City in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Getting around Cologne
How to get around Cologne
KVB trams and U-Bahn cover the city; the center is compact and walkable. The Deutschlandticket works across the whole VRS region.
Ways to get around Cologne
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| KVB trams and U-Bahn | Single about €3–3.80; day ticket about €8 | Buy in the KVB app or machines; validate paper tickets |
| Deutschlandticket | €63 a month | Covers regional trains to Düsseldorf and Bonn too |
| Rental bikes (KVB-Rad) | About €1 per 30 min | Stations across the center and along the Rhine |
Ride-hailing apps in Cologne
A 5 km ride costs about €10–17 ($11.3–19.1).
- Taxis are metered and trustworthy; order by app or at ranks. Late-night rides are pricey during Carnival.
Arriving in Cologne
Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)
S13 to Hauptbahnhof about 15 min, around €3.50–4 or free with the Deutschlandticket; taxi about €35–45, 20–30 min.
Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)
Regional train or ICE from the airport station to Cologne Hbf about 25–40 min, about €15 or Deutschlandticket.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Not useful; transit and bikes cover everything.
- Driving: on the right. Non-EU licences need an IDP or German translation (a few exceptions); valid six months after taking residence.
- Onward travel in Germany: ICE trains link major cities in 2–4 hours; book early for saver fares and expect delays. The €63 monthly Deutschlandticket covers all local and regional transport. FlixBus is cheapest.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Cologne?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, FREENOW, Bolt.
What's the best way to get around Cologne?
KVB trams and U-Bahn cover the city; the center is compact and walkable. The Deutschlandticket works across the whole VRS region.
How do I get from the airport to Cologne?
S13 to Hauptbahnhof about 15 min, around €3.50–4 or free with the Deutschlandticket; taxi about €35–45, 20–30 min.
Is Cologne walkable?
Very walkable.
More about Cologne
Going to Cologne solo?
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.