- 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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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Jena to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Jena to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $90 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 5m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $90, while a flight costs an average of $613.
Distance: 242 miles (390 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$162 Average price | $90 Average price Cheapest | $613 Average price | $91 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 18m Average total duration 8h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 5m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Jena to Kiel is a bus with an average price of $90.
This is compared to other travel options from Jena to Kiel:
A bus is $72 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Jena to Kiel costing on average $162.
A bus is $523 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Jena to Kiel costing on average $613.
The fastest way to travel from Jena to Kiel is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 5m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 55m.
Bus takes on average 8h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Jena and Kiel including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Jena 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 $162 compared to roughly $91 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-71.48. The journey takes 5h 55m versus 5h 55m 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
Jena to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Jena to Kiel trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:38 AM Jena | 6h02 | 2:40 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Jena 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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Why should you book Jena to Kiel trains with Omio?
erixx as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Jena to Kiel.
Omio is the only official third party seller for erixx tickets.
Why book with Omio vs erixx?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for erixx, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Jena 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare erixx with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Jena to Kiel.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope?
- Official reseller: erixx tickets can only be bought on Omio or erixx's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for erixx tickets. Raileurope do not sell erixx tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Jena to Kiel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Jena to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Trains from Jena to Kiel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $155 but you can travel from only $86 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:05, the last at 21:05. The fastest train covers the 242 miles (390 km) distance in 5h 34m.
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 $86
Distance 242 miles (390 km) |
Average train duration 5h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $155 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 5h 34m |
First train 6:05 AM |
Last train 9:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $86
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, erixx from Jena to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, erixx trains will get you between Jena and Kiel from $86. 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
5h 34m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$155
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
erixx
About
erixx is a private train company in Germany offering rail services in Bremen and Lower Saxony in northern Germany. Founded in 2011, erixx runs six regional lines including the Heidebahn from Hanover to Buchholz as well as offering service to Wittingen, Bad Harzburg, Soltau and Wolfenbuttel. The trains are modern, comfortable and alcohol-free in order to provide a pleasant journey. The most popular journeys include Hanover to Bad Harzburg with the RE10, Bad Harzburg/Goslar to Braunschweig with the RB42/43, Braunschweig to Uelzen with the RB47, and Lueneburg to Dannenberg on the RB32.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average erixx Duration
6h 11m
Cheapest erixx Price
$155
erixx frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for cancelled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not possible on regional trains
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket
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 Jena to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Jena 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 Jena to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $155, while the average price is around $162.
The train from Jena to Kiel takes 5h 34m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Jena to Kiel leaves at 6:05 AM.
The distance by train from Jena to Kiel is 242 miles (390 km).
The last train from Jena to Kiel leaves at 9:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Jena to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Jena to Kiel.
The train station in Jena that goes to Kiel is Jena West station, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Jena to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $86.
The train journey from Jena to Kiel offers a mix of scenic views, passing through picturesque landscapes of central Germany, including rolling hills, forests, and charming small towns, particularly as the route moves through Thuringia and Lower Saxony.
A day trip from Jena to Kiel is not feasible due to the travel duration of 5h 34m. The distance is 242 miles (390 km), and trains operate 5 times per day.
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 Jena to Kiel.
Since both Jena 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Jena 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 Jena to Kiel
Most Jena to Kiel trains use the Jena West to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Jena and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Jena
Arrival train stations in Kiel
Which Jena station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Trains from Jena to Kiel leave from Jena West. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Jena city centre at 07745 Jena, Germany.
Jena West07745 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena West from Jena city centre
Jena West is 1 km from Jena city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 12, 11 · 3m · every ~17 min
410 · 8m · every ~2 min
Jena West train station facilities and services
Jena West 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena West. ATMs are available at Jena West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena West. Information desks are available at Jena West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Jena-GöschwitzJena-Göschwitz, Am Bahnhof 2, 07745 Jena
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena-Göschwitz from Jena city centre
Jena-Göschwitz is 4 km from Jena city centre. Public transport options include:
Train61, 18, Ic51, 51 · 4m · $2
Bus492, 481, 480 · 25m
12 · 33m · every ~5 min
Tram5, 4, 1 · 11m · every ~10 min
5, 4 · 13m · every ~19 min
Jena-Göschwitz train station facilities and services
Jena-Göschwitz 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: Gleis3viertel, Imbiss, Diener's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena-Göschwitz. ATMs are available at Jena-Göschwitz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena-Göschwitz. Information desks are available at Jena-Göschwitz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena-Göschwitz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena-Göschwitz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena-Göschwitz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena-Göschwitz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Haus Orchideental.
Jena Paradies07743 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena Paradies from Jena city centre
Bus431, 426, 422, 420, 410 · 3m · every ~3 min
Tram2 · 6m · every ~10 min
Jena Paradies train station facilities and services
Jena Paradies 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena Paradies. ATMs are available at Jena Paradies.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena Paradies. Information desks are available at Jena Paradies.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena Paradies. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena Paradies: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena Paradies: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena Paradies.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Which Kiel station do trains from Jena arrive at?
Trains from Jena 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 Jena
More options for your journey from Jena to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Jena
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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