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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for 30 Nov
Cheapest price
£34
Average price
£61
Fastest journey
2 h 58 m
Average duration
3 h 15 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
249 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hanover 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 Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around £61 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £34.
Fast trains
Of the 8 trains that leave Hanover Hbf for Cologne Hbf every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 249 km distance in an average of 3 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 32 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.
FlixTrain10:233h22
Hanover Hbf13:45Cologne Hbf
£341One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain18:233h32
Hanover Hbf21:55Cologne Hbf
£391One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain14:233h50
Hanover Hbf18:13Cologne Hbf
£441One-way
0 changes
ICE 65408:402h58
Hanover Hbf11:38Cologne Hbf
£461One-way
0 changes
ICE 105208:563h14
Hanover Hbf12:10Cologne Hbf
£551One-way
0 changes
ICE 65408:402h58
Hanover Hbf11:38Cologne Hbf
£461One-way
0 changes
IC 2044 · ICE 10709:403h09
Hanover Hbf12:49Cologne Hbf
£691One-way
1 change
ICE 105208:563h14
Hanover Hbf12:10Cologne Hbf
£551One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain10:233h22
Hanover Hbf13:45Cologne Hbf
£341One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain18:233h32
Hanover Hbf21:55Cologne Hbf
£391One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £8, and a flight costs an average of £231.
Distance: 249 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£59 Average Price | £17 Average Price Cheapest | £338 Average Price |
3h 43m Average total duration Fastest 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 3m Average total duration 4h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for today, Saturday 29 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 04:58
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixTrain | 09:23 Hanover Hbf | 3h22 | 12:45 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 15:17 Hanover Hbf | 3h37 | 18:54 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 30 November | |||||
| 01:13 Hanover Hbf | 3h36 | 04:49 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 01:14 Hanover Hbf | 3h36 | 04:50 Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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.
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
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
Short travel timeComfortPunctualityDisadvantages
No wifiI travelled from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE 2044. The journey was in second class and without seat reservation. It was a very pleasant journey because it was extremely comfortable on the train. This was due to the pleasant temperatures and the ergonomic and comfortable seats. The journey took only a short 3 hours. The train was in a good and well-maintained condition. Unfortunately, there was no wifi.
Advantages
WIFIPunctualityDisadvantages
Little choice at the bistroThe train journey from Hanover to Cologne with IC 2044 was nothing special. The train was average, the seats comfortable enough, but nothing extraordinary. The journey was on time. The on-board catering was standard. There was not too much choice. The staff on board were friendly and polite. The wifi worked throughout. It was basically a normal train journey with no particular highlights or disappointments.
Advantages
Good wifiEnough seatsDisadvantages
UnpunctualI travelled from Hanover to Cologne with the ICE 2044 in second class. I found the price very good. Unfortunately, the train was 15 minutes late. The train itself was clean, as were the toilets. I did not reserve a seat, but there were still plenty of seats available on the train. I had very good wifi the whole way.
Advantages
ComfortPunctualityBoard bistroDisadvantages
NoneOverall, my train journey from Hanover to Cologne was extremely satisfying. Comfortable seats, friendly staff and a smooth ticket purchase process made the journey a pleasant experience. The announcements were clearly understandable and informed about the next stops and possible delays. The train left Hanover on time and arrived in Cologne on time. There was a bistro where you could buy coffee and snacks.
Advantages
On timeComfortableDisadvantages
Unclean toiletsThe train journey with IC 2044 from Hanover to Cologne was a pleasant experience overall. The train appeared modern and well maintained. Departure was on time, which was very pleasing. The seats were comfortable and offered sufficient legroom. They were also clean. The journey was mostly quiet and without any major jolts. Only on some sections of the route were there slight vibrations. However, the cleanliness of the toilets blew, which was a clear minus point.
Advantages
Short travel timeBoard bistroPunctualityDisadvantages
Unhygienic toiletsI travelled from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE 2044. It was a second-class journey. In itself, the journey was very pleasant, the journey time was just under 3 hours. The service on board was also good, there was an on-board bistro where coffee and snacks could be bought. There were no delays to my recollection. The train was clean inside, but not the toilets. They were quite dirty.
Advantages
Good priceGood trainEasy to useDisadvantages
NoneWe are going on a family holiday, like every year. The train is very good, we always take it because our relatives live in Cologne. The train is very hygienic and you get free wifi. You can also charge your mobile phone or laptop. There is also a first-raunt on the train, which is very cool. I can only recommend it. My family loves it too. The toilet is very clean and is cleaned very often during the journey. You can even ring the bell if you want it cleaned. We don't have to do a ticket check, which is also very good. The price is very good for so many people.
Advantages
wifiBoard bistroDirect connectionDisadvantages
Socket had a loose contactFrom Hanover to Cologne.
Today I travelled from Hanover to Cologne by ICE to see the Cologne Cathedral.
The Intercity Express was on time and there were enough free seats. I had a socket at my seat (it had a loose connection) to charge my mobile phone and wifi to go online.
Toilets were available and worked perfectly. The staff was nice and friendly. I booked my tickets via the Deutsche Bahn app, where I could also have reserved seats. I bought chocolate bars in the dining car. The train was clean, air-conditioned and only slightly busy. It was a relaxed and beautiful journey.
Advantages
Board bistroNeat trainWIFIDisadvantages
UnpunctualI travelled from Hanover to Cologne with IC 2044. The journey was in second class. Fortunately, there was a bistro on board selling coffee and snacks. It was early, after all. The train itself was extremely well maintained and well equipped. There were power sockets and free wifi on board. Unfortunately, the train arrived unpunctually in Hanover and accordingly arrived late in Cologne. With that said, it was a pleasant journey.
Advantages
No delayFast connectionDisadvantages
UncleanI travelled with ICE 2044 from Hanover to Cologne. The journey was in second class and I did not reserve a seat. However, there were also plenty of seats, so I didn't have to stand. What was positive was that the train was not delayed at all during the entire journey. I also liked the fact that the journey time was relatively short and that the connection was fast. However, I must criticise that the train was not really clean. There is room for improvement here.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf
GermanyGermany
Trains from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £14 but you can travel from only £8 by coach.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:13, the last at 21:36. The fastest train covers the 249 km distance in 2h 35m.
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
Coach from £8
Distance 249 km |
Average train duration 3h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £14 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 35m |
First train 01:13 |
Last train 21:36 |
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
Coach from £8
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Hanover Hbf and Cologne Hbf 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
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
£14
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
3h 22m
Cheapest Price
£14
FlixTrain frequency
2 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: Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hanover 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.
A day trip from Hannover Hbf to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 35m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 249 km.
The cost of a train ticket from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £14, while the average price tends to be around £59.
The train journey from Hannover Hbf to Köln Hbf offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Lower Saxony countryside and the scenic Rhine Valley as you approach Cologne, making it a moderately scenic route.
The cheapest way to get from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by coach, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Hanover 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 Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf covers a distance of 249 km and takes approximately 2h 35m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 249 km.
The last train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf departs at 21:36.
The first train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 1:13.
Yes, there is a direct train between Hanover Hbf and Cologne Hbf. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
Trains from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf run approximately 5 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
To get from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Hanover Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Hanover Hbf and Cologne Hbf
Hanover
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Hanover is Hannover Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Hannover Hbf for your trip from Hanover to Cologne.
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 - Sat: 07:00 - 20:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 20:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located near the main entrance.
Dining
- Balzac Coffee
- Burger King
- McDonald's
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- asiahung
- Mr. CLOU
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Pizza Hut
- & many more
Accessibility
- Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Grand Hotel Mussmann
- IntercityHotel Hannover
- Hotel Loccumer Hof
Information Desk
- Located near the main entrance by the DB ticket office.
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Hanover.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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.
Most popular train connections from Hanover Hbf
More options for your journey from Hanover 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 Hanover Hbf
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