- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Major art museum with one of Europe’s best collections from medieval painting to modern masters, including notable Impressionist works.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bucharest to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bucharest to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $22, and a train costs an average of $228.
Distance: 792 miles (1275 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$228 Average price | $33 Average price Cheapest | $108 Average price | $363 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
38h 1m Average total duration 37h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 20m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 35h 3m Average total duration 34h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bucharest to Cologne is a flight with an average price of $33.
This is compared to other travel options from Bucharest to Cologne:
A flight is $75 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bucharest to Cologne costing on average $108.
A flight is $195 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bucharest to Cologne costing on average $228.
The fastest way to travel from Bucharest to Cologne is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 20m.
Other travel options to Cologne take longer:
Bus takes on average 34h 33m.
Train takes on average 37h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bucharest and Cologne including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $228 compared to roughly $363 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $135. The journey takes 37h 31m versus 16h 45m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Bucharest 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.
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bucharest to Cologne
Romania
Italy
Trains from Bucharest to Cologne run on average 1 times per day, taking around 37h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $228 but you can travel from only $22 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:29, the last at 05:29. The fastest train covers the 792 miles (1275 km) distance in 37h 14m.
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
Flight from $22
Distance 792 miles (1275 km) |
Average train duration 37h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $228 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 37h 14m |
First train 5:29 AM |
Last train 5:29 AM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Flight from $22
Train companies: Romanian Railways (CFR) from Bucharest to Cologne trainsRomanian Railways (CFR) trains will get you between Bucharest and Cologne from $22. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Romanian Railways (CFR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
37h 14m
Cheapest Price
$228
Romanian Railways (CFR) frequency
1 a day
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
Museum Ludwig
Leading museum of modern and contemporary art, known for Picasso, Pop Art, and major postwar European collections.
- Recommended
Romano-Germanic Museum
Large archaeology museum presenting Cologne’s Roman past through mosaics, glass, inscriptions, and everyday artifacts.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Historic old town lanes with colorful houses, breweries, and churches; ideal for wandering between the Rhine and cathedral.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
Lively riverside promenade with classic skyline views, boat traffic, and easy walks connecting the old town and southern harbor.
- Recommended
Rheinauhafen
Modern harbor redevelopment known for the dramatic Kranhaus buildings, waterfront paths, and a polished urban atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
Canederli
Canederli are bread dumplings from the Alpine north, often served in broth or with butter. They reflect Tyrolean influence and are a classic local comfort dish.
- Gluten-free
Speck Alto Adige
Speck is lightly smoked, cured ham from South Tyrol. It is prized for its mountain-aging tradition and is commonly served with bread, cheese, or dumplings.
- Vegetarian
Schlutzkrapfen
Schlutzkrapfen are half-moon pasta filled with spinach and ricotta, usually dressed with butter and chives. They are a hallmark of the region’s Alpine cuisine.
Restaurant Zur Rose
Michelin-starred dining with creative tasting menus rooted in local ingredients. Elegant atmosphere for a high-end South Tyrolean meal.
Wirtshaus Vögele
Historic traditional restaurant known for South Tyrolean classics, wood-paneled rooms, and a refined but welcoming atmosphere in the old town.
Forsterbräu Central
Well-known local tavern serving canederli, schnitzel, and regional wine in a rustic setting popular with residents and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe; hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and public transport are generally manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
KVB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.70
- Day pass
- €9.00
To the city center
Cologne Central Station, Cologne -> Köln Hauptbahnhof, Cologne
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines and in the KVB App, but not reliably onboard every bus or tram.
- Validate paper tickets if required, and buy before boarding when possible to avoid fines.
FAQs: Trains from Bucharest to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bucharest to Cologne by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cologne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bucharest to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $228, while the average price is around $228.
The train from Bucharest to Cologne runs once a day and takes approximately 37h 14m.
The first train from Bucharest to Cologne leaves at 5:29 AM.
The distance by train from Bucharest to Cologne is 792 miles (1275 km).
The last train from Bucharest to Cologne leaves at 5:29 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Bucharest to Cologne.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bucharest to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bucharest to Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Bucharest to Cologne is by flight, with a cost of around $22.
The train journey from Bucharest to Cologne offers a scenic experience as it passes through diverse landscapes, including the Carpathian Mountains, picturesque villages in Romania and Hungary, and the rolling hills of Austria.
A day trip from Bucharest to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 37h 14m and the frequency is 1 train per day.
To fully experience Cologne, including its historic cathedral, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Bucharest to Cologne.
Since both Bucharest 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.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Brescia, Bergamo, Milan, Verona, Palazzolo sull'Oglio.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, public transport, and around popular attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Staying alert and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
Most popular train connections from Bucharest
More options for your journey from Bucharest to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Bucharest
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
