Lübeck to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Mon, Nov 02
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Lübeck to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
Cheapest price on Nov 02
€48
Average ticket price on Nov 02
€83
Fastest journey on Nov 02
5 h 6 m
Average journey duration on Nov 02
5 h 8 m
Trains on Nov 02
12
Distance
413 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Lübeck to Cologne will cost around €83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €48.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Lübeck to Cologne without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn11461 · ICE 519
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn11463 · ICE 109 · IC 2046
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn11463 · ICE 109
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lübeck to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lübeck to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €28 but you can travel from only €17 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (413 km) distance in 4h 21m.

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 €17
Distance
256 miles (413 km)
Average train duration
4h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
€28
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
4h 21m
First train
12:09 AM
Last train
11:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 €17

Frequently asked questions about your Lübeck to Cologne trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Lübeck to Cologne.

Train ticket prices from Lübeck to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €28, while the average price is around €89.
The train from Lübeck to Cologne takes 4h 21m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Lübeck to Cologne leaves at 12:09 AM.
The distance by train from Lübeck to Cologne is 256 miles (413 km).
The last train from Lübeck to Cologne leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lübeck to Cologne.

Live departures

Lübeck to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Lübeck to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain1:40 AM Lübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich
12h09
1:49 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn11405 · ICE 583 · ICE 654
On time
6:09 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h31
11:40 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn11457 · ICE 517
On time
6:37 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h06
11:43 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn11407 · ICE 785 · ICE 954
On time
7:09 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h31
12:40 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn11459 · ICE 107
On time
7:37 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h13
12:50 PM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn11459 · ICE 107 · IC 2044
On time
7:37 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h08
12:45 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn11599 · ICE 585 · ICE 652+metronom821158:01 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h39
1:40 PM Cologne Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn11461 · ICE 519
On time
8:37 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h06
1:43 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain8:45 AM Lübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich
13h00
9:45 PM Cologne Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn11411 · ICE 787 · ICE 952
On time
9:09 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h30
2:39 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn11463 · ICE 109 · IC 2046
On time
9:37 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h08
2:45 PM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn11463 · ICE 109
Delayed
9:37 AM Lübeck Hbf
5h11
1:50 PM 1:50 PMCologne Hbf
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Lübeck to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Lübeck to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lübeck to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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 Lübeck to Cologne.

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 Lübeck to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Lübeck to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Lübeck and Cologne from €17. 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 21m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€28
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Lübeck and Cologne

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Lübeck to Cologne.
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.

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

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

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Outstanding collection of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters in a central museum complex. A major stop for twentieth-century art lovers.

  • Must visit

Kolumba

Excellent private museum for modern and contemporary art, with changing exhibitions and a sculpture-filled former industrial hall.

  • Must visit

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, blending contemporary architecture with historic ruins and carefully curated sacred art.

Euro (€)

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

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

Plan your visit to Cologne

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.

The train journey from Lübeck to Cologne offers scenic views of the German countryside, featuring lush landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque towns along the way, making it a pleasant experience for travelers.
Popular day trips by train from Cologne include Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Liège, Aachen, Bonn.
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 Cologne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, the main shopping streets, and during events such as Carnival. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. Public transportation is generally safe, but vigilance is recommended during late hours.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Lübeck to Cologne

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Lübeck to Cologne.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Lübeck to Cologne

Most Lübeck to Cologne trains use the Lübeck Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Lübeck and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Lübeck
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Lübeck station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Lübeck to Cologne leave from Lübeck Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Lübeck city centre at Lübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 Lübeck.
Lübeck HbfLübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 LübeckWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lübeck Hbf from Lübeck city centre

Lübeck Hbf is 1 km from Lübeck city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus50, 34, 26, 40, 31, 30, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 21, 2, 16, 12, 11, 10, 1 · 5m · €2 · every ~77 min

Lübeck Hbf train station facilities and services

Lübeck 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: MyWaffel, McDonald's, Cafe Maret, Café Brazil

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lübeck Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lübeck Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include LIHO, Mercure, Hotel Stadt Lübeck, Hotel an der Marienkirche.

Train stations for Lübeck to Cologne

Check train stations information for Lübeck and Cologne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Lübeck that goes to Cologne is Lübeck Hbf, which connects to Köln Hbf.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone