Exploring Europe: Copenhagen To Cologne Distance Revealed

The distance between Copenhagen and Cologne is approximately 400 miles (645 km) by road and 426 miles (685 km) as the crow flies. The road distance is about 549.7 miles (884 km). The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, which takes about 4 hours, while the cheapest option is by bus, costing around $65.

Travel by train

The distance between Copenhagen and Cologne is approximately 400 miles (644-646 km). The average train duration is 9 hours 23 minutes, with the fastest train taking 8 hours 23 minutes and the slowest taking 13 hours 54 minutes. There are frequent services on this route, with around 68 trains per day and departures roughly every 4 minutes. The first train usually leaves Copenhagen at around 4:01 am on weekdays and 4:44 am on weekends, and the last train typically departs at around 12:58 am on weekdays and 12:55 am on weekends.

There is no direct train from Copenhagen to Cologne. All routes require at least one change, usually in Hamburg. The average price for a single ticket is $85, with the cheapest tickets starting from $42. The train operators on this route include Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain.

To book your train tickets in advance, you can use online platforms such as Omio, Rail Europe, and Trainline. Booking early can help you find cheaper fares, and prices tend to increase closer to the departure date.

Travel by plane

The fastest way to travel between Copenhagen and Cologne is by air. The two cities are served by several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities. The flight time between Copenhagen and Cologne is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Several airlines offer direct flights between Copenhagen Airport (CPH) and Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN). These include Scandinavian Airlines, Lufthansa, and Eurowings.

When traveling by plane, it is important to consider the time needed to get to and from the airport, as well as the time required for checking in and clearing security. Both Copenhagen and Cologne have efficient transport systems that connect their city centers to the respective airports. In Copenhagen, the metro runs directly from the city center to the airport, taking around 15 minutes. From Cologne Central Station, the S13 train goes to Cologne/Bonn Airport and takes about 15 minutes.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 2 hours for international flights. This will allow enough time to check in, drop off your luggage, and clear security. Once you have arrived at the airport, you can use the self-service kiosks to check in and print your boarding pass, or you can check in at the counter. Remember to have your passport or valid ID ready.

After passing through security, you will have access to the airport's departure lounge, where you can find a variety of shops and restaurants. Many airlines offer online check-in, which allows you to print your boarding pass or have it on your mobile device in advance, saving you time at the airport. Some airlines may also offer priority check-in and boarding for an additional fee, which can further expedite your travel experience.

Travel by bus

If you're considering a bus journey from Copenhagen to Cologne, you're in for a comfortable and scenic trip. The distance between the two cities is approximately 510 miles (820 km), and the bus journey usually takes between 14 and 17 hours, depending on the route and any stops along the way. Here's some information to help you plan your bus journey:

There are a few bus companies that operate direct routes between Copenhagen and Cologne. One of the popular choices is FlixBus, which offers daily connections between the two cities. You can book your tickets online in advance, which is recommended to secure your seat, especially during peak travel seasons. The FlixBus usually departs from Copenhagen Ingerslevsgade, which is the city's main bus station, and arrives at Cologne's airport (CGN).

The buses are typically modern and comfortable, with reclining seats, air conditioning, and WiFi. Some buses may also have power outlets at each seat, so you can keep your electronic devices charged during the journey. It's a good idea to bring some entertainment, such as a book, music, or a laptop, as well as some snacks and drinks to make the trip more enjoyable.

Along the way, the bus will make a few rest stops at service stations to allow passengers to stretch their legs, use the restroom, and grab a quick bite to eat. These stops usually last around 15-30 minutes each and provide a good opportunity to refresh before continuing the journey. The scenery along the route is quite varied, taking you through Danish and German landscapes, including rural areas, forests, and charming towns and villages.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that bus schedules can vary, and it's always a good idea to arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth check-in process. Additionally, don't forget to bring a valid form of identification, such as a passport, as you will be crossing international borders.

Driving distance

The distance between Cologne and Copenhagen is around 467 miles or 752 kilometres. The driving time is around 8 hours and 3 minutes. However, this is a long drive and it is not very realistic to drive non-stop. It is recommended to spread the journey over two days, with an overnight stay.

There are several interesting stops along the way, including Dortmund, Lubeck, Hamburg, and Roskilde.

Flight distance

The flight distance between Copenhagen and Cologne is 401 miles or 646 kilometres. This is the distance a private plane would fly in a straight line.

Commercial flights between the two cities are available, and the fastest nonstop flight from Copenhagen to Cologne takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. This is the shortest flight time available.

However, when taking a commercial flight, you will need to account for travel time to and from the airport, as well as time spent waiting for security and boarding. This will increase your total travel time.

For example, a flight from Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS) to Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup (CPH) has a flight time of 1 hour and 18 minutes. But when you include the time it takes to get to and from the airport and the estimated wait time at the airport, the total travel time becomes 5 hours.

Therefore, when planning your trip, it is important to consider not only the flight time but also the additional time required for travel to and from the airport and any wait times.

Frequently asked questions