- 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: Zurich Airport to Cologne flight
Switzerland
Germany
Flights from Zurich Airport to Cologne depart on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 26m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $90 (€73) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by bus.
There are 3 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 06:05, the last at 20:00. The fastest flight covers the 251 miles (404 km) distance in 1h 5m. July 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 $34 (€28)
Distance 251 miles (404 km) |
Average flight duration 1h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $90 (€73) |
Flights per day 5 |
Direct flights 3 |
Fastest flight 1h 5m |
First flight 6:05 AM |
Last flight 8:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
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 $34 (€28)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Zurich Airport to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$98
Average price
$113
Fastest journey
1 h 5 m
Average duration
1 h 5 m
Flights per day
2
Distance
404 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Zurich Airport to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich Airport to Cologne will cost around $113 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.
Fast flights
Of the 2 flights that leave Zurich Airport for Cologne onSun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct flights cover the 404 km distance in an average of 1 h 5 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the longest flights will take 1 h 5 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.
6:35 PM1h05Zurich Airport7:40 PMCologne$981One-way0 transfers- 8:00 PM1h05Zurich Airport9:05 PMCologne$1281One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 PM1h05Zurich Airport9:05 PMCologne$1281One-way0 transfers
- 6:35 PM1h05Zurich Airport7:40 PMCologne$981One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich Airport to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich Airport to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a flight costs an average of $90.
Distance: 251 miles (404 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$170 Average price | $132 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $117 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 58m Average total duration 5h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 40m Average total duration 9h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular airline |  Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Cologne is a bus with an average price of $55 (€45).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich Airport to Cologne:
A bus is $77 (€63) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich Airport to Cologne costing on average $132 (€108).
A bus is $114 (€94) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich Airport to Cologne costing on average $170 (€139).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich Airport to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 26m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 28m.
Bus takes on average 9h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich Airport and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich Airport to Cologne among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Zurich Airport to Cologne 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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Why should you book Zurich Airport to Cologne flights with Omio?
Eurowings as well as Smartwings or Lufthansa Cityline offer flights services from Zurich Airport to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich Airport to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Eurowings?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurowings, but also compare tickets for the likes of Smartwings or Lufthansa Cityline to find the best option for your trip from Zurich Airport to Cologne.
- 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 Eurowings with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich Airport to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Edreams, Trip or Kayak?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Smartwings or Lufthansa Cityline to find the best option for your trip from Zurich Airport to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich Airport to Cologne.
Airlines: Eurowings, Smartwings, Lufthansa Cityline from Zurich Airport to CologneFind the best flights between Zurich Airport to Cologne with Omio's travel partners Eurowings, Smartwings, Lufthansa Cityline from $34 (€28). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Lufthansa Cityline
About
Lufthansa CityLine is a German regional airline and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, operating as part of the Lufthansa Regional concept. Headquartered at Munich Airport, with hubs also at Frankfurt Airport, it operates a dense domestic and European network on behalf of its parent company. The airline primarily uses regional jets like the Bombardier CRJ900, along with Airbus A319s and A320neos, to connect smaller European cities to Lufthansa's major hubs. Lufthansa CityLine is known for its reliability in providing feeder traffic to Frankfurt and Munich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
$1231 (€1008)
Lufthansa Cityline frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (8kg max) and 1 personal item
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased, up to 23kg per piece
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible up to 24h before departure, refund depends on fare type and timing of cancellation
Pregnant on board
Up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required after 28th week
Unaccompagned minor
Available for children aged 5-11, must be booked at least 48h in advance. Service fee applies
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair assistance available, must be requested at least 48h before departure
Pets
Small pets in cabin (max 8kg including carrier), must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Eurowings
About
Eurowings is a German low-cost airline that offers affordable flights across Europe and to select long-haul destinations. As part of the Lufthansa Group, Eurowings connects major European cities as well as holiday destinations with a modern fleet. Passengers can choose from different fare options ranging from basic economy with great value to more flexible tickets that include extra comfort, priority boarding, and additional services. With onboard amenities such as snacks, drinks, and WiFi available on many routes, Eurowings is a convenient choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€73)
Eurowings frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 small bag (40x30x20cm) included
Additional luggage
Additional cabin bag (55x40x23cm) and checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation within 24h of booking if flight is more than 7 days away. After that, cancellation fees apply based on fare type
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly until the end of 36th week (32nd week for multiple pregnancies). Medical certificate required after 28th week
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel as UM with mandatory assistance. Ages 12-17 optional assistance. Service must be booked in advance
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, must be requested at least 48h before departure
Pets
Small pets in cabin, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Smartwings
About
Smartwings, established in 1997 as Travel Service, is the largest airline in the Czech Republic, operating scheduled and charter flights to over 80 destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The airline's fleet comprises Boeing 737 variants, including the 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, and 737 MAX 8. Smartwings is a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and holds the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certificate, reflecting its commitment to high safety and quality standards. In February 2024, Smartwings became fully Czech-owned, with Prague City Air acquiring the remaining shares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 10m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€60)
Smartwings frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be added for a fee of 40 EUR if booked at least 36 hours before departure.
Luggage storage
Checked baggage is available for purchase, with a fee of 40 EUR if booked at least 36 hours before departure.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets purchased under the LITE and PLUS price packages are non-refundable; FLEX tickets are refundable for a fee of 60 EUR per untraveled segment.
Amenities on board the airplane
Food sold onboard
Meals and beverages are provided during significant delays exceeding 3 hours.
Pets
Dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin in boxes up to 43 x 30 x 27 cm and a weight of 8 kg, with a fee of 100 EUR per flight.
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: Zurich Airport to Cologne Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport to Cologne can start from as little as $90 (€73) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Zurich Airport to Cologne is $170 (€139) ; 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 Zurich Airport to Cologne is 1h 5m to travel the 251 miles (404 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 Zurich Airport to Cologne leaves at 6:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Zurich Airport to Cologne leaves at 8:00 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct flights a day from Zurich Airport to Cologne with Eurowings, Smartwings. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Zurich Airport to Cologne, you can count on Eurowings, Smartwings, Lufthansa Cityline for the best way to get you to Cologne. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Zurich Airport and Cologne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
The cheapest month for a flight from Zurich Airport to Cologne is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich Airport and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since both Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich Airport 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 Zurich Airport to Cologne
Zurich
Cologne
The major airport for departures in Zurich is Zurich Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zurich Airport for your trip from Zurich to Cologne.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
A51, Exit 6Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available for 2 hours; additional time can be purchased
Shopping
- Shops located in Airside Center, including duty-free and luxury brands like Gucci and Hermès
Parking
- Parking available in P1, P2, and P3, approximately 5.2€ (CHF 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, including Swiss and Aspire Lounges, with amenities like food and showers
Lost and Found Office
- Located in Service Center, open daily
Public transit options for Zurich Airport
- Train: S2, S16, S24
- Tram: 10, 12
- Bus: 768, 759
The major airport for arrivals 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 journey to Cologne from Zurich.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
13 kmCar 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
More options for your journey from Zurich Airport to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Cologne and Zurich Airport
Most popular flights to Cologne
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