- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare train for Herford to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Herford to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $36 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 23m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, while a train costs an average of $94.
Distance: 164 miles (264 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 3h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 47m Average total duration 5h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Herford to Kiel is a bus with an average price of $36 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Herford to Kiel:
A bus is $58 (€47) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Herford to Kiel costing on average $94 (€76).
The fastest way to travel from Herford to Kiel is by train with an average journey time of 3h 53m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 17m.
Yes, you can take a train between Herford and Kiel.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Herford 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 $94 (€76) compared to roughly $61 (€50) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-32.11 (€-26.24). The journey takes 3h 53m versus 3h 36m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Herford to Kiel by train
Compare 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Herford to Kiel trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Deutsche Bahn, EuroCity, Regional-Express and more offer trains services from Herford to Kiel.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, EuroCity or Regional-Express to find the best option for your trip from Herford to Kiel.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Herford to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Trains from Herford to Kiel run on average 16 times per day, taking around 3h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:02, the last at 17:17. The fastest train covers the 164 miles (264 km) distance in 3h 24m.
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 $36 (€29)
Distance 164 miles (264 km) |
Average train duration 3h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€30) |
Trains per day 16 |
Fastest train 3h 24m |
First train 6:02 AM |
Last train 5:17 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $36 (€29)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Regional-Express, Intercity, EuroCity from Herford to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Regional-Express, Intercity, EuroCity trains will get you between Herford and Kiel from $36 (€29). 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
3h 24m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$37 (€30)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$110 (€90)
Intercity frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
EuroCity
About
EuroCity (EC) is an international train category and brand for inter-city trains that cross international borders within Europe. These trains are a collaboration between various European rail companies, including Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), and ÖBB (Austria). EuroCity trains connect major cities across Europe, offering both first and second-class coaches. They are known for meeting specific criteria for comfort, speed, cleanliness, and onboard food service, including air-conditioned cars and dining facilities. EuroCity services aim to provide convenient and comfortable cross-border travel, with stops typically lasting no more than 5 to 15 minutes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average EuroCity Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest EuroCity Price
$89 (€73)
EuroCity frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro service available on most routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Regional-Express
About
Regional-Express (RE, or REX in Austria) is a type of regional train service found in Germany, Luxembourg, and Austria. It functions as a semi-fast train, making fewer stops than a Regionalbahn or S-Bahn but more than an Intercity or Intercity Express. RE services typically reach top speeds of 160 km/h, with some reaching 200 km/h on high-speed lines. While initially operated by DB Regio, many lines are now run by various private operators. These trains often use double-deck cars with electric or diesel locomotives.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional-Express Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Regional-Express Price
$102 (€83)
Regional-Express frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket and muzzle
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 Herford to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Herford 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 Herford to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€30), while the average price is around $94 (€76).
The train from Herford to Kiel takes 3h 24m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from Herford to Kiel is 164 miles (264 km).
The first train from Herford to Kiel leaves at 6:02 AM.
The last train from Herford to Kiel leaves at 5:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Herford to Kiel.
There is no direct train service currently available from Herford to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Herford to Kiel.
The train station in Herford that goes to Kiel is Herford station, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Herford to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Herford to Kiel offers a scenic view, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein, featuring rolling hills, lush farmlands, and charming small towns.
A day trip from Herford to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 24m. There are 6 trips available per day by train for this 164 miles (264 km) journey.
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 Herford to Kiel.
Since both Herford 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 Herford 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Herford to Kiel
Most Herford to Kiel trains use the Herford to Kiel Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Use this guide to compare Herford and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Herford
Arrival train stations in Kiel
Which Herford station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Trains from Herford to Kiel leave from Herford. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Herford city centre at Herford, Bahnhofsplatz 3, 32052 Herford.
HerfordHerford, Bahnhofsplatz 3, 32052 Herford
City-centre transport
Getting to Herford from Herford city centre
BusH5, H3 · 4m · every ~6 min
Herford train station facilities and services
Herford 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: Cxielo, Trattoria Il Baffino, Die Knolle, Rancho Grande
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Herford. ATMs are available at Herford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Herford. Information desks are available at Herford.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Herford. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Herford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Herford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Herford.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Aappartel, Hotel Hansa, Apart GO 25.
Which Kiel station do trains from Herford arrive at?
Trains from Herford to Kiel most often arrive at Kiel Hbf. Some services arrive at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Kiel arrival station.
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.
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARKKiel-Hassee CITTIPARK, Altenrade, 24113 Kiel-Hassee
City-centre transport
Getting to Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK from Kiel city centre
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK is 2 km from Kiel city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb, Re · 3m · every ~5 min
BusN51, 51, 50 · 14m · every ~8 min
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Illy Espressobar, McDonald's, Gosch, Citti-Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. ATMs are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Information desks are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Most popular train connections from Herford
More options for your journey from Herford to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Herford
Most popular train connections to Kiel
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
