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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kiel
Cheapest price on Sep 13
€28
Average ticket price on Sep 13
€77
Fastest journey on Sep 13
5 h 7 m
Average journey duration on Sep 13
5 h 28 m
Trains on Sep 13
11
Distance
434 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Kiel will cost around €77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €28.
It's difficult to get from Cologne to Kiel without transferring at least once.
ICE 920 · 112462:09 AM6h44Cologne Hbf8:53 AMKiel Hbf€281One-way1 transfer- ICE 1028 · ICE 7784:00 AM5h40Cologne Hbf9:40 AMKiel Hbf€301One-way1 transfer
- ICE 618 · ICE 7766:11 AM5h29Cologne Hbf11:40 AMKiel Hbf€401One-way1 transfer
FlixTrain+
FlixBus5:01 PM8h09Cologne Hbf1:10 AMKiel, ZOB€421One-way1 transfer- ICE 553 · ICE 686 · 112146:45 AM5h36Cologne Hbf12:21 PMKiel Hbf€501One-way2 transfers
- ICE 1022 · 1122010:14 AM5h07Cologne Hbf3:21 PMKiel Hbf€1291One-way1 transfer
- ICE 618 · ICE 7766:11 AM5h29Cologne Hbf11:40 AMKiel Hbf€401One-way1 transfer
- ICE 616 · ICE 7748:11 AM5h33Cologne Hbf1:44 PMKiel Hbf€961One-way1 transfer
- ICE 553 · ICE 686 · 112146:45 AM5h36Cologne Hbf12:21 PMKiel Hbf€501One-way2 transfers
- ICE 557 · ICE 682 · 1122210:44 AM5h37Cologne Hbf4:21 PMKiel Hbf€1411One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cologne to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €35 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €35, while a flight costs an average of €322.
Distance: 434 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€63 Average price | €35 Average price Cheapest | €322 Average price | €77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 15m Average total duration 5h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 19m Average total duration 7h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company | Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Kiel:
A bus is €28 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Kiel costing on average €63.
A bus is €287 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cologne to Kiel costing on average €322.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 45m.
Bus takes on average 7h 49m.
Live departures
Cologne to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kiel trains for today, Saturday, September 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 920 · 11206 | Delayed 12:09 AM 2:09 AMCologne Hbf | 6h12 | 8:21 AM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, September 13 | |||||
| ICE 920 · 11246 | 2:09 AM Cologne Hbf | 6h44 | 8:53 AM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1028 · ICE 778 | Delayed 4:00 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h40 | 7:48 AM 7:48 AMKiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 2214 · 11260 | On time 5:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h41 | 10:55 AM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 618 · ICE 776 | Delayed 6:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h29 | 9:42 AM 9:42 AMKiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 553 · ICE 686 · 11214 | On time 6:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h36 | 12:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 616 · ICE 774 | On time 8:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h33 | 1:44 PM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 555 · ICE 684 · 11218 | On time 8:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h37 | 2:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 204 · 11268 | On time 9:11 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h41 | 2:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1022 · 11220 | On time 10:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h07 | 3:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 557 · ICE 682 · 11222 | On time 10:44 AM Cologne Hbf | 5h37 | 4:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| FlixTrain+FlixBus | 5:01 PM Cologne Hbf | 8h09 | 1:10 AM Kiel, ZOB | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne 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.
Sep 13
Sep 14
Sep 15
Sep 16
Sep 17
Sep 18
Sep 19
Why should you book Cologne to Kiel trains with Omio?
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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne 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 Cologne 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 Cologne to Kiel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Kiel run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €23 but you can travel from only €23 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 434 km distance in 5h 29m.
Distance 434 km |
Average train duration 5h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price €23 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 29m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne and Kiel from €23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Kiel
Most Cologne to Kiel trains use the Köln Hbf to Kiel Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Kiel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln 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: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz 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: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen 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: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Kiel station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Kiel Hbf from Kiel city centre
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.
Getting to Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK from Kiel city centre
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK is 2 km from Kiel city centre. Public transport options include:
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK train station facilities and services
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK 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: Illy Espressobar, McDonald's, Gosch, Citti-Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. ATMs are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Information desks are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARK.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Cologne
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