I live near Cologne, and my friends often ask me about the most efficient and cost-effective way to travel to nearby cities. One common question is "What's the best way to get from Cologne to Aachen?"
The good news is, there are many ways to go from Cologne to Aachen. You can take a train, bus, rent a car, or even fly! Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, which I'll explain below.
So, keep reading to learn the best ways to go from Cologne to Aachen!
Where is Aachen?
Aachen is a city located in western Germany. It is the westernmost city in Germany and borders Belgium and the Netherlands to the west, in the triborder area.
It is in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is known for its historical significance, including its status as the residence of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor.
As a modern city, Aachen is supported by an extensive transportation network. And I mean extensive. This includes highways and railways.
Cologne to Aachen Distance
Cologne and Aachen are approximately 63 kilometers (39 miles) apart, and well-connected to each other.
The distance varies depending on which mode of transport and which route you take.
Cologne to Aachen by Train
Time: 5/5
Price: 4/5
Comfort: 4/5
Convenience: 4/5
Ask anyone from here and they'll say getting from Cologne to Aachen by train is the most convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
I don't wish to sound biased, but Germany has one of the most developed and reliable train transportation systems in the world. It's fast, punctual, and affordable.
1. Departure from Cologne: Your journey typically begins at Köln Hauptbahnhof or Cologne Central Station.
In the city center, this station is easily accessible from other parts of Cologne by public transport, wherever you're coming from. It has domestic, international, as well as regional train services.
2. Ticket Purchase: You'll need to buy tickets if you want to take the train.
Your options are purchasing a ticket through one of the authorized online platforms, or from the ticket machines at the station or the manual ticket counters.
I always advise booking your tickets in advance. Especially during peak travel times, you may waste time queueing up to buy tickets at the station!
Whenever I have purchase train tickets, I like to use Omio. It's my favorite platform to check for the best train tickets in Europe:
3. Train Options: Most will suggest taking a high-speed train like ICE (Inter-City Express), when traveling between Cologne and Aachen. [1] This is the fastest train (around 30 min), and you can get a ticket for around €18 if you book early.
Thereafter, you can connect to a regional train within Aachen to get to your final destination.
4. Scenic Journey: The train ride between Cologne and Aachen offers glimpses of the picturesque North Rhine-Westphalian countryside, with rolling hills, fields, and charming villages dotting the landscape.
As you pass through the Eifel region, you can also enjoy lush forests and natural beauty, making the journey a pleasant experience for travelers seeking a taste of Germany's rural charm.
I remember a family trip I took from Cologne to Aachen, and my kids were absolutely delighted. They couldn't contain their excitement as the ICE train sped along, and they spent the entire journey with their faces pressed against the window.
So no matter what, I strongly suggest snagging a window seat if you have the chance!
5. Arrival in Aachen: When your train reaches Aachen Hauptbahnhof, which is the main train station in Aachen, you'll see signs that show you where to go to catch a tram or a taxi, so you won't get lost.
There's also a store there where you can buy snacks if you're hungry for a quick bite before continuing your journey.
Cologne to Aachen by Bus
Time: 3/5 Price: 5/5 Comfort: 3/5
Convenience: 2/5
The bus is the cheapest option to travel from Cologne to Aachen, with fares starting at just €9. The ride is slightly longer than 1 hour, depending on the timing and bus route.
Although the bus journey is twice as long than the train, it is still a valid way to travel between these two cities.
1. Depart from Cologne: The bus ride is not as convenient as the train because the departure point is usually at Cologne Bonn Airport or Leverkusen, a city at the borders of Cologne.
This means you'll have to first make your way out of the city centre before catching the bus.
2. Purchase Your Ticket: You can easily buy your bus tickets from Cologne to Aachen online here. It's advisable to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to secure your seat and potentially snag lower fares.
3. Bus Options: Several bus companies operate the Cologne-Aachen route, offering varying levels of comfort and amenities. Some buses may provide Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating, so be sure to check the features of each bus service when making your reservation.
4. Enjoy the Scenic Route: While the bus journey may not match the speed of a train, it can still be an enjoyable experience. You'll get to admire the passing scenery, including picturesque countryside and charming towns along the way.
5. Arrive in Aachen: Your bus will drop you off at one of the bus terminals or stops in Aachen, depending on the bus company and route. Aachen boasts a well-connected public transportation system, giving you various options to reach your final destination within the city.
Cologne to Aachen by Private Transfer
Time: 3/5 Price: 3/5 Comfort: 5/5
Convenience: 5/5
While private transfers may cost more than the other options, I find them well worth it, especially when more flexibility and comfort is needed.
When we traveled with my elderly in-laws, with a fair amount of luggage, we always opted for private transfer. Our driver not only picked us up from home but also helped with our bags. We didn't have to worry about navigating our group to or from a train station or airport!
You can also choose a smaller or bigger vehicle depending on how many seats and luggage you have. There's a variety of choices, from SUVs and sedans to bigger minibuses and vans.
However, take note that a private transfer won't be as fast as a high-speed train (but faster than a bus). Depending on traffic, it can take from 1 to 2 hours.
RECOMMENDED FOR PRIVATE TRANSFER
This private transfer platform has the best prices around. I've found deals that cost similar to a train ticket. Plus they price-match if you can find a lower price anywhere else!
Cologne to Aachen by Taxi
Time: 3/5 Price: 2/5 Comfort: 5/5
Convenience: 3/5
The benefits of taking a taxi are similar to those of a private transfer. However, there are some potential downsides.
One major concern is price. Taxi meter fares can rack up depending on the route and traffic, and I don't like worrying about what I'll end up paying.
A couple of times, I've even found myself struggling to even get a cab, which is frustrating when we're traveling on a schedule.
So if I had to choose, I'd still choose private transfer. Every thing is pre-arranged. There's usually better rates, and you don't have to worry about flagging down a taxi or deal with climbing fares.
Rent A Car: Driving from Cologne to Aachen
Time: 3/5 Price: 3/5 Comfort: 5/5
Convenience: 5/5
If your goal is simply to get from Cologne to Aachen, you might want to skip the car rental. However, the most enjoyable part of renting a car is the freedom to make spontaneous stops!
Pop by traditional German towns like Jülich and Monschau, visit Eifel National Park
or make a detour to visit the beautiful Burg Eltz... there are countless worthy spots to stop by before landing in Aachen.
When choosing a car rental company, I suggest finding a trusted website that helps you compare rental options from various companies.
I remember a road trip that quickly turned into a nightmare due to a really bad car rental experience. Basically, the agent informed me that they had overbooked their cars and didn't have the one I had reserved. I was offered a much smaller car, which wasn't big enough for my luggage...
So these days, I only use Discover Cars. They source from highly-rated car rental companies (so you avoid those with a bad reputation) and give you a breakdown of their rental rates and vehicle types.
And applying for German car insurance through Discover Cars during your booking can save you half of what typical rental companies charge.
OUR PICK
BEST GERMANY CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS
I never fail to recommend Discover Cars. After looking everywhere, I've found that they consistently offer the best deals around. To top it off, they also throw in free cancellation!
How much are Cologne car rentals?
The cost of renting a car in Cologne varies depending on the rental company, type of car, and time of year.
Plan to set aside around €28/day for an economy car with full coverage insurance.
If you've been searching for a rental car in Germany online, you might have seen prices as low as €4. However, these low prices are a bit misleading because they only cover the cost of the car itself.
They don't include things like insurance, taxes, and fees, which can add up. So, to be cautious, expect the total daily cost of the car to be at least €28 or more.
Do I need a Germany car insurance?
Yes, third-party liability insurance is a legal requirement for car rentals. This insurance protects you from any liability resulting from property damage, death, or injury caused to anyone or anything outside your car rental in Germany.
Fire insurance is also included in the car rental rate when you book with some rental car companies.
This is also why I always choose Discover Cars for my car rentals because they provide full coverage for around €6.50 per day. For me, it's an easy decision because it gives me peace of mind.
Is it safe to drive from Cologne to Aachen?
Driving from Cologne to Aachen is a safe and convenient option for travel.
The drive from Cologne to Aachen offers travelers a pleasant journey through the picturesque landscape of North Rhine-Westphalia, with rolling hills, fields, and charming villages dotting the landscape.
There are a few local cafes and restaurants along the way where you can stop for lunch or enjoy a cup of coffee.
By the way, both cities have low emission zones, so it's important to have an environmental badge if you plan on driving in the inner parts of Aachen or Cologne. [2]
Lastly, make sure to obey traffic rules and drive responsibly!
Cologne Bonn Airport to Aachen
As mentioned previously, if you want to take a bus from Cologne to Aachen, the departure point is actually at Cologne Bonn Airport.
Hence, if you're already at the airport, then the most convenient way to reach Aachen is by taking a bus. It's cheap and only slightly longer than taking a train.
To go from from Cologne Bonn Airport to Aachen by train, you'll have to take the train at Cologne Airport to the city centre, then do a transfer at Cologne Central Station.
There are many ways to get from the airport to the city centre, including the S-bahn tram/train, regional trains, ICE trains, taxi and uber.
However, I recommend just buying 1 through ticket from Cologne Airport to Aachen (via Cologne HBF) on Omio, because then you're almost guaranteed to make it for your transfer.
Simply enter 'Cologne Bonn Airport' instead of 'Cologne' for the departure field.
Tips for Traveling from Cologne to Aachen
Plan ahead and book tickets in advance
Whether you're buying a train ticket or reserving a rental car in Germany, take advantage of the "early bird" deals and discounts that are frequently available. If you want to cut costs, don't delay; make your travel arrangements in advance!
Booking ahead not only puts money back in your pocket but also saves you from the frustration of navigating through busy ticket vending machines at the station.
The idea of standing in line behind fellow travelers, some struggling with the machines, sends shivers down my spine.
Purchase a transportation pass for convenience
With a zone ticket or tourist pass, you can jump on and off trains whenever you want, no need to deal with separate tickets each time. The best part is it lets you be spontaneous and explore different places along the way.
If you're planning to travel from Cologne to Aachen, as well as other countries in Europe, consider getting a transportation pass like the Eurail Pass. This can save you both time and money by providing unlimited access to trains rides.
Allow extra time for unexpected delays
While German punctuality is impressive... it's always a smart move to build some wiggle room into your schedule, just in case life decides to throw you a curveball.
I used to plan my trips down to the minute, but unexpected train track maintenance or flight delays still managed to throw a wrench into my plans.
As an "experienced" traveler, these days I've learned to allow for some extra time in my itinerary.
Conclusion: Cologne to Aachen
In conclusion, getting from Cologne to Aachen is quick and convenient with multiple ways to do it!
If you want the fastest route - book tickets to take an InterCity Express train.
For the cheapest option, take a bus. Book your tickets here.
If you want a more comfortable ride and are carrying lots of luggage - maybe a private transfer suits you more.
If you're planning to make a day trips or a few pitstops along the way - renting a car is your best bet.
No matter what you pick – train, taxi, or renting a car – the trip won't eat up more than an hour. So, there's really no excuse not to go for it. I'd say go ahead and start prepping now!
Related:
- Cologne to Munster: Is Taking the Train the Best Way?
- Cologne to Bonn: By Train, Tram or Bus?
- Cologne to Dusseldorf: By Train, Boat or Bus?
FAQs
1. What are the transportation options for getting from Cologne to Aachen?
You can travel by train, bus or car to get from Cologne to Aachen.
2. How long does it take to travel from Cologne to Aachen by train?
The travel time from Cologne to Aachen is approximately 30 min to 1 hour.
3. Are there direct trains available between Cologne and Aachen?
Yes, there are direct trains available that connect Cologne and Aachen.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Cologne to Aachen by train?
The ticket prices for a one-way journey from Cologne to Aachen vary depending on the type of train and class you choose. It typically ranges between $10-30.
5. Can I use public transportation like buses within Aachen after arriving?
Yes, there is an extensive network of buses and trams in Aachen that you can use for local transportation once you arrive in the city.
References:
1: Germany's ICE Trains, retrieved from https://europeforvisitors.com/germany/trains/ice-trains.htm
2: Overview of low-emission zones, retrieved from https://www.germanemissionssticker.com/zones/
