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

Thu, Oct 08
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
metronom
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
metronom
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08

Cheapest price on Oct 08

€18

Average ticket price on Oct 08

€45

Fastest journey on Oct 08

3 h 35 m

Average journey duration on Oct 08

3 h 47 m

Trains on Oct 08

15

Distance

359 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg 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 will cost around €45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €18.

Fast trains

On Thu, Oct 08, we found 15 trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg, including 12 direct services.

On Thu, Oct 08 the direct trains cover the 359 km distance in an average of 3 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 35 m .

On Thu, Oct 08 the slowest trains will take 3 h 54 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.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    4:14 PM7h36
    Cologne Hbf
    11:50 PMHamburg, S Hamburg Airport
    €181One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    12:14 PM8h26
    Cologne Hbf
    8:40 PMHamburg, S Hamburg Airport
    €181One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    8:14 AM7h21
    Cologne Hbf
    3:35 PMHamburg, S Hamburg Airport
    €231One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    9:01 AM3h54
    Cologne Hbf
    12:55 PMHamburg Harburg
    €281One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    9:01 AM4h06
    Cologne Hbf
    1:07 PMHamburg Hbf
    €281One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg run on average 13 times per day, taking around 4h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 if you book in advance.

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 18:11. The fastest train covers the 223 miles (359 km) distance in 3h 31m.

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
Distance
223 miles (359 km)
Average train duration
4h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
€7
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
10
Fastest train
3h 31m
First train
12:09 AM
Last train
6:11 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
21 days
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

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Hamburg train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1020
Delayed
10:16 AM 12:09 PMCologne Hbf
3h40
1:55 PM 1:55 PMHamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 612
On time
12:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h04
4:15 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 103212:45 PM Cologne Hbf
4h09
4:54 PM Hamburg Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1032
On time
12:45 PM Cologne Hbf
3h54
4:39 PM Hamburg Harburg
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 200
On time
1:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h04
5:15 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 610
On time
2:11 PM Cologne Hbf
4h04
6:15 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Thursday, October 8
Deutsche BahnICE 616
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h04
12:15 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus8:14 AM Cologne Hbf
7h21
3:35 PM Hamburg, S Hamburg Airport1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1036
On time
8:45 AM Cologne Hbf
3h53
12:38 PM Hamburg Harburg
0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain9:01 AM Cologne Hbf
3h54
12:55 PM Hamburg Harburg0 transfersDirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain9:01 AM Cologne Hbf
4h06
1:07 PM Hamburg Hbf0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 204
On time
9:11 AM Cologne Hbf
4h04
1:15 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1022
On time
10:14 AM Cologne Hbf
3h35
1:49 PM Hamburg Hbf
0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or metronom offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.

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 or metronom to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
  • 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.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or metronom to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
  • 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.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconFast connection
IconGood organisation for bomb disposal
Iconclean toilets
Disadvantages
Iconnothing
I took the ICE from Cologne to Hamburg last year and the journey was very good until a bomb was discovered outside Hamburg and all traffic was paralysed for all trains in that direction. The organisation of Deutsche Bahn was very good, as our train was fortunately able to stop at an intermediate station and so we didn't have to be stuck in the stuffy train. Furthermore, water was distributed by the service. In the end, we arrived in Hamburg 2 hours late, but otherwise it was a very fast and pleasant connection. The toilets were also very clean. All in all, I can only recommend it.
Advantages
IconComfortable seats
IconGood for work
IconNice staff
Disadvantages
IconExpensive price
I had to travel from Cologne to Hamburg by train at quite short notice. This made the ticket price a little more expensive. The journey was very pleasant and I had a seat in the quiet compartment. This was very practical as I had to work on the train. The power connection for charging my laptop was also very helpful. The journey went very quickly and the staff on the train were very nice. Highly recommended.
Advantages
IconSeats were comfortable and train was empty.
Disadvantages
IconTrain staff were unfriendly
The train ride from Cologne main station to Hamburg was quite comfortable overall. The seats were comfortable and offered enough space for the passengers. There was enough luggage unloading to store it safely. The air conditioning in the train provided a pleasant temperature during the journey. The carriages were well insulated, which contributed to a pleasant rest. Price performance of the train journey from Cologne main station to Hamburg varies depending on the class booked and flexibility. Deutsche Bahn and other providers offer various ticket promotions to meet passengers' needs. Fares may vary depending on demand at the time of booking, but overall the trains on this route offer acceptable value for money. Connection between Cologne and Hamburg is usually reliable and punctual, which justifies the price.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
IconCleanliness
Disadvantages
IconReliability
Fortunately, this train arrived on time. After I had already had to book another train a few times at short notice because the one I had actually booked was cancelled at short notice. The train was very clean, only one toilet was very dirty. The wifi worked perfectly and I was able to relax and stream films. The seat reservation also worked great and the train arrived relatively punctually.
Advantages
IconPleasant ride
IconGood service
Disadvantages
IconSlight delay
Normally I tend to travel by car. However, due to sustainability, I wanted to try the train again. I am absolutely convinced of the Cologne to Hamburg connection. The trains are very clean, the staff are really friendly, the on-board bistro has delicious snacks and the comfort was just right. My seat had wifi and a power socket, so I was able to work on a few things on the side.
Advantages
IconDirect connection
IconWifi on the train
IconSeat reservation possible
IconFriendly staff
Disadvantages
IconMostly a little late
IconBoard bistro occasionally closed due to lack of staff
IconToilets slightly dirty
I am basically satisfied with the journey from Cologne to Hamburg. The service is friendly and courteous. If you have any problems or concerns, you can always contact the train staff. Every seat is equipped with a power socket. The reception and wifi are also sufficient for chatting or streaming videos. There is no need to change trains during the journey, but unfortunately there is often a delay on the connection. The toilets are slightly dirty, which unfortunately makes using the toilet a bit unpleasant for female guests. On the whole, however, I am satisfied.
Advantages
IconComfortable seats
IconWIFI
IconClean toilets
IconPower sockets on the square
Disadvantages
IconNothing
I liked this train trip very much, the train arrived on time and went through without any problems. Upon entering the train, I was immediately greeted nicely by the staff. The seats were very comfortable and equipped with power sockets. There was also a very stable wifi connection, which allowed watching movies without any problems. The toilets were always cleaned by the staff and were therefore always fresh and clean. Therefore, the price was top.
Advantages
IconOn time
IconQuiet
IconWIFI
Disadvantages
IconToilet
The train arrived in Cologne on time and arrived in Hamburg on time. Wifi was available throughout the journey, which was sufficient for streaming. A power socket at the seat was able to charge my laptop. It was very quiet in my quiet compartment, which was very pleasant. The conductor asked noisy guests to be quiet. Unfortunately, the toilet near the seat was broken. It was necessary to walk very far for this.
Advantages
Iconnice train
Iconfriendly employees
Icongood internet
That was my journey there in first class. The internet was very good, the train looked very nice from the inside and also from the outside. It was not too cold or too hot on the train. The food arrived very quickly, was fresh and also very cheap. In addition, the food was very cheap. I had a lot of space and room and also a lot of space for my luggage. The staff were very nice. It was definitely very clean on the train. I recommend this trip and rate it five stars.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconStaff
IconSeats
Disadvantages
IconToilets
IconVolume
IconDelay
The train journey was really good. I had excellent wifi and also two power sockets. The seats were very comfortable. They were soft and even smelled good. But the volume was very loud as there was a family next to my seat. The food was also very good. The staff was friendly and gave me all the information I needed. I had a reservation option and used it. The toilets were unfortunately very dirty and stinky. I did not have to change trains, yet the train was not on time. Price was very good and value for money is good.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, metronom from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, metronom trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Hamburg from €7. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€7
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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 FlixTrain Duration
3h 54m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
€12
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

metronom

About
Metronom Eisenbahngesellschaft mbH is a German railway company that has been connecting Northern Germany since 2003. Based in Uelzen, it focuses exclusively on passenger transport, operating services from Hamburg to Bremen, Lüneburg, Uelzen, Hanover, and Göttingen. The company also runs services under the brand Enno from Wolfsburg to Hanover and Hildesheim. Metronom is partly state-owned, with its trains, which can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, being rented from the state transport company Landesnahverkehrsgesellschaft Niedersachsen mbH (LNVG). They are known for their yellow and blue double-decker trains, offering amenities like extra legroom and refreshments.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average metronom Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest metronom Price
€28
metronom frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one large piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

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

Hamburger Kunsthalle

Internationally respected art museum with major works from medieval altarpieces to modern masters. Essential for art lovers in Hamburg.

  • Must visit

Miniatur Wunderland

Large railway model world with intricate miniature cities, airports, and landscapes. Technically not a museum, but one of Hamburg’s top attractions.

  • Recommended

Deichtorhallen Hamburg

Contemporary art museum in a former market hall, showing ambitious international exhibitions. A strong choice for modern art and photography.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and transit are reasonable versus major Western European capitals.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€3-4.50 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included, but rounding up or tipping 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg 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, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €7, while the average price is around €70.
The train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg takes 3h 31m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg is 223 miles (359 km).
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg leaves at 12:09 AM.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg leaves at 6:11 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Hamburg offers some scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque Rhine Valley with its rolling hills, vineyards, and historic castles. As the train approaches Hamburg, travelers can enjoy views of lush green landscapes and charming small towns.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
Popular day trips by train from Hamburg include Bremen, Kiel, Schwerin, Lübeck, Bremerhaven.
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.
In Hamburg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Reeperbahn, St. Pauli, and public transport. Common scams include distraction tactics near popular tourist spots and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services and stay alert in busy nightlife districts to ensure safety.
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

Most Cologne Hbf to Hamburg trains use the Köln Hbf to Hamburg Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Hamburg-Harburg. Use this guide to compare Cologne Hbf and Hamburg 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 · €7 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · €5 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · €5 · 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

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

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone