- 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 12
$32
Average ticket price on Sep 12
$52
Fastest journey on Sep 12
5 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 12
5 h 43 m
Buses on Sep 12
12
Distance
288 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Stuttgart to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Stuttgart to Cologne will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
On Sat, Sep 12, we found 12 buses from Stuttgart to Cologne, including 8 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 12 the direct buses cover the 288 km distance in an average of 5 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 25 m .
On Sat, Sep 12 the slowest buses will take 5 h 55 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.
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FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stuttgart to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $44 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 17m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, while a flight costs an average of $420.
Distance: 178 miles (288 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$44 Average price Cheapest | $85 Average price | $420 Average price | $66 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 12m Average total duration 7h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 17m Average total duration Fastest 2h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 53m Average total duration 1h 53m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 1.7kg 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 Stuttgart to Cologne:
A bus is $41 (€33) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Stuttgart to Cologne costing on average $85 (€69).
A bus is $376 (€304) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Stuttgart to Cologne costing on average $420 (€340).
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 47m.
Bus takes on average 7h 42m.
Tickets start at around $44 (€36) compared to roughly $66 (€53) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $21 (€17). The journey takes 7h 42m versus 4h 3m 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 FlixBus | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:14AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 5h16 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 18h35 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:20PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 11:20PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $99 |
The table below shows live departures for Stuttgart to Cologne buses for today, Friday, September 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 10:30 PM Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe | 6h10 | 4:40 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:50 PM Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof | 5h50 | 4:40 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
30493 · 50428 | 11:20 PM Stuttgart, Airport/ Busterminal SAB | 18h30 | 5:50 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, September 12 | |||||
FlixBus | 12:35 AM Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe | 5h25 | 6:00 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 6:15 AM Stuttgart | 6h45 | 1:00 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 7:20 AM Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe | 5h40 | 1:00 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 8:14 AM Stuttgart | 7h21 | 3:35 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 9:40 AM Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe | 5h55 | 3:35 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 11:00 AM Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe | 5h45 | 4:45 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
30489 · 50448 | 11:50 AM Stuttgart, Airport/ Busterminal SAB | 18h35 | 6:25 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 12:45 PM Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe | 6h55 | 7:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:30 PM Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe | 6h40 | 10:10 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 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 Stuttgart to Cologne run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 42m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by train.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 178 miles (288 km) distance in 5h 15m.
Distance 178 miles (288 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Buses per day 8 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 5h 15m |
First bus 12:35 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 Sun |
Best time to book 77 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 Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart to Cologne buses use the Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Stuttgart and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe is 1 km from Stuttgart city centre. Public transport options include:
Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Local Bakery (in the station)
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe.
Available at Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe: Elevators, ramps.
Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe (SAB Busterminal) is 10 km from Stuttgart city centre. Public transport options include:
Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe (SAB Busterminal) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Express (in the station), Burger King (in the station), Swabian Delights (0.5 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the terminal for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe (SAB Busterminal).
Available at Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe (SAB Busterminal): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Stuttgart, Flughafen/Messe (SAB Busterminal): Elevators, ramps.
Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof is 7 km from Stuttgart city centre. Public transport options include:
Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof. ATMs are available at Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof.
Ticket office support is available at Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof.
Available at Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Stuttgart, Vaihingen Bahnhof: Ramps available for wheelchairs.
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.
Köln, ZOB is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln, ZOB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria im ZOB (in the station), McDonald's (0.2 km), Vapiano (0.5 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Köln, ZOB.
Available at Köln, ZOB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, ZOB: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need