- 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.
Cheapest price
$42
Average price
$42
Fastest journey
1 h 6 m
Average duration
1 h 6 m
Trains per day
25
Distance
83 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hamburg to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Hamburg to Kiel will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Of the 25 trains that leave Hamburg for Kiel on Mon, Aug 24, 25 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 24 the direct trains cover the 83 km distance in an average of 1 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 6 m .
On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest trains will take 1 h 6 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
11210
11212
11260
11222
11270
11210
11212
11222
11270
11224Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $9.
Distance: 51 miles (83 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$33 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 51m Average total duration 1h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 44m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Hamburg to Kiel:
A bus is $21 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Hamburg to Kiel costing on average $33.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 21m.
You'll arrive about 12m sooner (1h 21m by train vs 1h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $33 compared to roughly $18 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.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
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.
The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Kiel trains for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
11280 | 7:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 8:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11232 | 8:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 9:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11282 | 8:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 9:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11234 | 9:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 10:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11284 | 9:44 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 10:50 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11236 | 10:14 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h07 | 11:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11186 · 11286 | 10:43 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h15 | 11:58 PM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
11238 | 11:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 12:21 AM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, August 24 | |||||
11290 | 12:43 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h16 | 1:59 AM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11292 | 1:42 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h13 | 2:55 AM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11210 | 9:15 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 10:21 AM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11260 | 9:47 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h08 | 10:55 AM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11212 | 10:15 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 11:21 AM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11262 | 10:46 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 11:52 AM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11214 | 11:15 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 12:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11264 | 11:46 AM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 12:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11216 | 12:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 1:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11266 | 12:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 1:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11218 | 1:14 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h07 | 2:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11268 | 1:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 2:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11220 | 2:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 3:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11270 | 2:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 3:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11222 | 3:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 4:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11272 | 3:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 4:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11224 | 4:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 5:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11274 | 4:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 5:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11226 | 5:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 6:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11276 | 5:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 6:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11228 | 6:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 7:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11278 | 6:46 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 7:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
11230 | 7:15 PM Hamburg Altona | 1h06 | 8:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.

Trains from Hamburg to Kiel run on average 2 times per day, taking around 1h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:02, the last at 20:33. The fastest train covers the 51 miles (83 km) distance in 1h 4m.
Distance 51 miles (83 km) |
Average train duration 1h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 4m |
First train 4:02 AM |
Last train 8:33 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
Maritime museum in a former fish auction hall. Highlights Kiel's naval, shipping, and harbor history in an atmospheric waterfront setting.
Open-air museum site near Kiel with historic rural buildings and cultural exhibitions. Worth visiting for regional architecture and traditions.
Art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, prints, and sculptures. A strong stop for classical and modern art near the fjord.
Kiel's central waterfront promenade. Ideal for harbor walks, ferry watching, events, and easy access to shops and maritime sights.
Canal-side viewing area in Holtenau for watching ships enter and leave the Kiel Canal. One of the city's best free maritime viewpoints.
Main pedestrian shopping street linking central Kiel highlights. A practical and lively place to explore the rebuilt city center.
Smoked eel from the Baltic region, traditionally served simply to highlight local fishing heritage and the salty coastal flavor of Schleswig-Holstein.
A hearty northern German stew of pears, beans, and bacon, loved in Schleswig-Holstein for its sweet-salty mix and late-summer harvest tradition.
Kale slow-cooked with sausage or pork, a classic winter dish across northern Germany and a staple of cold-season gatherings in Kiel.
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with modern regional cuisine, refined tasting menus, and polished service in a special-occasion setting.
Historic waterside restaurant known for northern German seafood and local classics in a traditional harbor atmosphere.
Established harbor restaurant focused on fish and maritime specialties, with panoramic fjord views and a polished but relaxed feel.
Moderate for Germany: hotels can rise in summer, but dining and local transit are usually reasonable for a port city.
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.
Official public transport app
Kiel Hbf -> Kiel City Center
The train connection between Hamburg and Kiel offers a convenient way to explore these two cities in northern Germany. With services provided by Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain, travelers can enjoy comfortable rides that typically take around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The trains run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to plan your journey according to your schedule. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this route provides an efficient means of transportation while allowing you to soak in the scenic views along the way.
The train connection from Hamburg to Kiel offers a direct service with a duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes. There are 23 connections available each day, making it convenient for travelers. Passengers can depart from several stations in Hamburg including Hamburg Hbf, Hamburg Dammtor, Hamburg-Harburg, and Hamburg-Altona before arriving at Kiel Hbf.
The first daily train from Hamburg to Kiel departs at 07:00, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the beautiful coastal city of Kiel. The last journey of the day leaves at 18:33, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Hamburg to Kiel is €12, while the average ticket price tends to be around €29.
The Kiel Canal, completed in 1895, is a remarkable feat of engineering that connects the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, significantly shortening maritime travel times and enhancing trade routes. Its significance lies not only in its role as one of the busiest artificial waterways in the world but also as a vital strategic asset during both World Wars. Unique features include its impressive locks and scenic views along the banks where you can witness massive ships navigating through this man-made marvel.
The Laboe Naval Memorial stands proudly on Germany's eastern coast, commemorating sailors who lost their lives at sea during both World Wars. This poignant monument holds great significance for visitors seeking to understand Germany’s naval history while offering breathtaking panoramic views from its observation deck overlooking Kiel Bay. What sets it apart are its striking architecture and an adjacent submarine museum where you can explore inside a real U-boat.
St. Nicholas Church is one of Kiel's oldest structures, dating back to the late 13th century; it serves as a testament to Gothic architectural beauty amidst modern surroundings. The church plays an important cultural role today by hosting concerts and community events that enrich local life while attracting tourists with its stunning stained glass windows and intricate woodwork details. A unique feature here is the tower climb which rewards adventurous visitors with sweeping vistas over Kiel’s skyline and harbor area—an experience not to be missed!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg 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.

Most Hamburg to Kiel trains use the Hamburg Hbf to Kiel Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Use this guide to compare Hamburg and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Hamburg Hbf is 2 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Hamburg 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 options include: Le Crobag, Burger King, Coffee Fellows, Havin Grill, KFC, Mr. CLOU, Starbucks, dean&david, SPAR Express, Pommesfreunde, & more
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Hamburg Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Hamburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.
Luggage storage is the station has luggage lockers. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hamburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Hamburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg Hbf: Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Nearby hotels include Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station, IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Park Hyatt Hamburg.
Hamburg-Harburg is 13 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Hamburg-Harburg 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 options include: Café Bom Dia, Hünkar, Yoko Sushi Harburg, Mathewes Grill
Wi-Fi is available at Hamburg-Harburg. ATMs are available at Hamburg-Harburg.
Ticket office support is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Information desks are available at Hamburg-Harburg.
Luggage storage is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg-Harburg.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Panorama, Hotel Harburger Hof, Hotel Jeta, Hotel Süderelbe.
Hamburg-Altona is 5 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Hamburg-Altona 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 options include: Ethio, Trattoria Toscana, Marta, Pavillon
Wi-Fi is available at Hamburg-Altona. ATMs are available at Hamburg-Altona.
Ticket office support is available at Hamburg-Altona. Information desks are available at Hamburg-Altona.
Luggage storage is available at Hamburg-Altona. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hamburg-Altona: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Hamburg-Altona: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg-Altona.
Nearby hotels include Schanzenstern Bio-Restaurant, Hotel Hamburg Altona, Hotel Central, Best Western Raphael Hotel Altona.
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 options include: MUM&DAD, Lunatique, McDonald's, Campus Suite
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel Hbf. ATMs are available at Kiel Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Kiel Hbf. Information desks are available at Kiel Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Kiel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Kiel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Kiel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Wiking, Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel, Astor, InterCityHotel Kiel.
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK is 2 km from Kiel city centre. Public transport options include:
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK 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 options include: Illy Espressobar, McDonald's, Gosch, Citti-Restaurant
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. ATMs are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Ticket office support is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Information desks are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Luggage storage is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Kiel-Elmschenhagen is 4 km from Kiel city centre. Public transport options include:
Kiel-Elmschenhagen 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 options include: Toros, Blitz Pizza Service, Ali Baba Döner
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen. ATMs are available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen.
Ticket office support is available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen. Information desks are available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen.
Luggage storage is available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need