Cologne Hbf to Hamburg train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Mon 20 Jul
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Deutsche Bahn
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Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for 20 Jul

Cheapest price

£25

Average price

£79

Fastest journey

3 h 31 m

Average duration

3 h 45 m

Trains per day

20

Distance

359 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg will cost around £79 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £25.

Fast trains

Of the 20 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Hamburg every day 16 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 359 km distance in an average of 3 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 31 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 54 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.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 657 · 82848+metronom81604
    20:458h35
    Cologne Hbf
    5:20Hamburg Hbf
    £251One-way
    2 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 514
    19:354h40
    Cologne Hbf
    0:15Hamburg Hbf
    £321One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 516
    18:114h04
    Cologne Hbf
    22:15Hamburg Hbf
    £371One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 104
    19:114h05
    Cologne Hbf
    23:16Hamburg Hbf
    £431One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain
    9:013h54
    Cologne Hbf
    12:55Hamburg Harburg
    £441One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £12, and a flight costs an average of £183.

Distance: 359 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£31

Average Price

£25

Average Price

Cheapest

£493

Average Price

4h 40m

Average total duration

4h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 20m

Average total duration

5h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 45m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Hamburg trains for today, Sunday 19 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 618
Delayed
4:01 6:11Cologne Hbf
4h04
8:05 8:05Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1520
On time
16:07 Cologne Hbf
3h32
19:39 Hamburg Harburg
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 518
On time
16:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
20:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 228 · ICE 518
Delayed
14:14 16:11Cologne Hbf
4h04
20:15 Hamburg Hbf
1 change
FlixTrainFlixTrain17:01 Cologne Hbf
3h54
20:55 Hamburg Harburg0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 106
On time
17:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
21:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn17426 · ICE 945 · ICE 784
On time
17:21 Cologne Hbf
4h40
22:01 Hamburg Harburg
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 516
On time
18:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
22:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 104
On time
19:11 Cologne Hbf
4h05
23:16 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 514
On time
20:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
0:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 616
On time
8:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
12:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1036
On time
8:45 Cologne Hbf
3h53
12:38 Hamburg Harburg
0 changesdirect
FlixTrainFlixTrain9:01 Cologne Hbf
3h54
12:55 Hamburg Harburg0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 614
On time
10:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
14:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1020
On time
12:09 Cologne Hbf
3h31
15:40 Hamburg Harburg
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 612
On time
12:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
16:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1032
On time
12:45 Cologne Hbf
3h54
16:39 Hamburg Harburg
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 200
On time
13:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
17:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn17418 · ICE 941 · ICE 788
On time
13:21 Cologne Hbf
4h40
18:01 Hamburg Harburg
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 610
On time
14:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
18:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 108
On time
15:11 Cologne Hbf
4h04
19:15 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Hamburg by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Mon
20 Jul
Tue
21 Jul
Wed
22 Jul
Thu
23 Jul
Fri
24 Jul
Sat
25 Jul
Sun
26 Jul

Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Hamburg trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf 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 FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.

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 Hbf to Hamburg.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconFast connection
IconGood organisation for bomb disposal
Iconclean toilets
Disadvantages
Iconnothing
I took the ICE from Cologne to Hamburg last year and the journey was very good until a bomb was discovered outside Hamburg and all traffic was paralysed for all trains in that direction. The organisation of Deutsche Bahn was very good, as our train was fortunately able to stop at an intermediate station and so we didn't have to be stuck in the stuffy train. Furthermore, water was distributed by the service. In the end, we arrived in Hamburg 2 hours late, but otherwise it was a very fast and pleasant connection. The toilets were also very clean. All in all, I can only recommend it.
Advantages
IconComfortable seats
IconGood for work
IconNice staff
Disadvantages
IconExpensive price
I had to travel from Cologne to Hamburg by train at quite short notice. This made the ticket price a little more expensive. The journey was very pleasant and I had a seat in the quiet compartment. This was very practical as I had to work on the train. The power connection for charging my laptop was also very helpful. The journey went very quickly and the staff on the train were very nice. Highly recommended.
Advantages
IconSeats were comfortable and train was empty.
Disadvantages
IconTrain staff were unfriendly
The train ride from Cologne main station to Hamburg was quite comfortable overall. The seats were comfortable and offered enough space for the passengers. There was enough luggage unloading to store it safely. The air conditioning in the train provided a pleasant temperature during the journey. The carriages were well insulated, which contributed to a pleasant rest. Price performance of the train journey from Cologne main station to Hamburg varies depending on the class booked and flexibility. Deutsche Bahn and other providers offer various ticket promotions to meet passengers' needs. Fares may vary depending on demand at the time of booking, but overall the trains on this route offer acceptable value for money. Connection between Cologne and Hamburg is usually reliable and punctual, which justifies the price.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
IconCleanliness
Disadvantages
IconReliability
Fortunately, this train arrived on time. After I had already had to book another train a few times at short notice because the one I had actually booked was cancelled at short notice. The train was very clean, only one toilet was very dirty. The wifi worked perfectly and I was able to relax and stream films. The seat reservation also worked great and the train arrived relatively punctually.
Advantages
IconPleasant ride
IconGood service
Disadvantages
IconSlight delay
Normally I tend to travel by car. However, due to sustainability, I wanted to try the train again. I am absolutely convinced of the Cologne to Hamburg connection. The trains are very clean, the staff are really friendly, the on-board bistro has delicious snacks and the comfort was just right. My seat had wifi and a power socket, so I was able to work on a few things on the side.
Advantages
IconDirect connection
IconWifi on the train
IconSeat reservation possible
IconFriendly staff
Disadvantages
IconMostly a little late
IconBoard bistro occasionally closed due to lack of staff
IconToilets slightly dirty
I am basically satisfied with the journey from Cologne to Hamburg. The service is friendly and courteous. If you have any problems or concerns, you can always contact the train staff. Every seat is equipped with a power socket. The reception and wifi are also sufficient for chatting or streaming videos. There is no need to change trains during the journey, but unfortunately there is often a delay on the connection. The toilets are slightly dirty, which unfortunately makes using the toilet a bit unpleasant for female guests. On the whole, however, I am satisfied.
Advantages
IconComfortable seats
IconWIFI
IconClean toilets
IconPower sockets on the square
Disadvantages
IconNothing
I liked this train trip very much, the train arrived on time and went through without any problems. Upon entering the train, I was immediately greeted nicely by the staff. The seats were very comfortable and equipped with power sockets. There was also a very stable wifi connection, which allowed watching movies without any problems. The toilets were always cleaned by the staff and were therefore always fresh and clean. Therefore, the price was top.
Advantages
IconOn time
IconQuiet
IconWIFI
Disadvantages
IconToilet
The train arrived in Cologne on time and arrived in Hamburg on time. Wifi was available throughout the journey, which was sufficient for streaming. A power socket at the seat was able to charge my laptop. It was very quiet in my quiet compartment, which was very pleasant. The conductor asked noisy guests to be quiet. Unfortunately, the toilet near the seat was broken. It was necessary to walk very far for this.
Advantages
Iconnice train
Iconfriendly employees
Icongood internet
That was my journey there in first class. The internet was very good, the train looked very nice from the inside and also from the outside. It was not too cold or too hot on the train. The food arrived very quickly, was fresh and also very cheap. In addition, the food was very cheap. I had a lot of space and room and also a lot of space for my luggage. The staff were very nice. It was definitely very clean on the train. I recommend this trip and rate it five stars.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconStaff
IconSeats
Disadvantages
IconToilets
IconVolume
IconDelay
The train journey was really good. I had excellent wifi and also two power sockets. The seats were very comfortable. They were soft and even smelled good. But the volume was very loud as there was a family next to my seat. The food was also very good. The staff was friendly and gave me all the information I needed. I had a reservation option and used it. The toilets were unfortunately very dirty and stinky. I did not have to change trains, yet the train was not on time. Price was very good and value for money is good.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg run on average 17 times per day, taking around 4h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 if you book in advance.

There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 22:56. The fastest train covers the 359 km distance in 3h 42m.

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
Distance
359 km
Average train duration
4h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
£8
Trains per day
17
Direct trains
12
Fastest train
3h 42m
First train
0:09
Last train
22:56
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Tue
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Hamburg from £8. 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
3h 42m
Cheapest Price
£16
Deutsche Bahn frequency
15 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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 54m
Cheapest Price
£8
FlixTrain frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 16m
Cheapest Price
£70
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
12 a day

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 5m
Cheapest Price
£63
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
3 a day

FAQs: Cologne Hbf to Hamburg train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf 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
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £31.
The train journey from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg covers a distance of 359 km and takes approximately 3h 42m. Trains run 17 per day.
The train distance from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg is 359 km.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg leaves at 0:09.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg departs at 22:56.
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg run approximately 17 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne Hbf and Hamburg. The service operates 12 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To get from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg is by train, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Hamburg offers a mix of urban and natural scenery. Travellers can enjoy views of the picturesque Rhine River, charming German villages, and lush countryside along the way.
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Hamburg is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 42m. However, trains run 13 times per day.
In Hamburg, visitors can explore the vibrant nightlife of the Reeperbahn, take a scenic boat tour of the Port of Hamburg, and visit the lively Hamburg Fish Market. Discover the city's rich maritime history at the International Maritime Museum, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Alster Lakes, and visit top sights such as Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, and Speicherstadt. St. Michael's Church offers sweeping views, while Planten un Blomen provides themed gardens and recreational activities.
A visit of three to four days is generally recommended to explore the main attractions in Hamburg, including the Miniatur Wunderland, the Elbphilharmonie, and the Port of Hamburg.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cologne Hbf and Hamburg

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

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Hamburg
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 16m · £6 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £4 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £4 · every ~14 min

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.

More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Hamburg

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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