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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Kiel
Showing times and prices for 03 Mar
Cheapest price
£27
Average price
£35
Fastest journey
5 h 44 m
Average duration
6 h 5 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
434 km
Cheap tickets
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 travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Kiel will cost around £35 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £27.
Fast trains
To travel from Cologne to Kiel you need to make at least 2 changes.
ICE 920 · S3 · 1120802:097h12
Cologne Hbf09:21Kiel Hbf
£271One-way
2 changes
ICE 618 · S3 · 1121406:116h10
Cologne Hbf12:21Kiel Hbf
£291One-way
2 changes
ICE 1028 · S3 · 1121004:006h21
Cologne Hbf10:21Kiel Hbf
£321One-way
2 changes
ICE 208 · S3 · 1121205:116h10
Cologne Hbf11:21Kiel Hbf
£321One-way
2 changes
IC 2310 · S3 · 1126607:406h12
Cologne Hbf13:52Kiel Hbf
£321One-way
2 changes
ICE 1020 · S3 · 1127412:085h44
Cologne Hbf17:52Kiel Hbf
£391One-way
2 changes
ICE 618 · S3 · 1121406:116h10
Cologne Hbf12:21Kiel Hbf
£291One-way
2 changes
ICE 208 · S3 · 1121205:116h10
Cologne Hbf11:21Kiel Hbf
£321One-way
2 changes
ICE 206 · S3 · 1121607:116h10
Cologne Hbf13:21Kiel Hbf
£321One-way
2 changes
ICE 204 · S3 · 1122009:116h10
Cologne Hbf15:21Kiel Hbf
£391One-way
2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach 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 coach with prices starting from £24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 29m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £24, and a flight costs an average of £187.
Distance: 434 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£49 Average Price | £38 Average Price Cheapest | £437 Average Price |
6h 13m Average total duration 5h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 14m Average total duration 7h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 3 March. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 20:05
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 920 · S3 · 11208 | 01:09 Cologne Hbf | 7h12 | 08:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 1028 · S3 · 11210 | On time 03:00 Cologne Hbf | 6h21 | 09:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 208 · S3 · 11212 | On time 04:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 10:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 618 · S3 · 11214 | On time 05:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 11:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 206 · S3 · 11216 | On time 06:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 12:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| IC 2310 · S3 · 11266 | On time 06:40 Cologne Hbf | 6h12 | 12:52 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 616 · ECE 1174 · 11218 | On time 07:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 13:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 204 · S3 · 11220 | On time 08:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 14:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 614 · S3 · 11222 | On time 09:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 15:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 202 · S3 · 11224 | On time 10:11 Cologne Hbf | 6h10 | 16:21 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| ICE 1020 · S3 · 11274 | On time 11:08 Cologne Hbf | 5h44 | 16:52 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
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, 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.
Tue
03 Mar
03 Mar
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Thu
05 Mar
05 Mar
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06 Mar
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07 Mar
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09 Mar
09 Mar
Why should you book Cologne to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Cologne to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne 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 FlixTrain 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.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Kiel
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
No change had been necessaryCleanliness perfect throughout the trainTrain had full facilities with on-board bistroDisadvantages
irritated staffDelay of 25 minutesFrom Kiel to Cologne, you don't need to change trains, so the 25-minute delay that occurred was not a problem for me. Only the annoyed staff had disturbed the ride comfort. The seats were very comfortable and the train had been fully equipped. It was a bit noisy on the train, but still okay. The on-board bistro was still open on the train, where the cleanliness had been perfect. The cleanliness in the passenger compartment was also very good.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Kiel run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 434 km distance in 5h 8m.
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 434 km |
Average train duration 5h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 8m |
First train 00:05 |
Last train 23:27 |
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 from Cologne to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Cologne and Kiel from £17. 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
5h 8m
Cheapest Price
£17
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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
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
7h 46m
Cheapest Price
£27
FlixTrain frequency
1 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
FAQs: Cologne to Kiel train
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne to Kiel can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £49.
The train journey from Cologne to Kiel covers a distance of 434 km and takes approximately 5h 8m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cologne to Kiel is 434 km.
The first train from Cologne to Kiel leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Cologne to Kiel departs at 23:27.
Trains from Cologne to Kiel run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Kiel. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
To get from Cologne to Kiel, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Cologne to Kiel.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Kiel is Cologne Hbf, and it arrives at Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Kiel is by train, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Cologne to Kiel in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cologne to Kiel offers a scenic experience, with views of the Rhine River, rolling hills, and picturesque German countryside. Passengers can enjoy lush landscapes and charming towns along the route.
A day trip from Cologne to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 8m each way. Trains operate 7 times per day for this 434 km route.
To fully experience Kiel, including its maritime museums, the Kiel Canal, and vibrant harbour, a visit of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Kiel.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Kiel
Cologne
Kiel
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Kiel.
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
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln Messe/Deutz
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
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 Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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-Hassee CITTI-PARK
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Illy Espressobar
- McDonald's
- Gosch
- Citti-Restaurant
Kiel Schulen am Langsee
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingMore 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
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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