Travel Guide: Cologne To Munich

There are several ways to get from Munich to Cologne, including by train, bus, plane, car, or a combination of these. The best option for you will depend on your budget and time constraints. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, which takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes for a direct flight. Travelling by train is also a popular option, with direct trains taking around 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which is the most affordable choice, but it will take around 8 hours.

Travel by train

Taking the train is a comfortable and scenic way to travel from Cologne to Munich. The German railway system, Deutsche Bahn, offers frequent high-speed connections between these two cities. The journey usually involves a direct Intercity-Express (ICE) train or a connection with one change in Frankfurt or Stuttgart. The trip takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on the route and train type.

To begin your journey, make your way to Cologne Central Station (Köln Hbf), located in the heart of the city. You can easily reach the station by local transport, such as S-Bahn or bus, or even walk if you are staying nearby. Once at the station, head to the main departure hall to locate your train. Check the departure boards for your train's platform (Gleis) number, as these can vary. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure a relaxed boarding process.

When booking your ticket, consider purchasing a seat reservation, especially if you are traveling during peak hours or on busy days. This guarantees a specific seat in your chosen coach and class of service. First and second class carriages are available, with second class being the more economical option. If you have a valid rail pass, such as the German Rail Pass, remember to activate it before boarding by getting it stamped at one of the validation machines located within the station.

For the journey itself, settle into your seat and enjoy the passing landscapes and city views. The train ride takes you through the German countryside, offering glimpses of lush forests, rolling hills, and charming towns. If you'd like to grab a bite to eat or a beverage, there is usually a restaurant car on board, or you can opt to bring your own snacks and drinks. Modern amenities, such as power outlets and Wi-Fi, are often available on ICE trains, making your journey comfortable and productive.

Travel by bus

Traveling by bus is a great option for those who want to take their time and enjoy the journey from Cologne to Munich. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip:

Bus Schedule and Trip Duration

There are a few daily bus trips from Cologne to Munich, with the earliest departure at 2:15 am and the latest at 11:25 pm. The journey takes approximately 7 hours 30 minutes to 10 hours, depending on the bus operator and traffic conditions.

Bus Stations

Cologne

Cologne has three main bus stations:

• Cologne Airport CGN (Terminal 2)
• Busbahnhof Flughafen Köln
• Leverkusen Mitte station
• Cologne East (Bergisch Gladbach, Refrath)

Munich

Munich has three central bus stations:

• Munich Central Bus Station
• Werner-Heisenberg-Allee
• Munich East (Bus station Messestadt Ost)

Bus Companies and Tickets

FlixBus is a popular choice for this route, offering comfortable seats, toilets, Wi-Fi, and power outlets onboard. Tickets can be purchased online, with prices starting as low as $21.49 for this route. Other bus companies serving this route include Globtour, Metak Trans, and Trans Turist.

Luggage Allowance

When traveling by bus from Cologne to Munich, you can bring one carry-on bag and one checked bag per person. However, additional fees may apply if you need to bring extra luggage.

Advantages of Taking the Bus

Traveling by bus is an affordable and eco-friendly option. It is also a great choice for those who want to enjoy the scenery along the way, as you'll be passing through approximately 350 miles of landscapes.

Travel by plane

Flying is the fastest way to get from Munich to Cologne. Eurowings and Lufthansa are the two main airlines that operate this route. Eurowings is Germany's leading low-cost airline, and Lufthansa is Germany's largest airline. Eurowings offers flights from as little as $93 (€80) or $58 (€50) depending on the source, while Lufthansa offers a range of ticket options, including Economy Light, Economy Classic, Economy Flex, Business Class, and First Class.

The Munich to Cologne flight takes around one hour, but you should plan to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure to allow for check-in and security. Both Munich Airport and Cologne Bonn Airport are easily accessible from their respective city centres.

When booking your flight, consider using a website like Skyscanner to compare prices and find the best deals. Keep in mind that flying is not the most environmentally friendly option for this journey, and the time saved might be offset by the time spent travelling to and from the airports and waiting around for your flight.

Travel by car

The drive from Munich to Cologne is around 357 miles (574 km) and should take about 4 hours and 47 minutes in normal traffic. The route takes you through Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Rothenburg, Wurzburg, Koblenz, Bamberg, Bonn, Mainz, Mannheim, and Ingolstadt.

Best stops along the way

#### Weltenburg Abbey

Weltenburg Abbey is a historical monastery that was established in the 600s. It is home to one of the world's oldest monastic breweries and a restaurant. The abbey's church boasts breathtaking wall and ceiling paintings. Visitors can enjoy an introduction to the history and architecture of the church from a German-speaking guide.

#### Ingolstadt Village

Ingolstadt Village is an outlet shopping center located in Ingolstadt, Bavaria. It offers a wide range of shopping opportunities, particularly in the fashion sector. The city itself is the second-largest in Upper Bavaria and has much to offer visitors, including its medieval old town and the Audi Forum, which showcases the history of the Audi car manufacturer.

#### Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site serves as a place of remembrance and education, showcasing the horrors of the Holocaust during World War II. Visitors can take a five-hour tour that includes transportation from Munich. The memorial includes exhibitions, reconstructed barracks and cells, photographs, documents, and memorials.

#### Imperial Castle of Nuremberg

The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg is a majestic castle complex from the 11th century, featuring a royal palace and gardens. It offers breathtaking views of the city and is known for its use by the Third Reich to enact oppressive laws in 1935 and for hosting the "Nuremberg Trials" after World War II.

#### Würzburg Residence

Würzburg Residence is a grand 18th-century palace located in the heart of the vineyards in Würzburg, Germany. It offers guided tours that showcase its exquisite frescos and paintings, as well as its formal gardens. The Residenz palace is a significant architectural landmark, representing various European styles.

#### Alte Mainbrucke

The Alte Mainbrucke, or Old Main Bridge, is a pedestrian-only bridge in Würzburg, Germany. Constructed between 1473 and 1543, it is adorned with statues of saints and other notable figures. The bridge offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for tourists.

#### Römerberg

Römerberg is Frankfurt's main city hall and has served as such for 600 years. This medieval building, with its stepped gable facade, is located in the heart of the city's historic Altstadt (Old Town). It is a bustling hub, hosting open-air markets, cultural events, and traditional festivals throughout the year.

#### Main Tower Restaurant & Lounge

The Main Tower Restaurant & Lounge is a fine dining restaurant located on the 53rd floor of a skyscraper in Frankfurt. It offers stunning views of the city and serves international cuisine. It is a popular spot for both bankers and visitors, providing a unique dining experience.

#### Frankfurt Central Station

Frankfurt Central Station, or Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof, is a grand Neo-Renaissance train station that serves both regional and long-distance routes. The ground floor hosts platforms for long-distance trains, while the underground provides access to the S-bahn and U-bahn systems. The station offers various facilities, including paid restrooms, food and beverage shops, and seating areas.

#### Gutenberg Museum

The Gutenberg Museum in Mainz, Germany, is dedicated to the history of printing. It showcases displays of Gutenberg Bibles and the famous invention by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century that revolutionized book production with movable type printing. The museum offers insights into the development of printing in both Eastern and Western cultures and features some exhibits with English translations.

#### Mainz Cathedral

The Mainz Cathedral, officially known as St. Martin's Cathedral, is a Romanesque structure with a Baroque spire and an ornate cloister. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, second only to the Vatican in size. The cathedral boasts enchanting medieval art and elaborate tombstones. Its impressive architecture and rich history make it a must-see destination.

#### Drosselgasse

Drosselgasse is a charming alley in Rüdesheim, Germany, known for its half-timbered buildings, pubs, and shops. This 472-foot cobblestone street is adorned with colorful structures, cafes, and wine taverns. Originally inhabited by Rhine boatmen in the 15th century, it became a popular spot for bars in the 19th century.

#### Niederwald Monument

The Niederwald Monument, located atop a hill near Rüdesheim, Germany, commemorates the unification of Germany following the Franco-Prussian War. Accessible by foot or cable car, it offers stunning views of the Rhine River and valley below. The monument features an imposing figure of Germania, symbolizing unity and strength.

#### Limburg Cathedral

The Limburg Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, is a remarkable Romanesque structure built on a rock. It showcases medieval art both inside and out, with enchanting fairy tale spires. Visitors can park their vehicles below and take a leisurely stroll up to the cathedral, taking in the beautiful surroundings. The exterior boasts lovely bells, while the interior exudes a peaceful ambiance with chanting and historic art.

#### Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

The Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, positioned on a mountain of the same name, was constructed by Prussian forces between 1817 and 1828. It houses the state museum of ancient artifacts, special exhibitions, and war memorials. The fortress offers breathtaking views of the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers and provides a unique historical experience.

#### Deutsches Eck

Deutsches Eck is a monument in Koblenz, Germany, marking the spot where two rivers meet. It is home to the impressive Monument to Emperor Wilhelm, a 37-meter-high equestrian statue erected in 1897. The statue was damaged during World War II but has since been restored. The site offers a beautiful view of the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers.

Travel by rideshare

If you're looking to travel from Cologne to Munich by rideshare, there are a few options available to you. The distance between the two cities is around 356-359 miles, and the journey will take approximately 6 hours.

BlaBlaCar

Check out BlaBlaCar's carpooling service, which offers rideshare options between Cologne and Munich. This is a great choice if you don't have a driver's license or would prefer to avoid public transport. You can sign up for an account on their website if you don't already have one.

Uber and Lyft

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at Munich International Airport (MUC). They can drop you off at the departure level, alongside regular passengers and taxis. When requesting a ride, be sure to notify your driver of the airline and terminal, if possible.

Keep in mind your luggage requirements and choose a ride option that will comfortably fit all passengers and suitcases. You can proceed to Ground Transportation on the Arrivals Level and look for the "Passenger Pickups" or "TNC/Rideshares" area.

Other Options

In addition to the above, there are other ridesharing services available at Munich International Airport, such as Blacklane, MyTaxi, and Talixo. These provide a variety of vehicle options, from economy to luxury, and can be booked through their respective apps or websites.

Frequently asked questions