- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with paintings, sculptures, and changing exhibitions from the 19th century to contemporary art.
Cheapest price
$27
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
1 h 18 m
Average duration
1 h 18 m
Trains per day
1
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 $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.
Of the 1 trains that leave Hamburg for Kiel on Mon, May 25, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 25 the direct trains cover the 83 km distance in an average of 1 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 18 m .
On Mon, May 25 the slowest trains will take 1 h 18 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.
ICE 778
ICE 778Omio 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 |
|---|---|---|
$27 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 50m Average total duration 1h 20m 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 $15 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Hamburg to Kiel costing on average $27 (€22).
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 20m.
You'll arrive about 13m sooner (1h 20m by train vs 1h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $27 (€22) compared to roughly $18 (€14) 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, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 1:33 PM Hamburg | 1h07 | 2:40 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:26 PM Hamburg | 1h14 | 7:40 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 25 | |||||
ICE 778 | On time 9:22 AM Hamburg Hbf | 1h18 | 10:40 AM 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 1 times per day, taking around 1h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by bus.
There are 1 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 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 4m |
First train 4:02 AM |
Last train 8:33 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
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.
Major art museum of Kiel University with paintings, sculptures, and changing exhibitions from the 19th century to contemporary art.
Kiel’s maritime museum in a historic fish auction hall, covering naval, port, and shipping history closely tied to the city.
University museum with notable zoological collections, including marine specimens, skeletons, and exhibits linked to Baltic Sea research.
Kiel’s signature waterfront promenade along the fjord, ideal for walks, harbor views, naval atmosphere, and major event watching.
Historic market square in the old center, anchored by St. Nikolai Church and surrounded by shops and city life.
Central square by the town hall and opera house, often used for events and a practical orientation point in central Kiel.
Lightly smoked sprats traditionally linked with Kiel. They are eaten whole on bread or as a snack and are one of the city’s best-known regional specialties.
A classic North German sailor’s dish of corned beef, potatoes and beetroot, often served with herring, pickles and fried egg. It reflects Kiel’s maritime heritage.
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, usually with potatoes. A beloved northern coastal dish strongly associated with Schleswig-Holstein.
Refined dining venue in Kiel recognized for contemporary German cuisine, careful service and an elegant atmosphere suited to a special meal.
Stylish restaurant in Kiel with a more upscale feel, known for modern regional cuisine, seafood and well-presented seasonal menus.
Established waterfront restaurant at Kiellinie known for fish, northern German dishes and harbor views in a polished but relaxed setting.
Moderate by German standards. Daily costs are manageable, with mid-range dining and hotels priced below Munich or Hamburg.
Service is usually included. Round up in cafes and taxis, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
Official public transport app
Kiel Hbf, Kiel -> Kiel Rathaus, Kiel
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.

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