- Recommended
Schifffahrtsmuseum
An engaging maritime museum in a former fish auction hall, covering Kiel’s seafaring history, ship models and the city’s naval connections.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Cologne to Kiel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Oct
Cheapest price on 15 Oct
£38
Average ticket price on 15 Oct
£45
Fastest journey on 15 Oct
8 h 50 m
Average journey duration on 15 Oct
10 h 1 m
Buses on 15 Oct
4
Distance
434 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Cologne to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Kiel will cost around £45 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £38.
Fast coaches
On Thu 15 Oct, we found 4 buses from Cologne to Kiel, including 1 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 434 km distance in an average of 10 h 1 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 50 m .
The slowest buses will take 12 h 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FlixTrain+
FlixBus12:149h41Cologne Hbf21:55Kiel, ZOB£381One-way1 change- FlixBus · FlixBus9:2012h35Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)21:55Kiel, ZOB£421One-way1 change
- FlixTrain+FlixBus16:148h56Cologne Hbf1:10Kiel, ZOB£471One-way1 change
- FlixBus23:358h50Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)8:25Kiel, ZOB£521One-way0 changes
- FlixBus23:358h50Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)8:25Kiel, ZOB£521One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain+FlixBus16:148h56Cologne Hbf1:10Kiel, ZOB£471One-way1 change
- FlixTrain+FlixBus12:149h41Cologne Hbf21:55Kiel, ZOB£381One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus9:2012h35Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)21:55Kiel, ZOB£421One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Buses from Cologne to Kiel run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £16 by train.
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:45, the last at 23:40. The fastest coach covers the 434 km distance in 8h 0m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £16
Distance 434 km |
Average bus duration 9h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £19 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 8h 0m |
First bus 0:45 |
Last bus 23:40 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £16
Live departures
Cologne to Kiel bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kiel coaches for tomorrow, Thursday 15 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:20 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 12h35 | 21:55 Kiel, ZOB | 1 change | |
| FlixTrain+FlixBus | 12:14 Cologne Hbf | 9h41 | 21:55 Kiel, ZOB | 1 change | |
| FlixTrain+FlixBus | 16:14 Cologne Hbf | 8h56 | 1:10 Kiel, ZOB | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 23:35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 8h50 | 8:25 Kiel, ZOB | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Kiel coaches with Omio?
FlixBus operates all coaches services from Cologne to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Kiel.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Kiel.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Kiel.
Bus providers: FlixBus from Cologne to KielYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Kiel with FlixBus for as low as £16. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£19
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Kiel
Things to do in Kiel
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
- Recommended
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
An art museum near the fjord with European paintings, prints and changing exhibitions. The quiet setting makes it ideal for a cultural stop.
- Recommended
Freilichtmuseum Molfsee
An open-air museum with historic farm buildings and rural heritage from Schleswig-Holstein. It rewards visitors seeking regional history beyond the centre.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel’s best-known waterfront promenade, lined with harbour views, boats and open space. It is ideal for a relaxed walk by the fjord.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
The old market square in the historic centre, framed by St. Nikolai and civic buildings. It is a practical starting point for exploring central Kiel.
- Recommended
Schleusenpark Wik
A green canal-side park with viewpoints over the locks and passing ships. It combines maritime activity with an easy stroll outdoors.
- Gluten-free
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck
Hearty northern stew of pears, beans and bacon, balancing sweet and savoury flavours. A classic late-summer dish in Schleswig-Holstein.
Gebratener Hering
Pan-fried Baltic or North Sea herring, often served with potatoes. It reflects Kiel’s long maritime and fishing traditions.
- Gluten-free
Matjes nach Hausfrauenart
Pickled herring in a creamy sauce with apple, onion and gherkin. A staple of northern German home cooking and tavern menus.
Restaurant Ahlmanns
Established city-centre restaurant serving refined regional and seasonal dishes in an elegant but approachable atmosphere.
Fischers Fritz
Popular harbour-side restaurant known for fresh fish, crab and maritime classics in a relaxed waterside setting.
Kieler Brauerei
Well-known traditional brewery venue pouring local beer with hearty German fare in a lively, rustic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels can rise in summer, but dining and local transport are usually reasonable compared with larger tourist cities like Hamburg or Munich.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding about 5-10% is normal in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés for good service.
NAH.SH-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.00
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city centre
Kiel ZOB -> Kiel Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy tickets in advance or in the NAH.SH-App; KVG states single and day tickets are also sold on buses and as mobile tickets. Card/contactless acceptance on board was not reliably verified from official sources.
- Kiel ZOB and Kiel Hauptbahnhof are adjacent; for many central trips, walking is quicker than taking a bus.
Best day trips from Kiel by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Kiel are Hamburg, Lübeck, Neumünster, Eckernförde and Flensburg. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Kiel on Omio.
Day trip from Kiel to Hamburg by bus
Why visit Hamburg for the day?
Hamburg is Germany's great port city, known for its harbour, canals and maritime character. Historic warehouse districts sit alongside modern architecture, while music, nightlife and waterside neighbourhoods give the city an energetic but grounded feel.
How to get from Kiel to Hamburg by bus?
There are 5 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 02:30, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 83 km distance in 1h 15m.
Day trip from Kiel to Lübeck by bus
Why visit Lübeck for the day?
Lübeck is known for its Hanseatic past, brick Gothic churches and marzipan tradition. Its UNESCO-listed old town, set between waterways, feels historic, compact and quietly maritime.
How to get from Kiel to Lübeck by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 02:30, the last at 19:45. The fastest coach covers the 62 km distance in 1h 5m.
Day trip from Kiel to Neumünster by bus
Why visit Neumünster for the day?
Neumünster is a practical city in Schleswig-Holstein known for its textile past and modern outlet shopping. Parks, galleries, and Vicelinkirche give it a grounded northern German character beyond its commercial side.
How to get from Kiel to Neumünster by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 00:16, the last at 21:16.
Day trip from Kiel to Eckernförde by bus
Why visit Eckernförde for the day?
Eckernförde is a Baltic seaside town known for its sandy beach, harbour and maritime atmosphere. The old town’s brick houses and waterfront give it an easy-going northern German character.
How to get from Kiel to Eckernförde by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 05:18, the last at 18:18.
Day trip from Kiel to Flensburg by bus
Why visit Flensburg for the day?
Flensburg is a northern German port on the Flensburg Fjord, known for its maritime history, rum trade and Danish links. The harbour and old town give it a seafaring character, with a relaxed borderland feel.
How to get from Kiel to Flensburg by bus?
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:15, the last at 21:00. The fastest coach covers the 68 km distance in 1h 5m.
FAQs: Cologne to Kiel coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Kiel by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Cologne to Kiel can start from as little as £19 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cologne to Kiel is £45; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Cologne to Kiel is 8h 0m to travel the 434 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Cologne to Kiel leaves at 0:45. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cologne to Kiel leaves at 23:40.
Yes, there are 1 direct coaches a day from Cologne to Kiel with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Cologne to Kiel, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Kiel. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cologne and Kiel and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Kiel including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cologne to Kiel:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Cologne to Kiel for coach company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cologne to Kiel depends on the coach companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cologne to Kiel.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cologne to Kiel:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Cologne to Kiel:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Cologne to Kiel. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cologne to Kiel with the following coach company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cologne to Kiel with the following coach company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cologne to Kiel with the following coach company: FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Kiel
Most Cologne to Kiel buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to Kiel, ZOB station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Kiel bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cologne
Arrival bus stations in Kiel
Which Cologne station do buses to Kiel leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Kiel leave from Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). The station is 13 km from Cologne city centre at Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany.
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 8m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · £4
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility and WC.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)Kennedystrasse, 51147 Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 16m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · £4
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · £5
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance and baggage claim area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
Kiel, ZOB
City-centre transport
Getting to Kiel, ZOB from Kiel city centre
BusN12, 91, 81, 13, 12 · 2m · every ~19 min
765, 744 · 6m · every ~2 min
More options for your journey from Cologne to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Kiel and Cologne
Most popular bus connections
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