Exploring Germany: Miles Between Bremen And Cologne

If you're planning a trip from Bremen to Cologne in Germany, you're looking at a journey of around 168 miles (270 km) by train or car. The distance between the two cities is a relatively short flight or drive, but there are plenty of interesting places to stop along the way if you want to make a road trip of it. By train, the journey takes on average 3 hours and 22 minutes, with tickets costing as little as $17.58 when booked in advance.

Travel by train

The distance between Bremen and Cologne is around 167-168 miles (269-270km) and the average journey time is 3 hours 16-22 minutes. However, the fastest train will get you there in 2 hours 58 minutes. There are 12 direct trains a day, with around 19-24 trains travelling this route daily.

Train Companies

Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain are the two main train companies that operate on this route.

Tickets

Tickets can be purchased on the day of travel, but it is usually more expensive than if you were to book in advance. The price of a train ticket from Cologne to Bremen can start from as little as $12 (€10) when booked in advance.

Classes

Both Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain offer two classes: First and Second. First Class offers more legroom, a quiet area, and at-seat catering, while Second Class offers comfy seats with power sockets, fold-down tables, and free WiFi.

Luggage

Both train companies allow passengers to take as much luggage as they like for free without making a reservation. Briefcases, laptops, rucksacks, trolley bags, and suitcases are all permitted, as well as pushchairs, folding bikes, scooters, skis, and surfboards.

Onboard Services

An extensive menu is available on the onboard restaurant car, or you can opt to grab a snack from the bistro carriage. All trains are equipped with air conditioning and power sockets, and some have a dining car and children's compartment. Free WiFi is available on certain trains.

Tips for Finding Cheap Train Tickets

• Be flexible with your travel times: tickets are usually cheaper outside of peak hours (generally between 06:00 and 10:00, and 15:00 and 19:00 on weekdays).
• Choose a slower or connecting train: these trains may take longer but are usually cheaper.
• Look out for special deals: keep an eye out for special offers and discounts on train tickets.
• Book in advance: tickets are often cheaper when booked three to six months in advance.

Stations

Cologne Central Station

Cologne Central Station is located next to Cologne Cathedral and on the edge of the pedestrian zone. The station offers an array of bakeries and food stalls, as well as shops and free WiFi.

Bremen Central Station

The centrally-located Bremen Central Station provides easy access to the city centre and Bremen Airport via tram. The station has bakeries, shops, cash dispensers, and free WiFi.

Travel by car

The distance from Bremen to Cologne is approximately 250 miles (400 km) and is a straightforward drive that can be completed in a few different ways. The fastest and most direct route would be to take the A1 and A3 highways, which will take you through the heart of Germany and offer a blend of scenic and urban views.

Starting in Bremen, join the A1 highway heading south. This modern and well-maintained highway will take you past verdant fields and charming towns, including Osnabrück and Münster. As you drive, you'll notice the landscape gradually changing, with gentle hills and patches of forest breaking up the flat countryside. This region is known for its picturesque beauty, so there are worse ideas than taking a short detour to explore some of the quaint villages en route.

However, if you wish to make good time, the A1 will efficiently deliver you to the A30, which joins onto the A2 and brings you into the vibrant city of Dortmund. Here, you'll connect to the A3, which is the final leg of your journey to Cologne. This portion of the drive offers a striking contrast, with the Rhine River providing a beautiful backdrop to your journey as you near your destination.

An alternative route would be to take the slightly longer A7 and A45 highways, which add about 30 miles (50 km) to the journey but can be more scenic and relaxing. This route takes you through picturesque landscapes and historic towns, including the medieval city of Marburg, offering a unique perspective on German culture and nature.

Travel by plane

The distance from Bremen to Cologne is approximately 235 miles (378 km) and there are several transport options to make this journey, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. One option is to fly. While flying may not always be the first choice for a journey of this distance, it is a viable option and can be quick and convenient. There are no direct flights between Bremen and Cologne airports, therefore, you must connect through a third airport. This adds a little complexity to the journey, but it is still a fast and efficient way to travel.

Lufthansa and Eurowings offer flights from Bremen Airport (BRE) to Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) with a stopover in Frankfurt or Munich. These flights typically take around 3-4 hours, including the layover, and prices vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book. It is always worth checking the airline websites for the latest schedules and fares.

When you factor in the time to get to and from the airports, as well as the check-in and boarding processes, the total travel time can be similar to that of a high-speed train, but with the benefit of a more direct route. For example, from central Bremen, you can take a tram (lines 6 or 8) to the airport, which takes around 15 minutes. At Cologne Bonn Airport, you can use the S-Bahn (lines S13 or S19) to reach Cologne's main train station, a journey of about 15 minutes.

Keep in mind that, while this option can be time-efficient, it may not be the most cost-effective, especially when you consider potential baggage fees and airport transfers. Nonetheless, with a little planning, flying can be a comfortable and speedy way to travel between these two German cities.

Travel by bus

If you're planning a trip from Bremen to Cologne in Germany and prefer a more scenic and economical option, then traveling by bus is a great choice. The distance between the two cities is approximately 236 miles (380 km), and a bus journey can be a comfortable and enjoyable way to cover this ground. Here's everything you need to know about traveling by bus from Bremen to Cologne.

Bus Operators and Journey Duration

There are several reputable bus companies that operate on this route, including FlixBus and Eurolines. These companies offer multiple trips throughout the day, with FlixBus providing the majority of the connections. The journey time can vary depending on the operator, route taken, and traffic conditions, but on average, you can expect the bus trip to take between 6 and 8 hours. It's always a good idea to check the departure and arrival times, as well as the duration, when booking your ticket.

Departure Points and Destinations

In Bremen, buses to Cologne typically depart from the central bus station, "Bremen ZOB," which is conveniently located near the main train station. This makes it easy to reach the departure point, even if you're arriving in Bremen by train. When you arrive in Cologne, buses usually bring you to the "Köln Bonn Airport" or the "Köln Messe/Deutz" station, which is just across the river from the main Cologne train station. From here, you can easily continue your journey or explore the city.

Onboard Amenities and Scenery

Traveling by bus offers a comfortable journey with modern amenities. Most buses are equipped with comfortable seats, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Some operators also provide power outlets, so you can keep your devices charged during the trip. As you travel, you'll pass through the German countryside, enjoying scenic views of rolling hills, forests, and charming towns. It's a great opportunity to relax, listen to music, catch up on reading, or simply enjoy the passing landscapes.

Booking Tickets and Flexibility

Booking your bus ticket is straightforward and can often be done online or through the operator's mobile app. Fares vary depending on the operator, demand, and how far in advance you book. Usually, the earlier you book, the better the price. Traveling by bus also offers flexibility, as you can often change your ticket for a small fee if your plans shift. This makes it a convenient option for those who want a stress-free journey.

Travel by rideshare

If you're travelling from Bremen to Cologne, or vice versa, and you want to do it by rideshare, then you're in luck! There are several ridesharing services that operate between the two cities. The distance between the two German cities is around 201 miles, and the road distance is about 194-195 miles.

The ridesharing journey will take around 3 hours and 22 minutes, and prices start from as little as $14. This is the cheapest way to travel between the two cities.

You can check out Blablacar's carpooling service for ridesharing options. This is a great option if you don't have a driver's license or want to avoid public transport.

Frequently asked questions