- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with paintings, sculptures, and changing exhibitions from the 19th century to contemporary art.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Utrecht to Kiel
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$113
Average price
$120
Fastest journey
6 h 44 m
Average duration
6 h 53 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
416 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Utrecht to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Utrecht to Kiel will cost around $120 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $113.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Utrecht for Kiel on Wed, May 27, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct trains cover the 416 km distance in an average of 6 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 44 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest trains will take 7 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.
10:37 AM6h44Utrecht5:21 PMKiel$1131One-way0 transfers- 7:21 AM7h00Utrecht2:21 PMKiel$1131One-way0 transfers
- 9:37 AM6h44Utrecht4:21 PMKiel$1131One-way0 transfers
- 6:37 AM7h03Utrecht1:40 PMKiel$1431One-way0 transfers
- 10:37 AM6h44Utrecht5:21 PMKiel$1131One-way0 transfers
- 9:37 AM6h44Utrecht4:21 PMKiel$1131One-way0 transfers
- 7:21 AM7h00Utrecht2:21 PMKiel$1131One-way0 transfers
- 6:37 AM7h03Utrecht1:40 PMKiel$1431One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Utrecht to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Utrecht to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $57. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $57, and a flight costs an average of $206.
Distance: 258 miles (416 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$131 Average price | $344 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $117 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 19m Average total duration Fastest 5h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 28m Average total duration 7h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 25m Average total duration 17h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Utrecht to Kiel is a bus with an average price of $78 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Utrecht to Kiel:
A bus is $53 (€43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Utrecht to Kiel costing on average $131 (€106).
A bus is $266 (€214) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Utrecht to Kiel costing on average $344 (€277).
The fastest way to travel from Utrecht to Kiel is by train with an average journey time of 5h 49m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Flight takes on average 7h 28m.
Bus takes on average 17h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Utrecht and Kiel including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Utrecht to Kiel among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $131 (€106) compared to roughly $117 (€94) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.07 (€-11.35). The journey takes 5h 49m versus 5h 29m 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.
Live departures
Utrecht to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Utrecht to Kiel trains for today, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:37 AM Utrecht | 6h44 | 5:21 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 Utrecht to Kiel by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, 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
May 27
May 27
Thu
May 28
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Fri
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Why should you book Utrecht to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Utrecht to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Utrecht 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 Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Utrecht 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Utrecht to Kiel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Utrecht to Kiel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Utrecht to Kiel
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Utrecht to Kiel run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€49) but you can travel from only $57 (€46) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 21:05. The fastest train covers the 258 miles (416 km) distance in 6h 44m.
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 $57 (€46)
Distance 258 miles (416 km) |
Average train duration 5h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€49) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 44m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 9:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $57 (€46)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Utrecht to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Utrecht and Kiel from $57 (€46). 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
6h 44m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€49)
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
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 33m
Cheapest Price
$188 (€152)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
12 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.
- Recommended
Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel
Kiel’s maritime museum in a historic fish auction hall, covering naval, port, and shipping history closely tied to the city.
- Recommended
Zoologisches Museum Kiel
University museum with notable zoological collections, including marine specimens, skeletons, and exhibits linked to Baltic Sea research.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel’s signature waterfront promenade along the fjord, ideal for walks, harbor views, naval atmosphere, and major event watching.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic market square in the old center, anchored by St. Nikolai Church and surrounded by shops and city life.
- Recommended
Rathausplatz
Central square by the town hall and opera house, often used for events and a practical orientation point in central Kiel.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Sprotten
Lightly smoked sprats traditionally linked with Kiel. They are eaten whole on bread or as a snack and are one of the city’s best-known regional specialties.
- Gluten-free
Labskaus
A classic North German sailor’s dish of corned beef, potatoes and beetroot, often served with herring, pickles and fried egg. It reflects Kiel’s maritime heritage.
- Gluten-free
Matjes Mit Hausfrauensoße
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, usually with potatoes. A beloved northern coastal dish strongly associated with Schleswig-Holstein.
Restaurant Ahlmanns
Refined dining venue in Kiel recognized for contemporary German cuisine, careful service and an elegant atmosphere suited to a special meal.
Pier 16
Stylish restaurant in Kiel with a more upscale feel, known for modern regional cuisine, seafood and well-presented seasonal menus.
Längengrad
Established waterfront restaurant at Kiellinie known for fish, northern German dishes and harbor views in a polished but relaxed setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Daily costs are manageable, with mid-range dining and hotels priced below Munich or Hamburg.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up in cafes and taxis, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
NAH.SH
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.10
- Day pass
- EUR 8.60
To the city center
Kiel Hbf, Kiel -> Kiel Rathaus, Kiel
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can buy Schleswig-Holstein local tickets in the official NAH.SH app before boarding. Check whether your route is covered by regional bus or ferry zones.
- On many local buses, card payment may not always be available directly on board, so buying in the app is the safest option. Validate ticket rules before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Utrecht to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Utrecht 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 Utrecht to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€49), while the average price is around $131 (€106).
The train from Utrecht to Kiel takes 6h 44m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Utrecht to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Utrecht to Kiel is 258 miles (416 km).
The last train from Utrecht to Kiel leaves at 9:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Utrecht to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Utrecht to Kiel.
The train station in Utrecht that goes to Kiel is Utrecht Centraal, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Utrecht to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $57 (€46).
The train journey from Utrecht to Kiel offers scenic views as it passes through the Dutch and German countryside, featuring picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and glimpses of rivers and forests along the route.
A day trip from Utrecht to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 44m one way and covers a distance of 258 miles (416 km). There are 6 trains 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 Utrecht to Kiel.
Since both Utrecht 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 Utrecht 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.
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 Utrecht to Kiel
Utrecht
Kiel
The major train station for departures in Utrecht is Utrecht Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Utrecht Centraal for your trip from Utrecht to Kiel.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Spoorstraat and Jaarbeursplein.
Dining
- Restaurant De Rechtbank
- Humphrey's Utrecht
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Crowne Plaza Utrecht
- NH Utrecht
- Park Plaza Utrecht
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 12,656 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-8 for international and regional trains
- Hall 2: domestic intercity and sprinter services
- Hall 3: tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Utrecht Centraal
- Tram: Line 22
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Domestic and international connections
The major train station for arrivals in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your journey to Kiel from Utrecht.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
- MUM&DAD
- Lunatique
- McDonald's
- Campus Suite
Hotel
- Hotel Wiking
- Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
- Astor
- InterCityHotel Kiel
Kiel Schulen am Langsee
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
More options for your journey from Utrecht to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Utrecht
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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