Cologne Bonn Airport lies approximately 15 km southeast of Cologne city center. When deciding how to travel from Cologne Airport to the city center, you’ll have a choice between three transport options: taxi, private transfer, or train.

For door-to-door service and on-demand departures, your best options are to take a Cologne Airport taxi or a private Cologne Airport transfer. With either of these services, you’ll enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride directly to your hotel or accommodation. 

A more economical option is to take the train from Cologne Airport to the city center. At present, the S19 train line runs frequently between the two, offering day and night departures.

3 options to go from Cologne Airport to city center

PRICE FOR
OPTION
PRICE
TIME
AVAILABILITY
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer
€56 15min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Taxi
€40.70 15min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Train
€6.80 15min 24/7
Convenience
Read more
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How to get from a taxi from Cologne Airport to the city center

Taking a Cologne Airport taxi is among the most convenient ways to get from Cologne Airport to the city. On average, the journey takes around 15 minutes but can be significantly longer in heavier traffic during rush hours. Taxis depart from Cologne Airport 24/7, making it a reliable option no matter when you arrive.

How much does a taxi from Cologne Airport to the city center cost?

Taxi drivers in Cologne use meters to calculate their fares. The total price of a ride from Cologne Airport to Cologne city center will depend on the distance and time it takes to your desired location. As such, traffic conditions may affect the final cost.

In light traffic, a taxi from Cologne Airport to the city center will set you back around €40.70 for a sedan-style car. It’s important to note that you may incur higher fees for larger vehicles.

Fares for taxis in Cologne aren’t dependent on the time of day, meaning you’ll pay the same price for day and night journeys.

 

Where do I get a taxi from?

Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Cologne Airport have designated taxi ranks, which are served by drivers 24/7. From the Arrivals Hall, simply follow the signage leading you to the pickup area.

Convenience

Traveling from Cologne Airport to the city center by taxi is an excellent option if you’re looking for direct transport to your hotel but don’t want to commit to pre-booking a ride. Although taking a taxi is typically fast and hassle-free, you might encounter queues at the taxi rank depending on how many other flights landed at a similar time as yours.

Useful Tips

If you're satisfied with the service, you have the option of adding a small tip or rounding up the fare, though this isn't mandatory.
Before starting a ride, check that the meter is zeroed.
In most cases, you can pay for your taxi by card. However, always ask your driver about payment options before setting off, as some only take cash.
Some taxi companies include a surcharge for card payments, usually between €1 and €2.

How to get from Cologne Airport to the city center by train

The train from Cologne Airport to the city center is a cost-effective alternative to taking a taxi. For the most part, the journey takes roughly 15 minutes to reach Cologne Central Station, stopping in several other areas along the way.

How much is the train from Cologne Airport to the city?

Getting from Cologne Airport to the city center by train will cost around €3.40. This is the price for a 90-minute ticket that permits up to four stops. The price for passengers under the age of 15 is €1.75.

Tickets can be purchased using the VRS app or at one of the vending machines in the airport’s train station.

Cost
€3.40
Trip Duration
15 Min.
The S19 S-Bahn train runs every 10 minutes between Monday and Friday and every 30 minutes on weekends.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The S-Bahn train from Cologne Airport to the city center is available 24/7.

Where do I get the train from?

The train station in the airport is located just a short walk from both terminals. You’ll find signage guiding you to the station from the Arrivals Hall at each terminal.

Convenience

Taking the train from Cologne Bonn Airport to the city center is fast, efficient, and affordable. The S-Bahn runs round the clock, departing every 10 to 30 minutes while avoiding congestion on the roads. However, keep in mind that you’ll likely need to walk or use another form of transport when you arrive at the city center. This may be quite inconvenient for those with heavy luggage or anyone staying far from the station.

Timetables

S-Bahn Website

Tickets and timetable information

Useful Tips

Plan your journey in advance using Google Maps to ensure you get off at the stop nearest to your accommodation.
Queues can be long at the ticket machines, so downloading the app can save you some time.
If you choose to use the machines, you can pay with either cash or by card.
Cash payments must be made in Euros, the local currency.

How to get from Cologne Airport to the city center by private transfer

The most convenient and stress-free way to get from Cologne Airport to the city center is to take a private Cologne Airport transfer. By opting for a trusted operator like Welcome Pickups, you’ll beat the queues at the taxi, lock in a fixed price, and enjoy a plethora of added benefits like:

  • Guaranteed on-time pickups
  • Professional, English-speaking drivers
  • Free flight monitoring
  • Complimentary waiting time
  • Flexible cancellation

Our seamless booking process will allow you to arrange your transfer in minutes. When you open up our website or app, you’ll be asked to provide details relating to your travel itinerary and contact information, before receiving a quote for your trip. From here, confirming your ride is just a click away.

What's the cost of a private transfer from Cologne Airport to the city center?

Among the best perks of booking a private transfer from Cologne Airport to the city center is that you’ll know exactly how much the journey costs and you can take care of the payment ahead of time.

This trip costs €56 for up to 3 travelers, increasing to €63 for larger vehicles that can carry 8 people. Up to 11 passengers can travel together for €119, while parties of 12 can expect to pay €126.

These rates are fixed, and the amount you’re quoted at the time of booking is the price you’ll pay once the reservation is confirmed. Better yet, this price includes any extras, meaning you won’t need to worry about add-ons and hidden fees.

Cost
€56
Trip Duration
15 Min.
*Booking your private transfer in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN).

Where do I get a transfer from?

You won’t even need to walk as far as the taxi rank to meet your driver when you arrive at Cologne Airport, as they’ll be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall, holding a sign with your name on it. Your driver will greet you with a warm welcome before assisting you with your bags and showing you to your pre-selected vehicle.

Convenience

Opting for a transfer from Cologne Airport to the city center is the best way to ensure your journey to your hotel is comfortable and convenient. Much like with a taxi service, you’ll be dropped off at your exact destination at any time of day, but with us, you’ll also enjoy a more personalized experience that’s tailored to your needs and preferences. If you’d rather not deal with the stress of uncertain fares and potential queues at the taxi rank, a transfer is the most suitable option for you.

Useful Tips

Tips aren't expected, but you can add a tip for your driver using our app if you wish.
Be sure to request a baby or child seat at the time of booking if required.
After you land, you'll have an hour of free waiting time to meet your driver.
Downloading our handy mobile app will allow you to message your driver directly when you arrive at Cologne Airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a taxi from Cologne Airport to city center?

Taxis from Cologne Airport to the city center are metered, so the final price will depend on the distance to your destination and the traffic conditions. In general, though, you can expect to pay around €40.70 for a 15-minute taxi to the city.

How do I get from the airport to the Cologne Center?

How much does it cost from Cologne Airport to city center?

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Transfer Options in Cologne