Cologne to Lübeck train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Fri, Sep 18
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Lübeck

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

$58

Average ticket price on Sep 18

$166

Fastest journey on Sep 18

4 h 38 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

5 h 4 m

Trains on Sep 18

6

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 $166 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 Lübeck without transferring at least once.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    9:01 AM9h24
    Cologne Hbf
    6:25 PMLübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich
    $581One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 616 · 11466
    8:11 AM5h13
    Cologne Hbf
    1:24 PMLübeck Hbf
    $1551One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 204 · 11468
    9:11 AM5h13
    Cologne Hbf
    2:24 PMLübeck Hbf
    $1551One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1036 · 11418
    8:45 AM5h07
    Cologne Hbf
    1:52 PMLübeck Hbf
    $1701One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 557 · ICE 682+erixx21122
    10:44 AM5h08
    Cologne Hbf
    3:52 PMLübeck Hbf
    $1871One-way
    2 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 an average ticket price of $58 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 21m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, while a flight costs an average of $700.

Distance: 256 miles (413 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$127

Average price

$58

Average price

Cheapest

$700

Average price

$88

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 25m

Average total duration

4h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 9m

Average total duration

10h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 21m

Onboard

+

2h 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

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Lübeck is a bus with an average price of $58.

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Lübeck:

A bus is $69 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Lübeck costing on average $127.

A bus is $641 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Lübeck costing on average $700.

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Lübeck is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 21m.

Other travel options to Lübeck take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 55m.

Bus takes on average 10h 39m.

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. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 30m sooner (4h 55m by train vs 5h 25m by car). Tickets start at around $127 compared to roughly $88 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.

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.

Live departures

Cologne to Lübeck train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Lübeck trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 616 · 11466
On time
8:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h13
1:24 PM Lübeck Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1036 · 11418
On time
8:45 AM Cologne Hbf
5h07
1:52 PM Lübeck Hbf
1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus9:01 AM Cologne Hbf
9h24
6:25 PM Lübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 204 · 11468
On time
9:11 AM Cologne Hbf
5h13
2:24 PM Lübeck Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1022 · 11420
On time
10:14 AM Cologne Hbf
4h38
2:52 PM Lübeck Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 557 · ICE 682+erixx21122
On time
10:44 AM Cologne Hbf
5h08
3:52 PM Lübeck Hbf
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

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
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Lübeck run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 but you can travel from only $33 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 4h 21m.

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 $33
Distance
256 miles (413 km)
Average train duration
4h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
$34
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 21m
First train
12:09 AM
Last train
11:27 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
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 $33

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Lübeck trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Lübeck from $34. 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 21m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$34
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

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

Holstentor Museum

Museum inside Lübeck's famous gate, presenting the city's Hanseatic history and fortifications. Essential for context before exploring the old town.

  • Must visit

European Hansemuseum

Outstanding museum on Hanseatic trade and Lübeck's global medieval role, housed in a former monastery. Rich exhibits make it a top cultural stop.

  • Recommended

Buddenbrookhaus

Celebrates Nobel Prize winner Thomas Mann and his literary family in a historic townhouse. Excellent for literature, politics, and local culture.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transit is reasonable, and old-town tourist areas cost a bit more.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Lübeck can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34, while the average price is around $127.
The train from Cologne to Lübeck takes 4h 21m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cologne to Lübeck leaves at 12:09 AM.
The distance by train from Cologne to Lübeck is 256 miles (413 km).
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 $33.
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 4h 21m 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 flight 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

Most Cologne to Lübeck trains use the Köln Hbf to Lübeck Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Lübeck-Travemünde Strand. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Lübeck 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 Lübeck

Which Cologne station do trains to Lübeck leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Lübeck 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 · $2 · 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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