- Must visit
Landesmuseum Hannover
One of Germany's leading art museums, spanning medieval works to modern masters. A major stop for painting, sculpture, and temporary exhibitions.
Cheapest price on Sep 17
€7
Average ticket price on Sep 17
€52
Fastest journey on Sep 17
2 h 34 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
2 h 35 m
Trains on Sep 17
35
Distance
250 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Hanover is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Hanover will cost around €52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €7.
On Thu, Sep 17, we found 35 trains from Cologne to Hanover, including 30 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 17 the direct trains cover the 250 km distance in an average of 2 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 34 m .
On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest trains will take 2 h 35 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.
ICE 657
IC 2349
ICE 853
ICE 541
FlixTrain
ICE 553
ICE 555
ICE 557
ICE 559
ICE 651Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Hanover among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €19 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 47m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, while a flight costs an average of €428.
Distance: 155 miles (250 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€60 Average price | €19 Average price Cheapest | €428 Average price | €44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration 5h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration 2h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Hanover:
A bus is €42 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Hanover costing on average €60.
A bus is €410 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Hanover costing on average €428.
Other travel options to Hanover take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 17m.
Bus takes on average 5h 39m.
You'll arrive about 9m sooner (3h 17m by train vs 3h 26m by car). Tickets start at around €60 compared to roughly €44 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Hanover trains for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 657 | On time 8:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h38 | 11:23 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2349 | Delayed 7:18 PM 9:11 PMCologne Hbf | 3h09 | 12:20 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, September 17 | |||||
ICE 541 | On time 4:25 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h03 | 7:28 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2445 | On time 5:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h09 | 8:20 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 853 | On time 5:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h50 | 8:28 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 553 | On time 6:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h34 | 9:19 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2443 | On time 7:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h08 | 10:19 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 855 | On time 7:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h50 | 10:28 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h27 | 11:41 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 555 | On time 8:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h35 | 11:19 AM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2441 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h09 | 12:20 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 857 | On time 9:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h50 | 12:28 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2204 · ICE 1547 | On time 9:46 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h15 | 1:01 PM Hanover Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 557 | On time 10:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h35 | 1:19 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2049 | On time 11:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h07 | 2:18 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 859 | On time 11:38 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h50 | 2:28 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 12:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h27 | 3:41 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 559 | On time 12:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h35 | 3:19 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2047 | On time 1:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h09 | 4:20 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 951 | On time 1:38 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h50 | 4:28 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 651 | On time 2:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h35 | 5:19 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2045 | On time 3:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h09 | 6:20 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 953 | On time 3:38 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h50 | 6:28 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixTrain | 4:14 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h27 | 7:41 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 653 | On time 4:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h35 | 7:19 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 725 · ICE 1070 | On time 4:45 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 3h31 | 8:16 PM Hanover Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2043 | On time 5:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h09 | 8:20 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 955 | On time 5:45 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h43 | 8:28 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 655 | On time 6:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h35 | 9:19 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC 2041 | On time 7:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h09 | 10:20 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 957 | On time 7:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h42 | 10:28 PM Hanover Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Trains from Cologne to Hanover run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €5 if you book in advance.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 155 miles (250 km) distance in 2h 19m.
Distance 155 miles (250 km) |
Average train duration 3h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price €5 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 2h 19m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Hanover — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hanover trip today.
One of Germany's leading art museums, spanning medieval works to modern masters. A major stop for painting, sculpture, and temporary exhibitions.
Excellent museum for modern and contemporary art with strong temporary shows. Worth visiting for its focused collection and striking architecture.
Museum in Hanover's old mint building covering local history from the Middle Ages onward. A useful introduction to the city's development.
Baroque garden ensemble with fountains, hedges, and formal design. Hanover's signature outdoor attraction and one of Europe's finest historic gardens.
Large urban lake with walking and cycling routes, boat rentals, and broad water views. A local favorite for recreation in all seasons.
Historic old town quarter with half-timbered buildings, churches, and lanes. Best area for experiencing Hanover's rebuilt medieval character.
A coarse pork sausage from Lower Saxony, traditionally served with kale or potatoes. It is a regional winter favorite in Hanover and nearby areas.
Hearty braised kale, often cooked with onions and sausage. A classic cold-season dish across Hanover and Lower Saxony with strong local roots.
A baked sheet cake topped with plums and streusel. It is a beloved northern German home-style cake often enjoyed in Hanover with afternoon coffee.
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in central Hanover, known for refined modern cuisine, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Established fine-dining restaurant in Hanover with seasonal menus, elegant plating, and a calm upscale atmosphere.
Historic traditional restaurant by the old town market hall, serving classic Lower Saxon dishes and local beer in a rustic setting.
Moderate for Germany. Hotels, dining, and transit are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but central stays and trade fair periods raise prices.
Service is included, but rounding up is standard. Tip restaurants about 5-10%, taxis by rounding up, and cafes by leaving small change.
Official public transport app
Hanover Hbf -> Kröpcke, Hanover
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Hanover 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, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cologne to Hanover trains use the Köln Hbf to Hannover Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Hanover train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
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 storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Hannover 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 options include: Balzac Coffee, Burger King, McDonald's, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, asiahung, Mr. CLOU, Nordsee, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, & many more
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Hannover Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Hannover Hbf. Information desks are located near the main entrance by the DB ticket office.
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the main entrance. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hannover Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Hannover Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hannover Hbf: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Grand Hotel Mussmann, IntercityHotel Hannover, Hotel Loccumer Hof.
Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB is 1 km from Hanover city centre. Public transport options include:
Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB.
ATMs are available at Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB.
Available at Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hannover, Hauptbahnhof / ZOB.
Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee is 5 km from Hanover city centre. Public transport options include:
Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee 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 options include: Brela, Ginkgo, TRIO Ristorantino Eiscafe und Bar, Alte Mühle
Wi-Fi is available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee. ATMs are available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee.
Ticket office support is available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee. Information desks are available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee.
Luggage storage is available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hannover Karl-Wiechert-Allee.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need