Trains from Hamburg to Koeln

Take a journey from Hamburg to Cologne by train and explore the country's natural and man-made wonders. With a train ride of about 4 hours and a distance of approximately 350km, you will pass by some of Germany’s most iconic places. This journey is best enjoyed when you give yourself time to stop and explore the beautiful towns and cities you come across.

Your train will depart from Hamburg's main station - Hamburg Hauptbahnhof. The whole station is filled with architectural grandeur and a fascinating atmosphere. From here you will travel south and pass Hanover and Kassel, before finally arriving in Cologne.

If you want to explore the towns and cities along the way more, you can look for routes that include stops at the popular stops which include Bremen, Osnabrück, Bielefeld, Hamm, and Dortmund. The main station in Cologne is Köln Hauptbahnhof, where you will find the iconic Cologne Cathedral surrounded by numerous other attractions.

The total distance for this journey from Hamburg to Cologne is over 350km and the total time you will spend aboard the train is approximately 4 hours. Enjoy the beautiful German countryside, with its rolling hills, endless forests, and picturesque rivers. Along the way, you can also observe Germany’s most iconic monuments, such as the Charlemagne Tower in Aachen, and the beautiful art galleries in Kassel.

Experience a journey of adventure and exploration when you travel from Hamburg to Cologne by train, taking in Germany’s natural and man-made wonders. Whether you choose to take a direct train or include stops along the way, there is something for everyone on this journey. Enjoy everything Germany has to offer as you explore the fascinating towns and cities of the country.

As one of Germany’s most inviting cities, Hamburg offers a unique combination of culture, history, and modernity. From magnificent churches, to medieval streets, to bustling city squares, there’s plenty to explore in this city. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing getaway, Hamburg is sure to offer an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers. 

St. Nikolai Memorial: The St. Nikolai Memorial is the tallest building in all of Hamburg and is the main attraction of the historical Speicherstadt district. Located in the heart of the city, the memorial was originally built as a church in 1874, but was damaged in the Second World War. Now a memorial, visitors are able to ascend the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Admission is free and the memorial is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Town Hall: Located in the city center, the Town Hall is the seat of the city’s government and a symbol of Hamburg’s autonomy throughout its long history. Constructed in the Gothic Revival style, the building is home to the Senate and Parliament, and its landmark clock tower can be seen from throughout the city. Entrance to the building is free and visitors can enjoy daily tours from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Hamburg Rathausmarkt: This public square serves as the focal point of the city. Lined with restaurants and artisan boutiques, the market is the perfect place to experience the hustle and bustle of the city. At the center of the square is a historic fountain, surrounded by a colorful array of seasonal plants and flowers. The Rathausmarkt is open daily, and visitors should be sure to sample some local delicacies like Labskaus, Hamburg’s signature potato dish. 

Altona Fish Market: Located on the banks of the Elbe River, the Altona Fish Market is a lively weekend tradition. Since 1703, the market has been attracting locals and visitors alike. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, stroll along the stalls, and take part in one of the traditional auctions. The market is open early on Sundays, and visitors should be sure to get there early to beat the crowds. 

St. Michael’s Church: One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the St. Michael’s Church. Construction of the church began in the early 19th century and it now stands as an impressive example of Gothic-revival architecture. While the exterior is stunning, the church also houses a beautiful interior, complete with stained glass windows, a pipe organ, and intricate paintings. Entrance is free and visitors can enjoy free guided tours on weekends. 

Hamburg Dungeon: An interactive museum, the Hamburg Dungeon is a great way to learn about the city’s dark past. Through an immersive experience, visitors are taken on a journey through Hamburg’s history, and recounted the tales of darkness, torture, and destruction that defined the city’s past. The dungeon is open throughout the year, and tickets are available online. 

International Maritime Museum: Located in the historic Speicherstadt district, the International Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world. This museum is dedicated to Hamburg’s seafaring history, with an impressive collection of artifacts, models, and interactive exhibits. The museum is open daily, and visitors should be sure to check out the iconic model of the Flying P-Liner Potomac, the largest model ship in the world. 

From awe-inspiring churches to lively markets, Hamburg offers a wealth of fascinating attractions and activities. With its vibrant culture, captivating history, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder the city has been capturing the hearts of travelers for centuries.

Cologne, in Germany is a beautiful destination to visit for those interested in history and architecture. With its stunning Romanesque churches, a fascinating Jewish history, and a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, a trip to Cologne is sure to be a memorable one. 

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): Located in the heart of the city, the magnificent Cologne Cathedral is the city’s main landmark and a UNESCO World heritage site. It is famous for its impressive Gothic facade, its unique stained glass windows, and its treasury. Visit in the early evening for a breathtaking view of the majestic spires of the Cathedral lit up in the night sky. Location: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany. Hours: 6:00 AM–9:30 PM. Entrance Fee: €9.

Augustusburg Castle (Schloss Augustusburg): Set atop a hill in nearby Brühl, Augustusburg Castle is the former residence of the prince-electors of Cologne. Built in the Baroque and Rococo styles, it is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Inside, you can admire the beautiful Golden Gallery and the exquisite Court Chapel. Location: Schlossplatz 2, 50321 Brühl, Germany. Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Entrance fee: €7.

Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum): The Chocolate Museum is a must-visit for any chocoholic. Here, you can learn all about the history of chocolate and sample some delicious treats. With its interactive exhibits, workshops, and a café serving over 20 varieties of hot chocolate, this is sure to be a sweet experience. Insider tip: make sure to try the fondue fountain! Location: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, 50678 Köln, Germany. Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €11.

Wallraf-Richartz Museum & Fondation Corboud (WDR): This world-renowned museum houses an impressive collection of European art, with masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Highlights include paintings by Rubens, Baroque sculptures, and a modern art collection. Location: Martin-Luther-Platz 3, 50676 Köln, Germany. Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €9.

Cologne Zoo (Zoologischer Garten Köln): Visit the oldest and largest zoo in Germany, located on the banks of the Rhine River. This zoo is home to over 7,500 animals, including many endangered species. It also features a stunning Japanese Garden and an aquarium. Location: Riehler Str. 173, 50735 Köln, Germany. Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €19.

Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum): Explore the history of the city by visiting this museum located in the heart of the city. Here, you can see ancient artefacts and relics from the city's past, including the famous Dionysius mosaic. Location: Roncalliplatz 4, 50667 Köln, Germany. Hours: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €4.

Keulen Restaurant: For a true taste of Cologne, head to Keulen Restaurant. Sample some of the city's classic dishes such as the famous Halver Hahn (cheddar cheese sandwich with onions and mustard) or try some Reibekuchen (potato pancakes). Location: Am Hof 12–14, 50667 Köln, Germany. Hours: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Cologne is an exciting city offering a range of attractions to explore. From its stunning architecture and rich history, to its delicious cuisine and vibrant entertainment, there’s something for everyone in Cologne. Make sure to add it to your travel list!