Cologne Bonn Airport

Welcome

At Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), you can step off an ICE train straight into one of its terminals, making the transition from rail to flight almost seamless. Located just 15 km southeast of Cologne, this airport operates 24/7, adding an avgeek appeal with its robust cargo traffic and rooftop observation deck, rare features among mid-sized European airports.

At a glance

Serving around 10 million passengers annually, CGN's two-terminal setup efficiently accommodates major carriers like Eurowings, Lufthansa, and Ryanair in Terminal 1, and Turkish Airlines along with other regional carriers in Terminal 2. Its convenient location between Cologne and Bonn emphasizes its accessibility, with direct rail connections keeping travel times under 30 minutes to either city center.

Terminals & layout

Terminal 1 hosts the majority of the operations for Eurowings and Lufthansa, while Ryanair also anchors its services here. Terminal 2 sees airlines such as Turkish Airlines and SunExpress. The compact design allows passengers to move easily between the two, though keep in mind that food and shopping options can differ significantly between terminals, with Terminal 1 offering more choices including Manga Sushi, Kamps, and the Gaffel Kölsch Bar.

Getting to and from the city

CGN benefits from direct rail access, with the airport railway station situated right under the terminals. Frequent S-Bahn services (lines S13 and S19) offer 20-30 minute connections to Köln Hbf, while the Airport Express Bus SB60 links to Bonn in 30-40 minutes. If heading further afield, long-distance ICE services stop at Köln/Bonn station, quickly connecting to cities like Frankfurt and Berlin.

Traveller essentials

The airport provides a range of services including free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals, an on-site pharmacy in Terminal 1, and several airlines lounges. Security wait times can vary, notably during peak travel periods in Terminal 2, so travelers are encouraged to check real-time queue lengths online before arrival. Parking onsite is available but considered expensive when compared to P+R options along the S-Bahn line.

Dining & shopping highlights

Dining options at CGN are plentiful but cater most extensively to those in Terminal 1 with venues like Kamps and Café de Paris. Terminal 2 offers alternatives such as Pizza Hut Express and Bar Celona. Shopping enthusiasts can explore the Duty-Free Shops and stores like Terracotta and Cologne Duty Free Fashion in Terminal 1, complemented by Heinemann Duty Free outlets across both terminals.

Lounges

For lounge-goers, CGN hosts several spots including The Lounge Koeln-Bonn in Terminal 1 offering a quiet retreat. Terminal 2's Airlines Lounge is accessible for €35, providing amenities expected from a modern airport lounge. These spaces are perfect for relaxing between flights or getting some work done away from the main hustle and bustle.

Insider tips

• Insider: The observation deck in Terminal 1 is a go-to place for aviation fans, offering free access from 05:00 to 00:00 for plane spotting.
• Time: Morning travelers should anticipate early lines at Terminal 2, especially during Ryanair's summer flights, potentially affecting travel plans.
• Quiet: The Wöllhaf Conference Centre in Terminal 1 is a calm escape landside, perfect for business travelers seeking a quiet spot.
• Money: Avoid expensive airport parking by using P+R lots on the S-Bahn line and take the train to the airport instead.
• Local: Experience local beer at the Gaffel Kölsch Bar in Terminal 1, one of the more distinctive bars available at CGN.
• Avoid: Food prices are high airside; savvy travelers stock up on meals or snacks in Cologne/Bonn stations before arriving.
• Time: If arriving late or departing early, pre-book a taxi to avoid costly rideshare surges after midnight.