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

Tue, 09 Dec
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 11 Dec

Cheapest price

$37

Average price

$91

Fastest journey

3 h 55 m

Average duration

4 h 3 m

Trains per day

7

Distance

360 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Hamburg to Cologne will cost around $91 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $37.

Fast trains

Of the 7 trains that leave Hamburg for Cologne every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 360 km distance in an average of 4 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 55 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 8 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
03:01PM3h55
Hamburg Harburg
06:56PMCologne Hbf
$371One-way
0 changes
FlixTrainFlixTrain
02:50PM4h06
Hamburg Hbf
06:56PMCologne Hbf
$371One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 91 · ICE 954
08:02AM4h13
Hamburg Hbf
12:15PMCologne Hbf
$931One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 519
09:46AM4h03
Hamburg Hbf
01:49PMCologne Hbf
$1041One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 787 · ICE 952
10:01AM4h14
Hamburg Hbf
02:15PMCologne Hbf
$1071One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Hamburg to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $161.

Distance: 360 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

$64

Average Price

$39

Average Price

Cheapest

$663

Average Price

5h 9m

Average total duration

4h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 9m

Average total duration

5h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 51m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.2kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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

Hamburg to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday, 10 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:07 am
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus+flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain5:30 am Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof
11h16
4:46 pm Cologne Hbf1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 91 · ICE 954
Delayed
7:02 am Hamburg Hbf
4h10
11:17 am 11:17 amCologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 107
Delayed
7:45 am Hamburg Hbf
4h04
12:04 pm 12:04 pmCologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 585 · ICE 652
Delayed
8:14 am Hamburg Harburg
4h05
12:29 pm 12:29 pmCologne Hbf		1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 519
Delayed
8:46 am Hamburg Hbf
4h03
1:06 pm 1:06 pmCologne Hbf		0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 787 · ICE 952
On time
9:01 am Hamburg Hbf
4h11
1:12 pm Cologne Hbf		1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Hamburg 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.

Wed
10 Dec
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Hamburg to Cologne?

The best time to book your train from Hamburg to Cologne is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Hamburg to Cologne route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Hamburg 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 Hamburg to Cologne.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hamburg to Cologne run on average 11 times per day, taking around 4h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 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 360 km distance in 3h 50m.

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
360 km
Average train duration
4h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$23
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
3h 50m
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, Metronom from Hamburg to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Metronom trains will get you between Hamburg and Cologne from $23. 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
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$25
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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 55m
Cheapest Price
$21
FlixTrain frequency
4 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

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

FAQs: Hamburg to Cologne train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg 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
Cheap train tickets from Hamburg to Cologne can start from as little as $14 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Hamburg to Cologne is $45; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Hamburg to Cologne is 3 h 55 min   to travel the 360 km long journey, with around there are 11 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Hamburg to Cologne leaves at 12: 01am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Hamburg to Cologne leaves at 11: 58pm.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Hamburg to Cologne without having to change trains with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. There are 7 direct trains from Hamburg to Cologne each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the best Hamburg to Cologne train to purchase, you can travel safely and comfortably with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. However, it's always good to check all possible train companies with services to Cologne from Hamburg to compare what amenities they may offer.

When departing from Hamburg, you have various train station options to start your route from including Hamburg Hbf, Hamburg Harburg, Hamburg Altona and Hamburg Dammtor. When arriving in Cologne, you can end your trip in train stations like Cologne Hbf, Cologne Messe/Deutz and Cologne Süd.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Hamburg Hbf, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cologne Hbf, located away from the city centre.

A trip to Cologne from Hamburg is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3 h 55 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Hamburg to Cologne is September.
You have options as you can travel to Cologne from Hamburg 3 different ways: train, coach or flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Hamburg and Cologne

Hamburg
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Hamburg is Hamburg-Harburg. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Hamburg-Harburg for your trip from Hamburg to Cologne.
Hamburg-HarburgWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
Hamburg-Harburg, Hannoversche Str. 85, 21079 Hamburg
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Tuesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Wednesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Thursday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Friday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 13:30
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 14:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bom Dia
  • Hünkar
  • Yoko Sushi Harburg
  • Mathewes Grill
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Panorama
  • Hotel Harburger Hof
  • Hotel Jeta
  • Hotel Süderelbe
Hamburg-BarmbekWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
Barmbek, Fuhlsbüttler Str. 91, 22305 Hamburg
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Most wanted Burger
  • LüttLiv
  • T.R.U.D.E.
  • Schweinske Barmbek
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel am Stadtpark
  • IntercityHotel Hamburg-Barmbek
Hamburg Berliner TorWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
Berliner Tor, Berlinertordamm 10, 20099 Hamburg
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald's
  • Subway
  • Essino
  • Schanzenbäcker
Hotel
Hotel
  • Novum Hotel Belmondo Hamburg
  • Mercure Hamburg City
  • Eleazar Novum
  • Terminus

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