Exploring Europe: Brussels To Cologne Distance Revealed

The distance between Brussels and Cologne is approximately 135 miles by road and 115 miles as the crow flies. The two cities are relatively close, with the average journey time by car being 2 hours and 19 minutes. However, there are other ways to travel between the two cities, including by train, night train, rideshare, or plane.

Travel by train

The distance between Brussels and Cologne is around 135 miles (214 km) and the best way to travel between the two cities is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes to 1 hour and 51 minutes, and tickets cost between $21 and $55.

There are two high-speed train services that operate directly between Brussels and Cologne: Eurostar and ICE. Both offer comfortable seating and spacious legroom, with ICE trains also providing free Wi-Fi and power sockets. The journey is very straightforward, with trains departing from Brussels-Nord station and arriving at Koeln Hbf station in the heart of Cologne, next to the city's famous cathedral. Services depart every four hours, and tickets can be booked online in advance.

Travelling by train is the fastest and most convenient option for this route, with no changes required and a journey time of under 2 hours. It is also a very popular choice, with 79.92% of customers choosing the train as their preferred mode of transportation between Brussels and Cologne.

Travel by car

The road distance from Brussels to Cologne is around 133 miles (214 km). The drive should take around 2 hours in normal traffic.

Best stops along the way

If you're going on a road trip from Brussels to Cologne, there are plenty of great stops along the way. Here are some of the top cities to visit:

• Dusseldorf - The most popular city on the route, Dusseldorf is just 2 hours from Brussels and less than an hour from Cologne.
• Maastricht - Located in the southern region of the Netherlands, Maastricht is a charming and culturally rich university city. Its medieval-style architecture is particularly noteworthy, with attractions such as Sint Janskerk and the Basilica of St. Servatius.
• Leuven - Leuven, renowned for its breweries and historic landmarks, is located in the eastern region of Brussels, Belgium. The town hall, built during the 15th century, dominates the central square with its towering spires and intricate carvings.
• Liege - Liege is a cosmopolitan city situated along the Meuse River in Belgium's French-speaking Wallonia area. It has been an important commercial and cultural center for centuries, with its old town boasting numerous historic landmarks from the medieval period.
• Aachen - Aachen, a charming spa city located near the borders of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, offers a romantic getaway in western Germany. The city is home to the historic Aachen Cathedral, founded in 800 A.D., featuring a Gothic chancel and medieval artifacts in its treasury.

Other popular road trips from Brussels

• Brussels to Amsterdam - Direct train: 1:50
• Brussels to Paris - Direct train: 1:22
• Brussels to London - Direct train: 2:01
• Brussels to Berlin - With a change: 6:39
• Brussels to Disneyland Paris - Direct train: 1:51
• Brussels to Lille - Direct train: 0:35

Have a safe trip!

Travel by bus

A bus journey from Brussels to Cologne can be a convenient and affordable option, with a distance of approximately 190 miles (306 km) between the two cities. Here is some information to help plan your trip:

Bus Operators and Journey Duration:

Several reputable bus companies offer direct connections between Brussels and Cologne, including FlixBus and Eurolines. The journey time can vary depending on the operator, route, and traffic conditions, but it typically takes between 4 and 5 hours. It is always advisable to check the latest schedules and book your tickets in advance on the official websites or trusted travel booking platforms.

Boarding Points and Arrival Stations:

In Brussels, buses to Cologne usually depart from designated stops such as the Brussels-North bus station or specific locations near the Brussels-Midi train station. When planning your trip, pay close attention to the boarding point specified by your chosen bus operator. Upon arrival in Cologne, buses typically arrive at the Cologne Busbahnhof (Bus Station), which is located near the Cologne Cathedral and the main train station, Köln Hauptbahnhof. This central location makes it convenient for passengers to continue their journey or explore the city.

Onboard Services and Amenities:

Bus travel between Brussels and Cologne can offer a comfortable experience. Modern coaches operated by reputable companies often feature reclining seats, air conditioning, and ample legroom. Onboard services may include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment options, although these can vary by carrier and bus type. Some buses also provide small individual screens for passengers, offering a selection of movies and TV shows to help pass the time. It is recommended to bring your entertainment options, such as a book, music, or a portable gaming device, to ensure a pleasant journey.

Luggage Policy and Rest Stops:

Bus operators usually have clear luggage policies, allowing passengers to bring one or two pieces of checked luggage and a small carry-on bag. It's important to check the specific rules of your chosen bus company, as there may be weight and size restrictions. Rest stops are typically made along the way, providing passengers with the opportunity to stretch their legs, use restroom facilities, and purchase refreshments. These stops are often made at highway service areas or designated rest points.

When planning your bus trip from Brussels to Cologne, it is advisable to be flexible with your travel dates, as ticket prices can vary depending on demand. By booking in advance, you may find more affordable fares and ensure availability on your preferred travel dates. Additionally, consider traveling during off-peak times, as bus fares may be lower outside of peak season or on weekdays.

Travel by plane

The distance between Brussels and Cologne is 115 miles or 185 km by plane. The flight time is 44 minutes.

The closest airport to Brussels is Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), and the closest airport to Düsseldorf is Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS).

A sample flight plan from BRU connecting through OPO and arriving at DTM flying on Ryanair is as follows:

• Getting to the airport: 79 minutes
• Getting to your destination: 78 minutes
• Initial flight time: 2 hours, 20 minutes
• Connecting airport: Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
• Connection flight time: 2 hours, 36 minutes

The total travel time is 12 hours.

Travel by night train

The distance between Brussels and Cologne is approximately 185 kilometres. The route is served by several train companies, including Deutsche Bahn, Thalys, SNCB, and Belgian Railways (NMBS/SNCB). The journey takes around 1 hour and 48 minutes on average, with the fastest route taking 1 hour and 41 minutes. The first train usually departs at around 6:00 a.m., and the last one leaves at around 9:00 p.m.

Travellers can take a night train from Brussels to Cologne. The night train from Brussels-Nord to Koeln Hbf is operated by Belgian Railways (NMBS/SNCB) and runs four times a week. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes.

When planning your journey, it is important to note that the first and last departure times may vary depending on the day of the week. On weekdays, the first train from Brussels typically departs around 6:23 a.m., while the last train leaves around 7:25 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays, the first train departs around 6:23 a.m., and the last train leaves around 8:25 p.m. However, it is always a good idea to check the schedule before your trip to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Frequently asked questions