- Must visit
Internationales Wind- und Wassermühlen-Museum
Open-air museum with mills from many countries, crafts, and large grounds. It is Gifhorn's signature cultural attraction and the town's top museum visit.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Gifhorn
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€85
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€85
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Gifhorn is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Gifhorn will cost around €85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €85.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Cologne to Gifhorn, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 5 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 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.
7:26 AM5h00Cologne12:26 PMGifhorn€851One-way0 transfers
- 7:26 AM5h00Cologne12:26 PMGifhorn€851One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Cologne to Gifhorn
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Gifhorn among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €43 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 11m. 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 bus costs an average of €43, while a flight costs an average of €505.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€112 Average price | €505 Average price | €43 Average price Cheapest | €53 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 3h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration 2h 16m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 51m Average total duration 7h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Gifhorn is a bus with an average price of €43.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Gifhorn:
A bus is €68 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Gifhorn costing on average €112.
A bus is €462 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Gifhorn costing on average €505.
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Gifhorn is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Other travel options to Gifhorn take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 41m.
Bus takes on average 7h 21m.
Yes, you can take a between Cologne and Gifhorn.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gifhorn among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 36m sooner (3h 41m by train vs 4h 17m by car). Tickets start at around €112 compared to roughly €53 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Gifhorn train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Gifhorn trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:26 AM Cologne | 5h00 | 12:26 PM Gifhorn | 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 Gifhorn by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Cologne to Gifhorn trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Cologne to Gifhorn.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Gifhorn.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Gifhorn
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Gifhorn run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €103 but you can travel from only €35 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:31, the last at 23:31. The fastest train covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 3h 38m.
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 €35
Distance 187 miles (302 km) |
Average train duration 3h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price €103 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 38m |
First train 12:31 AM |
Last train 11:31 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 €35
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Gifhorn trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Gifhorn from €35. 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 38m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€103
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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 Gifhorn
Things to do in Gifhorn
Discover the best of Gifhorn — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gifhorn trip today.
- Recommended
Historisches Museum Schloss Gifhorn
Permanent and temporary exhibitions inside Gifhorn Castle covering regional history, art, and culture in a memorable historic setting.
Stadtmuseum und Galerie Gifhorn
Municipal gallery space for rotating contemporary art, photography, and local cultural exhibitions. A useful stop for current creative work in town.
- Recommended
Altstadt Gifhorn
Historic center with shops, civic buildings, and easy walking routes. It is the best area for seeing Gifhorn's everyday character and main sights together.
- Recommended
Marktplatz Gifhorn
Central square often used for markets and events. It is a practical orientation point and a good place to experience local town life.
- Recommended
Schlosspark Gifhorn
Green riverside zone near the castle, ideal for strolling, relaxing, and photographing Gifhorn's water-rich landscape and historic skyline.
Grünkohl Mit Bregenwurst
Hearty Lower Saxony kale stew with smoked sausage and potatoes. A classic winter dish widely eaten across the region around Gifhorn.
Sauerbraten
Sour marinated beef in a rich sweet-sour gravy, usually served with red cabbage and potato dumplings. A long-standing North German Sunday favorite.
- Gluten-free
Bratkartoffeln
Pan-fried potatoes with onions and bacon, often served as a side or simple meal. A beloved everyday staple in Lower Saxony homes and inns.
Restaurant Naxos
Well-known local venue serving Greek and Mediterranean dishes in an informal, family-friendly atmosphere popular with residents.
Hotel Alte Mühle Restaurant
Established hotel restaurant with seasonal German cuisine and a calm, polished atmosphere suitable for a more refined meal.
Morada Hotel Isetal Restaurant
Traditional German inn in Gifhorn known for regional dishes and hearty classics in a relaxed, rustic setting.
Euro (€)
Gifhorn is moderate for Germany: dining and hotels are usually cheaper than major cities, while local transit and everyday costs remain fairly standard.
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
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and small change is fine at cafes.
VRB Fahrinfo & Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.30
- Day pass
- >= €8.60
To the city center
Gifhorn Bahnhof -> Gifhorn Marktplatz
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Buy tickets before boarding when possible; local buses may not always support contactless card payment on board.
- Use the VRB app for route planning and mobile tickets in Gifhorn and the surrounding district.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Gifhorn
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Gifhorn 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 Gifhorn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Gifhorn can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €103, while the average price is around €112.
The train from Cologne to Gifhorn takes 3h 38m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Gifhorn is 187 miles (302 km).
The first train from Cologne to Gifhorn leaves at 12:31 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Gifhorn leaves at 11:31 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Gifhorn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Gifhorn.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Gifhorn is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Gifhorn station.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Gifhorn is by bus, with a cost of around €35.
The train journey from Cologne to Gifhorn offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, showcasing the industrial charm of the Ruhr area and transitioning into the picturesque landscapes of Lower Saxony, with views of forests, fields, and small towns.
A day trip from Cologne to Gifhorn is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 38m. There are 6 trips per day by train covering a distance of 187 miles (302 km).
Gifhorn can be explored comfortably in 1 to 2 days, allowing time to visit the International Wind and Watermill Museum, stroll through the town center, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Gifhorn.
Since both Cologne and Gifhorn 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 Gifhorn include Magdeburg, Hanover, Berlin, Bremen, Halle (Westfalen).
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Gifhorn 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 Gifhorn, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near transport hubs and popular attractions. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and be cautious when using ATMs to prevent card skimming. Overall, Gifhorn is considered safe, but standard precautions against petty theft and scams are recommended.
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 Gifhorn
Most Cologne to Gifhorn trains use the Köln/Bonn Flughafen to Gifhorn station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Gifhorn 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 Gifhorn
Which Cologne station do trains to Gifhorn leave from?
Trains from Cologne to Gifhorn 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/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 17m · €4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · €4
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · €5
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Gifhorn station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Trains from Cologne to Gifhorn arrive at Gifhorn. Gifhorn is 1 miles (2 km) from Gifhorn city centre.
GifhornGifhorn, Hallsberg-Platz 4 , 38518 Gifhorn
City-centre transport
Getting to Gifhorn from Gifhorn city centre
Gifhorn is 2 km from Gifhorn city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb · 4m · €2 · every ~3 min
Bus170, 141, 140, 100 · 9m · every ~5 min
Gifhorn train station facilities and services
Gifhorn has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: ANNA, La Cantina
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gifhorn. ATMs are available at Gifhorn.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gifhorn. Information desks are available at Gifhorn.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gifhorn. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gifhorn: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gifhorn: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gifhorn.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Gifhorn
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gifhorn and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Gifhorn
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