- Must visit
Residenzmuseum im Celler Schloss
Museum inside Celle Castle presenting ducal life, interiors, and state rooms. The best place to understand Celle’s courtly history.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Celle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€65
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€68
Fastest journey on Sep 19
3 h 39 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
4 h 10 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
286 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Celle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Celle will cost around €68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €65.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Cologne to Celle, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 286 km distance in an average of 4 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 39 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 4 h 41 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.
5:26 AM4h41Cologne10:07 AMCelle€651One-way0 transfers- 10:28 AM3h39Cologne2:07 PMCelle€701One-way0 transfers
- 10:28 AM3h39Cologne2:07 PMCelle€701One-way0 transfers
- 5:26 AM4h41Cologne10:07 AMCelle€651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Cologne to Celle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Celle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €34 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 15m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €34, while a flight costs an average of €340.
Distance: 177 miles (286 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€34 Average price Cheapest | €340 Average price | €49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 25m Average total duration 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 2h 15m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Celle is a train with an average price of €34.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Celle:
A train is €306 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Celle costing on average €340.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Celle is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 15m.
Other travel options to Celle take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Celle including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Celle among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €34 compared to roughly €49 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €15. The journey takes 3h 55m versus 3h 53m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Cologne to Celle train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Celle trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 559+ 82880 | On time 12:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h23 | 4:07 PM Celle station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 951 · 82832 | On time 1:38 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h29 | 5:07 PM Celle station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 651+82884 | On time 2:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h23 | 6:07 PM Celle station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 953 · 82836 | On time 3:38 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h29 | 7:07 PM Celle station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 653+82888 | On time 4:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h23 | 8:07 PM Celle station | 1 transfer | |
| 5:26 AM Cologne | 4h41 | 10:07 AM Celle | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Celle by train or flight
Compare 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
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Cologne to Celle trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Celle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Celle.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Celle.
- 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Celle.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Celle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Celle
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Celle run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €24 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:22, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (286 km) distance in 3h 1m.
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 177 miles (286 km) |
Average train duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price €24 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
First train 12:22 AM |
Last train 11:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 5 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Celle trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Celle from €24. 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 1m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€24
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.
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.
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.
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
Complete guide to Celle
Things to do in Celle
Discover the best of Celle — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Celle trip today.
- Must visit
Bomann-Museum Celle
Regional cultural history museum with folk art, town history, and reconstructed interiors. One of Celle’s most important museums.
- Recommended
Eberhard Schlotter Stiftung
Major collection of works by Eberhard Schlotter in a historic house. A strong choice for figurative art in central Celle.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Picturesque old town with hundreds of timber-framed houses, boutiques, and lanes. The essential area for strolling and photography.
- Recommended
Französischer Garten
Elegant baroque park laid out for the court. Ideal for walking, seasonal flowers, and visits to nearby royal monuments.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central square framed by historic buildings and lively town life. A natural starting point for exploring the old center.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl Mit Bregenwurst
Hearty kale stew from Lower Saxony, traditionally cooked with onions and sausage or pork. A classic cold-season dish widely eaten around Celle.
- Gluten-free
Matjes Nach Hausfrauenart
Lightly pickled herring in a sweet-sour marinade with onion and spices. A North German staple often served with potatoes.
Rinderroulade
Braised beef roulade filled with bacon, onion, mustard, and pickles. Popular in Lower Saxony home cooking and festive Sunday meals.
Schweizerhaus Celle
Established upscale venue serving refined German and seasonal cuisine in an elegant setting near Celle's historic center.
Ratskeller Celle
Historic traditional restaurant in Celle's old town known for regional German dishes and a cozy half-timbered atmosphere.
Brauhaus Muthaus Celle
Well-known brewery restaurant with house beers, hearty regional plates, and a lively casual atmosphere in the old town.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually below big-city prices, while local transit and everyday costs stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
CeBus FahrPlaner
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.80
- Day pass
- €6.40
To the city center
Celle Bahnhof -> Celle Altstadt
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in the CeBus app or from bus ticket machines before boarding when possible.
- Card payment availability can vary by bus and sales point; carry a valid ticket or cash as backup.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Celle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Celle 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 Celle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Celle can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €24, while the average price is around €34.
The train from Cologne to Celle takes 3h 1m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Celle leaves at 12:22 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Celle is 177 miles (286 km).
The last train from Cologne to Celle leaves at 11:49 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Celle.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Celle.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Celle is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Celle station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Celle is by train, with a cost of around €24.
The train journey from Cologne to Celle offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of the Rhine River, charming villages, and stretches of picturesque countryside, particularly as you travel through Lower Saxony.
A day trip from Cologne to Celle is not feasible due to the travel duration of 3h 1m. However, there are 6 trains available per day. The distance between the two cities is 177 miles (286 km).
Two to three days are ideal for exploring Celle, allowing time to visit its historic old town, Celle Castle, Bomann Museum, and enjoy the local cuisine and shopping.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Celle.
Since both Cologne and Celle 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 Celle include Hamburg, Hanover, Bremen, Lübeck, Kassel.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Celle 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.
In Celle, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near popular attractions and train stations. Common scams include overcharging taxis and vendors. Staying alert in busy spots and using official transportation services helps 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 to Celle
Most Cologne to Celle trains use the Köln Hbf to Celle station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Celle 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 Celle
Which Cologne station do trains to Celle leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Celle leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
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.
Köln-EhrenfeldKöln-Ehrenfeld, Stammstr. 1, 50968 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln-Ehrenfeld from Cologne city centre
Köln-Ehrenfeld is 3 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 5m · every ~3 min
Re8, Rb27, Re9, Rb38, S19, S12 · 6m · €1 · every ~21 min
BusRb38, Re8, Rb27, S19 · 18m · €4
142 · 18m · every ~7 min
Subway3, 4 · 9m · €2 · every ~25 min
Köln-Ehrenfeld train station facilities and services
Köln-Ehrenfeld 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: I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato, Burger King, Café Franck, Eichendorf
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. ATMs are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Information desks are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln-Ehrenfeld. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln-Ehrenfeld: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Ehrenfeld.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Kölnotel, Black Hotels.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · €3 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · €2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz 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: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Which Celle station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Celle arrive at Celle. Celle is 0 miles (1 km) from Celle city centre.
CelleCelle Pbf, Bahnhofsplatz 6, 29221 Celle
City-centre transport
Getting to Celle from Celle city centre
Celle is 1 km from Celle city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus900, 800, 300, 100, 9 · 4m · every ~7 min
13, 12, 100, 900, 300, 800, 200, 5 · 5m · every ~7 min
Celle train station facilities and services
Celle 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: Zimmermann, Cafe Frau Amboss, Döner Treff, Cappuccino-Bar
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Celle. ATMs are available at Celle.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Celle. Information desks are available at Celle.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Celle. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Celle: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Celle: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Celle.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hesse Hotel, Althoff Hotel Fürstenhof Celle.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Celle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Celle and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Celle
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