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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kassel
Showing times and prices for Jan 24
Cheapest price
$35
Average price
$63
Fastest journey
2 h 52 m
Average duration
3 h 37 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
183 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Kassel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Kassel will cost around $63 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Kassel on Sat, Jan 24, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jan 24 the direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 3 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 52 m .
On Sat, Jan 24 the slowest trains will take 4 h 20 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.
06:55AM2h52
Cologne09:47AMKassel
$351One-way
0 transfers
07:19AM3h36
Cologne10:55AMKassel
$431One-way
0 transfers
07:18AM3h37
Cologne10:55AMKassel
$451One-way
0 transfers
06:17AM3h39
Cologne09:56AMKassel
$681One-way
0 transfers
02:17PM4h20
Cologne06:37PMKassel
$1231One-way
0 transfers
06:55AM2h52
Cologne09:47AMKassel
$351One-way
0 transfers
07:19AM3h36
Cologne10:55AMKassel
$431One-way
0 transfers
07:18AM3h37
Cologne10:55AMKassel
$451One-way
0 transfers
06:17AM3h39
Cologne09:56AMKassel
$681One-way
0 transfers
02:17PM4h20
Cologne06:37PMKassel
$1231One-way
0 transfers
Cologne - KasselCompare Deutsche Bahn, Intercity
$30
2h 48m
12 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.
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.
$93
3h 12m
5 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cologne to Kassel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kassel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €14. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €14, and a train costs an average of €16.
Distance: 113 miles (183 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€60 Average price | €22 Average price Cheapest |
4h 5m Average total duration 3h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Kassel train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kassel trains for today, Friday, January 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 9:17 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:11 AM Cologne | 3h46 | 2:57 PM Kassel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:21 PM Cologne | 3h35 | 9:56 PM Kassel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, January 24 | |||||
| 6:17 AM Cologne | 3h39 | 9:56 AM Kassel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:55 AM Cologne | 2h52 | 9:47 AM Kassel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:18 AM Cologne | 3h37 | 10:55 AM Kassel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:19 AM Cologne | 3h36 | 10:55 AM Kassel | 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 Kassel by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
Sat
Jan 24
Jan 24
Sun
Jan 25
Jan 25
Mon
Jan 26
Jan 26
Tue
Jan 27
Jan 27
Wed
Jan 28
Jan 28
Thu
Jan 29
Jan 29
Fri
Jan 30
Jan 30
Why should you book Cologne to Kassel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE) as well as Hessische Landesbahn and Intercity offer trains services from Cologne to Kassel. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Kassel.
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 Hessische Landesbahn and Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Kassel.
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Kassel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- 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 Hessische Landesbahn and Intercity to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cologne to Kassel.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Kassel.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Kassel
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
PriceWIFISocketsDisadvantages
UnpunctualChangeI was travelling from Cologne to Kassel on business. The train was late again.
I was very happy when I was on the train and could do some work, the wifi worked very well as did the power sockets on offer.
I had to change trains once to take another train.
The hygiene on the train was great, except for the sanitary facilities.
The journey was quiet and pleasant.
Despite the delay, I arrived at my appointment on time.
However, Deutsche Bahn still needs to work on punctuality.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Kassel
GermanyGermanyTrain Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Cologne to Kassel start from as low as $20 (€16) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $75 (€60) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 12 daily trains from Cologne to Kassel with 1 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 2h 52m but the average duration is 3h 35m
Train Operators
- Travel from Cologne to Kassel with Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, and Intercity
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Deutsche Bahn.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from Cologne Hbf and arrive in Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
- First train typically departs at 12:01 AM and the last at 11:55 PM
Distance 113 miles (183 km) |
Average train duration 3h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 52m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:55 |
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 $17 (€14)
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 $17 (€14)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Intercity from Cologne to Kassel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Intercity trains will get you between Cologne and Kassel from $17 (€14). 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 48m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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
Hessische Landesbahn
About
Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Hessische Landesbahn frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "Intercity" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use "InterCity" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 12m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€74)
Intercity frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Kassel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Kassel 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 Kassel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kassel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $20 (€16), while the average price is around $75 (€60).
The train from Cologne to Kassel takes 2h 52m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Kassel is 113 miles (183 km).
The first train from Cologne to Kassel leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Kassel leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Kassel. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Kassel.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kassel is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kassel is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Cologne to Kassel offers picturesque views of the German countryside, with stretches along the Rhine River and glimpses of charming villages, making it a pleasant and scenic route.
A day trip from Cologne to Kassel is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 52m. There are 12 train trips per day for this route, covering a distance of 113 miles (183 km).
To fully experience Kassel, including its renowned art exhibitions, parks like Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, and cultural attractions, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kassel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Kassel
Cologne
Kassel
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 Kassel.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
The major train station for arrivals in Kassel is Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe for your journey to Kassel from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:00 - 19:30
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:30
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:30
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:30
- Friday: 07:00 - 19:30
- Saturday: 09:15 - 17:45
- Sunday: 09:15 - 17:45
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Matterhorn-Stübli
- Biond Restaurant
- Schwälmer Brotladen
- Kleine Konoba
Hotel
- InterCityHotel
- Schweizer Hof
- Kurfürst Wilhelm I.
- Kurparkhotel
Kassel Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:00 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
- Thursday: 08:00 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
- Friday: 08:00 12:45 - 12:00 17:00
Dining
- HermannS
- Eckstein
- Lohmann
- Il Convento
Hotel
- Hotel am Rathaus
- Stadthotel
- Arosa Hotel
- Foto-Motel
Kassel-Oberzwehren
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Zum Langen Feld
- Eichholz
- Café Backlust
- La Fontana Blu
Hotel
- Eichholz
More options for your journey from Cologne to Kassel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kassel and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Kassel
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