Exploring Germany: Aachen And Cologne's Distance Delights

The distance between Aachen and Cologne is around 40 miles or 64 kilometres. There are several ways to travel between the two cities, including by train, bus, rideshare, taxi, or car. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by train, which takes around 36 minutes and costs $5.26 when booked in advance.

Travel by train

The distance between Aachen and Cologne is around 40 miles, and the road distance is 46 miles. The best way to travel between the two cities without a car is by train, which takes between 36 and 52 minutes and costs $5.26 when booked in advance.

Train Operators

Deutsche Bahn, ICE (Intercity Express), FlixTrain, and ÖBB trains all operate on this route.

Tickets

You can buy tickets from the Reisezentrum (Travel Information) at Aachen Central Station, or from one of the four ticket machines, which offer guidance in German, English, Dutch, French, Italian, and Turkish. A single ticket costs €17.50, and the train departs from Track 2.

Onboard Amenities

• Free WiFi
• Power sockets
• Bistro carriage with snacks and drinks
• Onboard restaurant
• Air conditioning (on ICE trains)

Travel by bus

Taking the bus is a possible option when traveling from Aachen to Cologne. There are direct buses connecting these two cities, and the journey usually takes between 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan your bus trip:

• Bus Operators and Departure Points: There are a few bus companies that operate on this route, including FlixBus and RegioJet. Buses typically depart from the main bus stations in each city: Aachen's Busbahnhof (near the main train station) and Cologne's Flughafen Köln/Bonn or the central bus station, ZOB Köln.
• Frequency and Schedule: Bus schedules vary, but you can generally expect to find multiple departures throughout the day, with more frequent buses during peak travel times. It's always a good idea to check the departure times in advance and plan your trip accordingly. You can easily book your tickets online or purchase them directly at the bus station, although buying in advance ensures you get a seat.
• Onboard Amenities: The buses on this route often provide comfortable seating, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Some buses may also have power outlets and onboard entertainment options. You can bring your own snacks and drinks, but there are usually brief rest stops along the way where you can purchase refreshments as well.
• Scenery Along the Way: The bus journey takes you through the beautiful German countryside, offering glimpses of rolling hills, forests, and charming towns. You'll pass by towns such as Düren and Kerpen, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Rhine River as you approach Cologne.
• Arrival in Cologne: Buses from Aachen typically arrive at Cologne's central bus station, ZOB Köln, which is conveniently located near the city center. From here, you can easily reach many of Cologne's top attractions on foot or by using the efficient public transport system. The bus station is well-connected to the rest of the city, with tram and bus stops nearby.
• Things to Note: When traveling by bus, it's important to be aware of potential delays due to traffic, especially during rush hours or on busy travel days. It is always advisable to arrive at the bus station a little early to ensure you don't miss your bus, as they generally depart on time. Additionally, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Travel by taxi

Traveling by taxi between Aachen and Cologne is a convenient and comfortable option, especially if you prefer a direct door-to-door journey or are traveling in a group. The distance between Aachen and Cologne is approximately 43.5 miles (70 kilometers), and the trip typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

When considering a taxi journey between the two cities, it is important to keep in mind that the cost can be relatively high compared to other forms of transportation. The total price will depend on the taxi company you choose, the specific route taken, and any additional fees or surcharges that may apply. On average, you can expect to pay between €150 and €200 for the journey from Aachen to Cologne by taxi.

To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, booking your taxi in advance is recommended. There are several reputable taxi companies serving the Aachen and Cologne areas that offer pre-booking services. By providing your trip details ahead of time, such as the number of passengers, your pickup and drop-off locations, and any specific requirements or needs, the taxi company can ensure a vehicle is dispatched to accommodate your request.

When traveling by taxi, you can expect a comfortable and efficient journey. Taxis are typically well-maintained and offer a range of amenities to make your trip enjoyable. You can request a vehicle that suits your needs, whether you require additional space for luggage or a larger vehicle for a group. The drivers are usually knowledgeable about the area and can often provide interesting insights or answer any questions you may have about the region during your trip.

Travel by car

The distance between Aachen and Cologne is approximately 40 miles by road. The road distance is slightly longer at 46 miles. The driving time is around 54 minutes, but this does not take traffic into account, so it is important to check the traffic conditions before setting off.

If you are travelling by car, there are a few different routes you can take. One option is to drive non-stop, which will take you around 54 minutes. However, if you want to make the most of your journey, you might want to stop along the way and explore the local area. Here is a suggested itinerary for a road trip from Cologne to Aachen:

• Start your journey in Cologne and drive for about 11 minutes to EuroMedia Apart-Hotel. Spend about an hour exploring the area.
• Get back on the road and drive for 12 minutes to Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld. Stay for an hour to check out the sights.
• Hop back in your car and drive for 16 minutes to Cologne. Take an hour here to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat.
• After your break, drive for 14 minutes to Kerpen and spend an hour discovering what the town has to offer.
• Next, drive for 16 minutes to Duren and stay for an hour.
• Get back on the road and drive for 13 minutes to Inden. Spend an hour exploring before jumping back in the car.
• Drive for 12 minutes to Eschweiler and take another hour-long break.
• Finally, drive for around 16 minutes and you will arrive in Aachen.

This road trip itinerary will take you around 2 hours on the road, with plenty of stops along the way to enjoy the sights and take a break from driving.

Travel by rideshare

If you're looking to travel between Aachen and Cologne, ridesharing is the cheapest option, costing between $1 and $8. The ridesharing journey from Aachen to Cologne is approximately 44.2 miles and takes around 1 hour and 6 minutes.

Ridesharing is a great option if you don't have a driver's license or would prefer to avoid public transport. You can check out Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare options between the two cities.

When planning your trip, be sure to keep in mind any travel restrictions that may be in place due to COVID-19.

Frequently asked questions