- Must visit
Kunsthalle Hamburg
Major fine arts museum with works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art; one of Germany’s most important museum collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Potsdam to Hamburg
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$89
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 32 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
242 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Potsdam to Hamburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Potsdam to Hamburg will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Potsdam for Hamburg on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 242 km distance in an average of 3 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 55 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.
7:02 AM3h55Potsdam10:57 AMHamburg$781One-way0 transfers- 7:51 AM3h20Potsdam11:11 AMHamburg$901One-way0 transfers
- 8:51 AM3h21Potsdam12:12 PMHamburg$991One-way0 transfers
- 7:51 AM3h20Potsdam11:11 AMHamburg$901One-way0 transfers
- 8:51 AM3h21Potsdam12:12 PMHamburg$991One-way0 transfers
- 7:02 AM3h55Potsdam10:57 AMHamburg$781One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Potsdam to Hamburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Potsdam to Hamburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 150 miles (242 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$86 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 12m Average total duration 4h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Potsdam to Hamburg is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Potsdam to Hamburg:
A bus is $43 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Potsdam to Hamburg costing on average $86 (€71).
The fastest way to travel from Potsdam to Hamburg is by train with an average journey time of 2h 37m.
Other travel options to Hamburg take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Potsdam and Hamburg including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Potsdam to Hamburg 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 1h 48m sooner (2h 37m by train vs 4h 25m by car). Tickets start at around $86 (€71) compared to roughly $52 (€43) 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
Potsdam to Hamburg train times
The table below shows live departures for Potsdam to Hamburg trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:02 AM Potsdam | 3h55 | 10:57 AM Hamburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:51 AM Potsdam | 3h20 | 11:11 AM Hamburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:51 AM Potsdam | 3h21 | 12:12 PM Hamburg | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Potsdam to Hamburg by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Potsdam to Hamburg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Potsdam to Hamburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Potsdam to Hamburg.
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 Potsdam to Hamburg.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Potsdam to Hamburg.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Potsdam to Hamburg.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Potsdam to Hamburg
GermanyGermany
Trains from Potsdam to Hamburg run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:33, the last at 22:55. The fastest train covers the 150 miles (242 km) distance in 2h 43m.
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 $18 (€15)
Distance 150 miles (242 km) |
Average train duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€30) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 43m |
First train 12:33 AM |
Last train 10:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 3 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 $18 (€15)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Potsdam to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Potsdam and Hamburg from $18 (€15). 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
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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 52m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€73)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Hamburg
Things to do in Hamburg
Discover the best of Hamburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hamburg trip today.
- Must visit
Miniatur Wunderland
Famous model railway and miniature world with extraordinary detail; one of Hamburg’s most popular attractions.
- Recommended
Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg
Leading museum of applied arts and design, known for decorative arts, fashion, photography, and global design collections.
- Must visit
Jungfernstieg
Elegant waterfront promenade along the Inner Alster, ideal for first-time visitors, shopping, and classic city views.
- Must visit
Alster Lakes
Beloved waterside area for walking and views, especially around the Binnenalster and Außenalster promenades.
- Recommended
HafenCity
Modern waterfront district with striking architecture, promenades, and photogenic urban spaces popular on social media.
Fischbrötchen
A classic North German fish sandwich, usually filled with herring, salmon, or shrimp in a crusty roll. It is one of Hamburg’s most iconic harbor snacks.
- Gluten-free
Labskaus
A traditional seafarer’s dish made from corned beef, potatoes, and beetroot, often served with herring and a fried egg. It is strongly associated with Hamburg and northern port cities.
Pannfisch
Pan-fried fish fillets, traditionally made with leftover fish, served with mustard sauce and potatoes. It is a classic Hanseatic comfort dish.
Fischereihafen Restaurant
A long-established seafood restaurant with a polished, classic atmosphere, known for high-quality fish and harbor hospitality.
Erikas Eck
A well-known casual local institution famous for large schnitzels and hearty late-night German fare in an unpretentious setting.
Old Commercial Room
A historic traditional restaurant near St. Michael’s Church, known for Hamburg classics such as Labskaus, roast dishes, and regional specialties.
Euro
Hamburg is pricier than many German cities. Hotels and dining add up, but transit is reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service; round up taxis and leave small change in cafés.
hvv switch
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.80
- Day pass
- EUR 8.40
To the city center
Hamburg Hbf, Hamburg -> Hamburg City Center, Hamburg
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- You can buy HVV tickets in the hvv switch app, at ticket machines, and at many stations. Card payment is commonly accepted at machines.
- Validate that you are buying the correct HVV fare zone before travel. Day tickets are usually better value if you make several trips.
FAQs: Trains from Potsdam to Hamburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Potsdam to Hamburg 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 Hamburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Potsdam to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€30), while the average price is around $86 (€71).
The train from Potsdam to Hamburg takes 2h 43m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Potsdam to Hamburg is 150 miles (242 km).
The first train from Potsdam to Hamburg leaves at 12:33 AM.
The last train from Potsdam to Hamburg leaves at 10:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Potsdam to Hamburg.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Potsdam to Hamburg.
The train station in Potsdam that goes to Hamburg is Potsdam Hbf, which connects to Hamburg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Potsdam to Hamburg is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Potsdam to Hamburg offers scenic views of the German countryside, including lush forests, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes, especially as you pass through regions such as Brandenburg and Lower Saxony.
Yes, a day trip from Potsdam to Hamburg is feasible as the journey takes 2h 43m and there are 7 trains per day covering 150 miles (242 km).
In Hamburg, you can explore the vibrant nightlife of the Reeperbahn, enjoy a scenic boat tour of the Port of Hamburg, visit the lively Hamburg Fish Market, and discover the International Maritime Museum. Stroll along the Alster Lakes for picturesque views, and don't miss the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, Speicherstadt, St. Michael's Church, and Planten un Blomen for diverse attractions and experiences.
Three days in Hamburg are generally sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, and the historic Speicherstadt, as well as to experience its vibrant neighborhoods and local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Potsdam to Hamburg.
Since both Potsdam and Hamburg 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 Hamburg include Bremen, Kiel, Schwerin, Lübeck, Bremerhaven.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Potsdam to Hamburg 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 Hamburg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Reeperbahn, St. Pauli, and public transport. Common scams include distraction tactics near popular tourist spots and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services and stay alert in busy nightlife districts to ensure safety.
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 Potsdam to Hamburg
Potsdam
Hamburg
The major train station for departures in Potsdam is Potsdam Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Potsdam Hbf for your trip from Potsdam to Hamburg.
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
Dining
- Smiley's Pizza Profis
- Addy's Bistro und Café
- Bao An
- Theo's Inselcafé
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express
- The niu Amity
Potsdam-Babelsberg
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Babelsberger Küche
- La copa
- Bistro Femo
- Lindencafé
Hotel
- FRITZ Aparthotel Potsdam
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
6 kmDining
- Restaurant & Catering Golmé
- Lesecafé
- Landhotel Potsdam
- Golm Dönerhaus
The major train station for arrivals in Hamburg is Hamburg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Hamburg Hbf for your journey to Hamburg from Potsdam.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:30
- Sat - Sun: 08:00 - 20:15
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Lockers
- The station has luggage lockers
Dining
- Le Crobag
- Burger King
- Coffee Fellows
- Havin Grill
- KFC
- Mr. CLOU
- Starbucks
- dean&david
- SPAR Express
- Pommesfreunde
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected]
Hotel
- Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station
- IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof
- Park Hyatt Hamburg
Information Desk
- Located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:40 - 18:30
- Tuesday: 07:40 - 18:30
- Wednesday: 07:40 - 18:30
- Thursday: 07:40 - 18:30
- Friday: 07:40 - 18:30
- Saturday: 08:00 - 13:30
- Sunday: 09:00 - 14:30
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bom Dia
- Hünkar
- Yoko Sushi Harburg
- Mathewes Grill
Hotel
- Hotel Panorama
- Hotel Harburger Hof
- Hotel Jeta
- Hotel Süderelbe
Hamburg Dammtor
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Thursday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Friday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Hunt Coffee
- Haerlin
- Gran Sasso
- Double Coffee
Hotel
- Hotel Hanseatin
- Renaissance
- Hotel Preuß
- Hotel Amsterdam
Most popular train connections from Potsdam
More options for your journey from Potsdam to Hamburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Hamburg and Potsdam
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