Hanover to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Thu 27 Nov
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hanover to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 28 Nov

Cheapest price

£21

Average price

£59

Fastest journey

2 h 38 m

Average duration

3 h 6 m

Trains per day

8

Distance

250 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Hanover to Cologne will cost around £59 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £21.

Fast trains

Of the 8 trains that leave Hanover for Cologne 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 250 km distance in an average of 3 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 38 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 22 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.

FlixTrainFlixTrain
18:233h55
Hanover Hbf
22:18Cologne Hbf
£211One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
10:233h22
Hanover Hbf
13:45Cologne Hbf
£221One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
14:233h50
Hanover Hbf
18:13Cologne Hbf
£221One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 1052
08:563h14
Hanover Hbf
12:10Cologne Hbf
£611One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 944 · RE 17415
09:313h07
Hanover Hbf
12:38Cologne Hbf
£741One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Hanover to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hanover to Cologne 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 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. 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: 250 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£20

Average Price

£16

Average Price

Cheapest

£361

Average Price

3h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 56m

Average total duration

4h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 2m

Average total duration

4h 2m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Hanover to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Hanover to Cologne trains for today, Thursday 27 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 02:55
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 654
On time
07:40 Hanover Hbf
2h38
10:18 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1052
On time
07:56 Hanover Hbf
3h14
11:10 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 944 · RE 17415
On time
08:31 Hanover Hbf
3h07
11:38 Cologne Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2044 · ICE 107
On time
08:40 Hanover Hbf
3h09
11:49 Cologne Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 73 · ICE 724
On time
08:41 Hanover Hbf
3h33
12:14 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain09:23 Hanover Hbf
3h49
13:12 Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain17:23 Hanover Hbf
3h55
21:18 Cologne Hbf0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Hanover to Cologne 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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28 Nov
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Hanover to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Hanover to Cologne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Hanover to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Hanover to Cologne per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Hanover to Cologne.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Hanover to Cologne

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 ride
Iconclean train
IconGreat service
Disadvantages
IconNone
My ICE journey from Hanover to Cologne was simply fantastic. The train was on time and the comfort of the seats was excellent. They were equipped with power sockets and the train offered very good internet. The cleanliness on the train and in the toilets was impressive and the staff were friendly and helpful. The on-board restaurant had delicious food and a great selection of drinks. The journey flew by and the service from Deutsche Bahn was first class. I can highly recommend this route on the ICE and give it a full five stars.
Advantages
IconQuiet journey
IconTrain was almost empty
Disadvantages
IconTrain could be cleaner
My journey from Hanover to Cologne was on IC 2044, second class. It was a relatively teacher train with very few passengers. The train was not particularly clean, this definitely still needs improvement. On the positive side, the train departed on time and also arrived on time. The route between Hanover and Cologne is relatively unspectacular, with little scenery worth seeing in my opinion. The journey itself was very relaxed, which was positive.
Advantages
IconClean train
Disadvantages
IconA little too late
The Hanover to Cologne connection is part of my journey from Berlin to Cologne, which I took in second class on the IC. The train was slightly late. As I no longer had to catch a connecting train, this was fine. The train was overall very clean, inside and out. The Board Bistro was in operation and I bought a coffee, but I find it a bit overpriced. All in all, I can rate this trip with four stars and also recommend it.
Advantages
IconVery fast and competent
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train connection was punctual. The train departed exactly at the scheduled departure time and reached Cologne without any significant delays. The overall cleanliness of the train was very good. The seats and floor were well maintained and there were no obvious defects. One point deduction due to some light soiling on the tables. The availability of power sockets on the train was sufficient, so I was able to charge my electronic device with ease. However, there could have been more sockets as they were sometimes difficult to find. The toilets on the train were clean and well maintained. One point deduction due to the limited number of toilets, which occasionally led to waiting times. Overall, the train journey from Hanover to Cologne was a positive experience. The outstanding punctuality and the accessible design of the train were particularly commendable.
Advantages
IconCleanliness
IconPunctuality
IconBistro
Disadvantages
IconNo wifi
My journey from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE 2044 was very pleasant. The train was not particularly busy, so it was easy to get a seat. There was a bistro where you were served delicious coffee. The train was on time for the entire journey. The train was also very clean, including the toilets. I thought it was a shame that the wifi wasn't working that day.
Advantages
IconSpace for luggage
IconComfort
IconGood service
My train arrived on time and I got on. I had luggage with me and I had enough space for my luggage. The train was very spacious. My seat was comfortable and clean. Then I read a bit of the newspaper provided by the train and ordered a tea, which arrived without a long wait and was fresh. The workers were very friendly and respectful. I was very satisfied with this journey.
Advantages
IconPunctual journey
IconCheap ticket
IconClean train and seat
Disadvantages
IconNone
I had a great journey by train to Cologne and can only recommend it. The ticket is very cheap and for a small surcharge you get the seat plus adjoining seat and you can travel relaxed and spread out as much as you like. The journey was not delayed. The staff are nice and chatty, which I like. The train is older, which you can see, but it is clean and tidy, so age is not a problem. All great and a cheap, nice journey.
Advantages
IconClean trains
IconLess than three hours to the finish
IconFriendly staff and comfortable seats
Disadvantages
IconInternet not always available
IconTelephone reception sometimes difficult
The train journey from Hanover to Cologne on the ICE is highly recommended. You can usually reach your destination in under three hours and with three stops (Hamm, Hagen and Wuppertal) little time is lost on the journey. The chairs are comfortable and the staff are very friendly. Unfortunately, internet and telephone reception is not always available.
Advantages
IconPrice performance is right
IconClear online app
Disadvantages
IconEverything okay
The train connection from Hanover to Cologne was usually very punctual. The train kept to the timetable and delays were rare. The cleanliness of the train was impressive. The carriages were cleaned regularly and the seats and general areas were in good condition. There were power points in most carriages, which was very handy for charging devices. However, the number of power sockets and their accessibility could be improved. The toilets on the train were averagely clean but could be better maintained. Sometimes there were shortages of toilet paper and soap. Overall, the train connection from Hanover to Cologne was a comfortable and safe option for travellers. With some minor improvement in terms of power supply and the toilets.
Advantages
IconEquipment
IconPrice
Disadvantages
IconReliability in terms of punctuality
Travelling from Hanover to Cologne main station on the ICE was an incredible experience. Deutsche Bahn really impressed in the areas of equipment and price, with a low price for this journey and a really comfortable interior, you can't go wrong!
Advantages
IconSpeed
IconEquipment
IconPrice
IconPersonnel
Disadvantages
IconReliability
The Hanover-Cologne route with the ICE is an excellent connection, on the one hand I was surprised by the short journey time of just 4 hours and the low price, on the other hand I was able to use the usual comfortable equipment of the ICE and the additional facilities such as free wifi. The staff were also extremely committed and friendly and contributed to a relaxed travelling atmosphere
Advantages
IconSpeed
IconPeace and quiet
IconTravelling comfort
Disadvantages
IconPunctuality
The ICE journey from Hanover to Cologne was extremely pleasant. The 4-hour journey time wifi-ed by, mainly due to the quiet atmosphere on the train, which was only travelling with a low passenger density, as well as the excellent equipment of the ICE, such as the upholstered seats, the various areas of the train such as the rest area or on-board bistro and also extras such as free wifi and individual air conditioning.
Advantages
IconReliable
IconFast
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train connection impressed with its punctuality - my train arrived exactly on time. The price is reasonable and offers good value for money. The cleanliness of the train is satisfactory, but could be improved. The wifi is stable and makes for a pleasant journey. The toilet facilities are clean, but a little cramped. The seating comfort is good, but the seats could do with a little more padding. Overall, an efficient travel option with some room for improvement.
Advantages
IconFirst-class punctuality
IconVery clean
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train journey was extremely punctual, which allowed me to use my time efficiently. The ticket price was reasonable and offered good value for money. The cleanliness of the train was exemplary, both the seats and the general areas were well maintained. The wifi worked perfectly, which is particularly important for business travellers. The toilets were clean and well equipped. The seating comfort was pleasant and the seats offered enough legroom. Overall, a positive experience that I would be happy to recommend.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hanover to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hanover to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 250 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
Distance
250 km
Average train duration
3h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
£5
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
2h 35m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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 Hanover to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Hanover and Cologne from £5. 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
£37
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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 21m
Cheapest Price
£5
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 to Cologne train

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

FAQs
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
In Cologne, visitors can explore the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Gothic architecture, and visit the Museum Ludwig for modern art by artists like Picasso and Warhol. A Rhine River Cruise offers scenic views of the city's skyline and landmarks, while the Hohenzollern Bridge is known for love locks and panoramic river views. The Old Town (Altstadt) charms with historic streets and traditional beer halls. Families might enjoy the Cologne Zoo, which is rich in diverse animal species. For culture and entertainment, attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, or discover the Belgian Quarter’s trendy boutiques and cafes. The Cologne Chocolate Museum provides an interactive experience about chocolate history, and the Botanical Gardens Flora showcases beautiful plant species and floral displays.
The train distance from Hanover to Cologne is 250 km.
A day trip from Hanover to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 35m. However, there are 11 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 250 km.
Booking trains from Hanover to Cologne 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 to Cologne offers glimpses of scenic landscapes, including rolling hills and picturesque villages, particularly as you travel through the Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia regions.
The cost of a train ticket from Hanover to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £5, while the average price tends to be around £20.
The train journey from Hanover to Cologne covers a distance of 250 km and takes approximately 2h 35m. Trains run 11 per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Hanover and Cologne. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain.
The cheapest way to get from Hanover to Cologne is by train, costing approximately £5.
The first train from Hanover to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Hanover to Cologne departs at 23:58.
To get from Hanover to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
Trains from Hanover to Cologne run approximately 11 times per day.
The train station in Hanover that goes to Cologne is Hanover Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
There is no night train service from Hanover to Cologne.
Yes, you can take the train from Hanover to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Hanover and Cologne

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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Sun: 08:00 - 20:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located near the main entrance.
Dining
Dining
  • Balzac Coffee
  • Burger King
  • McDonald's
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • asiahung
  • Mr. CLOU
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Pizza Hut
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Grand Hotel Mussmann
  • IntercityHotel Hannover
  • Hotel Loccumer Hof
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the main entrance by the DB ticket office.
Hannover Anderten-MisburgWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
8 km
Dining
Dining
  • Aioli
  • Alter Bahnhof Anderten
  • Schützenhaus Anderten
  • Eiscafe Cortina da Stella
Hannover-Linden/FischerhofWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Öz Antalya Kebap
  • Ricklinger Döner
  • China-Imbiss Jasmin
  • Coimbra
Hannover-NordstadtWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Werkhof Restaurant
  • Hashigo Sushi
  • Asia Imbiss Kok
  • Klitsche

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