Affordable Escapes: Cologne, Germany To The World

Cologne, Germany is a popular destination for travellers, thanks to its rich cultural heritage and historical attractions. The city has something for everyone, from thought-provoking museums and Gothic landmarks to impressive cathedrals and a vibrant nightlife.

When it comes to finding cheap flights to Cologne, there are several options available. Here is an introduction to the topic, providing information on the best times to book, popular airlines, and other useful tips for planning your trip.

Airlines and Airports

Cologne is served by Flughafen Köln Bonn, or Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), which is located about 15 minutes from the city centre. The airport has two terminals, with various airlines offering flights to this destination. Some of the popular airlines flying to Cologne include Ryanair, Eurowings, British Airways, Lufthansa, and easyJet.

Booking Tips and Prices

When booking your flight, it is recommended to book at least one week in advance, and preferably around 5 weeks, to find lower prices. The cheapest month to fly to Cologne is typically January, while June, August, and December are the most expensive.

According to search data, the cheapest day to fly is usually Wednesday, while Tuesday is often the most expensive. Additionally, morning flights tend to be more affordable than those in the afternoon.

Flexible Dates and Destinations

To find the best deals, consider being flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Using features like the 'Flexible Dates' calendar on booking websites can help you find the cheapest days to fly.

You can also explore alternative routes, as prices and availability can vary depending on your origin and destination. For example, flights from London to Cologne tend to be more affordable than those from other UK cities.

Conclusion

By planning ahead, being flexible, and comparing prices across different providers, you can secure cheap flights to Cologne and enjoy everything this fascinating city has to offer.

Cologne's airport and transport options

Colognes airport and transport options

Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is located around 14-15km southeast of Cologne and is open 24 hours a day. There are several transport options for travelling between the airport and the city centre.

Train

The S19 S-Bahn train runs from the airport to Cologne Central Station (Köln-Hauptbahnhof) and takes around 14-15 minutes. Trains run every 10 minutes between Monday and Friday and every 30 minutes on weekends. Tickets cost €3.40 for a 90-minute ticket, or €1.75 for passengers under 15.

The Regional Express (RE) train is a faster option, taking just 11 minutes to reach the city centre, although it only runs twice an hour. Tickets for this service also cost €3.

The Intercity-Express (ICE) train is the fastest option, taking just 10 minutes, but it is more expensive at €8 per person.

Taxi

Taxis are available at the airport 24/7 and the journey to the city centre takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The average cost is €40.70 for a sedan-style car, although larger vehicles may incur higher fees.

Private transfer

A private transfer can be booked in advance, offering a personalised service with a professional, English-speaking driver. This option costs €56 for up to three passengers, increasing to €63 for vehicles that can carry up to eight people.

Bus

Bus line 161 travels between the airport and Porz Markt train station every 30 to 60 minutes between 4.18 am and 11.48 pm. The journey takes about 15 minutes and costs €3. However, as Porz Markt station is outside the city centre, you will need to take an additional bus or train to reach your destination.

Cologne's history and attractions

Cologne has a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. The city was founded in 39 BC when the Germanic tribe of the Ubii settled on the left bank of the Rhine. In 50 AD, it was elevated to a city under Roman law and named "Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium". Since the Frankish rule, it has been known as Cologne.

During the early Middle Ages, Cologne became a prominent merchant stronghold due to its strategic location on the Rhine River. The city's influence grew, and it became the capital of the Electorate of Cologne, with the construction of a semicircular city wall and the Gothic Cologne Cathedral. After shaking off archiepiscopal rule in the 15th century, Cologne flourished as a Free Imperial City, with a thriving merchant class.

However, following the Thirty Years' War, the city's development stagnated until it was incorporated into Prussia in 1815. The completion of the cathedral in 1880 as a national monument further enhanced its reputation. Unfortunately, World War II brought extensive devastation, and it took decades of reconstruction to restore Cologne's emblematic urban panorama.

Today, Cologne is Germany's fourth-largest city, known for its vibrant culture and attractions. The city is a blend of ancient history and modern developments. Here are some highlights:

• Cologne Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is a landmark of the city and one of the world's largest. It took over 600 years to build and is known for housing the Shrine of the Three Kings, which is said to contain the bones of the Three Wise Men from the Bible.
• Old Town: Narrow steep-gabled houses, winding cobblestone alleys, romantic squares, and bustling pubs and restaurants make up the medieval-style Old Town. It's a great area to explore on foot, with attractions like the Heinzelmännchen Fountain and the Alter Markt, Cologne's most traditional square.
• Roman Past and Jewish History: The archaeological excavation area on Rathausplatz unveils Cologne's Roman past and its Jewish history during the Middle Ages.
• Museums: Cologne boasts several impressive museums, including the Farina Fragrance Museum, where you can learn about the world-famous Eau de Cologne, and the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, the city's oldest museum, featuring an extensive collection of medieval paintings and Impressionist art. The Museum Ludwig is another notable attraction, showcasing pop art, Picasso, and Expressionism.
• Beer Culture: Cologne is renowned for its unique beer culture, with the local brew, Kölsch, served in 20cl glasses. The lively Altstadt (Old Town) offers year-round beer halls, providing an authentic German beer experience.
• Other Attractions: The city also features impressive Roman structures, such as the Eifel Aqueduct, and unique attractions like the sewers, which were upgraded in the 19th century and are now a popular site for concerts and tours.

The best times to visit Cologne

Cologne, or Köln in German, is a major German city with a lot to offer. With four distinct seasons, each with its unique attractions, there is never a bad time to visit. However, the best times to visit are in February for its legendary Karneval (Carnival) celebrations, and in May, September or October to enjoy the beer gardens in milder weather.

Spring

In spring, the city opens up with warmer weather. The clouds sometimes part to reveal sunny skies, and temperatures rise to between 40 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain is still frequent, and there can be epic thunder and lightning storms, so bring an umbrella!

Summer

Summer in Cologne sees warm and long days, with light lasting until 10 pm. Temperatures are usually between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can feel much hotter due to the area's humidity. People flock to parks and lakes or enjoy drinks at the biergarten.

Autumn

In autumn, the days shorten, and the weather cools. Temperatures range from the low 40s to the high 50s until late November, when it gets colder. Rainy days are common, with low temperatures sometimes resulting in early snow flurries.

Winter

Winter in Cologne is cold and dark, with average temperatures of 37 degrees Fahrenheit, frequent low-accumulation snow, and icy winds. However, this season has two of the city's biggest draws: Christmas markets and Karneval.

February: Karneval

Cologne is the home of its own version of Mardi Gras. This joyful, silly celebration has a long history in Catholicism but is more about partying than piety. Karneval features street parades with political commentary and costume balls. It is a time of decadence and excess, with many Kölsch beers consumed. If you plan to visit during Karneval, be sure to reserve your accommodation well in advance as hotels book out quickly.

May, September, October: Beer Garden Season

For milder weather, visit Cologne in May, September, or October when the beer gardens are open. These months offer a pleasant balance between warm weather and smaller crowds. In May, the beer gardens fling open their gates, and in October, you can enjoy the golden red leaves while sipping on a brew.

December: Christmas Markets

Cologne is also famous for its Christmas markets, which open in late November after the first advent, with many running through New Year's Eve. The markets beneath the cathedral draw big crowds, and Silvester (New Year) celebrations include fireworks and rowdy street parties. Expect peak prices and booked-out hotels and restaurants during this time.

The cheapest times to fly to Cologne

According to various sources, the cheapest times to fly to Cologne are in March, October, and December.

Booking in Advance

Sources suggest that booking around 40 days in advance is the best way to secure a good deal on flights to Cologne. The optimal booking window is said to be from 21 to 45 days before departure.

Days of the Week

One source states that Sunday is the best day of the week to buy a plane ticket, but another source claims that Tuesday is the cheapest day to fly.

Seasonal Demand

Airfare to Cologne varies throughout the year, with round trips to the city being the cheapest in December and October.

Airports

Cologne's principal airport is Cologne-Bonn Airport (CGN). However, if you're looking for cheaper alternatives, you can also check out fares to Dusseldorf International Airport (DUS), which is located 40 miles from downtown Cologne.

Airlines

There are several airlines that fly into Cologne, including British Airways, Lufthansa, Vueling Airlines, and Ryanair.

Flexible Dates

Using the 'Flexible Dates' calendar on flight booking websites can help you find the cheapest days to fly. Being flexible with travel dates, departure and arrival airports, and travel times can also help you score better deals.

Connecting Flights

Choosing a non-stop flight can sometimes be more expensive. Considering routes with connections may help you find cheaper options.

Season

Cologne experiences warm and toasty weather from June to August, making it a popular time to visit. To avoid the crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather, consider visiting in May, September, or October.

Events

If you're interested in attending specific events, consider planning your trip around them. For example, visiting in July will allow you to catch the best Pride parade in Germany.

Last-Minute Deals

Keep an eye out for last-minute flight deals, as prices tend to increase as the departure date approaches. Flexibility with carriers, travel dates, and flight times can improve your chances of finding excellent last-minute deals.

The best airlines to fly with to Cologne

When flying to Cologne, you have a variety of airlines to choose from. Here is a list of some of the best airlines to fly with on this route:

Eurowings

Eurowings is one of the most popular airlines for flights to Cologne, offering the largest number of services between Istanbul and the German city. With connections to 128 airports worldwide, you can expect a comfortable journey with this airline.

Lufthansa

Lufthansa is another favourite among travellers heading to Cologne. This airline offers direct flights to Cologne, providing a convenient option for those who want to save time on their journey.

Ryanair

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, Ryanair offers some of the cheapest flights to Cologne, with prices as low as £26 for a return trip. They provide direct flights to and from various UK cities, including London, Manchester, and Bristol.

British Airways

British Airways is a reliable option for those seeking a comfortable journey. They offer direct flights to Cologne and are known for their good service.

Turkish Airlines

While not the cheapest option, Turkish Airlines provides excellent service and has received positive reviews from passengers, particularly for their food and entertainment options.

When choosing an airline, it's important to consider factors such as price, flight duration, baggage allowance, and your preferred level of comfort. Each airline has its own unique offerings, so be sure to research and select the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions