- Must visit
Green Vault
One of the world’s richest treasure museums, displaying dazzling jewels, goldwork, and ceremonial masterpieces of Saxon rulers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Dresden
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$72
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$128
Fastest journey on Sep 20
6 h 51 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
7 h 13 m
Trains on Sep 20
4
Distance
437 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kiel to Dresden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kiel to Dresden will cost around $128 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 4 trains from Kiel to Dresden, including 4 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 437 km distance in an average of 7 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 51 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 7 h 45 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.
9:05 AM7h02Kiel4:07 PMDresden$721One-way0 transfers- 7:16 AM6h51Kiel2:07 PMDresden$1171One-way0 transfers
- 7:43 AM7h45Kiel3:28 PMDresden$1581One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM7h15Kiel2:30 PMDresden$1651One-way0 transfers
- 7:16 AM6h51Kiel2:07 PMDresden$1171One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 AM7h02Kiel4:07 PMDresden$721One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM7h15Kiel2:30 PMDresden$1651One-way0 transfers
- 7:43 AM7h45Kiel3:28 PMDresden$1581One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Kiel to Dresden
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Dresden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $74 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 13m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, while a flight costs an average of $464.
Distance: 271 miles (437 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$139 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $464 Average price | $99 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 17m Average total duration 5h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 25m Average total duration 7h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 13m Average total duration Fastest 2h 13m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Kiel to Dresden is a bus with an average price of $74.
This is compared to other travel options from Kiel to Dresden:
A bus is $65 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kiel to Dresden costing on average $139.
A bus is $390 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kiel to Dresden costing on average $464.
The fastest way to travel from Kiel to Dresden is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 13m.
Other travel options to Dresden take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 47m.
Bus takes on average 7h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Kiel and Dresden including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Dresden among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 32m sooner (5h 47m by train vs 6h 19m by car). Tickets start at around $139 compared to roughly $99 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Kiel to Dresden train times
The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Dresden 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 577 · RJ 175 | On time 8:16 AM Kiel Hbf | 4h51 | 1:07 PM Dresden Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 579 · RJ 383 | Delayed 10:16 AM Kiel Hbf | 4h51 | 1:13 PM 1:13 PMDresden Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 771 · RJ 177 | On time 12:16 PM Kiel Hbf | 4h51 | 5:07 PM Dresden Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 773 · RJ 385 | On time 2:16 PM Kiel Hbf | 4h51 | 7:07 PM Dresden Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 775 · RJ 179 | On time 4:16 PM Kiel Hbf | 4h51 | 9:07 PM Dresden Hbf | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kiel to Dresden by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Kiel to Dresden trains with Omio?
erixx as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Kiel to Dresden.
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 Kiel to Dresden.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kiel to Dresden.
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 train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Kiel to Dresden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kiel to Dresden
GermanyGermany
Trains from Kiel to Dresden run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 but you can travel from only $34 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 271 miles (437 km) distance in 4h 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $34
Distance 271 miles (437 km) |
Average train duration 5h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 35m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:47 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $34
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, erixx from Kiel to Dresden trainsDeutsche Bahn, erixx trains will get you between Kiel and Dresden from $34. 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 35m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$34
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
5h 10m
Cheapest erixx Price
$130
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 Dresden
Things to do in Dresden
Discover the best of Dresden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dresden trip today.
- Must visit
Old Masters Picture Gallery
Major Old Masters gallery with Raphael’s Sistine Madonna and superb European painting in the restored Zwinger complex.
- Recommended
Porcelain Collection
Important porcelain collection presenting Asian and Meissen works. A concise stop for design, craftsmanship, and court luxury.
- Must visit
Theaterplatz
Baroque palace courtyard framed by Semperoper, Zwinger, and cathedral. It is Dresden’s ceremonial heart and a classic first stop.
- Must visit
Neumarkt
Historic square around Frauenkirche with museums, terraces, and cafés nearby. A key base for exploring Dresden’s rebuilt center.
- Must visit
Elbe Meadows
Open riverside meadows along the Elbe with superb skyline views. Ideal for picnics, cycling, and classic postcard panoramas.
- Vegetarian
Baumkuchen
A rich layered sheet cake baked on a spit with butter, eggs and marzipan. It is a classic Saxon festive specialty strongly associated with Dresden.
- Vegetarian
Dresdner Christstollen
Dresden’s famous fruit bread made with raisins, candied peel, butter and icing sugar. Protected as Original Dresdner Christstollen and central to Christmas tradition.
- Vegetarian
Quarkkeulchen
Small fried dough pastries, often filled with fruit jam and dusted with sugar. A traditional Saxon sweet commonly enjoyed at fairs and festive times.
Elements DELI Restaurant Lounge
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant with modern tasting menus and polished service, suited for a special culinary evening in Dresden.
Pulverturm
Historic vaulted restaurant serving Saxon classics and local beer in a grand old-town setting near the Frauenkirche.
Watzke Am Goldenen Reiter
Traditional brewery pub pouring unfiltered house beer with hearty Saxon dishes. Lively, casual atmosphere in the historic centre.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels, meals, and transit are usually a bit cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but central tourist areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is not usually included. Round up or tip 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés.
DVB mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €8.60
To the city center
Dresden Hbf -> Altmarkt, Dresden
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Touch payment is available on many DVB trams and buses at onboard ticket machines, but carry a backup payment method.
- Validate paper tickets before travel if they are not pre-stamped, and keep them until the end of your journey.
FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Dresden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel to Dresden 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 Dresden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Dresden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34, while the average price is around $139.
The train from Kiel to Dresden takes 4h 35m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Kiel to Dresden is 271 miles (437 km).
The first train from Kiel to Dresden leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Kiel to Dresden leaves at 11:47 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Kiel to Dresden.
There is no direct train service currently available from Kiel to Dresden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Dresden.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Dresden is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Dresden Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Dresden is by bus, with a cost of around $34.
The train journey from Kiel to Dresden offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the lush landscapes of Lower Saxony and the picturesque areas near the Elbe River, providing travelers with a pleasant and visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Kiel to Dresden is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 35m. However, trains are available 7 times per day.
In Dresden, you can explore the Zwinger Palace, an iconic Baroque complex with museums and art collections, and visit the Frauenkirche, a reconstructed Lutheran church offering panoramic city views from its dome. Experience performances at the Semper Opera House, renowned for its stunning architecture. Discover history at Dresden Castle, which houses museums and the famous Green Vault. Enjoy a walk along Brühl's Terrace, a scenic promenade along the Elbe River known as the Balcony of Europe.
A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal for exploring Dresden, allowing time to visit key attractions such as the Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche, and the Semper Opera House, as well as enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Elbe River.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Dresden.
Since both Kiel and Dresden 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 Dresden include Leipzig, Görlitz, Chemnitz, Ústí nad Labem, Děčín.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Dresden 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 Dresden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and public transport. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have been reported. It's advisable to use official taxis, keep valuables secure, and be wary of unsolicited offers or street distractions.
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 Dresden
Most Kiel to Dresden trains use the Kiel Hbf to Dresden Hauptbahnhof station pair. Use this guide to compare Kiel and Dresden 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 Dresden
Which Kiel station do trains to Dresden leave from?
Trains from Kiel to Dresden 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 Dresden station do trains from Kiel arrive at?
Trains from Kiel to Dresden arrive at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Dresden Hauptbahnhof is 0 miles (1 km) from Dresden city centre.
Dresden HauptbahnhofWiener Platz 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Dresden Hauptbahnhof from Dresden city centre
Dresden Hauptbahnhof is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus261, 366, 365, 360, 333, H/S · 5m · every ~5 min
Tram3 · 4m · $4 · every ~12 min
Dresden Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Dresden Hauptbahnhof 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: Burger King, asiagourmet, dean&david, Hot Dog King, Starbucks, Subway, BABA Döner, Marché, backWERK, Ditsch, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Kipping, Pullman Dresden Newa, IntercityHotel Dresden.
Most popular train connections from Kiel
More options for your journey from Kiel to Dresden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dresden and Kiel
Most popular train connections to Dresden
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