- Must visit
Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel
Maritime museum in a former fish auction hall. Highlights Kiel's naval, shipping, and harbor history in an atmospheric waterfront setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mainz to Kiel
Showing times and prices for Aug 23
Cheapest price
$75
Average price
$121
Fastest journey
5 h 58 m
Average duration
6 h 1 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
499 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mainz to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mainz to Kiel will cost around $121 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Mainz for Kiel on Sun, Aug 23, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 23 the direct trains cover the 499 km distance in an average of 6 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 58 m .
On Sun, Aug 23 the slowest trains will take 6 h 3 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.
6:49 AM6h03Mainz12:52 PMKiel$751One-way0 transfers- 8:42 AM5h58Mainz2:40 PMKiel$1671One-way0 transfers
- 8:42 AM5h58Mainz2:40 PMKiel$1671One-way0 transfers
- 6:49 AM6h03Mainz12:52 PMKiel$751One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Mainz to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mainz to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, and a flight costs an average of $196.
Distance: 310 miles (499 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$187 Average price | $88 Average price Cheapest | $281 Average price | $29 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 37m Average total duration 6h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 30m Average total duration 18h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Mainz to Kiel is a bus with an average price of $88 (€71).
This is compared to other travel options from Mainz to Kiel:
A bus is $98 (€79) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mainz to Kiel costing on average $187 (€150).
A bus is $193 (€155) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mainz to Kiel costing on average $281 (€226).
The fastest way to travel from Mainz to Kiel is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 18m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 7m.
Bus takes on average 18h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Mainz and Kiel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mainz to Kiel 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 8m sooner (6h 7m by train vs 6h 15m by car). Tickets start at around $187 (€150) compared to roughly $29 (€23) 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.
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
Mainz to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:49 AM Mainz | 6h03 | 12:52 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:42 AM Mainz | 5h58 | 2:40 PM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Mainz to Kiel 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.
Sun
Aug 23
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Aug 29
Why should you book Mainz to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Süwex or vlexx offer trains services from Mainz to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mainz to Kiel.
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 Süwex or vlexx to find the best option for your trip from Mainz to Kiel.
- 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 Mainz to Kiel.
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 Mainz to Kiel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mainz to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Trains from Mainz to Kiel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $141 (€113) but you can travel from only $71 (€57) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 310 miles (499 km) distance in 7h 3m.
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 $71 (€57)
Distance 310 miles (499 km) |
Average train duration 6h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $141 (€113) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 7h 3m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 10:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 35 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 $71 (€57)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Süwex, vlexx from Mainz to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Süwex, vlexx trains will get you between Mainz and Kiel from $71 (€57). 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
7h 3m
Cheapest Price
$141 (€113)
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
Süwex
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 53m
Cheapest Price
$122 (€98)
Süwex frequency
1 a day
vlexx
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 26m
Cheapest Price
$119 (€96)
vlexx frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Kiel
Things to do in Kiel
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
- Must visit
Open Air Museum Molfsee
Open-air museum site near Kiel with historic rural buildings and cultural exhibitions. Worth visiting for regional architecture and traditions.
- Recommended
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, prints, and sculptures. A strong stop for classical and modern art near the fjord.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel's central waterfront promenade. Ideal for harbor walks, ferry watching, events, and easy access to shops and maritime sights.
- Must visit
Holtenau Lock Viewing Platform
Canal-side viewing area in Holtenau for watching ships enter and leave the Kiel Canal. One of the city's best free maritime viewpoints.
- Recommended
Holstenstraße
Main pedestrian shopping street linking central Kiel highlights. A practical and lively place to explore the rebuilt city center.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Räucheraal
Smoked eel from the Baltic region, traditionally served simply to highlight local fishing heritage and the salty coastal flavor of Schleswig-Holstein.
- Gluten-free
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck
A hearty northern German stew of pears, beans, and bacon, loved in Schleswig-Holstein for its sweet-salty mix and late-summer harvest tradition.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl mit Kohlwurst
Kale slow-cooked with sausage or pork, a classic winter dish across northern Germany and a staple of cold-season gatherings in Kiel.
Ahlmanns
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with modern regional cuisine, refined tasting menus, and polished service in a special-occasion setting.
Louf
Historic waterside restaurant known for northern German seafood and local classics in a traditional harbor atmosphere.
Restaurant Pier 16
Established harbor restaurant focused on fish and maritime specialties, with panoramic fjord views and a polished but relaxed feel.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can rise in summer, but dining and local transit are usually reasonable for a port city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Tip taxi drivers by rounding up, and leave small change at cafes.
NAH.SH-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- €7.80
To the city center
Kiel Hbf -> Kiel City Center
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use The NAH.SH-App for journey planning and mobile tickets across Kiel buses and regional transport.
- Buses in Kiel generally accept cash; contactless card payment availability can vary, so buying tickets in the app is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Mainz to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mainz to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Mainz to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $141 (€113), while the average price is around $187 (€150).
The train from Mainz to Kiel takes 7h 3m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Mainz to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Mainz to Kiel is 310 miles (499 km).
The last train from Mainz to Kiel leaves at 10:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Mainz to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mainz to Kiel.
The train station in Mainz that goes to Kiel is Mainz Hbf, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Mainz to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $71 (€57).
The train journey from Mainz to Kiel offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Rhine Valley with its charming castles and vineyards. The route also includes views of the North German Plain and the Elbe River, providing a diverse and visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Mainz to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 3m one way. Trains run 6 times per day.
To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Mainz to Kiel.
Since both Mainz and Kiel 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 Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mainz to Kiel 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 Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.
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 Mainz to Kiel
Most Mainz to Kiel trains use the Mainz Hbf to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Mainz and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Mainz
Arrival train stations in Kiel
Which Mainz station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Trains from Mainz to Kiel leave from Mainz Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Mainz city centre at Mainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz.
Mainz HbfMainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz
City-centre transport
Getting to Mainz Hbf from Mainz city centre
Mainz Hbf is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus92, 76, 62 · 9m · every ~13 min
93, 76, 65, 64 · 12m · every ~6 min
Tram52, 50 · 12m · every ~11 min
Mainz Hbf train station facilities and services
Mainz 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: Mangal, Asia Wok, Bistrorante Midi, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Hbf. ATMs are available at Mainz Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Hbf. Information desks are available at Mainz Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mainz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mainz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Advena Europa Hotel, GuestHouse Mainz, Terminus, Hotel Moguntia.
Mainz Römisches TheaterMainz Römisches Theater, Holzhofstr. 1a, 55116 Mainz
City-centre transport
Getting to Mainz Römisches Theater from Mainz city centre
Mainz Römisches Theater is 1 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus93, 66, 65, 64 · 3m · every ~10 min
93, 66, 65, 64 · 7m · every ~10 min
Mainz Römisches Theater train station facilities and services
Mainz Römisches Theater 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: McDonald's, Cafe Extrablatt, Hans im Glück, The Big Easy
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. ATMs are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Information desks are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Römisches Theater. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mainz Römisches Theater: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Römisches Theater.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Regency Mainz, Favorite Parkhotel, Ibis Hotel Mainz City, Hof Ehrenfels.
Which Kiel station do trains from Mainz arrive at?
Trains from Mainz to Kiel arrive at Kiel Hbf. Kiel Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Kiel city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Mainz
More options for your journey from Mainz to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Mainz
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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