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  3. Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station Train

Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station train times

Find complete train schedules from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station, highlighting the fastest travel time of 3h 57m. With 4 daily departures, the first train departs at 04:44 and the last at 06:54. Get real-time updates on Trenitalia and Italo train times, prices, delays, and cancellations to ensure a seamless journey.

Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station train journey information

Find detailed DB train schedules from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station, including first and last departure times, stops, distance, journey time, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a smooth journey.

First train
04:44
Last train
06:54
Departure station
Distance
223 miles (359km)
Journey time
3h 57m
Price
From £23.47
Train operators
Deutsche Bahn

Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station train travel guide

Find out why Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains are the best option for travelling from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station. Benefit from an average travel time of 4h 30m and the convenience of economical ICE or regional train tickets.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. How long is the train journey from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station?

The average travel time from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station on a train is 4h 30m. For those seeking the quickest option, the fastest travel time is 3h 57m. To get more detailed train information, precise timings, and schedules, explore TrainPal and plan your trip effectively.

2. Are there direct trains from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station?

Yes, there are direct train routes from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station. With TrainPal, you can find comprehensive details on stops, timetables, departure and arrival stations, and types of trains like high-speed ICE and regional trains. To get the best prices, consider ticket options such as Sparpreis, Super Sparpreis, and Flexpreis.

3. How much does a ticket from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station cost?

The lowest price for a train ticket from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station is £23.47, with the average cost being around £94.74*. Ticket prices can change based on booking time, train service, and available discounts. Therefore, check the latest prices for the best discounts. Enjoy cost-effective and flexible travel choices.

4. How often do trains run from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station?

There are frequent trains from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station, with 4 trains running each day. Enjoy convenient and regular departures throughout the day, ensuring flexible travel options. Check the latest schedules for the most accurate and up-to-date information on train timings and availability.

Onboard services

Onboard services

1. Can I bring my bike on the Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station train?

Yes, you can bring your bicycle on the train from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station. 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.
Combining train and bicycle travel is both sustainable and convenient.

2. Is Wi-Fi available on the ICE train from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station?

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 Good to know

Good to know

1. Can I buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station

In Germany, you can buy last-minute train tickets from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station 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 South to Hamburg Central Station

In Germany, the peak times for train travel from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station 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 South to Hamburg Central Station

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 South to Hamburg Central Station 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 South to Hamburg Central Station route?

Yes, a Eurail Pass can be used on DB trains in Germany. This pass is accepted on most DB services, including InterCity Express (ICE), InterCity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) trains. However, please note that for certain high-speed or overnight trains, seat reservations may be required and could involve extra charges. Be sure to verify the specific requirements for each train and make any necessary seat reservations to ensure a hassle-free journey.

6. Do I need a passport or visa to travel from Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station by train?

Domestic Travel Within Germany:
  • Passport: For domestic travel on DB trains in Germany, no passport is needed. However, it's recommended to carry a valid ID, like a national ID card or driving licence, especially if your ticket requires identification.
  • Visa: With legal residency in Germany, you can travel domestically on DB trains without a visa.
International Travel:
  • Passport: When using DB trains for international travel, such as trips to neighbouring countries, you will need a valid passport or other acceptable travel documents.
  • 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.

Find cheap Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station ticket prices

Sparpreis tickets

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Saver Fare

Super Sparpreis tickets

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Super Saver Fare

Flexpreis tickets

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Flexible Fare
 Find cheap Cologne South to Hamburg Central Station ticket prices

Exchange and cancellation

Instant ticket cancellation

  • Reserved your DB train ticket on TrainPal? You can cancel it for free within 3 hours of purchase and up to the day before its validity starts. Enjoy a full refund without any trouble!
  • Exchange and cancellation

    How to buy cheap DB train tickets

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    Use TrainPal

    Discover the cheapest train tickets with TrainPal. Compare second and first-class prices, and use our journey planner for the best deals. Save more with discount codes.

    Super Saver from €17.99

    Second-class Super Saver fares start at €17.99, first class at €23.99.

    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

    Starting at €46, the Regional Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) provides unlimited travel on regional trains for one day.

    IC and ICE overnight trains

    Discover destinations in Germany and neighbouring countries on IC and ICE overnight trains with super saver fares from €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.