- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$140
Average price
$141
Fastest journey
6 h 35 m
Average duration
6 h 41 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
623 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel will cost around $141 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $140.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel without transferring at least once.
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4:33 AM7h07Esslingen am Neckar11:40 AMKiel$1401One-way1 transfer
7:05 AM6h35Esslingen am Neckar1:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer- 9:05 AM6h35Esslingen am Neckar3:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer
- 11:05 AM6h35Esslingen am Neckar5:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer
- 1:05 PM6h35Esslingen am Neckar7:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer
- 7:05 AM6h35Esslingen am Neckar1:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer
- 9:05 AM6h35Esslingen am Neckar3:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer
- 11:05 AM6h35Esslingen am Neckar5:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer
- 1:05 PM6h35Esslingen am Neckar7:40 PMKiel$1411One-way1 transfer
- 4:33 AM7h07Esslingen am Neckar11:40 AMKiel$1401One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train for Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $140. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 7h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $140, and a train costs an average of $140.
Distance: 387 miles (623 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$141 Average price Cheapest | $28 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 51m Average total duration Fastest 7h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel is a train with an average price of $141.
The fastest way to travel from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel is by train with an average journey time of 7h 21m.
Yes, you can take a train between Esslingen am Neckar and Kiel.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Esslingen am Neckar 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 49m sooner (7h 21m by train vs 8h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $141 compared to roughly $28 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
Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:33 AM Esslingen am Neckar | 7h07 | 11:40 AM Kiel | 1 transfer | |
| 7:05 AM Esslingen am Neckar | 6h35 | 1:40 PM Kiel | 1 transfer | |
| 9:05 AM Esslingen am Neckar | 6h35 | 3:40 PM Kiel | 1 transfer | |
| 11:05 AM Esslingen am Neckar | 6h35 | 5:40 PM Kiel | 1 transfer | |
| 1:05 PM Esslingen am Neckar | 6h35 | 7:40 PM Kiel | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel by train
Compare train 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.
Wed
Aug 05
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Why should you book Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Esslingen am Neckar 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 Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Esslingen am Neckar 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel run on average 16 times per day, taking around 7h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $140 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 08:02, the last at 16:02. The fastest train covers the 387 miles (623 km) distance in 6h 35m.
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 387 miles (623 km) |
Average train duration 7h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $140 |
Trains per day 16 |
Fastest train 6h 35m |
First train 8:02 AM |
Last train 4:02 PM |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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, Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Esslingen am Neckar and Kiel from $140. 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
7h 42m
Cheapest Price
$93
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 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
Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 35m
Cheapest Price
$141
Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH frequency
3 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 7m
Cheapest Price
$140
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
1 a day
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
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.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel's central waterfront promenade. Ideal for harbor walks, ferry watching, events, and easy access to shops and maritime sights.
- Must visit
Holtenau Lock Viewing Platform
Canal-side viewing area in Holtenau for watching ships enter and leave the Kiel Canal. One of the city's best free maritime viewpoints.
- Recommended
Holstenstraße
Main pedestrian shopping street linking central Kiel highlights. A practical and lively place to explore the rebuilt city center.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Räucheraal
Smoked eel from the Baltic region, traditionally served simply to highlight local fishing heritage and the salty coastal flavor of Schleswig-Holstein.
- Gluten-free
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck
A hearty northern German stew of pears, beans, and bacon, loved in Schleswig-Holstein for its sweet-salty mix and late-summer harvest tradition.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl mit Kohlwurst
Kale slow-cooked with sausage or pork, a classic winter dish across northern Germany and a staple of cold-season gatherings in Kiel.
Ahlmanns
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with modern regional cuisine, refined tasting menus, and polished service in a special-occasion setting.
Louf
Historic waterside restaurant known for northern German seafood and local classics in a traditional harbor atmosphere.
Restaurant Pier 16
Established harbor restaurant focused on fish and maritime specialties, with panoramic fjord views and a polished but relaxed feel.
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.
NAH.SH-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- €7.80
To the city center
Kiel Hbf -> Kiel City Center
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use The NAH.SH-App for journey planning and mobile tickets across Kiel buses and regional transport.
- Buses in Kiel generally accept cash; contactless card payment availability can vary, so buying tickets in the app is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $140, while the average price is around $141.
The train from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel takes 6h 35m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel is 387 miles (623 km).
The first train from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel leaves at 8:02 AM.
The last train from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel leaves at 4:02 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel.
The train station in Esslingen am Neckar that goes to Kiel is Esslingen (Neckar) station, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel is by train, with a cost of around $140.
The train journey from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel offers a mix of scenic landscapes including the rolling hills and vineyards of southern Germany, the historic architecture of cities like Stuttgart and Hamburg, and the picturesque views of the North German Plain as you approach Kiel.
A day trip from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 35m each way. There are 2 trains per day for this route.
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 Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel.
Since both Esslingen am Neckar 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel
Most Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel trains use the Esslingen (Neckar) to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Esslingen am Neckar and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Esslingen am Neckar
Arrival train stations in Kiel
Which Esslingen am Neckar station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel leave from Esslingen (Neckar). The station is from Esslingen am Neckar city centre at Esslingen (Neckar), Bahnhofsplatz 1, 73728 Esslingen am Neckar.
Esslingen (Neckar)Esslingen (Neckar), Bahnhofsplatz 1, 73728 Esslingen am Neckar
Esslingen (Neckar) train station facilities and services
Esslingen (Neckar) 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: Weiler Hof, Posthörnle, Multi Pizza Service, Brauhaus Schwanen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen (Neckar). ATMs are available at Esslingen (Neckar).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Information desks are available at Esslingen (Neckar).
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen (Neckar).
Esslingen-MettingenEsslingen-Mettingen, Cannstatterstraße 61, 73733 Esslingen am Neckar
City-centre transport
Getting to Esslingen-Mettingen from Esslingen am Neckar city centre
Esslingen-Mettingen is 2 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1 · 2m · $1 · every ~9 min
Bus101 · 4m · $4 · every ~7 min
Esslingen-Mettingen train station facilities and services
Esslingen-Mettingen 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: Kaiserpalast, Cafe Mocca, La Conchiglia, Betriebsrestaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. ATMs are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Information desks are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.
OberesslingenOberesslingen, Ulmer Strasse 75, 73730 Esslingen am Neckar
City-centre transport
Getting to Oberesslingen from Esslingen am Neckar city centre
Oberesslingen is 1 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1 · 2m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusN16, 140, 115, 114, 106, 104, 101 · 7m · $4 · every ~20 min
Oberesslingen train station facilities and services
Oberesslingen 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: Zum Froschkönig, Iglu, Ziegelhof, Kohinoor
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oberesslingen. ATMs are available at Oberesslingen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oberesslingen. Information desks are available at Oberesslingen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Oberesslingen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oberesslingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oberesslingen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oberesslingen.
Which Kiel station do trains from Esslingen am Neckar arrive at?
Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel arrive at Kiel Hbf. Kiel Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Kiel city centre.
Kiel HbfKiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel
City-centre transport
Getting to Kiel Hbf from Kiel city centre
BusN22, N14, N12, N11, 91, 81, 71, X60, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 · 4m · every ~47 min
765, 744 · 6m · every ~2 min
Kiel Hbf train station facilities and services
Kiel 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: MUM&DAD, Lunatique, McDonald's, Campus Suite
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel Hbf. ATMs are available at Kiel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kiel Hbf. Information desks are available at Kiel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kiel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kiel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kiel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Wiking, Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel, Astor, InterCityHotel Kiel.
Most popular train connections from Esslingen am Neckar
More options for your journey from Esslingen am Neckar to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Esslingen am Neckar
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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