- Must visit
Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel
Maritime museum in a former fish auction hall. Highlights Kiel's naval, shipping, and harbor history in an atmospheric waterfront setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Kiel
Showing times and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$88
Fastest journey
8 h 50 m
Average duration
10 h 25 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
434 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Kiel will cost around $88 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Cologne for Kiel on Sat, Aug 01, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct buses cover the 434 km distance in an average of 10 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 50 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest buses will take 12 h 35 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.
FlixBus · FlixBus9:20 AM12h35Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)9:55 PMKiel, ZOB$761One-way1 transfer- FlixBus+
FlixTrain12:14 PM9h41Cologne Hbf9:55 PMKiel, ZOB$791One-way1 transfer - FlixBus+FlixTrain4:14 PM8h56Cologne Hbf1:10 AMKiel, ZOB$831One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus11:35 PM8h50Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)8:25 AMKiel, ZOB$901One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:05 PM12h05Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)4:10 AMKiel, ZOB$1001One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus11:35 PM8h50Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)8:25 AMKiel, ZOB$901One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus+FlixTrain4:14 PM8h56Cologne Hbf1:10 AMKiel, ZOB$831One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain12:14 PM9h41Cologne Hbf9:55 PMKiel, ZOB$791One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:05 PM12h05Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)4:10 AMKiel, ZOB$1001One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus9:20 AM12h35Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)9:55 PMKiel, ZOB$761One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Buses from Cologne to Kiel run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 39m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 but you can travel from only $23 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 269 miles (434 km) distance in 8h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $23
Distance 269 miles (434 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 8h 50m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $23
Cologne to Kiel Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:14AM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 12h41 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 12h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 12h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:14AM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 9h41 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:14PM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 9h41 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:14PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 9h06 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:57PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 9h23 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:14PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 9h06 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 04:10AM | Duration 12h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:14PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 8h56 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Live departures
Cologne to Kiel bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kiel buses for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:35 PM Cologne | 8h50 | 6:25 AM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, August 1 | |||||
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 12h41 | 8:55 PM Kiel, ZOB | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:20 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 12h35 | 9:55 PM Kiel, ZOB | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 9h41 | 9:55 PM Kiel, ZOB | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:05 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 12h05 | 4:10 AM Kiel, ZOB | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 4:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h56 | 1:10 AM Kiel, ZOB | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Kiel buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Cologne to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Kiel.
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 Kiel.
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 Kiel.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar from Cologne to KielYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Kiel with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar 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 Duration
8h 50m
Cheapest Price
$29
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.
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 Kiel
Things to do in Kiel
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
- Must visit
Open Air Museum Molfsee
Open-air museum site near Kiel with historic rural buildings and cultural exhibitions. Worth visiting for regional architecture and traditions.
- Recommended
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, prints, and sculptures. A strong stop for classical and modern art near the fjord.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel's central waterfront promenade. Ideal for harbor walks, ferry watching, events, and easy access to shops and maritime sights.
- Must visit
Holtenau Lock Viewing Platform
Canal-side viewing area in Holtenau for watching ships enter and leave the Kiel Canal. One of the city's best free maritime viewpoints.
- Recommended
Holstenstraße
Main pedestrian shopping street linking central Kiel highlights. A practical and lively place to explore the rebuilt city center.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Räucheraal
Smoked eel from the Baltic region, traditionally served simply to highlight local fishing heritage and the salty coastal flavor of Schleswig-Holstein.
- Gluten-free
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck
A hearty northern German stew of pears, beans, and bacon, loved in Schleswig-Holstein for its sweet-salty mix and late-summer harvest tradition.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl mit Kohlwurst
Kale slow-cooked with sausage or pork, a classic winter dish across northern Germany and a staple of cold-season gatherings in Kiel.
Ahlmanns
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with modern regional cuisine, refined tasting menus, and polished service in a special-occasion setting.
Louf
Historic waterside restaurant known for northern German seafood and local classics in a traditional harbor atmosphere.
Restaurant Pier 16
Established harbor restaurant focused on fish and maritime specialties, with panoramic fjord views and a polished but relaxed feel.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can rise in summer, but dining and local transit are usually reasonable for a port city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Tip taxi drivers by rounding up, and leave small change at cafes.
NAH.SH
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.70
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Kiel ZOB -> Kiel Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can buy bus tickets in the NAH.SH app. Card payment availability on buses can vary, so app purchase is the safest option.
- Kiel ZOB and Kiel Hauptbahnhof are next to each other, so many central trips are walkable from the main bus station.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Kiel can start from as little as $29 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Kiel is $48 ; 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 Kiel is 8h 50m to travel the 269 miles (434 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 Kiel leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Kiel leaves at 11:40 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Cologne to Kiel with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Kiel, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar for the best way to get you to Kiel. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Kiel 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 Kiel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Kiel:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Kiel 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 Kiel.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Kiel:
- 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 Kiel:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cologne to Kiel. 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 Kiel with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel with the following bus company: FlixBus.
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 Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.
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 Kiel
Most Cologne to Kiel buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to Kiel, ZOB station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Kiel 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 Kiel
Which Cologne station do buses to Kiel leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Kiel 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.
Kiel, ZOB
City-centre transport
Getting to Kiel, ZOB from Kiel city centre
BusN12, 91, 81, 13, 12 · 2m · every ~19 min
765, 744 · 6m · every ~2 min
Most popular bus connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Kiel and Cologne
Most popular bus connections to Kiel
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