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

Fri, Dec 19
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
National Express
TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
National Express
TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Regionale
1,000+ 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 Hanover Hbf

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

$23

Average price

$67

Fastest journey

2 h 34 m

Average duration

2 h 38 m

Trains per day

11

Distance

249 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Hanover 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 Hanover Hbf will cost around $67 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.

Fast trains

Of the 11 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Hanover Hbf on Sun, Dec 21, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 the direct trains cover the 249 km distance in an average of 2 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 34 m .

On Sun, Dec 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 43 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
04:14PM3h27
Cologne Hbf
07:41PMHanover Hbf
$231One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain
12:14PM3h27
Cologne Hbf
03:41PMHanover Hbf
$231One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrainFlixTrain
08:14AM3h27
Cologne Hbf
11:41AMHanover Hbf
$231One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 855
07:45AM2h43
Cologne Hbf
10:28AMHanover Hbf
$571One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 206 · IC 2443
07:11AM3h08
Cologne Hbf
10:19AMHanover Hbf
$641One-way
1 transfer

Cologne Hbf - Hanover HbfCompare Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express

deutsche_bahn
$19
2h 41m
5 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
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.
flixbus_flixtrain
$20
3h 27m
2 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Seat reservation included in ticket price
national_express
$74
3h 31m
7 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Seat reservation

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €9, and a flight costs an average of €238.

Distance: 154 miles (249 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€59

Average price

€14

Average price

Cheapest

€370

Average price

3h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 34m

Average total duration

4h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 45m

Average total duration

4h 45m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf trains for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:43 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain7:14 AM Cologne Hbf
3h27
10:41 AM Hanover Hbf0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 555
On time
7:44 AM Cologne Hbf
2h35
10:19 AM Hanover Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 204 · IC 2441
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
3h09
11:20 AM Hanover Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 857
On time
8:45 AM Cologne Hbf
2h43
11:28 AM Hanover Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 557
On time
9:44 AM Cologne Hbf
2h35
12:19 PM Hanover Hbf
0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain11:14 AM Cologne Hbf
3h27
2:41 PM Hanover Hbf0 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 Hanover Hbf by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26

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

Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE) as well as FlixTrain, National Express and TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE), but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, National Express and TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Hanover 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 (ICE,IC,RE) with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of FlixTrain, National Express and TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf

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
IconShort travel time
IconComfort
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconNo wifi
I travelled from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE 2044. The journey was in second class and without seat reservation. It was a very pleasant journey because it was extremely comfortable on the train. This was due to the pleasant temperatures and the ergonomic and comfortable seats. The journey took only a short 3 hours. The train was in a good and well-maintained condition. Unfortunately, there was no wifi.
Advantages
IconWIFI
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconLittle choice at the bistro
The train journey from Hanover to Cologne with IC 2044 was nothing special. The train was average, the seats comfortable enough, but nothing extraordinary. The journey was on time. The on-board catering was standard. There was not too much choice. The staff on board were friendly and polite. The wifi worked throughout. It was basically a normal train journey with no particular highlights or disappointments.
Advantages
IconGood wifi
IconEnough seats
Disadvantages
IconUnpunctual
I travelled from Hanover to Cologne with the ICE 2044 in second class. I found the price very good. Unfortunately, the train was 15 minutes late. The train itself was clean, as were the toilets. I did not reserve a seat, but there were still plenty of seats available on the train. I had very good wifi the whole way.
Advantages
IconComfort
IconPunctuality
IconBoard bistro
Disadvantages
IconNone
Overall, my train journey from Hanover to Cologne was extremely satisfying. Comfortable seats, friendly staff and a smooth ticket purchase process made the journey a pleasant experience. The announcements were clearly understandable and informed about the next stops and possible delays. The train left Hanover on time and arrived in Cologne on time. There was a bistro where you could buy coffee and snacks.
Advantages
IconOn time
IconComfortable
Disadvantages
IconUnclean toilets
The train journey with IC 2044 from Hanover to Cologne was a pleasant experience overall. The train appeared modern and well maintained. Departure was on time, which was very pleasing. The seats were comfortable and offered sufficient legroom. They were also clean. The journey was mostly quiet and without any major jolts. Only on some sections of the route were there slight vibrations. However, the cleanliness of the toilets blew, which was a clear minus point.
Advantages
IconShort travel time
IconBoard bistro
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconUnhygienic toilets
I travelled from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE 2044. It was a second-class journey. In itself, the journey was very pleasant, the journey time was just under 3 hours. The service on board was also good, there was an on-board bistro where coffee and snacks could be bought. There were no delays to my recollection. The train was clean inside, but not the toilets. They were quite dirty.
Advantages
IconGood price
IconGood train
IconEasy to use
Disadvantages
IconNone
We are going on a family holiday, like every year. The train is very good, we always take it because our relatives live in Cologne. The train is very hygienic and you get free wifi. You can also charge your mobile phone or laptop. There is also a first-raunt on the train, which is very cool. I can only recommend it. My family loves it too. The toilet is very clean and is cleaned very often during the journey. You can even ring the bell if you want it cleaned. We don't have to do a ticket check, which is also very good. The price is very good for so many people.
Advantages
Iconwifi
IconBoard bistro
IconDirect connection
Disadvantages
IconSocket had a loose contact
From Hanover to Cologne. Today I travelled from Hanover to Cologne by ICE to see the Cologne Cathedral. The Intercity Express was on time and there were enough free seats. I had a socket at my seat (it had a loose connection) to charge my mobile phone and wifi to go online. Toilets were available and worked perfectly. The staff was nice and friendly. I booked my tickets via the Deutsche Bahn app, where I could also have reserved seats. I bought chocolate bars in the dining car. The train was clean, air-conditioned and only slightly busy. It was a relaxed and beautiful journey.
Advantages
IconBoard bistro
IconNeat train
IconWIFI
Disadvantages
IconUnpunctual
I travelled from Hanover to Cologne with IC 2044. The journey was in second class. Fortunately, there was a bistro on board selling coffee and snacks. It was early, after all. The train itself was extremely well maintained and well equipped. There were power sockets and free wifi on board. Unfortunately, the train arrived unpunctually in Hanover and accordingly arrived late in Cologne. With that said, it was a pleasant journey.
Advantages
IconNo delay
IconFast connection
Disadvantages
IconUnclean
I travelled with ICE 2044 from Hanover to Cologne. The journey was in second class and I did not reserve a seat. However, there were also plenty of seats, so I didn't have to stand. What was positive was that the train was not delayed at all during the entire journey. I also liked the fact that the journey time was relatively short and that the connection was fast. However, I must criticise that the train was not really clean. There is room for improvement here.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 21:56. The fastest train covers the 154 miles (249 km) distance in 2h 33m.

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 $11 (€9)
Distance
154 miles (249 km)
Average train duration
3h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
$18 (€15)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
2h 33m
First train
02:24
Last train
21:56
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 $11 (€9)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, National Express, TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Hanover Hbf 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
2h 41m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
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
3h 27m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
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

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€59)
National Express frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€57)
TRANS REGIO Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
8 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€15), while the average price is around $74 (€59).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Hannover Hbf is not feasible as the duration is 2h 33m. However, there are 5 trains per day on this route, covering a distance of 154 miles (249 km).
The train from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf takes 2h 33m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf leaves at 2:24 AM.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Hannover Hbf offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with glimpses of the picturesque Rhine River, rolling hills, and charming villages, providing a moderately scenic experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf leaves at 9:56 PM.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf is 154 miles (249 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf

Cologne
Hanover
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 Hanover.
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.

More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Hanover Hbf

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

Most popular trains to and from Hanover Hbf and Cologne Hbf

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