- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Modern art museum featuring a vast collection of 20th and 21st-century art, including works by Picasso and Warhol.
Cheapest price
$33
Average price
$47
Fastest journey
6 h 55 m
Average duration
8 h 12 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
209 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Metz to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Metz to Cologne will cost around $47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Of the 9 buses that leave Metz for Cologne on Fri, May 15, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 15 the direct buses cover the 209 km distance in an average of 8 h 12 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 55 m .
On Fri, May 15 the slowest buses will take 9 h 5 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.










Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Metz to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $297.
Distance: 129 miles (209 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$40 Average price Cheapest | $78 Average price | $691 Average price | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 17m Average total duration 4h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration Fastest 4h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 50m Average total duration 9h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Metz to Cologne:
A bus is $38 (€31) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Metz to Cologne costing on average $78 (€62).
A bus is $651 (€522) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Metz to Cologne costing on average $691 (€554).
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 47m.
Flight takes on average 9h 50m.
Tickets start at around $40 (€32) compared to roughly $51 (€41) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $11 (€9). The journey takes 4h 47m versus 3h 22m 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $54 |
The table below shows live departures for Metz to Cologne buses for today, Thursday, May 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 10:35 PM Metz | 8h40 | 7:15 AM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, May 15 | |||||
![]() | 3:00 AM Metz | 9h25 | 12:25 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:00 AM Metz | 9h25 | 1:25 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:35 AM Metz | 6h55 | 1:30 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Metz to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) 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 129 miles (209 km) distance in 6h 55m.
Distance 129 miles (209 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Buses per day 9 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 6h 55m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 7 days |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Modern art museum featuring a vast collection of 20th and 21st-century art, including works by Picasso and Warhol.
Museum tracing the history of chocolate from its origins to modern production, with tastings included.
Archaeological museum focusing on Roman and early medieval history in the region.
Modern riverside area featuring contemporary architecture, offices, and cafes.
Trendy neighborhood known for its art scene, boutiques, and nightlife.
Vibrant district famous for street art, multicultural atmosphere, and creative spaces.
A traditional dish made of mashed potatoes and applesauce, often accompanied by black pudding or bratwurst. It's a comforting and classic Cologne staple.
A pot roast marinated in a mixture of vinegar, water, and a variety of seasonings, then slowly cooked. Traditionally made with horse meat, but often beef today.
A rye bread roll served with cheese, onions, mustard, and pickles. An iconic Cologne bar snack.
A beloved local tavern offering classic German dishes and a cozy, rustic vibe. Famous for its pork chops and Kölsch.
A refined dining experience with an extensive selection of local wines, offering both traditional and contemporary German cuisine.
A traditional brewery known for its authentic Kölsch and hearty German fare. Enjoy a casual and lively atmosphere.
Compared to other German cities, Cologne offers moderate prices for accommodation and dining.
5-10% in restaurants, round up in taxis, not expected in cafes.
Official public transport app
Köln ZOB, Cologne -> Köln Hauptbahnhof, Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Metz 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.

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