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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Nov 20
Cheapest price
$60
Average price
$146
Fastest journey
5 h 12 m
Average duration
5 h 23 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
434 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kiel to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kiel to Cologne will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Kiel for Cologne on Thu, Nov 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 20 the direct trains cover the 434 km distance in an average of 5 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 12 m .
On Thu, Nov 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 27 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.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain08:15AM10h38
Kiel, ZOB06:53PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$601One-way
1 transfer
ICE 61312:37PM5h12
Kiel Hbf05:49PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1491One-way
0 transfers
RE 11217 · ICE 20111:23AM5h25
Kiel Hbf04:48PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1661One-way
1 transfer
RE 11213 · ICE 10909:23AM5h24
Kiel Hbf02:47PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1661One-way
1 transfer
RE 11215 · ICE 61110:23AM5h27
Kiel Hbf03:50PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1661One-way
1 transfer
ICE 61312:37PM5h12
Kiel Hbf05:49PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1491One-way
0 transfers
RE 11213 · ICE 10909:23AM5h24
Kiel Hbf02:47PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1661One-way
1 transfer
RE 11217 · ICE 20111:23AM5h25
Kiel Hbf04:48PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1661One-way
1 transfer
RE 11215 · ICE 61110:23AM5h27
Kiel Hbf03:50PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1661One-way
1 transfer
RE 11211 · ICE 51908:23AM5h27
Kiel Hbf01:50PMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1661One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Kiel to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, and a flight costs an average of €120.
Distance: 269 miles (434 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€49 Average price | €31 Average price Cheapest | €386 Average price |
6h 7m Average total duration 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 5m Average total duration 7h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company | Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Kiel to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Thursday, November 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 7:13 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 7:15 AM Kiel, ZOB | 10h38 | 5:53 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| RE 11211 · ICE 519 | On time 7:23 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h27 | 12:50 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| RE 11213 · ICE 109 | On time 8:23 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h24 | 1:47 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| RE 11215 · ICE 611 | On time 9:23 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h27 | 2:50 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| RE 11217 · ICE 201 | On time 10:23 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h25 | 3:48 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 613 | On time 11:37 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h12 | 4:49 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kiel to Cologne by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Thu
Nov 20
Nov 20
Fri
Nov 21
Nov 21
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Nov 22
Nov 22
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Nov 23
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Nov 26
Nov 26
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Kiel to Cologne
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
No change had been necessaryCleanliness perfect throughout the trainTrain had full facilities with on-board bistroDisadvantages
irritated staffDelay of 25 minutesFrom Kiel to Cologne, you don't need to change trains, so the 25-minute delay that occurred was not a problem for me. Only the annoyed staff had disturbed the ride comfort. The seats were very comfortable and the train had been fully equipped. It was a bit noisy on the train, but still okay. The on-board bistro was still open on the train, where the cleanliness had been perfect. The cleanliness in the passenger compartment was also very good.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kiel to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Kiel to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 269 miles (434 km) distance in 5h 10m.
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 $23 (€19)
Distance 269 miles (434 km) |
Average train duration 5h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 10m |
First train 00:05 |
Last train 23:55 |
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 $23 (€19)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Kiel to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Kiel and Cologne from $23 (€19). 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
5h 10m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
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
6h 42m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€18)
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
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
FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel to Cologne 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, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
A day trip from Kiel to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 10m. There are 7 train trips available per day over a distance of 269 miles (434 km).
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $60 (€49).
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
The train journey from Kiel to Cologne offers a mix of scenic views, including stretches of the lush North German Plain, quaint villages, and glimpses of the Rhine River, particularly as you approach Cologne.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Cologne.
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kiel to Cologne. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
The train from Kiel to Cologne takes 5h 10m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Kiel to Cologne is 269 miles (434 km).
The first train from Kiel to Cologne leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Kiel to Cologne leaves at 11:55 PM.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Cologne is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Cologne.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Kiel to Cologne
Kiel
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your trip from Kiel 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
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
- MUM&DAD
- Lunatique
- McDonald's
- Campus Suite
Hotel
- Hotel Wiking
- Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
- Astor
- InterCityHotel Kiel
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Illy Espressobar
- McDonald's
- Gosch
- Citti-Restaurant
Kiel Schulen am Langsee
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingThe 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 Kiel.
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.
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
10 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Hotel
- Haus Wester
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln Airport-Businesspark
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Yilmaz
- Bistro im Park
- Restaurant Fernandes
- Orient Palais Restaurants & Catering
Köln, Porz Bf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskMost popular train connections from Kiel
More options for your journey from Kiel to Cologne
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Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Kiel
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