- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for its strong Picasso collection and Pop Art holdings.
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Journey information
Overview: Basel to Cologne flight
Switzerland
Germany
Flights from Basel to Cologne depart on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 14m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $444 (€364) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 06:00, the last at 20:50. The fastest flight covers the 234 miles (378 km) distance in 5h 5m. March is the cheapest month to fly.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $31 (€25)
Distance 234 miles (378 km) |
Average flight duration 8h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $444 (€364) |
Flights per day 2 |
Fastest flight 5h 5m |
First flight 6:00 AM |
Last flight 8:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $31 (€25)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Basel to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$444
Average price
$490
Fastest journey
5 h 10 m
Average duration
7 h 10 m
Flights per day
2
Distance
378 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Basel to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Cologne will cost around $490 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $444.
Fast flights
Of the 2 flights that leave Basel for Cologne onSat, Jun 20, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct flights cover the 378 km distance in an average of 7 h 10 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 5 h 10 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the longest flights will take 9 h 10 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.
6:10 AM9h10Basel3:20 PMCologne$4441One-way0 transfers- 10:10 AM5h10Basel3:20 PMCologne$5351One-way0 transfers
- 10:10 AM5h10Basel3:20 PMCologne$5351One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 AM9h10Basel3:20 PMCologne$4441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Basel to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a flight costs an average of $444.
Distance: 234 miles (378 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$686 Average price | $159 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $163 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 14m Average total duration 8h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 5h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 10m Average total duration 6h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 Basel to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $48 (€39).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Cologne:
A bus is $111 (€91) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Cologne costing on average $159 (€130).
A bus is $637 (€522) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Cologne costing on average $686 (€561).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Cologne is by train with an average journey time of 5h 10m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 40m.
Flight takes on average 8h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Cologne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Cologne among Omio's users.
Live departures
Basel to Cologne flight times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Cologne flights for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:10 AM Basel | 9h10 | 3:20 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:10 AM Basel | 5h10 | 3:20 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Cologne by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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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.
- Must visit
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Cologne’s key archaeology museum for Roman heritage, especially famous for the Dionysus mosaic and Roman artifacts from the city.
- Recommended
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Important fine arts museum with medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century painting, including one of Germany’s leading Impressionist collections.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular riverfront promenade in Deutz with one of the city’s best postcard views toward the cathedral skyline, especially at sunset.
- Must visit
Cologne Old Town
Classic walking area with narrow lanes, traditional houses, churches, and river access, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
One of the Old Town’s best-known squares, surrounded by historic facades and a lively atmosphere close to major sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kölsch
Cologne’s signature top-fermented pale beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to the city’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a local brauhaus.
- Gluten-free
Himmel un Ääd
A classic Cologne dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, usually served with black pudding and fried onions. The sweet-savory combination is strongly associated with Rhineland home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Halver Hahn
Despite the name, this is not chicken but a rye bread roll with aged Gouda, butter, mustard, and onions. It is a beloved Kölsch beer snack in traditional Cologne pubs.
Hanse Stube
An established fine-dining restaurant in central Cologne offering refined modern European cuisine, polished service, and an elegant hotel dining room.
Bei Oma Kleinmann
A well-known casual restaurant loved for schnitzel and hearty German comfort food. It has a relaxed, local feel and a strong reputation among visitors and residents.
Früh am Dom
One of Cologne’s most famous brauhäuser near the cathedral, known for Kölsch and classic Rhineland dishes in a lively traditional atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or currywurst.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up small bills; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Add EUR 1-2 for taxis, and round up in cafés if table service is provided.
KVB easyGO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.70
- Day pass
- EUR 9.00
To the city center
Cologne Bonn Airport -> Köln Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 15 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Validate your ticket before travel if required, and keep it until the end of your journey. Mobile tickets in the official app are widely used.
- Card payment is possible in the KVB app and at many ticket machines, but not always on board buses or trams. Carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Basel to Cologne Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Cologne by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Basel to Cologne can start from as little as $444 (€364) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Basel to Cologne is $686 (€561) ; 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 plane from Basel to Cologne is 5h 5m to travel the 234 miles (378 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Basel to Cologne leaves at 6:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Basel to Cologne leaves at 8:50 PM.
Flights from Basel to Cologne generally leave from EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg and arrive in Cologne Bonn Airport.EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg is 1 miles (2 km) away from Basel city centre and Cologne Bonn Airport is 8 miles (13 km) from Cologne city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Basel to Cologne is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Cologne including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Since both Basel 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.
There is no time difference between Basel and Cologne.
The best events to attend in Cologne include:
- Karneval, a week-long festival featuring parades, costumes, and street parties
- Cologne Christmas Market, a traditional market with festive stalls and holiday treats
- Art Cologne, an international art fair showcasing contemporary artworks
- Cologne Pride, a celebration of LGBTQ+ rights with a colorful parade and events.
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 holidays to experience in Cologne include:
- Easter, beautiful spring weather and traditional celebrations
- Labour Day, pleasant temperatures and local festivities
- Ascension Day, outdoor activities and family gatherings
- Whit Monday, ideal for enjoying the early summer atmosphere.
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.
The best season to visit Cologne is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Cologne is during May-June or September-October.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Cologne among Omio's users.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 airports
Popular airports from Basel to Cologne
Most Basel to Cologne flights use the EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg to Cologne Bonn Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Basel and Cologne airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Basel
Arrival airports in Cologne
Which Basel airport do flights to Cologne leave from?
Flights from Basel to Cologne depart from EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg. The airport is 1 miles (3 km) from Basel city centre at 68300 Saint-Louis, France.
EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL)68300 Saint-Louis, France
City-centre transport
Getting to EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg from Basel city centre
EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 13m · $6
Tgv · 19m · $18
BusBlaBlaCar Bus · 35m · $4
FlixBus N473, FlixBus N191, FlixBus N199 · 55m · $4
EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg airport facilities and services
EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in the arrivals and departures areas, offering multiple currencies.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Which Cologne airport do flights from Basel arrive at?
Flights from Basel to Cologne arrive at Cologne Bonn Airport. Cologne Bonn Airport is 8 miles (13 km) from Cologne city centre.
Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)Kennedystrasse, 51147 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Cologne Bonn Airport from Cologne city centre
Cologne Bonn Airport is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 8m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · $5
Re · 14m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 23m · $6
Cologne Bonn Airport airport facilities and services
Cologne Bonn Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in both terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cologne Bonn Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cologne Bonn Airport: Ramps, assistance.
Most popular flights from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Cologne
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Most popular flights to Cologne
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