Exploring Germany: Stuttgart To Cologne Distance Explained

Germany is a country with a rich history and diverse landscape, offering a variety of attractions for locals and tourists alike. When it comes to travelling between two of its well-known cities, Cologne and Stuttgart, the distance can vary depending on the mode of transportation. The as the crow flies distance, which is the shortest distance in a straight line, is approximately 179 miles or 288 kilometres. However, if you're planning a road trip or driving non-stop, the distance increases to 234 miles or 377 kilometres. This longer route will likely take around 3 hours and 38 minutes, excluding any necessary stops along the way. Alternatively, if you prefer train travel, you can expect the journey to take around 2 hours and 40 minutes to 2 hours and 43 minutes, offering a more time-efficient option.

Cologne to Stuttgart by train

The distance between Cologne and Stuttgart is approximately 288 kilometres (178-179 miles) by train and 377 kilometres (234 miles) by car. The best way to travel between the two cities is by train, as it is the fastest and cheapest option. The journey takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes on average, with tickets costing between €13 and €75. There are 24-27 direct trains on this route every day, with the first train departing Cologne at around 05:52 on weekdays and 05:55 on weekends, and the last train departing at 22:30 every day. The trains are operated by Deutsche Bahn and usually depart from Köln Hbf, arriving at Stuttgart Hbf.

Cologne to Stuttgart by bus

The distance between Cologne and Stuttgart is approximately 234 miles or 377 kilometres by road. The bus is a great option for travelling between the two German cities. Here is some information on how to go about it.

Bus Operators

FlixBus is a popular choice for travelling by bus from Cologne to Stuttgart. They offer environmentally-friendly and comfortable coach trips, with prices starting from £17.99. The average price of a ticket is £33.99. The coaches have free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air-conditioning and toilets. You are allowed one suitcase and one piece of hand luggage free of charge.

Another bus operator for this route is Hak Bus.

Journey Time

The bus journey from Cologne to Stuttgart takes between 4 hours 50 minutes and 6 hours 40. The fastest journey by bus is 4 hours and 55 minutes.

Bus Stations

In Cologne, FlixBus has seven coach stops: Cologne Airport CGN (Terminal 2), Cologne East (Bergisch Gladbach, Refrath), Leverkusen Mitte station, and more. In Stuttgart, FlixBus has 11 stops, including Kornwestheim, Stuttgart East/Kirchheim unter Teck, Stuttgart Vaihingen station, and Stuttgart Zuffenhausen bus station.

Booking Tickets

You can book FlixBus tickets online via their website, on their app, in person at a FlixShop, or using Google Assistant. Omio is another platform where you can book tickets for this route.

Cologne to Stuttgart by plane

The distance between Cologne and Stuttgart is approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles) if you're simply looking at how far it is from Stuttgart to Cologne by bird flight. However, if you're planning to travel from Cologne to Stuttgart by plane, there are a few things to consider.

Firstly, there is no direct commercial airline operating between the two cities. This means that you would need to take a connecting flight, likely via Frankfurt or Munich. While this adds a bit of complexity to the journey, it is still a viable option, especially if you are short on time. Several major airlines offer flights between Cologne and Stuttgart, including Lufthansa and Eurowings. The flight time for this journey is typically around 1 hour and 15 minutes, but you will need to factor in time for layovers and transit between airports.

When booking your flight, be sure to leave enough time for any connections and take into account any potential delays. It is also important to note that the flight schedules and availability may vary depending on the season and day of the week. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the latest information and book your flights in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and times.

Once you arrive in Stuttgart, you will find that the city has a comprehensive public transport system, making it easy to get from the airport to your final destination. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi or rental car service, depending on your preferences and budget.

Cologne to Stuttgart by car

The distance between Cologne and Stuttgart is approximately 245 kilometers (152 miles) and the fastest route to drive from Cologne to Stuttgart is via the A6 and A3 highways, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This route passes through some beautiful German countryside and a few small towns, providing a pleasant and scenic drive.

To begin your journey, head south out of Cologne on the A559, following signs for the A3. This will lead you towards Frankfurt and Wiesbaden. After about 20 minutes, you'll join the A3, one of Germany's main east-west highways. Stay on the A3 for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, passing through gentle hills and forests, as well as towns such as Wiesbaden, Rüsselsheim, and Darmstadt.

Once you've passed Darmstadt, keep an eye out for signs to the A67 and Mannheim. This will involve a short detour off the A3, but it's a quick route to join the A6, which is the main highway heading south towards Stuttgart. The A67 is a relatively short stretch of the autobahn, and in about 15 minutes, you'll be joining the A6. Take the exit onto the A6, heading south (signs for Heilbronn/Stuttgart). This part of the journey will take you through some lovely rural areas, with fields, forests, and small villages.

Stay on the A6 for around an hour, and you'll start to see signs for Stuttgart. The highway will take you directly into the city. As you get closer, follow the signs for the specific part of Stuttgart you need to reach, whether it's the city center or a particular neighborhood. Remember to observe the speed limits, take breaks if needed, and enjoy the journey!

Cologne to Stuttgart by night train

There are 9 ways to travel from Cologne to Stuttgart, including by night train. The night train from Köln Messe/Deutz Bf to Stuttgart Hbf is direct and takes 9 hours and 31 minutes. The average duration of the journey is 12 hours and 24 minutes, with 22 trains per day. The first train leaves at 00:20 and the last at 21:40. The price of tickets starts at $20.97 for this journey if you book in advance.

The night train is operated by Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express, which offers modern trains with plenty of space for luggage and comfortable seating. The trains are equipped with air conditioning, a dining car, a children's compartment, and power sockets.

The distance between Cologne and Stuttgart is 219 miles, and the road distance is 228.4 miles.

Frequently asked questions