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Hamburg, Hamburg (Area) to Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia from $17: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Hamburg, Germany
to
Cologne, Germany

How to Get from Hamburg to Cologne: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$17 RideshareBest price
360.5 kmDistance
2h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Hamburg to Cologne with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Deutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Train
Average Duration
4h  4m
Estimated price
$35-85
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
4h  23m
Estimated price
$17-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 360.5 km
Duration: 2h 51m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  52m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  13m
Estimated price
$38-54
Company
Eurowings
Plane
Average Duration
2h  51m
Estimated price
$57-278
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$65-110
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$78-339
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  13m
Estimated price
$80-90
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  13m
Estimated price
$139-406

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $16 $16 $13 $14 $18 $16 $19
Train $10 $17 $16 $11 $18 $12 $18
Fly $71 $80 $99 $73 $80 $275 $177
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Hamburg to Cologne

The journey from Hamburg to Cologne takes you from the bustling port city known for its maritime heritage to a vibrant metropolis celebrated for its stunning cathedrals and rich cultural scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cologne

Cologne’s neighborhoods each offer distinctive vibes and attractions for visitors.

Old Town (Altstadt)
• Home to Cologne Cathedral, an architectural marvel.
• Charming streets filled with cafes and shops.
Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
• Trendy locale known for its boutiques and eateries.
• Vibrant nightlife with bars and live music.
Ehrenfeld
• Eclectic district with street art and hip cafes.
• Hosts unique festivals and cultural events year-round.

Best Times To Visit Cologne's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cologne's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Museum Ludwig
Midweek visits, especially on Wednesdays, offer a quieter gallery experience.
Rheinauhafen
Evenings during sunset provide stunning views and fewer visitors.

Cologne Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cologne experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers, making spring and early fall the best times to visit for pleasant weather. Depending on the season, weather can impact outdoor activities, so planning accordingly can elevate your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Cologne

A must-try dish in Cologne is Himmel un Ääd, a comforting combination of black pudding, apple sauce, and mashed potatoes, offering a hearty experience that's a departure from Hamburg’s seafood-centric cuisine. Dining in Cologne often features cozy Brauhaus atmospheres that invite you to savor local flavors while enjoying a Kölsch beer, creating a distinct and warm culinary adventure.

Hamburg - Cologne operators

Explore transport companies operating between Hamburg and Cologne, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+49 0180 6 99 66 33
Website
https://www.bahn.com/en

Train from Hamburg Hbf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
$75-85

Train from Hamburg Hbf to Köln Messe/Deutz Bf

Average Duration
4h 13m
Estimated price
$80-90
Contact phone
+49 1807 123 99 123
Website
https://www.flixtrain.com/

Train from Hamburg Central Station to Cologne Central Station

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$35-50

Train from Hamburg-Harburg to Cologne Central Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$35-50
Contact phone
0221 13 999 444
Website
https://www.nationalexpress.de

Train from Dusseldorf Flughafen to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$11-17
Contact phone
+32 70 66 77 88
Website
https://www.thalys.com/fr/en

Train from Dusseldorf Flughafen to Koeln Hbf

Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$28-65
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/

Train from D-Flughafen Bf to Köln Hbf

Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$10-21
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Hamburg central bus station to Leverkusen

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
$35-55
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Hamburg to Cologne

Average Duration
4h 23m
Estimated price
$17-35
Plane Show flights

Plane from Hamburg (HAM) to Cologne Bonn (CGN)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$70-320
Website
https://www.lufthansa.com

Plane from Hamburg (HAM) to Dusseldorf (DUS)

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$65-290

Plane from Hamburg (HAM) to Frankfurt (FRA)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$90-490

Hamburg to Cologne: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Hamburg and Cologne offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience a smooth and scenic road trip from Hamburg to Cologne, covering a distance of 264 miles. In just 3 hours and 38 minutes, you'll journey through charming German landscapes, making the most of your time on the road. 💰 Save money on your journey by choosing to drive from Hamburg to Cologne, with prices ranging from €60 to €101 for the trip. Enjoy the flexibility of having your own vehicle while exploring the beauty of Germany between these two vibrant cities.
Average price
€60 - €101
🛤️ As you glide through the scenic German countryside, enjoy a relaxing 4-hour and 4-minute trip towards the vibrant city of Cologne. Arriving at Köln Hbf station, you'll have plenty of time to explore the city's historic landmarks and cultural attractions. 💰 Ticket prices for the Hamburg to Cologne train range from €32 to €78, offering an affordable and efficient way to travel between these two bustling German cities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you embark on this exciting journey by rail.
Departure Point
Hamburg Hbf station
Arrival Point
Köln Hbf station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Hamburg to Cologne include catering options where you can purchase snacks, meals, and beverages. Most trains operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB) feature a bistro or dining car with a variety of choices such as sandwiches, salads, pastries, and drinks, including local German beer and wine. It's worth checking the menu online prior to your trip to see what's available.
• The trains on this route typically offer three types of seating: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides spacious seating with more legroom and quieter carriages, along with complimentary snacks and services. Business Class is great for working travelers, with tables and charging points, while Economy Class is comfortable for short to medium travels, featuring standard seats and some options with table seating. Check Deutsche Bahn's website for specific train amenities: bahn.com
• When arriving at Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof), you can find luggage lockers on the lower level of the station, making it easy to store your bags while you explore the city. The station also features clean restrooms throughout, though showers are not available. Navigating the station is straightforward due to its clear signage and maps, so you'll have no trouble finding guidance.
• The fastest way to reach Cologne city center from the train station is via public transport. You can take the U-Bahn (subway) Line 5 or tram Line 1 directly from the station to reach the city center in about 5-10 minutes. Look for U-Bahn signs or tram stops outside the main exit. This route is efficient and convenient, with trains running frequently.
🛫 Experience a convenient and swift journey from Hamburg to Cologne by taking a direct flight lasting just 1 hour. Eurowings offers flights between Hamburg Airport and Cologne Bonn Airport, allowing you to reach your destination efficiently. 🌍 Enjoy a seamless travel experience with a flight duration of 2 hours and 51 minutes from Hamburg to Cologne. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, flying between these vibrant German cities provides a quick and comfortable mode of transportation. 💸 Discover affordable flight options between Cologne and Hamburg, with prices ranging from €53 to €256. With various fare choices available, you can select the option that best suits your budget and travel preferences for a hassle-free journey.
Departure Point
Hamburg Airport
Arrival Point
Cologne Bonn Airport
🚌 Starting from Hamburg central bus station, travelers can embark on a scenic journey to Cologne with a transfer in Leverkusen Mitte Bf. The total travel time, with transfers included, amounts to approximately 7 hours and 52 minutes. 💰 With ticket prices ranging between €32 to €51, this bus trip from Hamburg to Cologne presents an economical way to travel between these two bustling German cities. Navigate through the picturesque landscapes and arrive at Köln Heumarkt to commence your Cologne adventure.
Departure Point
Hamburg central bus station
Arrival Point
Leverkusen station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, check the FlixBus website for the latest schedules and availability, as changes may occur, and it’s vital to know the transfer details to Wiesdorf Leverkusen Mitte Bf for your seamless journey: FlixBus Hamburg to Cologne.
• As your bus arrives at Cologne, be prepared for your first stop at Leverkusen station; here, ensure that you have a clear plan for the transfer to the U-Bahn or regional trains that will take you to Köln Heumarkt, which is the ideal station for accessing Cologne’s city center and nearby attractions.
• Upon arriving at Köln Heumarkt, take advantage of the local dining options nearby, such as the popular 'Wiener Steff' for quick bites or 'Cafe M' for a more relaxed dining experience; both are within a short walking distance and perfect for recharging before exploring the city.