- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, sculptures, and modern works; one of the city's key cultural institutions.
Cheapest price
$110
Average price
$110
Fastest journey
8 h 57 m
Average duration
9 h
Trains per day
4
Distance
393 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gothenburg to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Gothenburg to Kiel will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
It's difficult to get from Gothenburg to Kiel without transferring at least 2 times.
R 1087 · ECE 399 · 11185 · 11280
R 1071 · ECE 397 · 11181 · 11276
R 1087 · ECE 399+
11931
R 1071 · ECE 397+
11927
R 1087 · ECE 399 · 11185 · 11280
R 1071 · ECE 397 · 11181 · 11276
R 1087 · ECE 399+
11931
R 1071 · ECE 397+
11927Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Gothenburg to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the ferry is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $122.
Distance: 244 miles (393 km)
| Train | Most popular Ferry | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$123 Average price | $94 Average price | $90 Average price Cheapest | $271 Average price | $266 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 13m Average total duration 7h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 20m Average total duration 13h 20m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 13h 22m Average total duration 12h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular ferry company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Gothenburg to Kiel:
A bus is $4 (€3) less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Gothenburg to Kiel costing on average $94 (€76).
A bus is $33 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gothenburg to Kiel costing on average $123 (€100).
A bus is $181 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gothenburg to Kiel costing on average $271 (€220).
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 43m.
Bus takes on average 12h 52m.
Ferry takes on average 13h 20m.
Tickets start at around $123 (€100) compared to roughly $266 (€215) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $142 (€115). The journey takes 7h 43m versus 6h 56m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Gothenburg to Kiel trains for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
481 SJ 3000+ 1043 Öresundstågen+ ECE 395+ 11923 | 6:39 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 10h18 | 4:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
481 SJ 3000+ 1043 Öresundstågen+ ECE 397+ 11927 | 6:39 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 12h18 | 6:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
481 SJ 3000+ 1043 Öresundstågen+ ECE 399+ 11931 | 6:39 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 14h18 | 8:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
1047 Öresundstågen+ ECE 397+ 11927 | 6:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 12h02 | 6:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
1047 Öresundstågen+ ECE 399+ 11931 | 6:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 14h02 | 8:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
1047 Öresundstågen+ ECE 395+ 11923 | 6:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 10h02 | 4:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
1055 Öresundstågen+ ECE 399+ 11931 | 7:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 13h02 | 8:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
1055 Öresundstågen+ ECE 397+ 11927 | 7:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 11h02 | 6:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
1055 Öresundstågen+ ECE 399 · 11185 · 11280 | 7:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 12h57 | 8:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
R 1071 · ECE 397 · 11181 · 11276 | 9:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 8h57 | 6:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
R 1071 · ECE 397+ 11927 | 9:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 9h02 | 6:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
R 1087 · ECE 399 · 11185 · 11280 | 11:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 8h57 | 8:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
R 1087 · ECE 399+ 11931 | 11:55 AM Gothenburg Centralstation | 9h02 | 8:57 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, flight, and ferry 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.
Trains from Gothenburg to Kiel run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $123 (€100) but you can travel from only $44 (€36) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 19:54. The fastest train covers the 244 miles (393 km) distance in 9h 57m.
Distance 244 miles (393 km) |
Average train duration 7h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $123 (€100) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 9h 57m |
First train 12:10 AM |
Last train 7:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 5 days |
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
Major art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, sculptures, and modern works; one of the city's key cultural institutions.
Maritime museum on the fjord covering naval, shipping, and harbor history, with exhibits linked to Kiel's seafaring identity.
City museum in Kiel's oldest preserved townhouse, presenting local history, maritime life, and changing exhibitions.
The city's signature waterfront promenade along Kiel Fjord, ideal for walking, harbor views, and watching ships pass.
Historic market square in the center, surrounded by key city sights and a natural starting point for exploring old Kiel.
Beloved local park with lawns, paths, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere, especially popular in good weather.
Lightly smoked small sprats traditionally associated with Kiel. They are a classic North German seaside snack and a local culinary symbol.
A hearty northern sailor’s dish of corned beef, potatoes and beetroot, often served with pickled herring and egg. It is iconic across Schleswig-Holstein.
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, usually with potatoes. It is a staple fish dish in northern coastal cuisine.
Established waterfront restaurant known for fish, seafood and modern regional cooking, with a refined atmosphere by the harbor.
Well-known spot for northern German and seafood dishes with harbor views and an upscale yet relaxed setting.
Traditional cellar restaurant serving German classics in a historic atmosphere, suitable for trying hearty regional fare.
Prices are moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more in peak season.
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or leave about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxi fares. Small tips are appreciated in cafes; hotel staff may get EUR 1-2.
Official public transport app
Kiel Hbf, Kiel -> Kiel Hbf, Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gothenburg 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.

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