Cologne to Munich: Road Trip Guide & Distance

283.5 miles 456.3 km · straight line
357 miles actual route 574.5 km · driving distance
5h 43min estimated drive time
€62 - €76 estimated fuel cost
~1h 4min flight time
131° SE bearing direction

How far is Cologne from Munich?

The distance from Cologne to Munich is 283.5 miles (456.3 km) as the crow flies. Munich is located SE of Cologne. By car, the driving distance is approximately 357 miles, taking about 5h 43min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 4min. Both are located in Germany.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility.

Coordinates come from public place data for Cologne and Munich. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Cologne to Munich

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 43min €62 - €76 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 4min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 52min $29–$54* Budget
Train ~5h 26min $43–$125* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Cologne & Munich

Quick Facts

Cologne
50.94°N, 6.96°E
Europe/Berlin
37m elevation
Munich
48.14°N, 11.58°E
Europe/Berlin
519m elevation
Explore more routes from Munich

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 95 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 24 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 87.8 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM