8:25 PM Gent, Ghent | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:20 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 7h20 | 8:40 PM Gent, Ghent | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| FlixBus | 3:05 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 5h20 | 8:25 AM Gent, Ghent | 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 Ghent buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Union Ivkoni International offer buses services from Cologne to Ghent.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Ghent.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Ghent.
- 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 Ghent.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Union Ivkoni International to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Ghent.
- 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 Ghent.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Union Ivkoni International from Cologne to GhentYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Ghent with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Union Ivkoni International for as low as €15. 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
4h 50m
Cheapest Price
€15
FlixBus frequency
3 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.
Union Ivkoni International
About
Union Ivkoni International is a prominent bus company based in Sofia, Bulgaria, established in 1992. It is recognized as the largest bus carrier in Bulgaria and a leader in bus transport across Europe. The company offers extensive services, including regular bus lines, bus rentals, and bus tours, with over 715 daily departures to more than 100 towns in Bulgaria and over 150 towns in Central and Western Europe, Greece, and Turkey. Union Ivkoni also operates its own tourist brand, Uni Holidays, providing various excursions, vacations, and plane tickets.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
€18
Union Ivkoni International frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
Additional luggage
10 USD per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Service animals allowed.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Ghent
Things to do in Ghent
Discover the best of Ghent — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ghent trip today.
- Must visit
S.M.A.K.
Bold contemporary art museum beside the fine arts museum, known for modern Belgian and international works and ambitious temporary shows.
- Recommended
STAM Ghent City Museum
Museum in the former Bijloke abbey and hospital complex exploring the city's history through objects, stories, and changing exhibitions.
- Must visit
Graslei
Historic quay lined with guild houses and river views. It is Ghent's signature postcard scene and one of the best places for a stroll.
- Must visit
Korenlei
Opposite the Graslei, this elegant quay offers classic canal panoramas, boat departures, and some of the city's finest evening views.
- Recommended
Korenmarkt
Lively square in the medieval core surrounded by major landmarks. A practical meeting point and excellent base for exploring central Ghent.
Waterzooi
A creamy Gentian stew of chicken or veal with mushrooms, meatballs and white wine, traditionally served with fries or bread.
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A rich mash of potatoes with carrots and onions, often served with sausage or bacon; a classic hearty Flemish comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tierenteyn Mustard
A smooth mustard from nearby East Flanders, known for its strong fresh heat and traditional stone-ground character.
Stadsbrouwerij Gruut
City brewery and taproom pouring house-brewed gruut beers with a relaxed atmosphere and good introduction to Ghent beer culture.
Brasserie Pakhuis
Historic brasserie in central Ghent known for refined Belgian classics, seafood and elegant Art Nouveau surroundings.
Du Progres
Traditional restaurant focused on East Flemish cuisine, especially waterzooi and other regional dishes, in a warm classic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while transit is reasonable. Cheaper than Brussels in some areas, but pricier than smaller Belgian cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up for taxis, and small change is enough at cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Gent-Sint-Pieters -> Korenmarkt, Ghent
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on De Lijn trams and buses via the onboard validator. Buying in the app can offer more ticket options.
- Use De Lijn for Ghent trams and buses. Validate your ticket before boarding or when you enter, depending on the ticket type.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Ghent
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Ghent 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 Ghent, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Ghent can start from as little as €15 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Ghent is €25 ; 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 Ghent is 4h 50m to travel the 141 miles (227 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 Ghent leaves at 2:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Ghent leaves at 9:15 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Cologne to Ghent with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Union Ivkoni International. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Ghent, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Union Ivkoni International for the best way to get you to Ghent. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Ghent and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Ghent including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Ghent for bus company FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Ghent:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Ghent 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.
- Union Ivkoni International
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a full refund in the form of a travel credit.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
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 Ghent.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Ghent:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Union Ivkoni International
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs and one checked bag up to 50 lbs.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Ghent:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cologne to Ghent. 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 Ghent with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Ghent with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Ghent with the following bus company: FlixBus, Union Ivkoni International.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Ghent, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and near major attractions. Common scams include distraction techniques where individuals create a commotion to divert attention while accomplices steal belongings. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Additionally, travelers should use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent fare scams.
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 Ghent
Most Cologne to Ghent buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to Gent, Ghent station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Ghent 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 Ghent
Which Cologne station do buses to Ghent leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Ghent 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.
Gent, Ghent
City-centre transport
Getting to Gent, Ghent from Ghent city centre
Bus5a, G71 · 9m · €3 · every ~12 min
5a · 15m · €3 · every ~13 min
Most popular bus connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Ghent
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ghent and Cologne
Most popular bus connections to Ghent
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