- Must visit
European Hansemuseum
A major museum on the history of the Hanseatic League, using immersive exhibits to explain Lübeck’s role as a medieval trading power.
.png){kind=small}
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lübeck
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$48
Average price
$54
Fastest journey
5 h 8 m
Average duration
7 h 59 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
413 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Lübeck is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Lübeck will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cologne for Lübeck on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 413 km distance in an average of 7 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 8 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 9 h 24 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.
7:01 AM9h24Cologne4:25 PMLübeck$481One-way0 transfers- 8:01 AM9h24Cologne5:25 PMLübeck$491One-way0 transfers
7:11 AM5h08Cologne12:19 PMLübeck$651One-way0 transfers
- 7:11 AM5h08Cologne12:19 PMLübeck$651One-way0 transfers
- 8:01 AM9h24Cologne5:25 PMLübeck$491One-way0 transfers
- 7:01 AM9h24Cologne4:25 PMLübeck$481One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Lübeck
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Lübeck among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 47m. 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 $29, and a flight costs an average of $250.
Distance: 256 miles (413 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$81 Average price | $45 Average price Cheapest | $595 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 22m Average total duration 4h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 17m Average total duration 5h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 47m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.5kg 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 Lübeck is a bus with an average price of $45 (€37).
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Lübeck:
A bus is $35 (€29) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Lübeck costing on average $81 (€66).
A bus is $550 (€450) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Lübeck costing on average $595 (€488).
The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Lübeck is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 47m.
Other travel options to Lübeck take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 52m.
Bus takes on average 5h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cologne and Lübeck including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Lübeck among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 33m faster (4h 52m by train vs 5h 25m by car) and roughly $7 (€5) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($81 (€66) vs $87 (€72)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne to Lübeck train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lübeck trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixTrain+ FlixBus | 9:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 9h24 | 6:25 PM Lübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 204 · 11420 | Delayed 7:12 AM 9:11 AMCologne Hbf | 5h41 | 2:52 PM Lübeck Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 614 · 11422 | On time 10:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h41 | 3:52 PM Lübeck Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 202 · 11424 | Delayed 9:15 AM 11:11 AMCologne Hbf | 5h41 | 4:52 PM Lübeck Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 612 · 11426 | On time 12:11 PM Cologne Hbf | 5h41 | 5:52 PM Lübeck Hbf | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Lübeck 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Cologne to Lübeck trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Cologne to Lübeck.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Lübeck.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Lübeck.
- 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 Lübeck.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- 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 Lübeck.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Lübeck
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Lübeck run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (413 km) distance in 5h 8m.
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 $29 (€24)
Distance 256 miles (413 km) |
Average train duration 4h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 8m |
First train 12:09 AM |
Last train 11:27 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $29 (€24)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Lübeck trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Lübeck from $29 (€24). 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
$36 (€29)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 44m
Cheapest Price
$104 (€85)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Lübeck
Things to do in Lübeck
Discover the best of Lübeck — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lübeck trip today.
- Must visit
Buddenbrookhaus
Museum dedicated to Thomas Mann, Heinrich Mann, and the famous Buddenbrooks family novel closely tied to Lübeck.
- Recommended
St. Annen Museum
Important collection of medieval sacred art, altarpieces, sculpture, and cultural history in a former monastery complex.
- Must visit
Lübeck Old Town
UNESCO-listed island center packed with Gothic brick architecture, canals, courtyards, and the city’s main sights.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Historic main square beside the town hall and St. Mary’s Church, a natural starting point for exploring the city.
- Recommended
An der Obertrave
Popular canal-side promenade with classic views of the Holstentor and salt warehouses, especially photogenic at sunset.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Lübecker Marzipan
The city’s most famous specialty, made from a high proportion of almonds and sugar. It is closely associated with Lübeck’s confectionery tradition and is a classic souvenir and local treat.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Rotspon
A traditional red wine matured in Lübeck after import, historically linked to Hanseatic trade. It is one of the city’s best-known drinks and often paired with regional meals.
Labskaus
A classic North German sailor’s dish of mashed potatoes, corned beef and beetroot, often served with pickles, herring and egg. It reflects Lübeck’s maritime heritage.
Wullenwever
Established fine dining restaurant in central Lübeck, recognized for refined modern cuisine and elegant service.
Johanna Berger
Well-regarded restaurant offering contemporary German cooking with a polished but relaxed atmosphere near the old town.
Schiffergesellschaft
Historic Lübeck restaurant in a former guild hall, known for classic Hanseatic and North German cuisine in a very atmospheric setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Old Town dining and hotels cost more, but bakeries, lunch deals, and local transit help keep daily costs reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery lunch, or simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis and café bills; hotel tipping is modest and optional.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.60 EUR
To the city center
Lübeck Hbf, Lübeck -> Lübeck Rathaus, Lübeck
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can buy tickets in the NAH.SH app or from ticket machines; validate paper tickets if required before boarding.
- Card payment availability varies by bus and sales channel, so buying in the app is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Lübeck
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Lübeck 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 Lübeck, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lübeck can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€29), while the average price is around $81 (€66).
The train from Cologne to Lübeck takes 5h 8m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lübeck is 256 miles (413 km).
The first train from Cologne to Lübeck leaves at 12:09 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Lübeck leaves at 11:27 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cologne to Lübeck.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Lübeck.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Lübeck is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Lübeck Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Lübeck is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The train journey from Cologne to Lübeck offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Rhine River, picturesque German countryside, and charming small towns along the route.
A day trip from Cologne to Lübeck is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 8m each way and covers 256 miles (413 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
In Lübeck, you can explore the iconic Holstentor Museum to learn about the city's medieval history, visit the stunning St. Mary's Church with its astronomical clock, and wander through the charming streets of Lübeck's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the history of the Hanseatic League at the European Hansemuseum and indulge in the famous marzipan at the Niederegger Marzipan Museum. Don't miss the Lübeck Cathedral and the Buddenbrookhaus, a museum dedicated to Thomas Mann's novel "Buddenbrooks".
To fully enjoy Lübeck's medieval architecture, historical sites, and cultural experiences, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Lübeck.
Since both Cologne and Lübeck 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 Lübeck include Hamburg, Wismar, Bremen, Schwerin, Lüneburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Lübeck 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 Lübeck, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old town and near train stations. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares can occur, so it is advisable to use official taxi services or ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of common safety practices such as securing personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
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 Lübeck
Cologne
Lübeck
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 Lübeck.
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 Lübeck is Lübeck Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lübeck Hbf for your journey to Lübeck from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:00
- Saturday: 06:30 - 19:30
- Sunday: 08:30 - 19:30
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- MyWaffel
- McDonald's
- Cafe Maret
- Café Brazil
Hotel
- LIHO
- Mercure
- Hotel Stadt Lübeck
- Hotel an der Marienkirche
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
16 kmDining
- TEATIME
- Café Marleen
- Strandoase
- Ostsee Lounge
Hotel
- Grand SPA Resort A-ROSA Travemünde
- Atlantic Grand Hotel Travemünde
- Seeschlößchen
- Deutscher Kaiser
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
15 kmDining
- TEATIME
- Café Marleen
- Niederegger
- Landungsbrücken
Hotel
- Grand SPA Resort A-ROSA Travemünde
- Deutscher Kaiser
- Lili Marleen
- Hotel Soldwisch
More options for your journey from Cologne to Lübeck
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lübeck and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Lübeck
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
