- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Cologne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08
Cheapest price on Oct 08
$48
Average ticket price on Oct 08
$74
Fastest journey on Oct 08
5 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Oct 08
5 h 38 m
Trains on Oct 08
5
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 $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Kiel to Cologne without transferring at least once.
ICE 577 · ICE 5198:16 AM5h30Kiel Hbf1:46 PMCologne Hbf$481One-way1 transfer- 11263 · ICE 1099:05 AM5h43Kiel Hbf2:48 PMCologne Hbf$601One-way1 transfer
- 11213 · ICE 10339:37 AM5h43Kiel Hbf3:20 PMCologne Hbf$721One-way1 transfer
- 11213 · ICE 587 · ICE 6509:37 AM5h38Kiel Hbf3:15 PMCologne Hbf$791One-way2 transfers
- 11211 · ICE 787 · ICE 9528:37 AM5h35Kiel Hbf2:12 PMCologne Hbf$1141One-way2 transfers
- ICE 577 · ICE 5198:16 AM5h30Kiel Hbf1:46 PMCologne Hbf$481One-way1 transfer
- 11211 · ICE 787 · ICE 9528:37 AM5h35Kiel Hbf2:12 PMCologne Hbf$1141One-way2 transfers
- 11213 · ICE 587 · ICE 6509:37 AM5h38Kiel Hbf3:15 PMCologne Hbf$791One-way2 transfers
- 11213 · ICE 10339:37 AM5h43Kiel Hbf3:20 PMCologne Hbf$721One-way1 transfer
- 11263 · ICE 1099:05 AM5h43Kiel Hbf2:48 PMCologne Hbf$601One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kiel to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Kiel to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€28) but you can travel from only $31 (€26) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 269 miles (434 km) distance in 4h 51m.
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 $31 (€26)
Distance 269 miles (434 km) |
Average train duration 5h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€28) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 51m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $31 (€26)
Live departures
Kiel to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday, October 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 773 · ICE 615 | On time 2:16 PM Kiel Hbf | 5h30 | 7:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 11223 · ICE 1021 | On time 2:37 PM Kiel Hbf | 5h10 | 7:47 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, October 8 | |||||
| ICE 577 · ICE 519 | On time 8:16 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h30 | 1:46 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 11211 · ICE 787 · ICE 952 | On time 8:37 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h35 | 2:12 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 11263 · ICE 109 | On time 9:05 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h43 | 2:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 11213 · ICE 1033 | 9:37 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h43 | 3:20 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 11213 · ICE 587 · ICE 650 | On time 9:37 AM Kiel Hbf | 5h38 | 3:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Kiel to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as erixx offer trains services from Kiel to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kiel to Cologne.
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 erixx to find the best option for your trip from Kiel to Cologne.
- 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 Kiel to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Kiel to Cologne.
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.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, erixx from Kiel to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, erixx trains will get you between Kiel and Cologne from $31 (€26). 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
4h 51m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$33 (€28)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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 17m
Cheapest erixx Price
$63 (€53)
erixx frequency
3 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 Cologne
Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
- Must visit
Kolumba
Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.
- Must visit
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.
- Must visit
Altstadt
The heart of Cologne’s old town, filled with historic lanes, churches, squares, and Rhine views. Best area for first walks and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Rheinpromenade
Broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, skyline views, and photos of the cathedral, bridge, and Rhine traffic.
- Must visit
Rheinboulevard
Popular east-bank steps and terrace with one of Cologne’s best panoramic views across the Rhine to the cathedral and old town.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Marinated beef roast in a sweet-sour gravy, traditionally served with red cabbage and dumplings. It is a Rhineland classic long associated with Cologne.
Himmel un Ääd
Pan-fried black pudding with onions and mashed potatoes or rye bread. This hearty Rhineland dish is a long-standing Cologne pub favorite.
- Vegetarian
Halve Hahn
Halved rye roll with butter, Gouda, onions, and mustard. It is Cologne's iconic simple pub snack, traditionally enjoyed with Kölsch.
OX & Klee
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with modern German cuisine, polished service, and panoramic Rhine views from the upper floors.
Brauerei Päffgen
Well-known brewery restaurant with classic local fare, seasonal dishes, and its own Kölsch in a spacious historic atmosphere.
Brauhaus Sion
Beloved traditional brauhaus serving Mühlen Kölsch, Halve Hahn, and other Cologne staples in a bustling old-city setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak trade fair periods, but dining and local transit are generally manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.
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.
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33 (€28), while the average price is around $108 (€91).
The train from Kiel to Cologne takes 4h 51m and runs 5 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 11:58 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Kiel to Cologne.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Cologne.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Cologne is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Cologne.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
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 Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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 Kiel to Cologne
Most Kiel to Cologne trains use the Kiel Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Kiel and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Kiel
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Which Kiel station do trains to Cologne leave from?
Trains from Kiel to Cologne leave from Kiel Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Kiel city centre at Kiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel.
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.
Which Cologne station do trains from Kiel arrive at?
Trains from Kiel to Cologne most often arrive at Köln Hbf. Some services arrive at Köln Messe/Deutz, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cologne arrival station.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 16m · $8 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln 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: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz 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: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Köln, Porz BfPorz (Rhein), Bahnhofstr. 148, 51143 Köln
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Porz Bf from Cologne city centre
Köln, Porz Bf is 9 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS12, Re9, Re8 · 10m · $2 · every ~9 min
S12, Re9, Re8 · 13m · $4 · every ~9 min
BusS12 · 26m · $6
Subway7 · 32m · $4 · every ~12 min
Köln, Porz Bf train station facilities and services
Köln, Porz Bf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln, Porz Bf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Porz Bf. Information desks are available at Köln, Porz Bf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln, Porz Bf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Porz Bf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln, Porz Bf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Porz Bf.
More options for your journey from Kiel to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Kiel
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