Navigating Germany: Bonn's Distance From Cologne Airport

Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is located in the Porz district, about 15 kilometres southeast of Cologne and 16 kilometres northeast of Bonn. The distance between the airport and Bonn is 23 kilometres or 14.3 miles. There are several ways to travel between the airport and Bonn, including by bus, train, taxi, car, or town car.

Cologne Bonn Airport to Cologne by train

Cologne Bonn Airport is located around 8 miles (13 km) from Cologne, and there are several ways to travel between the two. One option is to take a direct train from the airport to the city centre. The train journey takes around 9-11 minutes and costs as little as $11.50 or €3 for a one-way ticket. Trains depart every 10-15 minutes, depending on the day of the week, and the first and last trains vary slightly between weekdays and weekends. On weekdays, the first train leaves the airport at 04:23, while on weekends it leaves at 04:35. The last train on weekdays is at 23:48, and at 23:53 on weekends.

There are two train companies operating on this route: Intercity-Express (ICE) and Mittelrhein Bahn (Trans Regio). Both offer modern and comfortable services with plenty of room for luggage. ICE trains are high-speed trains with a maximum speed of 205 mph (330 km/h) and are equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment, and power sockets. They also offer free WiFi and a bistro carriage where you can purchase snacks and drinks.

In addition to the train, you can also take a taxi, bus, tram, or drive from the airport to Cologne.

Cologne Bonn Airport to Cologne by bus

Cologne Bonn Airport is located 14.5 km away from Downtown Cologne and is well-connected to local and long-distance public transport. There are various ways to get from the airport to the city centre, including by taxi, train, and bus.

Cologne Bonn Airport has its own long-distance bus station, which is located directly next to Terminal 2 and is easily accessible by public transport and car. An express bus connects the airport with Bonn Central Station. The bus from Bonn Hbf to Köln/Bonn Flughafen Terminal 1 takes 27 minutes, including transfers, and departs every 30 minutes. This is the best way to get from Bonn Hbf to Cologne Bonn Airport without a car.

Cologne Bonn Airport to Cologne by taxi

Cologne Bonn Airport is located about 15 kilometres southeast of Cologne and is well-connected to the city's public transportation network. The airport has its own ICE railway station, which is located near both terminals, and is served by various S-Bahn, regional and bus lines. However, if you prefer to travel by taxi, here is some information to help you out:

Taking a taxi or private transfer from Cologne Bonn Airport to the city centre is a comfortable and easy option. The ride usually takes around 15 minutes and offers door-to-door service. Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport, and you can find the taxi ranks directly in front of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

The cost of a taxi ride to the city centre depends on factors such as time of day and traffic conditions. On average, you can expect to pay around €25-€40 for the trip. Taxi fares are calculated using a taximeter based on the time and distance travelled.

When taking a taxi, ensure that the taximeter is turned on and reset before starting your journey. Most taxi drivers prefer cash payments, but some may accept card payments with a small supplement. Tipping is not required but always appreciated; most passengers round up the fare to the nearest convenient amount.

If you prefer to pre-book your taxi, there are online platforms that allow you to compare prices and book in advance, ensuring a fixed and competitive rate. These platforms often offer additional benefits, such as English-speaking drivers and flexible payment options.

Alternative Transport Options

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the S-Bahn train is a great alternative. It provides direct transportation from the airport to the city centre in about 14 minutes and costs only €3 for a one-way ticket. The train is also available 24/7 and runs frequently.

Additionally, Cologne Bonn Airport is connected to central Cologne by the RB27 regional express train and the SB60 bus.

Cologne Bonn Airport to Bonn by bus

Cologne Bonn Airport is located in Porz district, about 15 kilometres southeast of Cologne and 16 kilometres northeast of Bonn. The airport is well-connected to local and long-distance public transport, including trains and buses.

If you want to take a bus from Cologne Bonn Airport to Bonn, you can take the SB 60 bus line, which departs from Terminal 1. The travel time is approximately 30 minutes, and the ticket costs around €3.60 per way. The bus generally runs from 04:18 to 23:48, with buses departing every 30 to 60 minutes. However, note that the last bus to Bonn departs from the airport at 00:56, and the next one is at 04:24.

Alternatively, you can take bus line 161 to the Portz Markt in Cologne (the main rail station) and then take another bus or train to Bonn. Bus line 161 also costs around €3 per ticket and runs from 04:18 to 23:48, with buses departing every 30 to 60 minutes. The travel time to Cologne is about 15 minutes.

Cologne Bonn Airport to Cologne by car

Cologne Bonn Airport is located 15 kilometres southeast of Cologne. There are several ways to get from the airport to the city by car. Here is some detailed information to help you make the trip.

Travel Distance and Time

The distance from Cologne Bonn Airport to Cologne is approximately 15 kilometres (9.3 miles). The drive typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your exact destination within the city.

Route Options

There are a few route options to consider when driving from the airport to Cologne. Here are two possible routes:

• Via the A59: This route takes you north from the airport towards Porz and then west towards Cologne. It may be a convenient option if you need to get to western areas of Cologne or nearby towns like Leverkusen.
• Via the B8: This route takes you south from the airport and then west towards Cologne. It can be useful if you are heading to southern Cologne or want to connect to other major roads like the A555.

Parking Options in Cologne

When driving to Cologne, you may need to find parking, especially if you're staying for a longer period. Here are some parking options to consider:

• Street Parking: On-street parking is available in Cologne, but it can be challenging to find a spot in the city centre. Be sure to pay attention to parking signs and restrictions to avoid fines.
• Parking Garages and Lots: There are several parking garages and lots scattered throughout Cologne, offering convenient parking options. These may be ideal if you want to park for a longer duration or need a guaranteed spot.
• Hotel Parking: If you're staying at a hotel in Cologne, check if they offer parking facilities for guests. This can be a convenient option, especially if your hotel is located in the city centre.

Car Rental Options at the Airport

If you need to rent a car upon your arrival at Cologne Bonn Airport, there are several car rental companies available:

• Sixt: Located at Terminal 2 (Arrivals), Sixt offers a range of vehicles for rent.
• Europcar: Also found at Terminal 2 (Arrivals), Europcar provides car rental services.
• Hertz: Hertz is another option for car rentals, and you can find their office at Terminal 2 (Arrivals) as well.

Things to Keep in Mind

When driving in Germany and navigating to Cologne, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Traffic Rules and Regulations: Familiarise yourself with German traffic rules, including speed limits, right-of-way regulations, and priority for public transportation.
• Environmental Zones (Umweltzonen): Cologne has designated environmental zones where only vehicles with an emissions sticker (Umweltplakette) are allowed to enter. Make sure your rental car has the necessary sticker if you need to drive within these zones.
• Toll Roads: Germany has a toll system for some roads, particularly some highways and autobahns. Be aware of any toll requirements and payment options when driving on these roads.
• Fuel Costs: Fuel prices in Germany can vary, and it's essential to keep an eye on the fuel gauge and refuel as needed. Many petrol stations accept credit cards, but it's helpful to have cash as well.
• Navigation: Consider using a GPS device or a navigation app on your phone to help you navigate to your specific destination in Cologne.

Frequently asked questions