The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg to Cologne
Cheapest price
$40
Average price
$106
Fastest journey
3 h 36 m
Average duration
3 h 56 m
Trains per day
32
Distance
360 km
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 $106 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $40.
Of the 32 trains that leave Hamburg for Cologne every day 23 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 3 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 36 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 3 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.
81647+
ICE 154012:33 AM5h59Hamburg Hbf6:32 AMCologne Hbf$401One-way1 change
ICE 2098:45 PM4h03Hamburg Hbf12:48 AMCologne Hbf$521One-way0 changes
ICE 6197:45 PM4h04Hamburg Hbf11:49 PMCologne Hbf$571One-way0 changes
ICE 92110:45 PM4h17Hamburg Hbf3:02 AMCologne Hbf$661One-way0 changes
ICE 2076:45 PM4h03Hamburg Hbf10:48 PMCologne Hbf$721One-way0 changes
ICE 15218:09 AM3h36Hamburg Hbf11:45 AMCologne Hbf$1411One-way0 changes
FlixTrain9:01 AM3h55Hamburg Harburg12:56 PMCologne Hbf$721One-way0 changes
IC 22155:12 PM4h01Hamburg Hbf9:13 PMCologne Hbf$861One-way0 changes
ICE 2098:45 PM4h03Hamburg Hbf12:48 AMCologne Hbf$521One-way0 changes
ICE 2076:45 PM4h03Hamburg Hbf10:48 PMCologne Hbf$721One-way0 changes
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 train with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 50m. 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 train costs an average of $23, and a flight costs an average of $372.
Distance: 360 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$37 Average Price Cheapest | $41 Average Price | $748 Average Price |
5h 56m Average total duration 5h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 51m Average total duration 5h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() 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 tomorrow, Saturday, 25 April. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
81647+ ICE 1540 | 12:33 AM Hamburg Hbf | 5h59 | 6:32 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
81947+ 14051 · 10204 · 28507 | 12:56 AM Hamburg Hbf | 7h33 | 8:29 AM Cologne Hbf | 3 changes | |
ICE 103 | On time 4:41 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h07 | 8:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 515 | On time 5:45 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 9:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 783 · ICE 946 | On time 6:01 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h34 | 10:35 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 1521 | On time 8:09 AM Hamburg Hbf | 3h36 | 11:45 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 107 | On time 8:42 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h06 | 12:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain | 8:50 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h06 | 12:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixTrain | 9:01 AM Hamburg Harburg | 3h55 | 12:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 519 | On time 9:45 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 1:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 787 · ICE 942 | On time 10:01 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h31 | 2:32 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 109 | On time 10:45 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 2:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 1033 | On time 11:10 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h08 | 3:18 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 611 | On time 11:45 AM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 3:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 789 · ICE 940 | On time 12:01 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h32 | 4:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 201 | On time 12:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 4:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 2311 | On time 1:12 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h05 | 5:17 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 613 | On time 1:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 5:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 881 · ICE 848 | On time 2:01 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h32 | 6:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 203 | On time 2:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 6:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 1037 | On time 3:10 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h05 | 7:15 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 615 | On time 3:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 7:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 883 · ICE 846 | On time 4:01 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h31 | 8:32 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 205 | On time 4:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 8:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 2215 | On time 5:12 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h01 | 9:13 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 617 | On time 5:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 9:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 885 · ICE 844 | On time 6:01 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h32 | 10:33 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 207 | On time 6:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 10:48 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 685 · ICE 542 | On time 7:01 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h34 | 11:35 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 change | |
ICE 619 | On time 7:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h04 | 11:49 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 209 | On time 8:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h03 | 12:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 921 | 10:45 PM Hamburg Hbf | 4h17 | 3:02 AM 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 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.
24 Apr
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30 Apr
01 May
02 May
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14 May
Why should you book Hamburg to Cologne trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or metronom to find the best option for your trip from Hamburg to Cologne.
- 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 Hamburg to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or metronom to find the best option for your trip from Hamburg to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Hamburg to Cologne.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Hamburg to Cologne?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Hamburg to Cologne
Trains from Hamburg to Cologne run on average 15 times per day, taking around 5h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 if you book in advance.
There are 9 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 55m.
Distance 360 km |
Average train duration 5h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 3h 55m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 days |
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
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
metronom
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.

popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Hamburg and Cologne
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:30
- Sat - Sun: 08:00 - 20:15
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
- The station has luggage lockers.
- Le Crobag
- Burger King
- Coffee Fellows
- Havin Grill
- KFC
- Mr. CLOU
- Starbucks
- dean&david
- SPAR Express
- Pommesfreunde
- & more
- Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station
- IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof
- Park Hyatt Hamburg
- Located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.
- 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
- Café Bom Dia
- Hünkar
- Yoko Sushi Harburg
- Mathewes Grill
- Hotel Panorama
- Hotel Harburger Hof
- Hotel Jeta
- Hotel Süderelbe
- Monday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Thursday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Friday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
- Ethio
- Trattoria Toscana
- Marta
- Pavillon
- Schanzenstern Bio-Restaurant
- Hotel Hamburg Altona
- Hotel Central
- Best Western Raphael Hotel Altona
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Hamburg
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