Kiel to Heidelberg train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Fri, Aug 28
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FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Heidelberg

Showing times and prices for Aug 28

Cheapest price

$56

Average price

$68

Fastest journey

12 h 32 m

Average duration

14 h 6 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

555 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kiel to Heidelberg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Kiel to Heidelberg will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Kiel for Heidelberg on Fri, Aug 28, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Aug 28 the direct trains cover the 555 km distance in an average of 14 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 32 m .

On Fri, Aug 28 the slowest trains will take 16 h 29 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.

  • FlixTrain
    2:25 AM12h32
    Kiel
    2:57 PMHeidelberg
    $561One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    7:15 AM14h47
    Kiel
    10:02 PMHeidelberg
    $651One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    1:30 AM16h29
    Kiel
    5:59 PMHeidelberg
    $661One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    6:50 AM12h36
    Kiel
    7:26 PMHeidelberg
    $851One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Kiel to Heidelberg

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Heidelberg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a flight costs an average of $90.

Distance: 344 miles (555 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$126

Average price

$59

Average price

Cheapest

$366

Average price

$124

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 54m

Average total duration

6h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 24m

Average total duration

10h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 57m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 57m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

7h 0m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

1.7 - 3.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

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 Heidelberg is a bus with an average price of $59.

This is compared to other travel options from Kiel to Heidelberg:

A bus is $66 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kiel to Heidelberg costing on average $126.

A bus is $306 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kiel to Heidelberg costing on average $366.

The fastest way to travel from Kiel to Heidelberg is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 57m.

Other travel options to Heidelberg take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 24m.

Bus takes on average 10h 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Kiel and Heidelberg including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Heidelberg 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 36m sooner (6h 24m by train vs 7h 0m by car). Tickets start at around $126 compared to roughly $124 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, 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 Heidelberg train times

The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Heidelberg trains for today, Thursday, August 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:05 AM Kiel
6h18
1:23 PM Heidelberg0 transfersDirect
Friday, August 28
FlixTrain1:30 AM Kiel
16h29
5:59 PM Heidelberg0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain2:25 AM Kiel
12h32
2:57 PM Heidelberg0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Kiel to Heidelberg 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.

Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03

Why should you book Kiel to Heidelberg trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Kiel to Heidelberg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kiel to Heidelberg.

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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Kiel to Heidelberg.
  • 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 Heidelberg.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • 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 Heidelberg.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Kiel to Heidelberg

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Kiel to Heidelberg run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:10. The fastest train covers the 344 miles (555 km) distance in 5h 40m.

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
Distance
344 miles (555 km)
Average train duration
6h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$25
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
5h 40m
First train
12:20 AM
Last train
11:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
21 days
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, erixx from Kiel to Heidelberg trainsDeutsche Bahn, erixx trains will get you between Kiel and Heidelberg from $25. 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 40m
Cheapest Price
$25
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.
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.
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.
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 Duration
6h 58m
Cheapest Price
$108
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 Heidelberg

Things to do in Heidelberg

Discover the best of Heidelberg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heidelberg trip today.

  • Recommended

University Museum Heidelberg

Compact university museum presenting Heidelberg’s academic heritage, notable scholars, and historic collections in an important institutional setting.

  • Recommended

German Pharmacy Museum

Museum inside the castle displaying decorative arts, furnishings, and princely culture. It adds context to the ruins and enriches a castle visit.

  • Recommended

Kurpfälzisches Museum

Art museum known for modern and contemporary exhibitions, with a respected collection and strong temporary shows near the old town.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and local transit are manageable for most tourists.

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 coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest: round up or add 5-10% in restaurants. Round up for taxis and leave small change in cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Heidelberg

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Heidelberg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25, while the average price is around $126.
The train from Kiel to Heidelberg takes 5h 40m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Kiel to Heidelberg leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Kiel to Heidelberg is 344 miles (555 km).
The last train from Kiel to Heidelberg leaves at 11:10 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kiel to Heidelberg. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Heidelberg.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Heidelberg is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Heidelberg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Heidelberg is by train, with a cost of around $25.
The train journey from Kiel to Heidelberg offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of northern Germany and the rolling hills and forests of central Germany. Passengers can enjoy views of the countryside, charming small towns, and the occasional glimpse of the Rhine River as the train approaches Heidelberg.
A day trip from Kiel to Heidelberg is not feasible as the travel time is 5h 40m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 344 miles (555 km).
In Heidelberg, you can visit the historic Heidelberg Castle for panoramic views, stroll along the Old Bridge for picturesque scenery, and take a scenic walk on the Philosopher's Walk. Explore Hauptstrasse, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, and discover Heidelberg University. The Church of the Holy Spirit offers Gothic architecture in the Old Town. Enjoy a family-friendly day at Heidelberg Zoo or learn about pharmacy history at the German Pharmacy Museum within the castle. A boat tour on the Neckar River provides unique city views, and nearby Baden region offers delightful wine tasting tours.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Heidelberg allows you to explore the historic Heidelberg Castle, stroll along the Philosopher's Walk, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Heidelberg.
Since both Kiel and Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg include Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Strasbourg, Baden-Baden, Mainz.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and near the train station. Common scams include distraction techniques in busy spots and overpriced taxi rides. Staying vigilant in popular tourist zones and using official transport services can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Heidelberg

Most Kiel to Heidelberg trains use the Kiel Hbf to Heidelberg Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Kiel and Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg

Which Kiel station do trains to Heidelberg leave from?

Trains from Kiel to Heidelberg 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 KielWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Kiel Hbf from Kiel city centre

BusN22, N14, N12, N11, 91, 81, 71, X60, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 · 4m · every ~47 min
765, 744 · 6m · every ~2 min

Kiel Hbf train station facilities and services

Kiel Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: MUM&DAD, Lunatique, McDonald's, Campus Suite

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Kiel Hbf. ATMs are available at Kiel Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Kiel Hbf. Information desks are available at Kiel Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Kiel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kiel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Kiel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Wiking, Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel, Astor, InterCityHotel Kiel.

Kiel-ElmschenhagenKiel-Elmschenhagen, Elmschenhagener Allee 10, 24146 KielWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Kiel-Elmschenhagen from Kiel city centre

Kiel-Elmschenhagen is 4 km from Kiel city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb, Re · 5m · $4 · every ~3 min
Bus34 · 13m · every ~5 min
34 · 24m · every ~6 min

Kiel-Elmschenhagen train station facilities and services

Kiel-Elmschenhagen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Toros, Blitz Pizza Service, Ali Baba Döner

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen. ATMs are available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen. Information desks are available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel-Elmschenhagen.

More options for your journey from Kiel to Heidelberg

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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