- Must visit
Museum Ludwig
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.
Cheapest price
$85
Average price
$137
Fastest journey
5 h 39 m
Average duration
9 h 4 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
411 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around $137 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.
It's difficult to get from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
11425 · ICE 617
11423 · ICE 205
11425 · ICE 617
11423 · ICE 205
FlixBus+
FlixTrain
FlixBus+
FlixTrainOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a flight costs an average of $275.
Distance: 255 miles (411 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$65 Average price | $465 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $92 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 24m Average total duration 4h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 37m Average total duration Fastest 3h 37m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 33m Average total duration 11h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf:
A bus is $25 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average $65 (€53).
A bus is $426 (€348) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf costing on average $465 (€381).
Other travel options to Cologne Hbf take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 54m.
Bus takes on average 11h 3m.
Tickets start at around $65 (€53) compared to roughly $92 (€75) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27 (€22). The journey takes 4h 54m versus 4h 45m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 1:40 AM Lübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich | 12h01 | 1:41 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 8:45 AM Lübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich | 12h55 | 9:40 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
11423 · ICE 205 | On time 3:09 PM Lübeck Hbf | 5h39 | 8:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
11425 · ICE 617 | On time 4:09 PM Lübeck Hbf | 5h39 | 9:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 255 miles (411 km) distance in 5h 9m.
Distance 255 miles (411 km) |
Average train duration 4h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 9m |
First train 12:40 AM |
Last train 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.
Major modern and contemporary art museum beside the cathedral, known for Pop Art, Picasso works, and a strong international collection.
Cologne’s key archaeological museum for Roman heritage, famous for mosaics and finds from the city’s ancient past. Parts of the collection may be presented in temporary locations during building works
Leading fine arts museum with important medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century paintings, offering one of Cologne’s strongest classic art collections.
Revitalized waterfront district with striking modern architecture, promenades, and photogenic Rhine views, popular on social media.
Wide riverside steps and promenade on the right bank, famous for postcard views back toward the cathedral skyline.
Historic Old Town square lined with traditional facades and lively public life, ideal for absorbing the classic Cologne atmosphere.
The city’s signature top-fermented beer, traditionally served in small cylindrical glasses. It is central to Cologne’s brewing culture and best enjoyed in a classic brauhaus.
A classic Cologne snack of rye roll, Gouda cheese, mustard, onions, and pickles. Despite the name, it contains no chicken and is a staple in local beer halls.
A traditional Rhineland dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce, often served with black pudding and fried onions. The name means 'Heaven and Earth.'
Established traditional brewery restaurant in the old town, popular for authentic Cologne specialties, Kölsch, and rustic historic atmosphere.
Well-known central brauhaus serving Sion Kölsch and dependable local dishes. A solid choice for visitors wanting a classic Cologne beer hall experience.
A long-established restaurant by the Rhine, especially known for pork knuckle and hearty German fare in a traditional, tourist-friendly setting.
Moderate by German standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
Official public transport app
Köln Hbf, Köln -> Köln Dom, Köln
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lübeck Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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