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

Fri, Nov 21
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for Nov 22

Cheapest price

$32

Average price

$53

Fastest journey

3 h 47 m

Average duration

4 h 41 m

Trains per day

5

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 $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Hamburg on Sat, Nov 22, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Nov 22 the direct trains cover the 359 km distance in an average of 4 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 47 m .

On Sat, Nov 22 the slowest trains will take 7 h 39 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
03:07PM3h47
Cologne Messe/Deutz
06:54PMHamburg Harburg
$321One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain
03:07PM4h00
Cologne Messe/Deutz
07:07PMHamburg Hbf
$321One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
04:16PM7h39
Cologne Messe/Deutz
11:55PMHamburg, S Hamburg Airport
$551One-way
1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain
07:03AM4h05
Cologne Messe/Deutz
11:08AMHamburg Hbf
$741One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain
07:03AM3h52
Cologne Messe/Deutz
10:55AMHamburg Harburg
$741One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €12, and a flight costs an average of €120.

Distance: 223 miles (359 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€33

Average price

€26

Average price

Cheapest

€444

Average price

4h 43m

Average total duration

4h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 20m

Average total duration

5h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 32m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Hamburg trains for today, Friday, November 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 6:22 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 6166:57 AM Cologne Hbf
4h17
11:14 AM Hamburg Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 6 · IC 2310
On time
7:17 AM Cologne Hbf
4h42
11:59 AM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 555 · ICE 682
On time
7:37 AM Cologne Hbf
4h17
11:54 AM Hamburg Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 1014 · IC 2310
On time
7:41 AM Cologne Hbf
4h18
11:59 AM Hamburg Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 206
Delayed
8:01 AM Cologne Hbf
4h13
12:26 PM 12:26 PMHamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 11 · ICE 822 · ICE 2577 · ICE 882
On time
8:07 AM Cologne Hbf
4h47
12:54 PM Hamburg Hbf
3 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 6149:01 AM Cologne Hbf
4h13
1:14 PM Hamburg Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 557 · ICE 680
On time
9:37 AM Cologne Hbf
4h18
1:55 PM Hamburg Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 202
On time
9:57 AM Cologne Hbf
4h17
2:14 PM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 61211:01 AM Cologne Hbf
4h13
3:14 PM Hamburg Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 559 · ICE 588
On time
11:37 AM Cologne Hbf
4h18
3:55 PM Hamburg Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 200
On time
11:57 AM Cologne Hbf
4h17
4:14 PM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 11 · ICE 724 · ICE 2571 · ICE 78812:07 PM Cologne Hbf
4h46
4:53 PM Hamburg Hbf3 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 6101:01 PM Cologne Hbf
4h13
5:14 PM Hamburg Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 720 · ICE 2523 · ICE 786
On time
2:17 PM Cologne Hbf
4h37
6:54 PM Hamburg Hbf
3 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 518
On time
3:01 PM Cologne Hbf
4h13
7:14 PM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 653 · ICE 584
On time
3:37 PM Cologne Hbf
4h21
7:58 PM Hamburg Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 11 · ICE 626 · ICE 2515 · ICE 90
On time
4:07 PM Cologne Hbf
4h48
8:55 PM Hamburg Hbf
3 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 516
On time
4:57 PM Cologne Hbf
4h17
9:14 PM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 6 · ICE 655 · ICE 5825:37 PM Cologne Hbf
4h18
9:55 PM Hamburg Hbf2 transfers
deutsche_bahnRB 10572 · ICE 104
On time
5:54 PM Cologne Hbf
4h22
10:16 PM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 514
On time
7:01 PM Cologne Hbf
4h13
11:14 PM Hamburg Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 657 · ICE 272
On time
7:41 PM Cologne Hbf
5h24
1:05 AM Hamburg Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 12 · ICE 102+metronomME 82848 · ME 816008:01 PM Cologne Hbf
6h16
2:17 AM Hamburg Hbf3 transfers
deutsche_bahnS 12 · ICE 100+metronomME 8285610:01 PM Cologne Hbf
6h56
4:57 AM Hamburg Hbf2 transfers
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain6:03 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h05
10:08 AM Hamburg Hbf0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain6:03 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
3h52
9:55 AM Hamburg Harburg0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Hamburg 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.

Sat
Nov 22
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Fri
Nov 28

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.

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 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:59, the last at 21:38. The fastest train covers the 223 miles (359 km) distance in 3h 54m.

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 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$11 (€9)
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
10
Fastest train
3h 54m
First train
04:59
Last train
21:38
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Hamburg from $11 (€9). 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
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$57 (€46)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
3h 54m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
FlixTrain frequency
4 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

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
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Hamburg is not feasible, as the travel time is 3h 54m. However, there are 13 train trips available per day.
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.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg is 223 miles (359 km).
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $40 (€33).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg is by train, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg leaves at 4:59 AM.
The train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg takes 3h 54m and runs 13 per day.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg leaves at 9:38 PM.
Three days in Hamburg are generally sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, and the historic Speicherstadt, as well as to experience its vibrant neighborhoods and local cuisine.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
In Hamburg, you can explore the vibrant nightlife of the Reeperbahn, enjoy a scenic boat tour of the Port of Hamburg, visit the lively Hamburg Fish Market, and discover the International Maritime Museum. Stroll along the Alster Lakes for picturesque views, and don't miss the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, Speicherstadt, St. Michael's Church, and Planten un Blomen for diverse attractions and experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

Cologne
Hamburg
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Hamburg.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

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