What is the cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kiel?

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Kiel is a train with an average price of $24 (€19). This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Kiel: A train is $9 (€7) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cologne to Kiel costing on average $33 (€26). A train is $232 (€185) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Kiel costing on average $255 (€204).

What is the fastest way from Cologne to Kiel?

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Kiel is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 5m. Other travel options to Kiel take longer: Train takes on average 5h 8m. Bus takes on average 9h 1m.

Should I drive or take the bus?

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 $33 (€26) compared to roughly $95 (€76) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $63 (€50). The journey takes 7h 44m versus 5h 48m 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. 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.

Are there accessibility options when taking a bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Kiel: FlixBus Assistance Priority boarding Wheelchair-accessible buses.

Is luggage included in the bus ticket price 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).

Can I bring my pet on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

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.

COLOGNE to KIEL bus from $24 (€19) with FlixBus

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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Kiel

Showing times and prices for May 03

Cheapest price

$39

Average price

$56

Fastest journey

4 h 40 m

Average duration

6 h 40 m

Buses per day

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 $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.

Fast buses

Of the 6 buses that leave Cologne for Kiel on Sun, May 03, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 03 the direct buses cover the 434 km distance in an average of 6 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 40 m .

On Sun, May 03 the slowest buses will take 9 h 41 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.

1:30 PM5h10
Cologne
6:40 PMKiel
$391One-way
0 transfers
5:00 PM4h40
Cologne
9:40 PMKiel
$431One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus
11:35 PM8h50
Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)
8:25 AMKiel, ZOB
$441One-way
0 transfers
8:00 PM5h00
Cologne
1:00 AMKiel
$461One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus · FlixBus
4:05 AM9h55
Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)
2:00 PMKiel, ZOB
$611One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, flight, and bus for Cologne to Kiel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 29m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, and a flight costs an average of $255.

Distance: 269 miles (434 km)

Compare bus with

Bus	Most popular Train	Flight
$51 Average price Cheapest	$67 Average price	$596 Average price
8h 14m Average total duration 7h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 13m Average total duration 5h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*
0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions	0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions
Most popular bus company	Most popular train company	Most popular airline
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Cologne to Kiel Bus Timetables

Operator	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Duration	Departure days	Cheapest price
Operator FlixBus	Departure Time 04:05AM	Arrival Time 02:00PM	Duration 9h55	Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun	Cheapest price $41
Operator FlixBus	Departure Time 08:14AM	Arrival Time 08:55PM	Duration 12h41	Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat	Cheapest price $40
Operator BlaBlaCar	Departure Time 09:00AM	Arrival Time 02:30PM	Duration 5h30	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price $40
Operator FlixBus	Departure Time 09:20AM	Arrival Time 09:55PM	Duration 12h35	Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat	Cheapest price $40
Operator FlixBus	Departure Time 12:14PM	Arrival Time 09:55PM	Duration 9h41	Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun	Cheapest price $51
Operator BlaBlaCar	Departure Time 01:30PM	Arrival Time 06:40PM	Duration 5h10	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price $39
Operator FlixBus	Departure Time 04:14PM	Arrival Time 01:10AM	Duration 8h56	Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat	Cheapest price $44
Operator BlaBlaCar	Departure Time 05:00PM	Arrival Time 09:40PM	Duration 4h40	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price $43
Operator BlaBlaCar	Departure Time 08:00PM	Arrival Time 01:00AM	Duration 5h00	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price $46
Operator FlixBus	Departure Time 11:35PM	Arrival Time 08:25AM	Duration 8h50	Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun	Cheapest price $35

Live departures

Cologne to Kiel bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kiel buses for today, Saturday, May 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
FlixBus	11:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)	8h50	8:25 AM Kiel, ZOB	0 transfersDirect
Sunday, May 3
FlixBus · FlixBus	4:05 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)	9h55	2:00 PM Kiel, ZOB	1 transfer
FlixTrain+FlixBus	12:14 PM Cologne Hbf	9h41	9:55 PM Kiel, ZOB	1 transfer
This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Kiel by train, flight, or bus

Compare train, flight, and bus 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 Cologne to Kiel buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Wupsi offer 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?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Wupsi to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Kiel.
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, flight and bus 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, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Kiel.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cologne to Kiel

Germany

Buses from Cologne to Kiel run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 (€26) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) 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 9h 1m.

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 $24 (€19)

Distance

269 miles (434 km)

Average bus duration

7h 44m

Cheapest ticket price

$33 (€26)

Buses per day

Direct buses

Fastest bus

9h 1m

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

Thu

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Train from $24 (€19)

Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Wupsi from Cologne to KielYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Kiel with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Wupsi for as low as $24 (€19). 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

9h 1m

Cheapest Price

$33 (€26)

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.

Learn more about FlixBus

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

Wupsi

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

9h 48m

Wupsi frequency

1 a day

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 $33 (€26) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Kiel is $51 (€41) ; 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 9h 1m 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 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, Wupsi 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.

A trip to Kiel from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 1m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.

The cheapest month for a bus from Cologne to Kiel is September.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Kiel including taking a train, flight, and bus.

Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel for bus company FlixBus.

Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Kiel:

FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.

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.

Since both Cologne and Kiel 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 Kiel 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 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

Cologne

Kiel

The major bus station for departures in Cologne is Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) for your trip from Cologne to Kiel.

Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) Wifi

Amenities at bus station

Wifi

Parking

ATM

Accessibility

information

Address

Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany

Distance to city center

13 km

Car connection

Kennedystraße

Wifi

Free Wi-Fi

Accessibility

Elevators, ramps

Available in the station.

Most popular bus connections from Cologne

Bus Cologne - Paris

Bus Cologne - Amsterdam

Bus Cologne - Brussels

Bus Cologne - Frankfurt am Main

Bus Cologne - Prague

More options for your journey from Cologne to Kiel

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for buses from Kiel to Cologne

Trains from Cologne to Kiel

Flights from Cologne to Kiel

Compare all journeys between Cologne and Kiel

Tickets and more information for coaches to Cologne

Tickets and more information for coaches to Kiel

Most popular bus connections to Kiel

Bus Hamburg - Kiel

Bus Berlin - Kiel

Bus Copenhagen - Kiel

Bus Warsaw - Kiel

Bus Hamburg Airport - Kiel

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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Kiel

Travel Information

Compare train, flight, and bus for Cologne to Kiel

Compare bus with

Cologne to Kiel Bus Timetables

Live departures

Cologne to Kiel bus times

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Kiel by train, flight, or bus

Why should you book Cologne to Kiel buses with Omio?

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cologne to Kiel

Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Wupsi from Cologne to KielYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Kiel with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, Wupsi for as low as $24 (€19). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

BlaBlaCar

Wupsi

FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Kiel

How much does the bus from Cologne to Kiel cost?

How long does the bus from Cologne to Kiel take?

What’s the earliest bus time from Cologne to Kiel?

What’s the latest bus time from Cologne to Kiel?

Are there any direct buses from Cologne to Kiel?

What bus companies go from Cologne to Kiel?

Can I do a day trip to Kiel from Cologne?

What is the cheapest month to take a bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Is there a bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Are there toilets on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Are there accessibility options when taking a bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Can I cancel my bus ticket from Cologne to Kiel?

Can I bring my bike on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

How can I find the cheapest bus tickets to get from Cologne to Kiel?

Is there food available to purchase on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Is luggage included in the bus ticket price from Cologne to Kiel?

Can I book additional luggage for the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Can I bring my pet on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Can I book my seat for the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Are there USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Is there WiFi on board the bus from Cologne to Kiel?

Do I need a passport to travel from Cologne to Kiel?

What's the best way to get from Cologne to Kiel?

What currency is used in Kiel and is it better to use cash or card?

What are the main safety concerns and scams to watch out for in Kiel?

What are some general packing tips for comfort and security?

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Cologne to Kiel

Most popular bus connections from Cologne

More options for your journey from Cologne to Kiel

Most popular buses to and from Kiel and Cologne

Most popular bus connections to Kiel

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy