- Must visit
Städel Museum
One of Germany’s leading art museums, with major European works from the Middle Ages to the present on the Museumsufer.
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Journey information
Overview: Cologne to Frankfurt am Main flight
GermanyGermany
Flights from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main depart on average 1 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $542 (€437) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 13:15, the last at 20:15. The fastest flight covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 2h 55m. April 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 $11 (€9)
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $542 (€437) |
Flights per day 1 |
Fastest flight 2h 55m |
First flight 1:15 PM |
Last flight 8:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 35 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11 (€9)
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Frankfurt am Main
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a flight costs an average of $542.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$733 Average price | $52 Average price | $16 Average price Cheapest | $34 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 17m Average total duration 3h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 34m Average total duration Fastest 2h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Cologne to Frankfurt am Main is a bus with an average price of $16 (€13).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main costing on average $52 (€42).
A bus is $718 (€579) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main costing on average $733 (€592).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 4m.
Other travel options to Frankfurt am Main take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 17m.
Flight takes on average 3h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main among Omio's users.
How far in advance should I book flight tickets from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main?
The best time to book your flight from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main is 42 days before departure. See how prices for flights change on the Cologne to Frankfurt am Main route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your flight from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main.
Flights
from $117Trains
from $33Buses
from $15Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Frankfurt am Main by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Complete guide to Frankfurt am Main
Things to do in Frankfurt am Main
Discover the best of Frankfurt am Main — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Frankfurt am Main trip today.
- Must visit
Senckenberg Naturmuseum
A favorite for families and science lovers, famous for dinosaur skeletons and extensive natural history displays.
- Recommended
Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt
Major contemporary and modern art exhibition hall known for high-profile temporary shows in the historic center.
- Must visit
Römerberg
Frankfurt’s historic central square, lined with traditional-style buildings and closely linked to the city’s medieval past.
- Must visit
Museumsufer
The museum embankment along the Main is ideal for scenic walks and easy access to many of the city’s top museums.
- Recommended
Mainkai
Riverside promenade popular for skyline photography, walks, and open views across the Main and central Frankfurt.
Frankfurter Würstchen
Thin smoked pork sausages traditionally served warm with mustard, bread, and potato salad. They are one of Frankfurt’s best-known culinary specialties with protected regional status.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Grüne Soße
Frankfurt’s famous cold herb sauce made with seven herbs, usually served with boiled eggs and potatoes. It is a classic local spring and summer dish strongly associated with the city.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäs mit Musik
A sour milk cheese specialty marinated with onions, vinegar, and oil. It is a traditional Hessian tavern dish, especially popular with apple wine.
Restaurant Lafleur
Two-Michelin-star fine dining restaurant in the Palmengarten, known for elegant modern cuisine and polished service in a refined setting.
Adolf Wagner
Classic apple wine tavern in Sachsenhausen known for Grüne Soße, schnitzel, and traditional Frankfurt atmosphere with communal seating.
Zum Gemalten Haus
Well-known traditional Hessian restaurant and cider house, popular for hearty regional dishes and house apple wine in a historic setting.
Euro
Prices are high by German standards, especially hotels and dining near the centre and trade fair areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
- 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. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10%; about 10% for very good service. Round up taxi fares. Small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
RMVgo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.65 EUR
- Day pass
- 7.20 EUR
To the city center
Frankfurt am Main Airport -> Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 12 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Tap-in is not used in the RMV network; buy a valid ticket before boarding and keep it for inspection.
- Card payment is generally possible in RMV ticket machines, but not reliably on all buses and trams, so use the app or buy in advance.
FAQs: Cologne to Frankfurt am Main Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main can start from as little as $542 (€437) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Cologne to Frankfurt am Main is $733 (€592) ; 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 Cologne to Frankfurt am Main is 2h 55m to travel the 95 miles (153 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 Cologne to Frankfurt am Main leaves at 1:15 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main leaves at 8:15 PM.
Flights from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main generally leave from Cologne Bonn Airport and arrive in Frankfurt am Main Airport.Cologne Bonn Airport is 8 miles (13 km) away from Cologne city centre and Frankfurt am Main Airport is 6 miles (10 km) from Frankfurt am Main city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Frankfurt am Main including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since both Cologne and Frankfurt am Main 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 Cologne and Frankfurt am Main.
The best events to attend in Frankfurt am Main include:
- Frankfurt Book Fair, the world's largest trade fair for books, featuring authors, publishers, and literary events
- Frankfurt Christmas Market, a traditional market offering festive food, drinks, and crafts
- Museumsuferfest, a cultural festival celebrating the city's museums with exhibitions and performances
- Mainfest, a riverside festival with food stalls, live music, and fireworks celebrating the Main River.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Frankfurt am Main are:
- Römer, a historic city hall with medieval architecture located in the heart of Frankfurt's old town
- Städel Museum, an art museum featuring a vast collection of European artworks from the Middle Ages to the present
- Palmengarten, a large botanical garden showcasing diverse plant species in themed greenhouses and outdoor areas
- Goethe House, the birthplace of the famous writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, now a museum dedicated to his life and works
- Frankfurt Cathedral, a Gothic-style church with a rich history and stunning architecture.
The best holidays to experience in Frankfurt am Main include:
- New Year's Day, a fresh start to the year with celebrations and fireworks
- Easter Monday, a public holiday with family gatherings and springtime activities
- Labour Day, a day off in May that often includes local festivities and outdoor events
- German Unity Day, a national holiday in October celebrating the reunification of Germany with various local events.
The best things to do in Frankfurt am Main include:
- Main Tower, a skyscraper with an observation deck providing panoramic views of the city
- Explore the vibrant Kleinmarkthalle, an indoor market offering a variety of local and international foods
- Visit the Senckenberg Natural History Museum, home to an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils and natural exhibits
- Take a leisurely walk along the River Main and enjoy the scenic views
- Experience the lively atmosphere of the Zeil, Frankfurt's premier shopping street.
The best season to visit Frankfurt am Main is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Frankfurt am Main is during May-June or September-October.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 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 Frankfurt am Main, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include distraction techniques where one person diverts attention while another steals belongings. It's also important to be wary of unofficial taxi drivers overcharging and to use licensed services. Staying alert in nightlife districts and avoiding poorly lit areas at night can help ensure safety.
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 Cologne to Frankfurt am Main
Cologne
Frankfurt am Main
The major airport for departures in Cologne is Cologne Bonn Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cologne Bonn Airport for your trip from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
13 km
Car connection
A59, Exit FlughafenWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops in both terminals, including duty-free and fashion.
Parking
- Parking available near terminals, approximately 3€ per hour.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance.
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available, including Lufthansa Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in Terminal 2, service desk.
Public transit options for Cologne Bonn Airport
- Bus: SB60, 161
- Train: S13, S19
The major airport for arrivals in Frankfurt am Main is Frankfurt am Main Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Frankfurt am Main Airport for your journey to Frankfurt am Main from Cologne.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
10 kmCar connection
A3, Exit 50Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops available in both terminals, includes duty-free, Hugo Boss, and electronics stores.
Parking
- Parking available at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, approximately 5€ per hour.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, assistance.
WC
- Available throughout the airport, including accessible facilities.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available in both terminals, includes Lufthansa Lounge and Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in Terminal 1, Level 0, Area A.
Public transit options for Frankfurt am Main Airport
- Buses: 61, 62, 77
- Metro: S8, S9
- Train: ICE, IC, RE
Most popular flights from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Frankfurt am Main
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Frankfurt am Main and Cologne
HomeFlightsFlights in GermanyFlight Schedules to Frankfurt am MainCologne to Frankfurt am Main Flights
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