Lübeck to Cologne train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Fri 23 Oct
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Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lübeck to Cologne

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 23 Oct

Cheapest price on 23 Oct

£38

Average ticket price on 23 Oct

£65

Fastest journey on 23 Oct

5 h 11 m

Average journey duration on 23 Oct

6 h 6 m

Trains on 23 Oct

7

Distance

413 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Lübeck to Cologne will cost around £65 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £38.

Fast trains

On Fri 23 Oct, we found 7 trains from Lübeck to Cologne, including 7 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 413 km distance in an average of 6 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 11 m .

The slowest trains will take 9 h 31 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
    9:259h31
    Lübeck
    18:56Cologne
    £381One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    18:375h11
    Lübeck
    23:48Cologne
    £511One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:375h11
    Lübeck
    12:48Cologne
    £511One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:095h25
    Lübeck
    11:34Cologne
    £521One-way
    0 changes
  • FlixTrain
    23:4012h01
    Lübeck
    11:41Cologne
    £631One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lübeck to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lübeck to Cologne run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £25 but you can travel from only £15 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 413 km distance in 4h 21m.

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 £15
Distance
413 km
Average train duration
4h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
£25
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
4h 21m
First train
0:09
Last train
23:54
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
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 £15

Frequently asked questions about your Lübeck to Cologne trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Lübeck to Cologne.

The cost of a train ticket from Lübeck to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £78.
The train journey from Lübeck to Cologne covers a distance of 413 km and takes approximately 4h 21m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Lübeck to Cologne is 413 km.
The first train from Lübeck to Cologne leaves at 0:09.
The last train from Lübeck to Cologne departs at 23:54.
Trains from Lübeck to Cologne run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lübeck to Cologne.

Live departures

Lübeck to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Lübeck to Cologne trains for today, Thursday 22 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn11405 · ICE 583 · ICE 654
Delayed
6:09 Lübeck Hbf
5h05
9:49 9:49Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche Bahn11457 · ICE 517
On time
6:37 Lübeck Hbf
5h09
11:46 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn11407 · ICE 1521
On time
7:09 Lübeck Hbf
4h59
12:08 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn11459 · ICE 107
On time
7:37 Lübeck Hbf
5h10
12:47 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn11409 · ICE 585 · ICE 652
Delayed
8:09 Lübeck Hbf
5h06
11:49 11:49Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche Bahn11409 · ICE 1185 · ICE 652
Delayed
8:09 Lübeck Hbf
5h06
11:49 11:49Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Deutsche Bahn11461 · ICE 519
On time
8:37 Lübeck Hbf
5h09
13:46 Cologne Hbf
1 change
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain8:45 Lübeck, Bussteig Beim Retteich
13h12
21:57 Cologne Hbf1 change
Deutsche Bahn11411 · ICE 787 · ICE 952 · 173439:09 Lübeck Hbf
5h24
14:33 Cologne Hbf3 changes
Deutsche Bahn11463 · ICE 109
On time
9:37 Lübeck Hbf
5h10
14:47 Cologne Hbf
1 change
Deutsche Bahn11413 · ICE 587 · ICE 650
Delayed
10:09 Lübeck Hbf
5h06
13:49 13:49Cologne Hbf
2 changes
Friday 23 October
FlixTrain0:40 Lübeck
12h01
12:41 Cologne0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Lübeck to Cologne trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Lübeck to Cologne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lübeck to Cologne.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • 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 Lübeck to Cologne.

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 Lübeck to Cologne.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Lübeck to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Lübeck and Cologne from £15. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
4h 21m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£25
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.
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Lübeck and Cologne

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lübeck to Cologne.
Yes, there is a night train from Lübeck to Cologne.

Complete guide to Cologne

Things to do in Cologne

Discover the best of Cologne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cologne trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Ludwig

Important collection of modern and contemporary art near the cathedral, including Pop Art and post-war works. A staple for art-focused visitors.

  • Must visit

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Archaeological museum built around Roman remains, especially the Dionysus mosaic. Excellent for understanding Cologne’s Roman origins.

  • Recommended

Museum Schnütgen

Major art museum with medieval painting, sculpture and applied arts. A strong choice for seeing Cologne’s artistic heritage in one place.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and public transport are broadly manageable for most city-break budgets.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included, but it is usual to round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if service was good.

Plan your visit to Cologne

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cologne.

The train journey from Lübeck to Cologne offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the picturesque North German landscape, rolling hills, and charming villages, particularly as you travel through regions such as Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia.

Best day trips from Cologne by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cologne are Bonn, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Koblenz and Dortmund. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cologne on Omio.

A view of Bonn

Day trip from Cologne to Bonn by train

Why visit Bonn for the day?

Bonn is best known as Beethoven’s birthplace and the former capital of West Germany. Set on the Rhine, it feels calm and cultured, with museums, leafy neighbourhoods and a strong university presence.

How to get from Cologne to Bonn by train?

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 19m.

A view of Düsseldorf

Day trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train

Why visit Düsseldorf for the day?

Düsseldorf is known for fashion, contemporary art and its lively Altstadt on the Rhine. Sleek shopping streets, traditional breweries and bold modern architecture give it a polished yet sociable character.

How to get from Cologne to Düsseldorf by train?

There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 14m.

A view of Aachen

Day trip from Cologne to Aachen by train

Why visit Aachen for the day?

Aachen is best known for its cathedral and its close ties to Charlemagne and imperial history. Near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, it feels compact, youthful and international, with thermal spa traditions and a busy university scene.

How to get from Cologne to Aachen by train?

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 63 km distance in 31m.

A view of Koblenz

Day trip from Cologne to Koblenz by train

Why visit Koblenz for the day?

Koblenz sits at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle, with a historic centre shaped by Roman beginnings and river trade. It is known for the Deutsches Eck and Ehrenbreitstein, while vineyards and waterfront views give it a calm, lived-in feel.

How to get from Cologne to Koblenz by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 78 km distance in 44m.

A view of Dortmund

Day trip from Cologne to Dortmund by train

Why visit Dortmund for the day?

Dortmund is a Ruhr city known for football, brewing heritage and its industrial roots. Former worksites, parks and modern cultural venues give it a practical, lively character.

How to get from Cologne to Dortmund by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 74 km distance in 57m.

FAQs: Lübeck to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lübeck 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 cost of a train ticket from Lübeck to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £78.
The train journey from Lübeck to Cologne covers a distance of 413 km and takes approximately 4h 21m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Lübeck to Cologne is 413 km.
The first train from Lübeck to Cologne leaves at 0:09.
The last train from Lübeck to Cologne departs at 23:54.
Trains from Lübeck to Cologne run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lübeck to Cologne.
Yes, there is a night train from Lübeck to Cologne.
The train station in Lübeck that goes to Cologne is Lübeck Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
Booking trains from Lübeck 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 Lübeck to Cologne offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the picturesque North German landscape, rolling hills, and charming villages, particularly as you travel through regions such as Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia.
Yes, you can take the train from Lübeck to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Lübeck and Cologne

Most Lübeck to Cologne trains use the Lübeck Hbf to Köln Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Köln Messe/Deutz. Use this guide to compare Lübeck and Cologne train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Lübeck
Arrival train stations in Cologne

Which Lübeck station do trains to Cologne leave from?

Trains from Lübeck to Cologne leave from Lübeck Hbf. The station is 1 km from Lübeck city centre at Lübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 Lübeck.
Lübeck HbfLübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 LübeckWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lübeck Hbf from Lübeck city centre

Lübeck Hbf is 1 km from Lübeck city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus50, 34, 26, 40, 31, 30, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 21, 2, 16, 12, 11, 10, 1 · 5m · £2 · every ~77 min

Lübeck Hbf train station facilities and services

Lübeck 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: MyWaffel, McDonald's, Cafe Maret, Café Brazil

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Lübeck Hbf. ATMs are available at Lübeck Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Lübeck Hbf. Information desks are available at Lübeck Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Lübeck Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lübeck Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lübeck Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include LIHO, Mercure, Hotel Stadt Lübeck, Hotel an der Marienkirche.

Train stations for Lübeck to Cologne

Check train stations information for Lübeck and Cologne, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Lübeck that goes to Cologne is Lübeck Hbf, and it arrives at Köln Hbf.

More options for your journey from Lübeck to Cologne

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

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