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

Sat 29 Aug
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Deutsche Bahn
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metronom
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
metronom
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Showing times and prices for 29 Aug

Cheapest price

£46

Average price

£79

Fastest journey

4 h 1 m

Average duration

4 h 2 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

357 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around £79 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £46.

Fast trains

Of the 12 trains that leave Hamburg Hbf for Cologne Hbf every day 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 4 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 1 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn14051 · 10204 · 17407+metronom81947
    0:567h42
    Hamburg Hbf
    8:38Cologne Hbf
    £461One-way
    3 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103
    4:414h07
    Hamburg Hbf
    8:48Cologne Hbf
    £661One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 515
    5:454h01
    Hamburg Hbf
    9:46Cologne Hbf
    £761One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 107
    8:424h06
    Hamburg Hbf
    12:48Cologne Hbf
    £761One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche BahnICE 519
    9:454h01
    Hamburg Hbf
    13:46Cologne Hbf
    £761One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £12, and a flight costs an average of £206.

Distance: 357 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£39

Average Price

£23

Average Price

Cheapest

£381

Average Price

5h 42m

Average total duration

5h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 48m

Average total duration

5h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 50m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Friday 28 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 519
On time
9:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h01
13:46 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
metronom82117+Deutsche BahnICE 2827 · ICE 952
On time
9:56 Hamburg Hbf
4h26
14:22 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 787 · ICE 952+metronom82117
Delayed
8:13 9:56Hamburg Hbf
4h26
14:22 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 109
On time
10:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h03
14:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1033 · 17421+metronom82119
Delayed
9:23 10:56Hamburg Hbf
4h42
15:38 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 61111:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h01
15:46 Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 789 · ICE 950+metronom82121
Delayed
10:13 11:56Hamburg Hbf
4h25
16:21 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 201
On time
12:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h03
16:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 2311 · 17425+metronom82123
Delayed
11:23 12:56Hamburg Hbf
4h42
17:38 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 203
On time
14:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h03
18:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1037 · 17429+metronom82127
Delayed
13:23 14:56Hamburg Hbf
4h42
19:38 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 615
On time
15:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h01
19:46 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 883 · ICE 856+metronom82129
Delayed
14:13 15:56Hamburg Hbf
4h26
20:22 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 205
On time
16:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h03
20:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 617
On time
17:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h10
21:55 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 885 · ICE 854+metronom82133
Delayed
16:13 17:56Hamburg Hbf
4h26
22:22 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 207
On time
18:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h03
22:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 685 · ICE 552
Delayed
19:01 Hamburg Hbf
4h14
22:25 22:25Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 61919:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h03
23:48 Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 209
On time
20:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h34
1:19 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 921
On time
22:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h22
3:07 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 1540+metronom81677 · 81655
Delayed
0:46 22:55Hamburg Hbf
7h18
6:13 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Saturday 29 August
Deutsche Bahn14051 · 10204 · 17407+metronom819470:56 Hamburg Hbf
7h42
8:38 Cologne Hbf3 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 103
On time
4:41 Hamburg Hbf
4h07
8:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 515
On time
5:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h01
9:46 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 105
On time
6:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h03
10:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 583 · ICE 644 · 17413+metronom82111
Delayed
5:13 6:56Hamburg Hbf
4h42
11:38 Cologne Hbf
3 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 517
On time
7:45 Hamburg Hbf
4h01
11:46 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnICE 785 · ICE 954+metronom82113
Delayed
6:13 7:56Hamburg Hbf
4h26
12:22 Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 107
On time
8:42 Hamburg Hbf
4h06
12:48 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare coach, train 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.

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

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, metronom, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

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, metronom or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain, metronom or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £10 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:21, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 357 km distance in 3h 49m.

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
357 km
Average train duration
5h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
£10
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
3h 49m
First train
2:21
Last train
20:45
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
21 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, metronom, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, metronom, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Hamburg Hbf and Cologne Hbf from £10. 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
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
£16
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
4h 6m
Cheapest Price
£10
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

metronom

About
Metronom Eisenbahngesellschaft mbH is a German railway company that has been connecting Northern Germany since 2003. Based in Uelzen, it focuses exclusively on passenger transport, operating services from Hamburg to Bremen, Lüneburg, Uelzen, Hanover, and Göttingen. The company also runs services under the brand Enno from Wolfsburg to Hanover and Hildesheim. Metronom is partly state-owned, with its trains, which can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, being rented from the state transport company Landesnahverkehrsgesellschaft Niedersachsen mbH (LNVG). They are known for their yellow and blue double-decker trains, offering amenities like extra legroom and refreshments.
Luggage & cancellation policy
metronom frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one large piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

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

FAQs: Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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 Cologne Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £10, while the average price tends to be around £39.
The train journey from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf covers a distance of 357 km and takes approximately 3h 49m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 357 km.
The first train from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 2:21.
The last train from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf departs at 20:45.
Trains from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf run approximately 5 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Hamburg Hbf and Cologne Hbf. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
To get from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by train, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Hamburg Hbf to Köln Hbf offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Lower Saxony countryside and the charming landscapes around the River Rhine.
A day trip from Hamburg Hbf to Köln Hbf is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 49m each way. There are 5 trains available per day covering the 357 km.
Yes, you can take the train from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Hamburg Hbf and Cologne Hbf

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

Departure train stations in Hamburg
Arrival train stations in Cologne
Hamburg HbfHachmannplatz 16, 20099 Hamburg, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hamburg Hbf from Hamburg city centre

Hamburg Hbf is 2 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS5, S3, S1 · 2m · £3 · every ~44 min
BusX35, 16, 606, 17, 6 · 3m · £2 · every ~47 min
SubwayU4, U2 · 1m · £2 · every ~33 min

Hamburg Hbf train station facilities and services

Hamburg 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: Le Crobag, Burger King, Coffee Fellows, Havin Grill, KFC, Mr. CLOU, Starbucks, dean&david, SPAR Express, Pommesfreunde, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Hamburg Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hamburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is the station has luggage lockers. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hamburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hamburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg Hbf: Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station, IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Park Hyatt Hamburg.

More options for your journey from Hamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf

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

Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Hamburg Hbf

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyHamburg Hbf to Cologne Hbf train

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