Potsdam to Hamburg train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Potsdam to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

€56

Average price

€66

Fastest journey

2 h 33 m

Average duration

2 h 43 m

Trains per day

7

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 €66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €56.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Potsdam to Hamburg without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnS7 · ICE 2588
    5:41 PM2h58
    Potsdam Hbf
    8:39 PMHamburg Hbf
    561One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnS7 · ICE 508
    2:51 PM2h33
    Potsdam Hbf
    5:24 PMHamburg Hbf
    621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnS7 · ICE 506
    4:51 PM2h34
    Potsdam Hbf
    7:25 PMHamburg Hbf
    621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnS7 · ICE 2592
    1:41 PM3h03
    Potsdam Hbf
    4:44 PMHamburg Hbf
    681One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche Bahn73815 · S3 · ICE 2590
    3:49 PM2h55
    Potsdam Hbf
    6:44 PMHamburg Hbf
    681One-way
    2 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 €15. 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 €15, and a train costs an average of €30.

Distance: 150 miles (242 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

€71

Average price

€35

Average price

Cheapest

€43

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

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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 €35.

This is compared to other travel options from Potsdam to Hamburg:

A bus is €35 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Potsdam to Hamburg costing on average €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 €71 compared to roughly €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 today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:51 AM Potsdam
3h21
11:12 AM Hamburg0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:51 AM Potsdam
3h21
12:12 PM Hamburg0 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

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
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Potsdam to Hamburg run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €30 but you can travel from only €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 €15
Distance
150 miles (242 km)
Average train duration
2h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
€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 €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 €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
€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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 52m
Cheapest Price
€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

Hamburger Kunsthalle

Internationally respected art museum with major works from medieval altarpieces to modern masters. Essential for art lovers in Hamburg.

  • Must visit

Miniatur Wunderland

Large railway model world with intricate miniature cities, airports, and landscapes. Technically not a museum, but one of Hamburg’s top attractions.

  • Recommended

Deichtorhallen Hamburg

Contemporary art museum in a former market hall, showing ambitious international exhibitions. A strong choice for modern art and photography.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and transit are reasonable versus major Western European capitals.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or street food.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€3-4.50 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is often included, but rounding up or tipping 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Potsdam to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €30, while the average price is around €71.
The train from Potsdam to Hamburg takes 2h 43m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Potsdam to Hamburg leaves at 12:33 AM.
The distance by train from Potsdam to Hamburg is 150 miles (242 km).
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 €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

Most Potsdam to Hamburg trains use the Potsdam Hbf to Hamburg Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Hamburg-Harburg. Use this guide to compare Potsdam and Hamburg train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Potsdam
Arrival train stations in Hamburg

Which Potsdam station do trains to Hamburg leave from?

Trains from Potsdam to Hamburg leave from Potsdam Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Potsdam city centre at Potsdam Hbf, Friedrich-Engels-Str. 99, 14473 Potsdam.
Potsdam HbfPotsdam Hbf, Friedrich-Engels-Str. 99, 14473 PotsdamWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

GolmGolm, K.-Liebknecht-Str. 28, 14476 PotsdamWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Golm from Potsdam city centre

Golm is 6 km from Potsdam city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb21, Rb20, Rb22, Rb23 · 11m · €2 · every ~7 min
Bus695 · 16m · every ~5 min
Rb21 · 17m · €4
X5, 605 · 22m · every ~6 min
695, 605 · 24m · every ~11 min

Golm train station facilities and services

Golm has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant & Catering Golmé, Lesecafé, Landhotel Potsdam, Golm Dönerhaus

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Golm. ATMs are available at Golm.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Golm. Information desks are available at Golm.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Golm. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Golm: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Golm: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Golm.

Potsdam-BabelsbergBabelsberg, Rudolf -Breitscheid-Straße 40, 14482 PotsdamWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Potsdam-Babelsberg from Potsdam city centre

Potsdam-Babelsberg is 2 km from Potsdam city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS7 · 2m · €3 · every ~15 min
Bus694 · 8m · every ~9 min
Tram94, 99 · 8m · every ~9 min

Potsdam-Babelsberg train station facilities and services

Potsdam-Babelsberg 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: Babelsberger Küche, La copa, Bistro Femo, Lindencafé

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Potsdam-Babelsberg. ATMs are available at Potsdam-Babelsberg.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Potsdam-Babelsberg. Information desks are available at Potsdam-Babelsberg.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Potsdam-Babelsberg. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Potsdam-Babelsberg: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Potsdam-Babelsberg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Potsdam-Babelsberg.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include FRITZ Aparthotel Potsdam.

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