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Cologne Central Station to Hamburg train times
Find complete train schedules from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg, highlighting the fastest travel time of 3h 36m. With 29 daily departures, the first train departs at 02:09 and the last at 21:11. Get real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a seamless journey.
Average
£64.36
From 12 Sep to 18 Sep
Cheapest
£19.99
On Fri 12 Sep
Cologne Central Station to Hamburg train journey information
Discover DB train schedules from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg, featuring first and last departure times, stop, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a seamless journey.
First train
02:09
Last train
21:11
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
220 miles (354km)
Journey time
3h 36m
Price
From £19.99
Train operators
FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn
Cologne Central Station to Hamburg train travel guide
Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg. Benefit from an average travel time of 4h 4m and the convenience of economical ICE or regional train tickets.
Planning and booking
1. How long is the train ride from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg?
The average travel time from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg by train is 4h 4m. For those in search of the fastest route, the quickest journey takes 3h 36m. For detailed train information, accurate timings, and schedules, visit TrainPal and plan your trip smoothly.
2. Are there direct trains from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg?
Yes, you can take a direct train from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg. Using TrainPal, you can check detailed information on stops, schedules, departure and arrival stations, and train types, including high-speed ICE and regional trains. Look into ticket choices like Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis for the most economical fares.
3. How much is a train ticket from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg?
The cheapest ticket for a train journey from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg starts at £19.99, with the average price being around £64.36*. Ticket prices fluctuate based on when you book, the type of train service, and any discounts that may be available. Hence, check the latest prices to secure the best discounts. Enjoy economical and flexible travel choices.
4. How often do trains run from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg?
The route from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg has a daily frequency of 29 trains, ensuring frequent service. This allows you to enjoy convenient and efficient departures throughout the day, giving you flexibility in your travel plans. Refer to the most recent schedules for the most precise and current information on train timings and availability.
Onboard services
1. Can I bring my bike on the Cologne Central Station to Hamburg train?
Yes, you can bring your bicycle on the train from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg. Be sure to book your bicycle ticket and parking space ahead of time to guarantee a hassle-free trip.
Key Points:
- Train Types: Bicycles are permitted on local transportation (Interregio-Express, Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn) together with long-distance transport (Intercity, Eurocity, ICE 4, ICE 3 neo, and ICE T).
- Advance Booking:Reserve bicycle tickets, and parking space, and avoid busy periods.
- Pricing:Long-distance bike tickets start at €7.50, and local transit bicycle day tickets vary from €6 to €6.50.
- Check Local Regulations: Bike transport regulations differ by region.
- Properly Park Bicycle: Place your bike in the allocated area as instructed.
2. Is Wi-Fi available on the ICE train from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg?
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Good to know
1. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg
In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg online, at ticket machines, and at station counters. However, it is strongly advised to book your train tickets ahead of time for better availability and pricing. While it is not required, booking in advance, especially during busy travel periods, can ensure better seat availability and often lower prices. Plan ahead to secure your journey effortlessly and benefit from the advantages of early reservations.
2. What are the peak travel times for trains from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg
In Germany, the peak times for train travel from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg are generally during weekday rush hours, roughly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Moreover, weekends, particularly Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, along with holidays and school vacations, often experience increased demand. Booking tickets ahead of time during these periods is recommended to ensure a seat and potentially get better prices.
3. How early should I arrive at the station for my train from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg
For a trouble-free travel experience, it is often recommended to reach the train station at least 20-30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. This provides you with enough time to locate your platform, pass through any crowds, and resolve last-minute tasks such as finding your seat or purchasing snacks. If you are not familiar with the station or if it is especially large, consider arriving even earlier to ensure a smooth beginning to your trip.
4. Can I use a regional day pass for the Cologne Central Station to Hamburg train?
Yes, Regional day passes can be used on DB trains in Germany, but their use is confined to regional trains within the designated area. Passes such as the Bayern-Ticket or Niedersachsen-Ticket provide unlimited travel for a full day on regional trains (including RE, RB, and IRE) and certain local public transportation modes, such as buses, trams, and S-Bahn trains. However, they do not apply to long-distance trains including ICE, IC, or EC. Be certain to examine the specific terms and conditions of the regional day pass to confirm it covers the routes you plan to take.
5. Can I use a Eurail pass on the Cologne Central Station to Hamburg route?
Yes, you can utilise a Eurail Pass on DB trains within Germany. The pass is valid on most DB trains, such as InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) services. Nonetheless, for some high-speed or overnight trains, you might need to reserve a seat in advance, which could come with an extra fee. Check the particular train requirements and make the required reservations to guarantee a smooth trip.
6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Cologne Central Station to Hamburg by train?
Domestic Travel Within Germany:
- Passport: Travelling within Germany on DB trains doesn't require a passport. However, it's advisable to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, particularly if identification is required for your ticket.
- Visa: Having legal residency in Germany allows you to travel on DB trains within the country without a visa.
International Travel:
- Passport: For international journeys on DB trains, including trips to neighbouring countries, a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents are required.
-
Visa:
- 1) Schengen Area: For travel to or from a Schengen Area country, separate visas for each Schengen Zone country are generally unnecessary if you have a valid Schengen visa or are from a visa-exempt nation.
- 2) Non-Schengen Countries: Travel to or from a non-Schengen country might require a visa, depending on the specific entry requirements of that country.
Confirm the entry and travel criteria for your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Consulting the embassies or consulates will yield the most precise and up-to-date information.
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Super Saver from €17.99
Super Saver fares start at €17.99 for second class and €23.99 for first class.
Book early for ICE trains
Secure lower prices by booking German long-distance train tickets (IC, ICE, EC) early; prices increase closer to travel.
Regional Day Ticket
Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) offers unlimited regional travel in Germany for one day, from €46.
IC and ICE overnight trains
Journey to Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares starting at €17.99 and saver fares from €21.99.
Group travel for 6+ people
Groups of six+ enjoy super saver fares in Germany from €8.90, and in Europe from €13.90 per person.
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* The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.
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