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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kiel
Showing times and prices for Jan 16
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$133
Fastest journey
5 h 29 m
Average duration
5 h 35 m
Trains per day
5
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 $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Kiel without transferring at least once.
ICE 616 · ICE 77408:11AM5h29
Cologne Hbf01:40PMKiel Hbf
$941One-way
1 transfer
ICE 204 · 1126809:11AM5h41
Cologne Hbf02:52PMKiel Hbf
$1281One-way
1 transfer
ICE 614 · ICE 77210:11AM5h29
Cologne Hbf03:40PMKiel Hbf
$1291One-way
1 transfer
ICE 557 · ICE 682 · 1122210:44AM5h37
Cologne Hbf04:21PMKiel Hbf
$1561One-way
2 transfers
ICE 555 · ICE 684 · 1121808:44AM5h37
Cologne Hbf02:21PMKiel Hbf
$1561One-way
2 transfers
ICE 616 · ICE 77408:11AM5h29
Cologne Hbf01:40PMKiel Hbf
$941One-way
1 transfer
ICE 614 · ICE 77210:11AM5h29
Cologne Hbf03:40PMKiel Hbf
$1291One-way
1 transfer
ICE 557 · ICE 682 · 1122210:44AM5h37
Cologne Hbf04:21PMKiel Hbf
$1561One-way
2 transfers
ICE 555 · ICE 684 · 1121808:44AM5h37
Cologne Hbf02:21PMKiel Hbf
$1561One-way
2 transfers
ICE 204 · 1126809:11AM5h41
Cologne Hbf02:52PMKiel Hbf
$1281One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, and a flight costs an average of €120.
Distance: 269 miles (434 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€50 Average price | €32 Average price Cheapest | €413 Average price |
6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 16m Average total duration 7h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 4m Average total duration Fastest 1h 4m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kiel trains for today, Thursday, January 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 8:29 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 614 · ICE 772 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h29 | 2:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 557 · ICE 682 · 11222 | On time 9:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h37 | 3:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| Friday, January 16 | |||||
| ICE 616 · ICE 774 | On time 7:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h29 | 12:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 555 · ICE 684 · 11218 | 7:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h37 | 1:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 204 · 11268 | On time 8:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h41 | 1:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Kiel by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE) as well as FlixTrain 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 (ICE,RE)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE), but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain 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 (ICE,RE) 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 and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of FlixTrain to help you choose the right option for your journey 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
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
No change had been necessaryCleanliness perfect throughout the trainTrain had full facilities with on-board bistroDisadvantages
irritated staffDelay of 25 minutesFrom 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Kiel
GermanyGermanyTrain Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Cologne to Kiel start from as low as $22 (€18) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $62 (€50) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 7 daily trains from Cologne to Kiel with 1 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 5h 8m but the average duration is 5h 44m
Train Operators
- Travel from Cologne to Kiel with Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Deutsche Bahn.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from Cologne Hbf and arrive in Kiel Hbf
- First train typically departs at 12:05 AM and the last at 11:12 PM
Distance 269 miles (434 km) |
Average train duration 5h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 8m |
First train 00:05 |
Last train 23:12 |
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
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Cologne to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne and Kiel from $22 (€18). 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
5h 8m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
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.
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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 46m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
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.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $62 (€50).
The train from Cologne to Kiel takes 5h 8m and runs 7 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 11:12 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Kiel. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
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 cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kiel is by train, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
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.
A day trip from Cologne to Kiel is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 8m. Trains run 7 times per day.
To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kiel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Kiel
Cologne
Kiel
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 Kiel.
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 Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your journey to Kiel from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
- MUM&DAD
- Lunatique
- McDonald's
- Campus Suite
Hotel
- Hotel Wiking
- Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
- Astor
- InterCityHotel Kiel
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Illy Espressobar
- McDonald's
- Gosch
- Citti-Restaurant
Kiel Schulen am Langsee
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingMore options for your journey from Cologne to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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