- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Modern art museum featuring a vast collection of 20th and 21st-century art, including works by Picasso and Warhol.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Rome to Cologne
Showing times and prices for May 17
Cheapest price
$133
Average price
$198
Fastest journey
21 h 45 m
Average duration
23 h 22 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
1090 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Rome to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rome to Cologne will cost around $198 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $133.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Rome to Cologne without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:35 PM27h20Roma, Autostazione (Metro Anagnina)2:55 AMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$1331One-way2 transfers- FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 AM21h45Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina8:25 AMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$1491One-way1 transfer
(Rome -> Prague) · RJ 1034 (Budapest -> Prague) · (Vienna -> Prague) · (Prague -> Amsterdam)1:00 PM43h05Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina8:05 AMKöln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)$1491One-way3 transfers- FlixBus · FlixBus9:00 PM25h10Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina10:10 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$1591One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:00 PM23h45Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina4:45 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$1761One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 AM21h45Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina8:25 AMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$1491One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus2:45 PM22h15Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina1:00 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$2691One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:00 PM23h45Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina4:45 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$1761One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:05 PM23h55Roma, Autostazione (Metro Anagnina)1:00 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$3191One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus9:00 PM25h10Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina10:10 PMKöln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen)$1591One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Rome to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Rome to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $79. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 3m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.1 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $79, and a flight costs an average of $88.
Distance: 677 miles (1090 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$120 Average price Cheapest | $241 Average price | $402 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
25h 46m Average total duration 25h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration Fastest 3h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.1 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.3 - 6.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Rome to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $120 (€97).
This is compared to other travel options from Rome to Cologne:
A bus is $121 (€98) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rome to Cologne costing on average $241 (€195).
The fastest way to travel from Rome to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 3m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 14h 42m.
Bus takes on average 25h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rome and Cologne including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Rome to Cologne 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.
Rome to Cologne Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 24h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 01:41PM | Duration 28h16 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 21h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 24h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator RegioJet a.s. | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 43h05 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $149 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 23h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 22h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $269 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 22h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 25h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 27h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $94 |
Live departures
Rome to Cologne bus times
The table below shows live departures for Rome to Cologne buses for today, Saturday, May 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 9:25 AM Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina | 28h16 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:40 AM Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina | 21h45 | 8:25 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:10 PM Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina | 24h50 | 1:00 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:05 PM Roma, Autostazione (Metro Anagnina) | 23h55 | 1:00 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:00 PM Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina | 22h35 | 3:35 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus+FlixTrain | 5:00 PM Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina | 28h21 | 9:21 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:00 PM Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina | 25h10 | 10:10 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rome to Cologne by bus or flight
Compare 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 Rome to Cologne buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Rome to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rome to Cologne.
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 bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rome to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Rome to Cologne.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Rome to Cologne
Italy
Germany
Buses from Rome to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 25h 16m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $79 (€63) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 677 miles (1090 km) distance in 21h 45m.
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 677 miles (1090 km) |
Average bus duration 25h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $79 (€63) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 21h 45m |
First bus 12:10 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Bus providers: FlixBus from Rome to CologneYou can travel by bus between Rome to Cologne with FlixBus for as low as $79 (€63). 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
21h 45m
Cheapest Price
$79 (€63)
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.
Complete guide to Cologne
Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
- Recommended
Cologne Chocolate Museum
Museum tracing the history of chocolate from its origins to modern production, with tastings included.
- Recommended
Roman-Germanic Museum
Archaeological museum focusing on Roman and early medieval history in the region.
- Recommended
Rheinauhafen
Modern riverside area featuring contemporary architecture, offices, and cafes.
- Recommended
Belgian Quarter
Trendy neighborhood known for its art scene, boutiques, and nightlife.
Ehrenfeld
Vibrant district famous for street art, multicultural atmosphere, and creative spaces.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A traditional dish made of mashed potatoes and applesauce, often accompanied by black pudding or bratwurst. It's a comforting and classic Cologne staple.
Rhenish Sauerbraten
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.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
A rye bread roll served with cheese, onions, mustard, and pickles. An iconic Cologne bar snack.
Gaststätte Lommerzheim
A beloved local tavern offering classic German dishes and a cozy, rustic vibe. Famous for its pork chops and Kölsch.
Fischers Weingarten
A refined dining experience with an extensive selection of local wines, offering both traditional and contemporary German cuisine.
Brauerei Päffgen
A traditional brewery known for its authentic Kölsch and hearty German fare. Enjoy a casual and lively atmosphere.
Euro
Compared to other German cities, Cologne offers moderate prices for accommodation and dining.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
5-10% in restaurants, round up in taxis, not expected in cafes.
KVB-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Köln ZOB, Cologne -> Köln Hauptbahnhof, Cologne
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Validate your ticket before travel if required, and check the fare zone before buying. Most ticket machines at major stops accept card payments.
- Use the KVB-App for mobile tickets and live departure times across Cologne public transport. Regional trains within the city may also be valid with local VRS tickets on eligible routes.
FAQs: Bus from Rome to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rome 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Rome to Cologne can start from as little as $79 (€63) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Rome to Cologne is $120 (€97) ; 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 Rome to Cologne is 21h 45m to travel the 677 miles (1090 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 Rome to Cologne leaves at 12:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Rome to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Rome to Cologne which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Rome to Cologne, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Rome and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cologne from Rome is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 21h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Rome to Cologne is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rome and Cologne including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Rome to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Rome to Cologne for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cologne are:
- Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic Gothic masterpiece with twin spires
- Museum Ludwig, renowned for its extensive collection of modern art including works by Picasso and Warhol
- Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its thousands of love locks and panoramic views of the Rhine River
- Old Town (Altstadt), a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional beer halls
- Cologne Zoo, one of the oldest and most diverse zoos in Germany, home to a wide variety of animal species.
The best things to do in Cologne include:
- Cologne Chocolate Museum, an interactive museum dedicated to the history and production of chocolate
- Rhine River Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Cologne's skyline and iconic landmarks
- Visit the Botanical Gardens Flora, a beautiful park with diverse plant species and stunning floral displays
- Explore the Belgian Quarter, known for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and vibrant street art
- Attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and diverse musical performances.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Rome to Cologne 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 Rome to Cologne.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Rome to Cologne:
- 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 Rome to Cologne:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Rome to Cologne. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Rome to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Rome to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Rome to Cologne with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Rome and Cologne 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Rome to Cologne 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 Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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 Rome to Cologne
Rome
Cologne
The major bus station for departures in Rome is Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina for your trip from Rome to Cologne.
Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina
information
Roma, Autostazione (Metro Anagnina)
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Cologne from Rome.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Accessibility
WCinformation
Distance to city center
13 km
Car connection
KennedystraßeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
13 kmCar connection
KennedystrasseWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside Terminal 2 arrivals area.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
- Bus: SB60 Train: S13, S19
More options for your journey from Rome to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cologne and Rome
Most popular bus connections to Cologne
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