Travel Guide: Amsterdam To Cologne

Cologne, Germany, is around 230km southeast of Amsterdam, and there are several ways to travel between the two cities. The fastest way to get from Amsterdam to Cologne is by train, which takes between 2 hours 31 minutes and 2 hours 39 minutes. There are also direct trains available, which cost between €19.90 and €27 one way. Alternatively, you can travel by bus, rideshare, car, or plane, although these options take longer.

Travel by train

Taking the train is a convenient and scenic way to travel from Amsterdam to Cologne. The journey by train is comfortable and offers passengers a chance to relax and enjoy the countryside as you make your way to your destination. There are a few train options to choose from, and the journey usually takes between 2.5 and 4 hours, depending on the type of train and the number of transfers. The fastest train option is the ICE International high-speed train, which offers a direct connection between the two cities in just over 2.5 hours. This modern and comfortable train provides a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

To begin your train journey, make your way to Amsterdam Centraal Station, which is the main railway hub in the city. This beautiful and historic station is located in the heart of Amsterdam, and you can easily reach it by public transport or taxi. Once at the station, look for the ICE International or Intercity trains that depart for Cologne. There are usually a few departures throughout the day, and you can check the current schedule online or at the station. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially for the high-speed ICE train, to ensure availability.

When booking your train travel, you have the option to choose between first and second class carriages. First-class offers more spacious and comfortable seating, additional legroom, and sometimes includes extras such as complimentary snacks and drinks. Second-class carriages are still comfortable and provide a pleasant journey, but with slightly more compact seating arrangements. Both classes offer passengers stunning views of the passing landscape as they travel through the Netherlands and into Germany.

During the journey, you will pass through charming towns and rural areas, with the train speeding through the Dutch countryside before crossing the border into Germany. The train makes a few stops along the way, including Utrecht and Arnhem in the Netherlands, and Düsseldorf and Duisburg in Germany, before arriving at Cologne Central Station. At Cologne Central Station, you will be right in the heart of the city, with easy access to public transport connections and the famous Cologne Cathedral just a short walk away.

Travel by bus

Travelling by bus from Amsterdam to Cologne is a great option, with tickets starting from as little as $11 (€10) and the journey taking around 3 hours 40 minutes.

Bus Companies

FlixBus is the main operator on this route, with 6 buses a day departing from Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk) and arriving at Cologne, Siegburger Street (Access Tankstelle). You can also travel with STUDENT AGENCY k. S. and Ourbus, although these companies have fewer daily departures.

Tickets and Fares

The cheapest bus tickets from Amsterdam to Cologne can be as little as $9 one way, although on average, you can expect to pay around $29 (€26). You can buy your tickets online, on an app, or in person at a FlixShop. FlixBus offers a range of seating options, including extra seats, table seats, and panorama seats, which you can reserve when you book.

Onboard Amenities

FlixBus provides a comfortable journey, with large seats, toilets, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. They also have a generous luggage allowance, with one carry-on bag and one checked bag included with your ticket. You can even purchase snacks and drinks onboard.

Journey Time and Route

The fastest bus from Amsterdam to Cologne takes 3 hours 40 minutes, but the average journey time is around 5 hours 40 minutes. The route covers 133 miles (214 km) and there are usually 6 buses travelling this route every day.

Departure and Arrival Points

Buses from Amsterdam to Cologne depart from Amsterdam, Piarcoplein (Amsterdam Sloterdijk), and arrive at Cologne, Siegburger Street (Access Tankstelle). In Amsterdam, you can also board at Amsterdam, Hoogoorddreef (Hotel Courtyard Amsterdam Arena Atlas) or Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport.

Travel by plane

Although there are no direct flights between Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Cologne-Bonn airport, it is possible to fly between the two cities with a stopover. This option is the most expensive and time-consuming way to travel between the two cities, as you need to factor in the time it takes to get to and from the airport, as well as check-in times.

KLM Cityhopper offers flights between the two cities in around one hour.

Travel by car

The distance between Amsterdam and Cologne is around 150-160 miles (240-260 kilometres) and the drive usually takes between 2 hours 30 minutes and 2 hours 42 minutes.

If you're driving, you'll be passing through the Netherlands and Germany, so make sure you're familiar with the driving laws and requirements of both countries.

You can also use a route planner like ViaMichelin.com to get detailed directions and calculate trip costs. This can be especially useful if you want to make any stops along the way, as there are many small, quaint towns between the two cities.

Remember to review the rules of the road for each country and ensure your vehicle meets all necessary requirements for a safe and enjoyable journey.

Travel by rideshare

Ridesharing is a great option for those looking for an affordable and eco-friendly way to travel from Amsterdam to Cologne. By sharing a ride with others, you can save money on fuel costs and reduce the number of cars on the road. This option is perfect for those who don't have a driver's license or prefer not to take public transportation.

To find a rideshare, you can check out websites such as Blablacar, which offer carpooling services between Amsterdam and Cologne. The distance between the two cities is approximately 258.8 km, and the average travel time by car is around 2 hours and 57 minutes.

When booking a rideshare, be sure to compare prices on different websites to find the best deal. Prices for a rideshare from Cologne to Amsterdam can start as low as $12, making it a very cost-effective option for your journey.

Ridesharing also offers some advantages over other forms of travel. In addition to the cost savings, you'll have the opportunity to socialise with other travellers, making the trip more enjoyable and stimulating. So if you're looking for a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly way to get from Amsterdam to Cologne, consider booking a rideshare!

Frequently asked questions