Düsseldorf to Kiel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sun, Sep 20
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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 Düsseldorf to Kiel

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$37

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$85

Fastest journey on Sep 20

4 h 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

5 h 8 m

Trains on Sep 20

11

Distance

412 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Düsseldorf to Kiel will cost around $85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnICE 1028 · ICE 778
    4:26 AM5h19
    Düsseldorf Hbf
    9:45 AMKiel Hbf
    $371One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 920 · 11246
    2:44 AM6h09
    Düsseldorf Hbf
    8:53 AMKiel Hbf
    $431One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 618 · ICE 776
    6:34 AM5h06
    Düsseldorf Hbf
    11:40 AMKiel Hbf
    $491One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 2214 · 11260
    5:38 AM5h17
    Düsseldorf Hbf
    10:55 AMKiel Hbf
    $491One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain+FlixBusFlixBus
    5:26 PM7h44
    Düsseldorf Hbf
    1:10 AMKiel, ZOB
    $491One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Düsseldorf to Kiel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Düsseldorf to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $56 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 1m. 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 $56, while a flight costs an average of $514.

Distance: 256 miles (412 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$111

Average price

$56

Average price

Cheapest

$514

Average price

$88

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 39m

Average total duration

5h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 9m

Average total duration

8h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 1m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 1m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

5h 41m

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 Düsseldorf to Kiel is a bus with an average price of $56 (€46).

This is compared to other travel options from Düsseldorf to Kiel:

A bus is $55 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Düsseldorf to Kiel costing on average $111 (€91).

A bus is $458 (€375) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Düsseldorf to Kiel costing on average $514 (€420).

The fastest way to travel from Düsseldorf to Kiel is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 1m.

Other travel options to Kiel take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 9m.

Bus takes on average 8h 39m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Düsseldorf and Kiel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Düsseldorf to Kiel 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 32m sooner (5h 9m by train vs 5h 41m by car). Tickets start at around $111 (€91) compared to roughly $88 (€72) 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

Düsseldorf to Kiel train times

The table below shows live departures for Düsseldorf to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1028 · ICE 778
On time
4:26 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h19
9:45 AM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 2214 · 11260
On time
5:38 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h17
10:55 AM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 618 · ICE 776
On time
6:34 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h06
11:40 AM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 543 · ICE 686 · 11214
On time
6:48 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h33
12:21 PM Kiel Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 2310 · 11216
On time
8:08 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h13
1:21 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn26809 · ICE 616 · ICE 774
On time
8:22 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h18
1:40 PM Kiel Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn26409 · ICE 555 · ICE 684 · 112188:41 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h40
2:21 PM Kiel Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 204 · 11268
On time
9:34 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
5h18
2:52 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1022 · 11220
On time
10:36 AM Düsseldorf Hbf
4h45
3:21 PM Kiel Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf to Kiel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Düsseldorf to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Düsseldorf 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf to Kiel.

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 Düsseldorf to Kiel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Düsseldorf to Kiel

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Düsseldorf to Kiel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (412 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 $25 (€20)
Distance
256 miles (412 km)
Average train duration
5h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
$33 (€27)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
4h 21m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:51 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 $25 (€20)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, erixx from Düsseldorf to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, erixx trains will get you between Düsseldorf and Kiel from $25 (€20). 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
$33 (€27)
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
7h 56m
Cheapest erixx Price
$126 (€103)
erixx frequency
2 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

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 Düsseldorf to Kiel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33 (€27), while the average price is around $111 (€91).
The train from Düsseldorf to Kiel takes 4h 21m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Düsseldorf to Kiel is 256 miles (412 km).
The first train from Düsseldorf to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Düsseldorf to Kiel leaves at 11:51 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Düsseldorf to Kiel.
There is no direct train service currently available from Düsseldorf to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Düsseldorf to Kiel.
The train station in Düsseldorf that goes to Kiel is Düsseldorf Hbf, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Düsseldorf to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Düsseldorf to Kiel offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of North Rhine-Westphalia and Schleswig-Holstein, including glimpses of lush countryside, charming villages, and the coastline as you approach Kiel.
A day trip from Düsseldorf to Kiel is not feasible due to the travel time of 4h 21m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 256 miles (412 km).
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 Düsseldorf to Kiel.
Since both Düsseldorf and Kiel 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 Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Düsseldorf to Kiel 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 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 Düsseldorf to Kiel

Most Düsseldorf to Kiel trains use the Düsseldorf Hbf to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Düsseldorf and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Düsseldorf
Arrival train stations in Kiel

Which Düsseldorf station do trains to Kiel leave from?

Trains from Düsseldorf to Kiel leave from Düsseldorf Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Düsseldorf city centre at Düsseldorf Hbf, Konrad-Adenauer-Platz 14, 40210 Düsseldorf.
Düsseldorf HbfDüsseldorf Hbf, Konrad-Adenauer-Platz 14, 40210 DüsseldorfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Düsseldorf Hbf from Düsseldorf city centre

Düsseldorf Hbf is 1 km from Düsseldorf city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 49m · $35 · every ~2 min
BusRe49 · 1h 30m · $18 · every ~1 min
62004 · 2h 38m

Düsseldorf Hbf train station facilities and services

Düsseldorf 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: Zaxopondeiva Cafe, Lauren's Cafe, China Imbiss, Fu chu yuan

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Düsseldorf Hbf. ATMs are available at Düsseldorf Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Düsseldorf Hbf. Information desks are available at Düsseldorf Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Düsseldorf Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Düsseldorf Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Düsseldorf Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Düsseldorf Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Lindenhof, Hotel Batavia, Sir Astor, Lady Astor.

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