- Must visit
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
National museum of antiquities with acclaimed collections from Ancient Egypt, Rome, and the Netherlands' archaeological past.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Leiden
Showing times and prices for Aug 24
Cheapest price
Kč603
Average price
Kč603
Fastest journey
14 h 15 m
Average duration
14 h 15 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
218 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Leiden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Leiden will cost around Kč603 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only Kč603.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Cologne for Leiden on Mon, Aug 24, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 24 the direct buses cover the 218 km distance in an average of 14 h 15 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 14 h 15 m .
On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest buses will take 14 h 15 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.
9:10 PM14h15Cologne11:25 AMLeidenKč6031One-way0 transfers
- 9:10 PM14h15Cologne11:25 AMLeidenKč6031One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Leiden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Leiden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from Kč357. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of Kč357, and a flight costs an average of Kč5571.
Distance: 135 miles (218 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
Kč415 Average price Cheapest | Kč1075 Average price | Kč8933 Average price | Kč1274 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 5m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 2m Average total duration 7h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Leiden is a bus with an average price of Kč415.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Leiden:
A bus is Kč660 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Leiden costing on average Kč1075.
A bus is Kč8518 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Leiden costing on average Kč8933.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Leiden is by train with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Leiden take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 35m.
Flight takes on average 7h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Leiden including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Leiden among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Cologne to Leiden Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator RegioJet a.s. | Departure Time 08:05AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price Kč357 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price Kč552 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 14h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price Kč603 |
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Leiden 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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Leiden buses with Omio?
Union Ivkoni International operates all buses services from Cologne to Leiden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Leiden.
Why book with Omio vs Union Ivkoni International?
- 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 Union Ivkoni International with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Leiden.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus or Wanderu?
- 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 Leiden.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Leiden
Germany
Netherlands
Buses from Cologne to Leiden run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at Kč357 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 135 miles (218 km) distance in 4h 40m.
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 135 miles (218 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price Kč357 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 4h 40m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 42 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
Bus providers: Union Ivkoni International from Cologne to LeidenYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Leiden with Union Ivkoni International for as low as Kč357. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
6h 30m
Cheapest Price
Kč257
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.
Complete guide to Leiden
Things to do in Leiden
Discover the best of Leiden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leiden trip today.
- Must visit
Naturalis Biodiversity Center
Major natural history museum famous for dinosaurs, biodiversity displays, and interactive galleries suitable for all ages.
- Must visit
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
Museum about human body science in Leiden's academic tradition, featuring anatomy, medicine, and curious medical objects.
- Must visit
Rapenburg
Leiden's oldest canal is lined with monuments, bridges, and terraces, making it a classic route for a first city walk.
- Recommended
Leidse Singels
Tree-lined ring canal around the historic center, ideal for walking past gates, mills, and broad water views.
- Recommended
Nieuwe Rijn
Busy central square beside the church, often hosting markets and events and serving as a lively meeting point.
- Vegetarian
Stroopwafels
Buttery cookies from nearby Gouda, sold across Leiden. Their crisp texture and caramel notes make them a classic Dutch sweet with coffee or tea.
- Vegetarian
Poffertjes
Fluffy small pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar. A beloved Dutch treat found in Leiden cafés and traditional pancake houses.
Kroketten
Deep-fried ragout croquettes, often eaten with mustard. This classic Dutch snack is common in Leiden bars, cafés, and lunch spots.
In den Doofpot
Elegant fine dining in a historic setting, known for refined French-inspired cuisine and polished service near central Leiden.
Oudt Leyden
Established Leiden pancake house specializing in Dutch pancakes and poffertjes in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Waag
Historic restaurant in a former weighing house, serving classic Dutch and French-influenced dishes in a grand, traditional atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for the Netherlands. Hotels and restaurants are not cheap, but transit is manageable and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or lunch specials.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. In cafes, small change is enough.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Leiden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Leiden 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 Leiden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Leiden can start from as little as Kč357 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Leiden is Kč415 ; 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 Leiden is 4h 40m to travel the 135 miles (218 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 Leiden leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Leiden leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Cologne to Leiden with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Leiden, you can count on Union Ivkoni International for the best way to get you to Leiden. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Leiden 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, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2), Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen), Leverkusen, Bf Mitte, Bergisch Gladbach, Busbahnhof (Bensberg U), Düsseldorf, ZOB am Hbf, Bonn, Museumsmeile . When arriving in Leiden , you can end your journey in bus stations like Den Haag, Centraal Station, Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station), Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk), Delft, Stationsplein, Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1, Rotterdam, Centraal Station, Rotterdam, Zuidplein, Amsterdam, De Ruijterkade (Central Station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2), which is located around 8 miles (13 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Den Haag, Centraal Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Leiden from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cologne to Leiden is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Leiden including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Leiden:
- Union Ivkoni International
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Service animals allowed.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Leiden for bus company Union Ivkoni International.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Leiden are:
- Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, a national museum showcasing ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts
- Hortus Botanicus Leiden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world featuring diverse plant species
- Leiden University, a prestigious institution with historic buildings and a rich academic heritage
- Molen de Valk, a traditional Dutch windmill and museum offering insights into milling history
- Burcht van Leiden, a medieval fortress providing panoramic views of the city.
The best things to do in Leiden include:
- Leiden Canals, scenic boat tours offering views of historic architecture and charming streets
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, a natural history museum with extensive collections and interactive exhibits
- Pieterskerk, a historic church known for its impressive architecture and cultural events
- Museum De Lakenhal, an art museum showcasing Dutch Golden Age paintings and contemporary art
- Explore the vibrant Leiden Market, offering local produce, flowers, and Dutch delicacies.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Leiden depends on the bus companies:
- 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 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 Leiden.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Leiden:
- 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 Leiden:
- Union Ivkoni International
- 10 USD per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cologne to Leiden.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cologne to Leiden with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Leiden with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Leiden with the following bus company: Union Ivkoni International.
Since both Cologne and Leiden 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 Leiden among Omio's users.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leiden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, train stations, and popular tourist spots. Bicycle theft is also common, so securing bikes properly is important. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial transport services can occur; travelers are advised to use licensed providers. Overall, staying alert and safeguarding belongings 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 Leiden
Most Cologne to Leiden buses use the Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) to Den Haag, Centraal Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Leiden 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 Leiden
Which Cologne station do buses to Leiden leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Leiden leave from Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). The station is 8 miles (13 km) from Cologne city centre at Kennedystrasse, 51147 Koln, Germany.
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 · Kč103 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · Kč103
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · Kč128
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.
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 · Kč103 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · Kč103
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.
Most popular bus connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Leiden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Leiden and Cologne
Most popular bus connections to Leiden
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