- Must visit
Museum Barberini
Major art museum in Barberini Palace, renowned for impressionism and changing exhibitions in a reconstructed baroque setting.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Kiel to Potsdam
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Potsdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 57m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, while a flight costs an average of $825.
Distance: 179 miles (289 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$96 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $825 Average price | $65 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 57m Average total duration Fastest 4h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 1m Average total duration 5h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration 3h 35m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Kiel to Potsdam is a bus with an average price of $38.
This is compared to other travel options from Kiel to Potsdam:
A bus is $58 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kiel to Potsdam costing on average $96.
A bus is $787 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kiel to Potsdam costing on average $825.
The fastest way to travel from Kiel to Potsdam is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 35m.
Other travel options to Potsdam take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 27m.
Bus takes on average 5h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Kiel and Potsdam including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Potsdam 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 $96 compared to roughly $65 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-31.52. The journey takes 4h 27m versus 4h 4m 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 Potsdam 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 Potsdam trains with Omio?
erixx as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Kiel to Potsdam.
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 Potsdam.
- 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 Potsdam.
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 Potsdam.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kiel to Potsdam
GermanyGermany
Trains from Kiel to Potsdam run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 but you can travel from only $30 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 22:41. The fastest train covers the 179 miles (289 km) distance in 3h 58m.
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 $30
Distance 179 miles (289 km) |
Average train duration 4h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 58m |
First train 4:10 AM |
Last train 10:41 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $30
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, erixx from Kiel to Potsdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, erixx trains will get you between Kiel and Potsdam from $30. 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 1m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$46
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
3h 58m
Cheapest erixx Price
$71
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 Potsdam
Things to do in Potsdam
Discover the best of Potsdam — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Potsdam trip today.
- Must visit
Cecilienhof Palace Museum
Palace museum in the former residence of Kaiser Wilhelm II, presenting royal apartments and Prussian court history.
- Recommended
Villa Schöningen
Exhibition on Potsdam’s Cold War past at the famous spy-swap bridge, with documents, stories, and media installations.
- Must visit
Sanssouci Park
Vast UNESCO park surrounding Sanssouci palaces, ideal for long walks among gardens, follies, and grand vistas.
- Must visit
Dutch Quarter
Charming quarter of red-brick gabled houses built in Dutch style, now lined with boutiques and quiet courtyards.
- Recommended
Old Market Square
Historic square at Potsdam’s core, framed by rebuilt baroque facades, St. Nicholas Church, and major museums.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Brandenburger Kartoffelgerichte
Potatoes are central to Brandenburg cooking. In Potsdam they appear boiled, roasted, or in salads, reflecting the region's long link to Frederick the Great and local farming.
- Vegetarian
Kartoffelsuppe
A rustic potato soup common in Brandenburg, often enriched with root vegetables and herbs. It reflects the region's simple farm cuisine and local potato tradition.
Gebratener Zander
Brandenburg-style fried freshwater fish, often pike-perch or perch from nearby lakes. It is a classic regional dish tied to Potsdam's lake landscape.
Kochzimmer
Elegant Michelin-starred dining in historic Potsdam. Known for refined seasonal tasting menus and polished service in a formal atmosphere.
Die Garage
Well-known Austrian and regional restaurant on the Schiffbauergasse waterfront. Popular for schnitzel, fish, and relaxed lakeside views.
Brauhausberg
Historic brewery restaurant serving German classics and house beer. Lively, traditional setting near the Dutch Quarter with a strong local following.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are usually a bit cheaper than Berlin, while transit and museum costs stay manageable for most visitors.
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
Service is often included, but rounding up or tipping 5-10% is standard. Round up in cafes and taxis; tip directly when paying.
VBB Bus & Bahn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.30
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Potsdam Hbf -> Brandenburger Tor, Potsdam
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in the VBB app or from ticket machines before boarding; validation rules depend on the ticket type.
- On Potsdam trams and buses, contactless card payment is generally not available onboard, so use the app or ticket machines.
FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Potsdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel to Potsdam 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 Potsdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Potsdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46, while the average price is around $96.
The train from Kiel to Potsdam takes 3h 58m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Kiel to Potsdam is 179 miles (289 km).
The first train from Kiel to Potsdam leaves at 4:10 AM.
The last train from Kiel to Potsdam leaves at 10:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Kiel to Potsdam.
There is no direct train service currently available from Kiel to Potsdam.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Potsdam.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Potsdam is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Potsdam Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Potsdam is by bus, with a cost of around $30.
The train journey from Kiel to Potsdam offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the lush landscapes of northern Germany, passing fields, forests, and rural countryside, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Kiel to Potsdam is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 58m. There are 6 train trips available per day. The distance is 179 miles (289 km).
To fully explore Potsdam, including its palaces, gardens, and historic sites, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Potsdam.
Since both Kiel and Potsdam 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 Potsdam include Berlin, Magdeburg, Leipzig, Halle, Brandenburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Potsdam 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 Potsdam, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist sites. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides can occur, so always use licensed taxis or official ride services. It's advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid accepting unsolicited offers from street vendors or strangers. Overall, Potsdam is considered safe, but standard travel vigilance is recommended.
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 Potsdam
Most Kiel to Potsdam trains use the Kiel Hbf to Potsdam Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Kiel and Potsdam 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 Potsdam
Which Kiel station do trains to Potsdam leave from?
Trains from Kiel to Potsdam 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 Potsdam station do trains from Kiel arrive at?
Trains from Kiel to Potsdam arrive at Potsdam Hbf. Potsdam Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Potsdam city centre.
Potsdam HbfPotsdam Hbf, Friedrich-Engels-Str. 99, 14473 Potsdam
City-centre transport
Getting to Potsdam Hbf from Potsdam city centre
TrainRb22 · 7m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus631 · 19m · every ~7 min
697 · 26m · every ~3 min
Tram91, 94 · 15m · every ~9 min
Potsdam Hbf train station facilities and services
Potsdam 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: Smiley's Pizza Profis, Addy's Bistro und Café, Bao An, Theo's Inselcafé
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Potsdam Hbf. ATMs are available at Potsdam Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Potsdam Hbf. Information desks are available at Potsdam Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Potsdam Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Potsdam Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Potsdam Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Potsdam Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express, The niu Amity.
Most popular train connections from Kiel
More options for your journey from Kiel to Potsdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Potsdam and Kiel
Most popular train connections to Potsdam
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