Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB,EC,RE)

Wed, Jul 08
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf

Showing times and prices for Jul 08

Cheapest price

$36

Average price

$87

Fastest journey

4 h 21 m

Average duration

4 h 21 m

Trains per day

20

Distance

357 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.

Fast trains

Of the 20 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Hamburg Hbf on Wed, Jul 08, 18 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jul 08 the direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 4 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 21 m .

On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest trains will take 4 h 21 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 920
    2:09 AM4h59
    Cologne Hbf
    7:08 AMHamburg Hbf
    $361One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 618
    6:11 AM4h21
    Cologne Hbf
    10:32 AMHamburg Hbf
    $501One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 208
    5:11 AM4h21
    Cologne Hbf
    9:32 AMHamburg Hbf
    $551One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1028
    4:05 AM4h34
    Cologne Hbf
    8:39 AMHamburg Hbf
    $611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 104
    7:11 PM4h28
    Cologne Hbf
    11:39 PMHamburg Hbf
    $771One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a flight costs an average of $249.

Distance: 221 miles (357 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$53

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$711

Average price

$81

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 34m

Average total duration

4h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 36m

Average total duration

5h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 1m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 1m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf is a bus with an average price of $37 (€30).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf:

A bus is $17 (€14) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf costing on average $53 (€44).

A bus is $674 (€555) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf costing on average $711 (€585).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 1m.

Other travel options to Hamburg Hbf take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 4m.

Bus takes on average 5h 6m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne Hbf and Hamburg Hbf including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 53m faster (4h 4m by train vs 4h 57m by car) and roughly $28 (€23) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($53 (€44) vs $81 (€67)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf trains for today, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 920
Delayed
12:09 AM 1:58 AMCologne Hbf
5h10
5:08 AM 5:08 AMHamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, July 8
Deutsche BahnICE 1028
On time
4:05 AM Cologne Hbf
4h34
8:39 AM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 208
On time
5:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
9:32 AM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 618
On time
6:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
10:32 AM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 206
On time
7:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
11:32 AM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 616
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
12:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 204
On time
9:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
1:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 614
On time
10:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
2:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 202
On time
11:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h21
3:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 612
On time
12:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
4:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 200
On time
1:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
5:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 610
On time
2:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
6:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 108
On time
3:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
7:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 518
On time
4:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
8:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 106
On time
5:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
9:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 516
On time
6:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
10:32 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 645 · ICE 584
On time
6:25 PM Cologne Hbf
5h09
11:34 PM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 104
On time
7:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h28
11:39 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 514
On time
8:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
12:32 AM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn10931 · ICE 912 · 89737 · S18:22 PM Cologne Hbf
9h35
5:57 AM Hamburg Hbf5 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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.

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Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 221 miles (357 km) distance in 3h 56m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $21 (€17)
Distance
221 miles (357 km)
Average train duration
4h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
3h 56m
First train
12:09 AM
Last train
11:41 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Fri
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $21 (€17)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Hamburg Hbf from $21 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 56m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 6m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€28)
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 16m
Cheapest Price
$95 (€78)
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
12 a day

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 5m
Cheapest Price
$85 (€70)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
3 a day

Complete guide to Hamburg

Things to do in Hamburg

Discover the best of Hamburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hamburg trip today.

  • Must visit

Kunsthalle Hamburg

Major art museum with European works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art; one of Germany’s leading collections.

  • Recommended

Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg

Design and applied arts museum known for decorative arts, fashion, photography, and strong modern design collections.

  • Recommended

Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg

Large maritime museum in HafenCity covering ship models, naval history, navigation, and global seafaring culture.

Euro

Moderate for Germany. Budget eats are reasonable, but hotels and sit-down dining near the station cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for takeaway or a simple meal.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up small bills, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxi fares. No tip is expected for takeaway.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Hamburg Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $53 (€44).
The train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf takes 3h 56m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf is 221 miles (357 km).
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf leaves at 12:09 AM.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf leaves at 11:41 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Hamburg Hbf offers scenic views of the Rhine River, lush landscapes, and charming German towns, making it an enjoyable and picturesque trip.
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Hamburg Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 56m. There are 5 trains per day covering a distance of 221 miles (357 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf.
Since both Cologne Hbf and Hamburg Hbf are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Hamburg Hbf include Hanover, Bremen, Osnabrück, Schwerin, Kiel.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf

Most Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf trains use the Köln Hbf to Hamburg Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne Hbf and Hamburg Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Hamburg
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min

Köln Hbf train station facilities and services

Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.

More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Hamburg Hbf and Cologne Hbf

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyCologne Hbf to Hamburg Hbf train

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