For travelers with a layover in Cologne, the proximity of CGN to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 60 minutes via S-Bahn S13/S19 & Regional Trains, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of CGN:
- Can you legally enter Germany? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by S-Bahn S13/S19 & Regional Trains, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Cologne on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Cologne, two standouts are:
- Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) — Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
- Cologne Old Town (Altstadt) — Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CGN, check out Airport Business Lounge or Heinemann Duty Free & Travel Value to keep yourself occupied.
Getting from CGN to Cologne
From CGN, the S-Bahn S13/S19 & Regional Trains gets you to Cologne in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the S-Bahn S13/S19 & Regional Trains offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Eat
In Cologne
If you make it into town, Früh am Dom is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Gaffel am Dom.
Inside CGN
If you’re staying in the terminal, Marché Mövenpick is your main option. BAREFOOD DELI works too if you want something quick.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Cologne layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$11 |
| Meal | ~$22 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$43 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Cologne.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CGN, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Cologne itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Germany that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Bag Storage Near CGN
Luggage storage is available at In Terminal 2, Level D (Arrivals), near the car rental center. There is a service center where luggage can be stored.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Cologne.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at CGN.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Cologne genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.