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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for Mar 02
Cheapest price
$26
Average price
$104
Fastest journey
3 h 35 m
Average duration
3 h 45 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
249 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.
Fast trains
Of the 16 trains that leave Hanover Hbf for Cologne Hbf on Mon, Mar 02, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Mar 02 the direct trains cover the 249 km distance in an average of 3 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 35 m .
On Mon, Mar 02 the slowest trains will take 3 h 50 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.
FlixTrain02:22PM3h35
Hanover Hbf05:57PMCologne Hbf
$261One-way
0 transfers
ICE 94409:38AM4h06
Hanover Hbf01:44PMCologne Hbf
$471One-way
0 transfers
ICE 94001:31PM4h13
Hanover Hbf05:44PMCologne Hbf
$471One-way
0 transfers
95778+IC 231101:05PM4h12
Hanover Hbf05:17PMCologne Hbf
$761One-way
1 transfer
ICE 94211:38AM4h06
Hanover Hbf03:44PMCologne Hbf
$841One-way
0 transfers
FlixTrain02:22PM3h35
Hanover Hbf05:57PMCologne Hbf
$261One-way
0 transfers
ICE 73 · ICE 1411:53AM3h46
Hanover Hbf03:39PMCologne Hbf
$1571One-way
1 transfer
ECE 5 · ICE 31409:53AM3h46
Hanover Hbf01:39PMCologne Hbf
$1571One-way
1 transfer
ICE 7 · ICE 1201:53PM3h47
Hanover Hbf05:40PMCologne Hbf
$1571One-way
1 transfer
ICE 579 · ICE 12212:53PM3h50
Hanover Hbf04:43PMCologne Hbf
$1571One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a flight costs an average of $321.
Distance: 154 miles (249 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$52 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $507 Average price |
3h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration 3h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 57m Average total duration 3h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Sunday, March 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 6:33 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:31 PM Hanover Hbf | 2h44 | 11:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, March 2 | |||||
| ICE 644 | On time 7:38 AM Hanover Hbf | 4h04 | 11:42 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 575 · ICE 126 | On time 7:53 AM Hanover Hbf | 3h50 | 11:43 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 95774+10214 · ICE 123 | On time 8:09 AM Hanover Hbf | 4h09 | 12:18 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 944 | On time 8:38 AM Hanover Hbf | 4h06 | 12:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ECE 5 · ICE 314 | On time 8:53 AM Hanover Hbf | 3h46 | 12:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 148 · ICE 519 | On time 8:56 AM Hanover Hbf | 3h52 | 12:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 95776+10218 · ICE 125 | On time 10:09 AM Hanover Hbf | 4h09 | 2:18 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 942 | On time 10:38 AM Hanover Hbf | 4h06 | 2:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 73 · ICE 14 | On time 10:53 AM Hanover Hbf | 3h46 | 2:39 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 146 · ICE 611 | On time 10:56 AM Hanover Hbf | 3h52 | 2:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 640 | On time 11:38 AM Hanover Hbf | 4h04 | 3:42 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 579 · ICE 122 | On time 11:53 AM Hanover Hbf | 3h50 | 3:43 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 95778+IC 2311 | On time 12:05 PM Hanover Hbf | 4h12 | 4:17 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 940 | On time 12:31 PM Hanover Hbf | 4h13 | 4:44 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 7 · ICE 12 | On time 12:53 PM Hanover Hbf | 3h47 | 4:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixTrain | 1:22 PM Hanover Hbf | 3h35 | 4:57 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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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Why should you book Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Short travel timeComfortPunctualityDisadvantages
No wifiI travelled from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE 2044. The journey was in second class and without seat reservation. It was a very pleasant journey because it was extremely comfortable on the train. This was due to the pleasant temperatures and the ergonomic and comfortable seats. The journey took only a short 3 hours. The train was in a good and well-maintained condition. Unfortunately, there was no wifi.
Advantages
WIFIPunctualityDisadvantages
Little choice at the bistroThe train journey from Hanover to Cologne with IC 2044 was nothing special. The train was average, the seats comfortable enough, but nothing extraordinary. The journey was on time. The on-board catering was standard. There was not too much choice. The staff on board were friendly and polite. The wifi worked throughout. It was basically a normal train journey with no particular highlights or disappointments.
Advantages
Good wifiEnough seatsDisadvantages
UnpunctualI travelled from Hanover to Cologne with the ICE 2044 in second class. I found the price very good. Unfortunately, the train was 15 minutes late. The train itself was clean, as were the toilets. I did not reserve a seat, but there were still plenty of seats available on the train. I had very good wifi the whole way.
Advantages
ComfortPunctualityBoard bistroDisadvantages
NoneOverall, my train journey from Hanover to Cologne was extremely satisfying. Comfortable seats, friendly staff and a smooth ticket purchase process made the journey a pleasant experience. The announcements were clearly understandable and informed about the next stops and possible delays. The train left Hanover on time and arrived in Cologne on time. There was a bistro where you could buy coffee and snacks.
Advantages
On timeComfortableDisadvantages
Unclean toiletsThe train journey with IC 2044 from Hanover to Cologne was a pleasant experience overall. The train appeared modern and well maintained. Departure was on time, which was very pleasing. The seats were comfortable and offered sufficient legroom. They were also clean. The journey was mostly quiet and without any major jolts. Only on some sections of the route were there slight vibrations. However, the cleanliness of the toilets blew, which was a clear minus point.
Advantages
Short travel timeBoard bistroPunctualityDisadvantages
Unhygienic toiletsI travelled from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE 2044. It was a second-class journey. In itself, the journey was very pleasant, the journey time was just under 3 hours. The service on board was also good, there was an on-board bistro where coffee and snacks could be bought. There were no delays to my recollection. The train was clean inside, but not the toilets. They were quite dirty.
Advantages
Good priceGood trainEasy to useDisadvantages
NoneWe are going on a family holiday, like every year. The train is very good, we always take it because our relatives live in Cologne. The train is very hygienic and you get free wifi. You can also charge your mobile phone or laptop. There is also a first-raunt on the train, which is very cool. I can only recommend it. My family loves it too. The toilet is very clean and is cleaned very often during the journey. You can even ring the bell if you want it cleaned. We don't have to do a ticket check, which is also very good. The price is very good for so many people.
Advantages
wifiBoard bistroDirect connectionDisadvantages
Socket had a loose contactFrom Hanover to Cologne.
Today I travelled from Hanover to Cologne by ICE to see the Cologne Cathedral.
The Intercity Express was on time and there were enough free seats. I had a socket at my seat (it had a loose connection) to charge my mobile phone and wifi to go online.
Toilets were available and worked perfectly. The staff was nice and friendly. I booked my tickets via the Deutsche Bahn app, where I could also have reserved seats. I bought chocolate bars in the dining car. The train was clean, air-conditioned and only slightly busy. It was a relaxed and beautiful journey.
Advantages
Board bistroNeat trainWIFIDisadvantages
UnpunctualI travelled from Hanover to Cologne with IC 2044. The journey was in second class. Fortunately, there was a bistro on board selling coffee and snacks. It was early, after all. The train itself was extremely well maintained and well equipped. There were power sockets and free wifi on board. Unfortunately, the train arrived unpunctually in Hanover and accordingly arrived late in Cologne. With that said, it was a pleasant journey.
Advantages
No delayFast connectionDisadvantages
UncleanI travelled with ICE 2044 from Hanover to Cologne. The journey was in second class and I did not reserve a seat. However, there were also plenty of seats, so I didn't have to stand. What was positive was that the train was not delayed at all during the entire journey. I also liked the fact that the journey time was relatively short and that the connection was fast. However, I must criticise that the train was not really clean. There is room for improvement here.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
GermanyGermany
Trains from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:13, the last at 22:09. The fastest train covers the 154 miles (249 km) distance in 2h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $12 (€10)
Distance 154 miles (249 km) |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 35m |
First train 02:13 |
Last train 22:09 |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $12 (€10)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Hanover Hbf and Cologne Hbf from $12 (€10). 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
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 42m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€61)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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 Cologne Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19 (€15), while the average price is around $52 (€41).
The train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 2h 35m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 154 miles (249 km).
The first train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 2:13 AM.
The last train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 10:09 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
The train journey from Hannover Hbf to Köln Hbf offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Lower Saxony countryside, the Weser River, and industrial areas as it approaches the Rhine region, though it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in Germany.
A day trip from Hannover Hbf to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 35m. However, there are 5 trains available per day for this route.
Yes, you can take the train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Hanover
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Hanover is Hannover Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Hannover Hbf for your trip from Hanover to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 20:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 20:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located near the main entrance.
Dining
- Balzac Coffee
- Burger King
- McDonald's
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- asiahung
- Mr. CLOU
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Pizza Hut
- & many more
Accessibility
- Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Grand Hotel Mussmann
- IntercityHotel Hannover
- Hotel Loccumer Hof
Information Desk
- Located near the main entrance by the DB ticket office.
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Hanover.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Most popular train connections from Hanover Hbf
More options for your journey from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Hanover Hbf
Most popular train connections to Cologne Hbf
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