- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$50
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$63
Fastest journey on Sep 05
9 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
12 h 44 m
Buses on Sep 05
8
Distance
597 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Lyon to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Cologne will cost around $63 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 8 buses from Lyon to Cologne, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct buses cover the 597 km distance in an average of 12 h 44 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 55 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 14 h 20 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.
51470 · 50448
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
50618 · 50428
FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $73 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 29m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $73, while a flight costs an average of $415.
Distance: 370 miles (597 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$73 Average price Cheapest | $178 Average price | $415 Average price | $187 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 23m Average total duration 10h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 21m Average total duration 5h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 2h 29m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.8 - 3.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Lyon to Cologne:
A bus is $104 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Cologne costing on average $178.
A bus is $342 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lyon to Cologne costing on average $415.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 51m.
Bus takes on average 10h 53m.
Tickets start at around $73 compared to roughly $187 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $114. The journey takes 10h 53m versus 7h 47m 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 FlixBus, 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 12:55AM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 16h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 01:20AM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 16h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:10AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 13h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 13h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 14h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:10AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $109 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 17h15 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $51 |
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Cologne buses for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
51095 · 52119 | 9:10 PM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 17h15 | 2:25 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 10:15 PM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 9h55 | 8:10 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 5 | |||||
50618 · 50428 | 1:20 AM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 16h30 | 5:50 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:20 AM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 13h10 | 3:30 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:10 AM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 13h35 | 4:45 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:20 AM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 14h20 | 7:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:15 PM Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) | 12h40 | 3:55 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Lyon to Cologne run on average 6 times per day, taking around 10h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $45 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 370 miles (597 km) distance in 9h 55m.
Distance 370 miles (597 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 9h 55m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon to Cologne 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 Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Lyon to Cologne buses use the Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Lyon and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) is 2 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland). ATMs are available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland).
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland).
Available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland): Station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café de la Gare (in the station), Le Bistrot de Lyon (0.5 km), Brasserie Georges (0.6 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache.
Available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache: Elevators, ramps.
Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport is 2 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport. ATMs are available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport.
Ticket office support is available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport.
Available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon, St Exupéry Aéroport: Access ramps and services available.
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance and baggage claim area.
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
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