- Must visit
Gutenberg Museum
One of the world’s leading museums of printing and book culture, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and the history of movable type.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Kiel to Mainz
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Mainz among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a flight costs an average of $180.
Distance: 310 miles (499 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$167 Average price | $72 Average price Cheapest | $233 Average price | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 14m Average total duration 7h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 4m Average total duration 19h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Kiel to Mainz is a bus with an average price of $72 (€59).
This is compared to other travel options from Kiel to Mainz:
A bus is $96 (€78) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kiel to Mainz costing on average $167 (€137).
A bus is $161 (€132) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kiel to Mainz costing on average $233 (€191).
The fastest way to travel from Kiel to Mainz is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 9m.
Other travel options to Mainz take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 44m.
Bus takes on average 19h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Kiel and Mainz including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Mainz 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 $167 (€137) compared to roughly $18 (€14) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-149.44 (€-122.31). The journey takes 7h 44m versus 6h 34m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Kiel to Mainz 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.
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Why should you book Kiel to Mainz trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Kiel to Mainz.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kiel to Mainz.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Kiel to Mainz.
- 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 Mainz.
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 Mainz.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kiel to Mainz
GermanyGermany
Trains from Kiel to Mainz run on average 6 times per day, taking around 7h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $101 (€83) but you can travel from only $52 (€42) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 310 miles (499 km) distance in 5h 55m.
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 $52 (€42)
Distance 310 miles (499 km) |
Average train duration 7h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $101 (€83) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 55m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 9:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 2 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $52 (€42)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Kiel to Mainz trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Kiel and Mainz from $52 (€42). 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 55m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€83)
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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 5m
Cheapest Price
$117 (€96)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Mainz
Things to do in Mainz
Discover the best of Mainz — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mainz trip today.
- Recommended
Landesmuseum Mainz
Major regional museum with archaeology, medieval art, paintings, and Roman-era finds, offering one of the best overviews of Rhineland-Palatinate history.
- Recommended
Naturhistorisches Museum Mainz
Natural history museum known for regional geology, fossils, biodiversity, and family-friendly exhibitions.
- Must visit
Mainz Old Town
The most atmospheric area for walking, with narrow lanes, historic facades, shops, and many of the city’s best-known sights.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central square by the cathedral, lively with markets, events, and classic city views that define the heart of Mainz.
- Recommended
Augustinerstraße
Popular old-town street lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and photo-friendly urban scenery.
- Vegetarian
Spundekäs
A Rheinhessen cheese spread made with fresh cheese, quark, paprika, and spices, traditionally served with pretzels in wine taverns.
Weck, Worscht un Woi
A classic Mainz snack of bread roll, sausage, and local wine, strongly associated with everyday life and regional wine culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäs mit Musik
A pungent sour milk cheese marinated with onions and vinegar, popular across the Rhine-Main region and commonly enjoyed with bread.
Steins Traube
Established fine dining restaurant with a strong reputation for refined seasonal cuisine and polished service.
Weinhaus Wilhelmi
Traditional Mainz wine tavern known for local specialties, regional wines, and a classic cozy atmosphere.
Heiliggeist
A well-known restaurant in a historic former church hall, serving German and regional dishes in a striking atmospheric setting.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Casual dining is reasonable, while hotels and central restaurants cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-100 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up in cafés and taxis; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service, often by stating the total when paying.
MVGmeinRad
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 6.60
To the city center
Mainz Hbf, Mainz -> Schillerplatz, Mainz
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets can be bought in the Mainzer Mobilität app and at ticket machines before boarding. Validate paper tickets if required.
- Card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but not always on every bus or tram. Buying in the app is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Mainz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel to Mainz 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 Mainz, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Mainz can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $101 (€83), while the average price is around $167 (€137).
The train from Kiel to Mainz takes 5h 55m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Kiel to Mainz is 310 miles (499 km).
The first train from Kiel to Mainz leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Kiel to Mainz leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Kiel to Mainz.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Mainz.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Mainz is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Mainz Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Mainz is by bus, with a cost of around $52 (€42).
The train journey from Kiel to Mainz offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes such as the rolling hills and vineyards of the Rhine Valley, as well as charming towns along the way.
A day trip from Kiel to Mainz is not feasible with a travel time of 5h 55m and a distance of 310 miles (499 km). The journey runs 10 times per day for trains.
Two to three days are ideal for exploring Mainz, allowing time to visit its historic sites, such as the Mainz Cathedral and Gutenberg Museum, while enjoying the local cuisine and Rhine River views.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Mainz.
Since both Kiel and Mainz 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 Mainz include Cologne, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Frankfurt am Main, Mannheim.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Mainz 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 Mainz, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at markets can occur, so always agree on prices beforehand. It's advisable to stay vigilant in busy places and keep valuables secure to 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 Mainz
Kiel
Mainz
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 Mainz.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Mainz is Mainz Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Mainz Hbf for your journey to Mainz from Kiel.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Thursday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Friday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Saturday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Mangal
- Asia Wok
- Bistrorante Midi
- McDonald's
Hotel
- Advena Europa Hotel
- GuestHouse Mainz
- Terminus
- Hotel Moguntia
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- McDonald's
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Hans im Glück
- The Big Easy
Hotel
- Hyatt Regency Mainz
- Favorite Parkhotel
- Ibis Hotel Mainz City
- Hof Ehrenfels
Most popular train connections from Kiel
More options for your journey from Kiel to Mainz
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Mainz and Kiel
Most popular train connections to Mainz
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