- 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 Groningen to Kiel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$86
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$112
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 38 m
Trains on Sep 20
14
Distance
265 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Groningen to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Groningen to Kiel will cost around $112 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Groningen to Kiel without transferring at least 3 times.
37922 · Bus 72067 · 4415 · ICE 6167:40 AM6h00Groningen Europapark1:40 PMKiel Hbf$861One-way4 transfers- Bus 72006 · 4415 · ICE 616 · ICE 7748:10 AM5h30Groningen1:40 PMKiel Hbf$861One-way3 transfers
- 37926 · Bus 72068 · RE 52039 · ICE 2048:38 AM6h14Groningen station2:52 PMKiel Hbf$1031One-way4 transfers
- 37926 · Bus 72068 · RE 52039 · ICE 2048:40 AM6h12Groningen Europapark2:52 PMKiel Hbf$1031One-way4 transfers
- Bus 72016 · 4423 · ICE 612 · ICE 77012:10 PM5h30Groningen5:40 PMKiel Hbf$1161One-way3 transfers
- Bus 72016 · 4423 · ICE 612 · ICE 77012:10 PM5h30Groningen5:40 PMKiel Hbf$1161One-way3 transfers
- Bus 72006 · 4415 · ICE 616 · ICE 7748:10 AM5h30Groningen1:40 PMKiel Hbf$861One-way3 transfers
- Bus 72007 · 4419 · ICE 614 · ICE 77210:10 AM5h35Groningen3:45 PMKiel Hbf$1161One-way3 transfers
- RE 6131 · Bus 72016 · 4423 · ICE 61211:55 AM5h45Groningen Europapark5:40 PMKiel Hbf$1161One-way4 transfers
- RE 6123 · Bus 72007 · 4419 · ICE 6149:55 AM5h50Groningen Europapark3:45 PMKiel Hbf$1161One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Groningen to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Groningen to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $67 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 26m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $67, while a train costs an average of $70.
Distance: 164 miles (265 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$70 Average price | $67 Average price Cheapest | $89 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 26m Average total duration Fastest 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 38m Average total duration 6h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Groningen to Kiel is a bus with an average price of $67.
This is compared to other travel options from Groningen to Kiel:
A bus is $2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Groningen to Kiel costing on average $70.
The fastest way to travel from Groningen to Kiel is by train with an average journey time of 4h 56m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Groningen and Kiel including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Groningen to Kiel among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $70 compared to roughly $89 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $19. The journey takes 4h 56m versus 4h 11m 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.
Live departures
Groningen to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Groningen to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 37922 · Bus 72067 · 4415 · ICE 616 | On time 7:40 AM Groningen Europapark | 6h00 | 1:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| Bus 72006 · 4415 · ICE 616 · ICE 774 | On time 8:10 AM Groningen | 5h30 | 1:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| 37926 · Bus 72068 · RE 52039 · ICE 204 | 8:38 AM Groningen station | 6h14 | 2:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 37926 · Bus 72068 · IC 2039 · ICE 204 | 8:38 AM Groningen station | 6h14 | 2:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 37926 · Bus 72068 · RE 52039 · ICE 204 | 8:40 AM Groningen Europapark | 6h12 | 2:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 37926 · Bus 72068 · IC 2039 · ICE 204 | 8:40 AM Groningen Europapark | 6h12 | 2:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| RE 6123 · Bus 72007 · 4419 · ICE 614 | On time 9:55 AM Groningen Europapark | 5h50 | 3:45 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| Bus 72007 · 4419 · ICE 614 · ICE 772 | On time 10:10 AM Groningen | 5h35 | 3:45 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| 37934 · Bus 72070 · IC 2431 · ICE 202 | 10:38 AM Groningen station | 6h14 | 4:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 37934 · Bus 72070 · RE 52431 · ICE 202 | 10:38 AM Groningen station | 6h14 | 4:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 37934 · Bus 72070 · IC 2431 · ICE 202 | 10:40 AM Groningen Europapark | 6h12 | 4:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| 37934 · Bus 72070 · RE 52431 · ICE 202 | 10:40 AM Groningen Europapark | 6h12 | 4:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| RE 6131 · Bus 72016 · 4423 · ICE 612 | On time 11:55 AM Groningen Europapark | 5h45 | 5:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| Bus 72016 · 4423 · ICE 612 · ICE 770 | On time 12:10 PM Groningen | 5h30 | 5:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Groningen to Kiel by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
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Sep 20
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Groningen to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Groningen to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Groningen to Kiel.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Groningen to Kiel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Groningen to Kiel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Groningen to Kiel
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Groningen to Kiel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 20:18. The fastest train covers the 164 miles (265 km) distance in 4h 41m.
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 164 miles (265 km) |
Average train duration 4h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 41m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 8:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 from Groningen to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Groningen and Kiel 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 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$24
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
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 Groningen to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Groningen 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 Groningen to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $70.
The train from Groningen to Kiel takes 4h 41m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Groningen to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Groningen to Kiel is 164 miles (265 km).
The last train from Groningen to Kiel leaves at 8:18 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Groningen to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Groningen to Kiel.
The cheapest way to get from Groningen to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $34.
The train journey from Groningen to Kiel offers scenic views of the Dutch countryside, picturesque villages, and sections of the North German landscape, providing a pleasant and visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Groningen to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 41m each way. Trains run 7 times per day over a distance of 164 miles (265 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 Groningen to Kiel.
Since both Groningen 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 Groningen 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.
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 Groningen to Kiel
Most Groningen to Kiel trains use the Groningen, Hoofdstation to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Groningen and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Groningen
Arrival train stations in Kiel
Which Groningen station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Trains from Groningen to Kiel leave from Groningen, Hoofdstation. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Groningen city centre at Stationsplein 4, 9726 AE Groningen, Netherlands.
Groningen, HoofdstationStationsplein 4, 9726 AE Groningen, Netherlands
Groningen, Hoofdstation train station facilities and services
Groningen, Hoofdstation has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Groningen, Hoofdstation.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Groningen, Hoofdstation.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Groningen, Hoofdstation: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Groningen, Hoofdstation: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen, Hoofdstation.
Groningen Europapark9723 ZR Groningen, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Groningen Europapark from Groningen city centre
Groningen Europapark is 1 km from Groningen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSprinter, Intercity · 2m · $2
Stoptrein RS4, Stoptrein RS5, Stoptrein RS6 · 10m · $2 · every ~7 min
Bus2 · 10m · $4 · every ~2 min
Groningen Europapark train station facilities and services
Groningen Europapark has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Groningen Europapark.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Groningen Europapark.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Groningen Europapark: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Groningen Europapark: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen Europapark.
Groningen NoordGroningen Noord, Groningen, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Groningen Noord from Groningen city centre
Groningen Noord is 1 km from Groningen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainStoptrein RS4, Stoptrein RS5, Stoptrein RS7, Stoptrein RS6 · 4m · $2 · every ~8 min
Bus171, 2 · 5m · $4 · every ~3 min
1, 10, 11 · 7m · $4 · every ~14 min
Stopbus ipv trein · 9m · $2
Groningen Noord train station facilities and services
Groningen Noord has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Groningen Noord.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Groningen Noord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Groningen Noord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Groningen Noord: Ramps.
Which Kiel station do trains from Groningen arrive at?
Trains from Groningen 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 Groningen
More options for your journey from Groningen to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Groningen
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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