- 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 08
$20
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$30
Fastest journey on Sep 08
3 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
3 h 50 m
Buses on Sep 08
14
Distance
214 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Amsterdam to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Amsterdam to Cologne will cost around $30 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 14 buses from Amsterdam to Cologne, including 12 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct buses cover the 214 km distance in an average of 3 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest buses will take 3 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.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
(Amsterdam -> Prague)
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
FlixBus
FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Amsterdam to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $27 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 58m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, while a flight costs an average of $497.
Distance: 132 miles (214 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$27 Average price Cheapest | $74 Average price | $497 Average price | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 23m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 54m Average total duration 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 1h 58m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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 Amsterdam to Cologne:
A bus is $48 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Amsterdam to Cologne costing on average $74.
A bus is $470 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Amsterdam to Cologne costing on average $497.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 24m.
Bus takes on average 5h 53m.
Tickets start at around $27 compared to roughly $60 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $34. The journey takes 5h 53m versus 3h 14m 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, Union Ivkoni International, Infobus.
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 12:45AM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator RegioJet a.s. | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 06:58PM | Duration 4h43 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 02:15AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $27 |
The table below shows live departures for Amsterdam to Cologne buses for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 3:15 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h10 | 7:25 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:15 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h50 | 9:05 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:50 PM Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1 | 6h30 | 11:20 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 6:00 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h40 | 9:40 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 6:00 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h55 | 9:55 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 7:30 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h55 | 11:25 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:30 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h45 | 2:15 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
FlixBus | 12:45 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 3h55 | 4:40 AM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 7:45 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h40 | 12:25 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:00 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h25 | 1:25 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 9:00 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h41 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 9:50 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 4h55 | 2:45 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:45 AM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 5h20 | 4:05 PM Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 0 transfersDirect | |
(Amsterdam -> Prague) | 2:00 PM Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) | 5h40 | 7:40 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 Amsterdam to Cologne run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 if you book in advance.
There are 12 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 3h 40m.
Distance 132 miles (214 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 |
Buses per day 16 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 3h 40m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam to Cologne buses use the Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) station pair, with some services arriving at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2). Use this guide to compare Amsterdam and Cologne bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) is 3 km from Amsterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Sloterdijk (in the station), Burger King (in the station), Julia's (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the shopping area.
Ticket office support is available at Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk).
Available at Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk): Elevators, ramps.
Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options available inside the terminal.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. ATMs are aTMs available in the terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1.
Available at Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Schiphol, Airport Terminal 1: Facilities available for persons with reduced mobility.
Amsterdam, De Ruijterkade is 1 km from Amsterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Amsterdam, De Ruijterkade has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Amsterdam, De Ruijterkade: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
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