Cologne to Kiel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Thu, Oct 15
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Deutsche Bahn
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erixx
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kiel

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 15

Cheapest price on Oct 15

$58

Average ticket price on Oct 15

$100

Fastest journey on Oct 15

5 h 14 m

Average journey duration on Oct 15

5 h 24 m

Trains on Oct 15

10

Distance

434 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne to Kiel will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cologne to Kiel without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 612 · ICE 770
    12:11 PM5h29
    Cologne Hbf
    5:40 PMKiel Hbf
    $581One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 200 · 11276
    1:11 PM5h41
    Cologne Hbf
    6:52 PMKiel Hbf
    $601One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1120 · 11224
    12:01 PM5h20
    Cologne Hbf
    5:21 PMKiel Hbf
    $791One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 610 · ICE 578
    2:11 PM5h29
    Cologne Hbf
    7:40 PMKiel Hbf
    $821One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 559 · ICE 680 · 11226
    12:44 PM5h37
    Cologne Hbf
    6:21 PMKiel Hbf
    $971One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Kiel

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Kiel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 269 miles (434 km) distance in 4h 42m.

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
269 miles (434 km)
Average train duration
5h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$22
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
4h 42m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:27 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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

Live departures

Cologne to Kiel train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 616 · ICE 774
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h29
1:40 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 555 · ICE 684 · 11218
On time
8:44 AM Cologne Hbf
5h37
2:21 PM Kiel Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 204 · 11268
On time
9:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h41
2:52 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1122 · 11220
On time
10:07 AM Cologne Hbf
5h14
3:21 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 614 · ICE 772
On time
10:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h29
3:40 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1120 · 11224
On time
12:01 PM Cologne Hbf
5h20
5:21 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · ICE 770
On time
12:11 PM Cologne Hbf
5h29
5:40 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 559 · ICE 680 · 11226
On time
12:44 PM Cologne Hbf
5h37
6:21 PM Kiel Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 200 · 11276
On time
1:11 PM Cologne Hbf
5h41
6:52 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 610 · ICE 578
On time
2:11 PM Cologne Hbf
5h29
7:40 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cologne to Kiel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as metronom or erixx offer trains services from Cologne to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Kiel.

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 metronom or erixx to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Kiel.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Kiel.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of metronom or erixx to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Kiel.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Kiel.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Kiel

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
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
IconNo change had been necessary
IconCleanliness perfect throughout the train
IconTrain had full facilities with on-board bistro
Disadvantages
Iconirritated staff
IconDelay of 25 minutes
From Kiel to Cologne, you don't need to change trains, so the 25-minute delay that occurred was not a problem for me. Only the annoyed staff had disturbed the ride comfort. The seats were very comfortable and the train had been fully equipped. It was a bit noisy on the train, but still okay. The on-board bistro was still open on the train, where the cleanliness had been perfect. The cleanliness in the passenger compartment was also very good.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, erixx, metronom from Cologne to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, erixx, metronom trains will get you between Cologne and Kiel from $22. 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
4h 42m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$22
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.
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

erixx

About
erixx is a private train company in Germany offering rail services in Bremen and Lower Saxony in northern Germany. Founded in 2011, erixx runs six regional lines including the Heidebahn from Hanover to Buchholz as well as offering service to Wittingen, Bad Harzburg, Soltau and Wolfenbuttel. The trains are modern, comfortable and alcohol-free in order to provide a pleasant journey. The most popular journeys include Hanover to Bad Harzburg with the RE10, Bad Harzburg/Goslar to Braunschweig with the RB42/43, Braunschweig to Uelzen with the RB47, and Lueneburg to Dannenberg on the RB32.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average erixx Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest erixx Price
$66
erixx frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for cancelled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not possible on regional trains
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket
Quiet zone

metronom

About
Metronom Eisenbahngesellschaft mbH is a German railway company that has been connecting Northern Germany since 2003. Based in Uelzen, it focuses exclusively on passenger transport, operating services from Hamburg to Bremen, Lüneburg, Uelzen, Hanover, and Göttingen. The company also runs services under the brand Enno from Wolfsburg to Hanover and Hildesheim. Metronom is partly state-owned, with its trains, which can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, being rented from the state transport company Landesnahverkehrsgesellschaft Niedersachsen mbH (LNVG). They are known for their yellow and blue double-decker trains, offering amenities like extra legroom and refreshments.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average metronom Duration
6h 44m
Cheapest metronom Price
$22
metronom frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one large piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Kiel

Things to do in Kiel

Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.

  • Must visit

Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel

Maritime museum in a former fish auction hall. Highlights Kiel's naval, shipping, and harbor history in an atmospheric waterfront setting.

  • Must visit

Open Air Museum Molfsee

Open-air museum site near Kiel with historic rural buildings and cultural exhibitions. Worth visiting for regional architecture and traditions.

  • Recommended

Kunsthalle zu Kiel

Art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, prints, and sculptures. A strong stop for classical and modern art near the fjord.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can rise in summer, but dining and local transit are usually reasonable for a port city.

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
€3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Tip taxi drivers by rounding up, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Kiel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22, while the average price is around $111.
The train from Cologne to Kiel takes 4h 42m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Kiel is 269 miles (434 km).
The first train from Cologne to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Kiel leaves at 11:27 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Kiel.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kiel is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The train journey from Cologne to Kiel offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and charming German countryside, making it a moderately scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kiel.
Popular day trips by train from Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
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 Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.
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 Kiel

Most Cologne to Kiel trains use the Köln Hbf to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Kiel 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 Kiel

Which Cologne station do trains to Kiel leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Kiel 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 Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $3 · 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.

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.

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