Cologne to Gifhorn train with Deutsche Bahn

Thu, Aug 06
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Gifhorn

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

$162

Average price

$162

Fastest journey

3 h 59 m

Average duration

3 h 59 m

Trains per day

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 $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $162.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Cologne for Gifhorn on Thu, Aug 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .

On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 59 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    10:26 AM3h59
    Cologne
    2:25 PMGifhorn
    $1621One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight 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 prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $432.

Distance: 187 miles (302 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$137

Average price

$516

Average price

$48

Average price

Cheapest

$64

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 42m

Average total duration

3h 42m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

9h 52m

Average total duration

9h 22m

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

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 $48 (€39).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Gifhorn:

A bus is $89 (€72) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Gifhorn costing on average $137 (€112).

A bus is $468 (€381) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Gifhorn costing on average $516 (€421).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Gifhorn is by train with an average journey time of 3h 18m.

Other travel options to Gifhorn take longer:

Flight takes on average 3h 42m.

Bus takes on average 9h 22m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Gifhorn including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train 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 59m sooner (3h 18m by train vs 4h 17m by car). Tickets start at around $137 (€112) compared to roughly $64 (€52) 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.

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Gifhorn 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.

Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12

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.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Gifhorn.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Gifhorn.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Gifhorn

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Gifhorn run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $104 (€85) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) 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 59m.

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 $47 (€38)
Distance
187 miles (302 km)
Average train duration
3h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$104 (€85)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 59m
First train
12:31 AM
Last train
11:31 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
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 $47 (€38)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Gifhorn trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Gifhorn from $47 (€38). 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
3h 54m
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Gifhorn can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $104 (€85), while the average price is around $137 (€112).
The train from Cologne to Gifhorn takes 3h 59m 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 $47 (€38).
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 59m. 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 train 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 Hbf to Gifhorn station pair, with some services arriving at Gifhorn Stadt. 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, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · 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 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

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.

Köln-ChorweilerKöln-Chorweiler, Liverpooler Platz, 50769 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln-Chorweiler from Cologne city centre

Köln-Chorweiler is 10 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS11, S6 · 11m · $2 · every ~11 min
S11, S6 · 13m · $4 · every ~11 min
BusS11 · 24m · $5
Subway15 · 28m · $4 · every ~12 min
15 · 29m · $4 · every ~12 min

Köln-Chorweiler train station facilities and services

Köln-Chorweiler 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: Weiler Kebap, Başak Grill, Le'zzet, Seniorencafé Treffpunkt

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln-Chorweiler. ATMs are available at Köln-Chorweiler.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln-Chorweiler. Information desks are available at Köln-Chorweiler.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln-Chorweiler. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln-Chorweiler: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln-Chorweiler: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln-Chorweiler.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Haus Wester.

Most popular train connections to Gifhorn

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