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

Tue 09 Dec
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
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Great Western Rail
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 09 Dec

Cheapest price

£39

Average price

£45

Fastest journey

5 h 24 m

Average duration

5 h 25 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

434 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Kiel to Cologne will cost around £45 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Kiel 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 434 km distance in an average of 5 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 24 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 26 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.

FlixTrain
06:1510h41
Kiel
16:56Cologne
£391One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
07:235h26
Kiel
12:49Cologne
£421One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
09:235h26
Kiel
14:49Cologne
£421One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
08:235h24
Kiel
13:47Cologne
£421One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
12:235h26
Kiel
17:49Cologne
£621One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Kiel to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. 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 £17, and a flight costs an average of £110.

Distance: 434 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£45

Average Price

£29

Average Price

Cheapest

£355

Average Price

6h 7m

Average total duration

5h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 5m

Average total duration

7h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 24m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

1.3 - 2.6kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Eurowings

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Kiel to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Cologne trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 9 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 18:02
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahn04:23 Kiel
5h24
09:47 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn07:23 Kiel
5h26
12:49 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn08:23 Kiel
5h24
13:47 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn09:23 Kiel
5h26
14:49 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn12:23 Kiel
5h26
17:49 Cologne0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Kiel to Cologne 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.

Tue
09 Dec
Wed
10 Dec
Thu
11 Dec
Fri
12 Dec
Sat
13 Dec
Sun
14 Dec
Mon
15 Dec

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Kiel 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
IconNo change had been necessary
IconCleanliness perfect throughout the train
IconTrain had full facilities with on-board bistro
Disadvantages
Iconirritated staff
IconDelay of 25 minutes
From 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 Kiel to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Kiel to Cologne run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 434 km distance in 5h 10m.

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 £17
Distance
434 km
Average train duration
5h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
£19
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
5h 10m
First train
00:05
Last train
23:55
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 £17

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Kiel to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Kiel and Cologne 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 10m
Cheapest Price
£25
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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
6h 42m
Cheapest Price
£17
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: Kiel to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel 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
The train journey from Kiel to Cologne offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of northern Germany and along parts of the Rhine River. While not all sections provide dramatic scenery, certain stretches are known for their charming countryside and river vistas.
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
Booking trains from Kiel to Cologne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Kiel to Cologne is 434 km.
The train journey from Kiel to Cologne covers a distance of 434 km and takes approximately 5h 10m. Trains run 7 per day.
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 cost of a train ticket from Kiel to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £45.
The first train from Kiel to Cologne leaves at 0:05.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £17.
The last train from Kiel to Cologne departs at 23:55.
A day trip from Kiel to Cologne is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 10m. Trains run 7 times per day over a distance of 434 km.
Trains from Kiel to Cologne run approximately 7 times per day.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Cologne is Kiel Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
There is no night train service from Kiel to Cologne.
Yes, there is a direct train between Kiel and Cologne. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Cologne.
To get from Kiel to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Kiel and Cologne

Kiel
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your trip from Kiel to Cologne.
Kiel HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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
address
Address
Kiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel
ticketOfficeHours
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
Dining
  • MUM&DAD
  • Lunatique
  • McDonald's
  • Campus Suite
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Wiking
  • Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
  • Astor
  • InterCityHotel Kiel
Kiel-Hassee CITTI-PARKWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost 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
address
Address
Kiel-Hassee CITTIPARK, Altenrade, 24113 Kiel-Hassee
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Illy Espressobar
  • McDonald's
  • Gosch
  • Citti-Restaurant
Kiel Schulen am LangseeParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
address
Address
24143 Kiel, Germany
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km

Most popular train connections from Kiel

Kiel to Munich train

More options for your journey from Kiel to Cologne

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