Cologne to Hamburg Train

11/17/2024
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Cologne to Hamburg by train

The journey from Cologne to Hamburg by train is 224.11 mi and takes 4 hr 21 min. There are 10 connections per day, with the first departure at 8:11 AM and the last at 4:14 PM. It is possible to travel from Cologne to Hamburg by train for as little as $25.28 or as much as $67.73. The best price for this journey is $25.28.

Lowest Price $25.28
Journey Duration 4 hr 21 min
Connection per Day 10
Lowest Price $25.28
Highest Price $67.73
First Departure 8:11 AM
Last Departure 4:14 PM
Distance 224.11 mi
Departure Cologne
Arrival Hamburg
Carriers DB - InterCity Express (ICE), FlixTrain

Cologne to Hamburg Train Times

Departure date
Sunday, Nov 17, 2024

Use Virail to find the best way to travel from Cologne to Hamburg

Virail helps thousands of travelers plan their journeys every year. How? It's easy. Just enter the dates on which you plan to travel from Cologne to Hamburg. Our powerful engine will look at the data from thousands of travel providers, then show you all the available routes. You can choose to travel however you want. Decide on the type of transport you want to use, what time of day you'd like to set off and whether you'd like a direct journey or one with connections. When you've found your ideal route, Virail will redirect you to the web page of the provider. There, you can make your booking, then it's time to prepare for your trip.

How much does it cost to get from Cologne to Hamburg by train?

The prices for train tickets from Cologne to Hamburg vary depending on a range of factors including how far in advance you're booking, your travel dates, and the type of transport you want to use. On certain routes, there may be different classes available, which will also affect the price. Booked in advance, the cheapest train tickets from Cologne to Hamburg will cost $25.28. The average train ticket price is approximately $38.47. For the lowest prices, it is usually best to book as far in advance as possible and look out for low-cost options, such as non-refundable tickets or traveling outside of peak hours. Be aware that some providers do not offer refunds or changes on their lower priced tickets, so it is advised to check before completing your transaction.
Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Cologne to Hamburg. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results.
On average, a train ticket from Cologne to Hamburg will cost you $38.47. If you are trying to stick to a budget, there are several ways you can seek out lower ticket prices. For example, if your travel dates are flexible, you might find that some days of the week are cheaper than others. Traveling during peak season will usually cost more, so avoid that if you want to save money. Even the time of day can affect the price of tickets sometimes. You can also look for an indirect route, which may be cheaper than a direct connection. Often, the cheapest train tickets can be found by booking well in advance. However, be mindful that many companies do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest tickets.

How long is the journey from Cologne to Hamburg by train?

Traveling from Cologne to Hamburg by train will usually take 4 hr 21 min. This journey covers a distance of 224.11 mi . When planning your trip, bear in mind that 4 hr 21 min is an average, and route times may vary from day to day. Weather conditions, issues with transport, unexpected diversions, and local events could all cause delays to your journey. Please keep the possibility of these exceptional events in mind when making travel plans. The journey from Cologne to Hamburg covers a distance of 224.11 mi. On average, you can expect your journey to last roughly 4 hr 21 min. However, booking the fastest option will see you reach your destination in approximately 3 hr 53 min. For faster journeys, look for express routes. Please remember that these may only depart at certain times of day, or on particular days of the week. You may also find that you can go from Cologne to Hamburg faster by making connections, rather than taking a direct route.

At what time of the day can I travel from Cologne to Hamburg?

If you want to set off early, take the first departure of the day from Cologne to Hamburg, which usually leaves at 8:11 AM. The last scheduled departure of the day is normally at 4:14 PM. These timetables may vary depending on the day of the week, or at different times of year. The first departure of the night from Cologne to Hamburg leaves at 8:11 AM, while the last journey sets out at 4:14 PM. These are according to the standard schedules for the route between Cologne and Hamburg. However, different providers' timetables can vary from day to day or month to month, so these particular departures may not be available every day. Some providers may change their schedules on public holidays and weekends, or during the summer months. Check your travel dates when making your booking.

When traveling from Cologne to Hamburg by train, which stations can I use?

There are different options to choose from when traveling between Cologne and Hamburg. You can start your journey in Cologne at stations such as Köln, Hbf,Köln-Mülheim ,Koeln Messe/deutz,Cologne Bonn Airport. These connect to stations including Hamburg Dammtor (DE),Hamburg-Altona station,Hamburg - Harburg,Hamburg Airport, HAM,Hamburg Hbf ZOB in Hamburg. There may not be a direct connection between all the stations in the two locations. Some providers will only serve a selection of the stations, and you may have to travel from one station to another in the same city after arrival to reach your ultimate destination. Virail will show you both all direct routes and any connecting services which you can take to get from Cologne to Hamburg.

How many journeys from Cologne to Hamburg take place each day?

The route from Cologne to Hamburg is served by providers including . From this list of transport providers, there are up to departures each day. However, this exact number will vary. On average, journeys depart from Cologne 10 times per day. This number includes all the transport providers that serve the route. When traveling from Cologne to Hamburg, you may choose to use an indirect route, involving connections. If you prefer not to do this, you will find an average of 10 direct journeys each day. However, indirect routes open up more possibilities for flexible travelers. On average, there are 0 journeys with one change or more each day. These numbers are all averages. They can slightly vary depending on the day of the week, the season of the year, local festivals, and other factors. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Cologne to Hamburg. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

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Compare prices and tickets from Cologne to Hamburg

Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Hamburg
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Cologne to Hamburg.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Cologne to Hamburg, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Cologne to Hamburg.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book Cologne to Hamburg travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $8.70 to $64.00 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 86% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Cologne to Hamburg

The cheapest Cologne - Hamburg train tickets can be found for as low as $18.21 if you’re lucky, or $25.02 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $32.96.

Find the best day to travel to Hamburg by train

When travelling to Hamburg by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

Flixtrain is a European low-cost passenger rail service that offers affordable and comfortable train travel to various destinations across Germany. It is owned and operated by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus, which is a popular bus transportation service in Europe. Flixtrain operates on several routes, including Berlin to Stuttgart, Berlin to Cologne, and Hamburg to Cologne, among others.

Express InterCity is a type of train service that operates in many countries around the world. It is designed to provide fast and efficient transportation between major cities, with limited stops along the way. Express InterCity trains typically offer amenities such as comfortable seating, air conditioning, and onboard food and beverage service. They may also have first-class or business-class seating options for passengers who want extra comfort and amenities. Express InterCity trains are often a popular choice for business travelers, tourists, and commuters who need to travel between cities quickly and conveniently.

While not as swift as the high-speed ICE trains, Deutsche Bahn’s InterCity trains boast speeds up to 200km/h, offering spacious carriages and dining options. Operating across numerous German routes, such as Cologne-Hamburg, these trains also extend to international destinations, including Amsterdam and Luxembourg. Some routes even feature double-deck trains.

Ticket types and facilities from Cologne to Hamburg

Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by FlixTrain, DB - InterCity Express (ICE) and DB - Intercity when traveling from Cologne to Hamburg.

Standard

A standard ticket on FlixTrain is a regular ticket / second class ticket. Flixtrain standard ticket offers you a comfortable seat, guaranteed Wi-Fi, access to power outlets, and one carry-on and one checked luggage with size restrictions.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
bicycle Bicycle

Second Class

Deutshce Bahn's second class ensures a comfortable journey with standard seating arrangements with free Wi-Fi, power socket, and. Second class passengers can buy food and drinks from the bar/bistro car or restaurant car.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

First Class

First Class travel with Deutsche Bahn provides a luxurious experience with comfortable seats and many amenities such as spacious seating with personalized on-seat service and exclusive lounge access at major stations. First-class passengers can have their orders delivered to their seats, but if you do not want to wait, you can also dine in the restaurant car or buy food and drinks from the bar/bistro car.
wifi WiFi
quiet_zone Quiet zone
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Second Class

On SBB Intercity trains, in addition to basic amenities for Second Class ticket, there's a Family Zone specially designed to offer comfort for families with children. If you get hungry during the journey, you can enjoy tasty meals in the restaurant carriage.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

First Class

On Deutsche Bahn IC trains, if you have a Flexpreis First Class ticket in addition to the standard second class offerings, you can access Fast Track and DB lounges at some German stations for free and enjoy the complimentary refreshments. Plus, experience a quieter travel environment and savor the view.

wifi WiFi
quiet_zone Quiet zone
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Facility Description

Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.

wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Connect effortlessly on FlixTrain and enjoy free WiFi, whether you're catching up on work, chatting, or simply browsing.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
Keep your devices charged and ready. FlixTrain seats come equipped with power sockets and USB outlets.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
For your safety and the comfort of everyone on board, FlixBus permits you to bring one carry-on bag that should fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment. You're also allowed one checked bag, but make sure you can load and unload it by yourself and store it in the overhead space or under your seat. Kindly ensure your luggage isn't bulky or poses a risk to others. Remember, it's up to you to keep track of your belongings during the trip.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
FlixTrain prioritizes comfort for all. Passengers with mobility concerns can book designated seats and utilize complimentary transportation for foldable wheelchairs and mobility aids. Reach out to FlixTrain for any assistance required.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
While FlixTrain doesn't offer onboard catering, you're welcome to bring along your own snacks and beverages.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
With FlixTrain, you can pack an extra piece of luggage, but it's a good idea to book early since train space is limited. Got sports equipment or a big musical instrument? They're welcome too, though an extra fee might apply. If you're cycling around, you can park your bike in specific areas for just 9 Euro, but ensure it's standard-sized and free of extra attachments. Remember to reserve a spot for your bike early, as space fills up fast
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
On ICE trains, enjoy free WiFi and access the ICE portal for movies, TV shows, audiobooks, games, and reading material.
quiet_zone Quiet zone open icon close icon
Seek tranquillity on ICE Frankfurt in Coach 21 (second class) and Coach 28/29 (first class). On ICE 104/105 Basel, it's Coach 31 (second class) and Coach 38/39 (first class).
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
Stay charged with a power socket available for every two seats on the train.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On ICE-trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
For assistance in boarding, changing trains, or other queries, reach out to DB’s Mobility Service. The staff is always ready to assist and ensure a smooth journey.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
With ICE, choose between a full menu at the onboard restaurant or quick snacks at the bistro. For First Class passengers, complimentary food and drinks are served directly to your seat. DB's diverse menu, updated quarterly, features local and vegetarian/vegan options.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
ICE trains not only offer air conditioning but are also innovating with eco-friendly systems that both cool and heat using natural refrigerants.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
On Deutsche Bahn trains, make sure it's disassembled and snugly packed in a case or cover with your name labeled on it, and you can bring it on board for free. You're also allowed one regular and one hand luggage item. Just ensure your bike doesn't get in the way of other travelers or block aisles. Note: Special bikes aren't permitted, but if you're an international traveler, there's no need to worry about peak-time restrictions.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Deutsche Bahn is rolling out free WiFi on their IC trains, with some already offering the service.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
All seats in both classes have power sockets on DB IC trains.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On IC trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
Deutsche Bahn's Mobility Service provides assistance for boarding, disembarking, and train transfers. Staff are on hand to address questions and ensure a smooth trip.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
On the DB IC trains, there's a restaurant for meals or a bistro for snacks. You can eat at the bistro or in your seat. First Class passengers get free food at their seat. The menu changes but always has local food, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
Intercity trains have air-conditioned sections.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
For IC trains, a ticket and reservation are required for bicycles, with the reservation cost included. Bikes are typically stored in second class carriages, though your seat may be elsewhere.
Services on board DB - InterCity Express (ICE), FlixTrain and DB - Intercity from Cologne to Hamburg
Compare services on board when travelling from Cologne to Hamburg by train.
Facilities DB - InterCity Express (ICE) FlixTrain DB - Intercity FlixBus
quiet_zone Quiet zone check check cross cross
wifi WiFi check check check check
power_sockets Power sockets check check check check
luggage Luggage check check check check
accessibility Accessibility check check cross check
food_and_drink Food and drink check check check check
air_con Air conditioning check check cross check
bicycle Bicycle check check cross check
sleeper_couchette Sleeper check check cross cross

Cologne to Hamburg CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
25.25kg
Bus
27.05kg
Flight
72.13kg
Car
57.71kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Cologne to Hamburg by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Cologne and Hamburg are 25.25kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Cologne and Hamburg? By taking the train between Cologne and Hamburg you will save 46.88kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 1.8kg compared to a bus and 32.46kg compared to a car.

Anything we can improve?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Cologne to Hamburg?
A train ticket from Cologne to Hamburg is $38.47. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $25.28.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Cologne to Hamburg?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Cologne to Hamburg is $25.28. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Cologne and Hamburg by train?
Cologne to Hamburg is 224.11 mi.
How long does the train between Cologne and Hamburg take?
Cologne to Hamburg is on average 4 hr 21 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 3 hr 53 min.
Which companies operate from Cologne to Hamburg?
The train journey from Cologne to Hamburg is covered by 3 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: DB - InterCity Express (ICE), FlixTrain, DB - Intercity and FlixBus.
How many train connections per day go from Cologne to Hamburg?
Cologne to Hamburg has 10 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Cologne to Hamburg leave?
The earliest train from Cologne to Hamburg departs at 8:11 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Cologne to Hamburg depart?
The latest train from Cologne to Hamburg departs at 4:14 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Cologne to Hamburg in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $25.28 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
How many direct connections depart from Cologne to Hamburg?
There are on average 10 direct connection(s) from Cologne to go to Hamburg.
What's the fastest journey time between Cologne to Hamburg by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Cologne and Hamburg is 3 hr 53 min.
Is there a direct train from Cologne to Hamburg?
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne and Hamburg.
What are the CO2 emissions for Cologne to Hamburg by train?
The train journey from Cologne to Hamburg creates 25.25kg of CO2 emissions.

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