- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with works from the 19th century to contemporary art, plus changing exhibitions and a notable sculpture garden.
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$34
Fastest journey
5 h 40 m
Average duration
5 h 40 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
216 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Copenhagen to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Copenhagen to Kiel will cost around $34 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Of the 1 buses that leave Copenhagen for Kiel on Wed, Jun 10, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 10 the direct buses cover the 216 km distance in an average of 5 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 40 m .
On Wed, Jun 10 the slowest buses will take 5 h 40 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.
FlixBus
FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Copenhagen to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $164.
Distance: 134 miles (216 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Ferry | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$46 Average price Cheapest | $83 Average price | $55 Average price | $309 Average price | $93 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 18m Average total duration 4h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 28m Average total duration 4h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 57m Average total duration 8h 57m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 6h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular ferry company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Copenhagen to Kiel:
A bus is $10 (€8) less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Copenhagen to Kiel costing on average $55 (€45).
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Copenhagen to Kiel costing on average $83 (€67).
A bus is $263 (€213) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Copenhagen to Kiel costing on average $309 (€251).
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 48m.
Train takes on average 4h 58m.
Ferry takes on average 8h 57m.
Tickets start at around $46 (€37) compared to roughly $93 (€75) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $47 (€38). The journey takes 4h 48m versus 4h 22m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, BlaBlaCar.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
The table below shows live departures for Copenhagen to Kiel buses for today, Tuesday, June 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 10:25 PM København, Busterminal Dybbølsbro | 5h40 | 4:05 AM Kiel, ZOB | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, June 10 | |||||
FlixBus | 4:40 PM København, Busterminal Dybbølsbro | 5h40 | 10:20 PM Kiel, ZOB | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, flight, and ferry prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Copenhagen to Kiel run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) but you can travel from only $1 (€1) by ferry.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:20, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 134 miles (216 km) distance in 5h 20m.
Distance 134 miles (216 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 5h 20m |
First bus 12:20 AM |
Last bus 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
Major art museum of Kiel University with works from the 19th century to contemporary art, plus changing exhibitions and a notable sculpture garden.
Kiel’s maritime museum in a former fish auction hall, covering the city’s naval and shipping history with models, objects, and harbor context.
University museum with zoological specimens, whale skeletons, and scientific displays that appeal to families and natural history fans.
Kiel’s best-known waterfront promenade, ideal for walking along the fjord, watching ships, and enjoying one of the city’s classic views.
Popular viewing area at the Kiel Canal locks in Holtenau, excellent for watching large ships pass at close range.
Historic old market square with Nikolaikirche and surrounding city-center atmosphere, a natural starting point for exploring Kiel.
Lightly smoked sprats traditionally linked to Kiel. They are eaten whole on bread or with potatoes and are one of the city’s best-known regional specialties.
A classic North German sailor’s dish of corned beef, mashed potatoes and beetroot, often served with herring and a fried egg. It reflects Kiel’s maritime heritage.
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, often with potatoes. A staple of northern coastal cuisine and especially popular in Schleswig-Holstein.
Highly regarded restaurant in Kiel for refined Thai cuisine in a stylish setting, offering a contrast to traditional fare while remaining a local favorite.
Established restaurant at the Atlantic Hotel Kiel, known for modern regional cuisine, seafood and an upscale atmosphere near the fjord.
Well-known waterfront restaurant in Kiel focusing on fish, northern German dishes and harbor views in a polished but relaxed setting.
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual eats are affordable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more in peak season.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills; tipping is not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Kiel ZOB, Kiel -> Kiel Hbf, Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Copenhagen to Kiel by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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