Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Lübeck city center is by train (S-Bahn + Regional Express). The journey takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes and costs around â¬20-â¬28 one-way. There is no direct train; you must take the S-Bahn S1 to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) and then transfer to a Regional Express (RE) or Regionalbahn (RB) train to Lübeck Hbf. The cheapest option is the FlixBus, with fares starting from â¬5-â¬15, taking about 1 hour 50 minutes. A taxi or private transfer is the fastest door-to-door option but costs â¬130-â¬180.
By Train: The Most Recommended Route
Combining Hamburg's efficient S-Bahn with regional trains is the most balanced option, offering a good mix of speed, reliability, and cost. The journey involves one simple transfer at Hamburg's main station.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- At Hamburg Airport (HAM): Follow signs to the "S-Bahn" station (Airport station is called Hamburg Airport (Flughafen)). It's located in the underground Plaza area between Terminal 1 and 2.
- Take the S-Bahn S1: Board the S1 line direction "Wedel" or "Blankenese". Get off at Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (HHH). The ride takes about 25 minutes. Trains run every 10 minutes.
- Transfer at Hamburg Hbf: Inside the large main station, follow signs for "Regionalbahnhof" (regional trains). Find your platform for trains to Lübeck.
- Take the Regional Train to Lübeck: Board either a Regional Express (RE8 / RE80) or a Regionalbahn (RB85) direct to Lübeck Hauptbahnhof. The ride takes about 45-55 minutes.
Train Types, Tickets & Prices:
| Ticket / Pass | Coverage | Approx. Price (One-Way) | Where to Buy | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Tickets (S-Bahn + Regional) | Entire journey (HVV + DB networks) | â¬20 - â¬28 | DB Navigator App, HVV App, ticket machines at the airport S-Bahn station. | One-off journeys, flexible travel. |
| Deutschland-Ticket (â¬49 Ticket) | All regional transport (S-Bahn, RE, RB, buses) across Germany. NOT valid on ICE/IC. | â¬49 / month (subscription) | Various transport apps (DB, HVV, Mopla). | Frequent regional travelers, long stays. |
| Hamburg City Ticket | If you have a long-distance DB ticket ending in Hamburg, it includes the S-Bahn from the airport to Hbf. | Included | Automatic with eligible DB ticket. | Travelers connecting from a distant German city. |
Pro Tip: Use the DB Navigator app for real-time schedules, platform info, and mobile tickets. Purchase your combined ticket ("Hamburg Flughafen to Lübeck Hbf") before boarding the S-Bahn to avoid a fine.
Luggage & Comfort:
Regional trains have dedicated luggage racks. During peak hours, the S-Bahn can be crowded. For more space, avoid rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM on weekdays). First-class options are limited on regional trains but offer more space.
By Bus: The Most Economical Choice
The bus is the undisputed cheapest way to get from Hamburg Airport to Lübeck. FlixBus is the primary operator, offering direct services that bypass the need for a train transfer in central Hamburg.
Route Details & Stations:
- Departure: Hamburg Airport (HAM). The bus stop is at the Coach Parking (Busbahnhof) area, a short walk from Terminal 2. Follow signs for "Long-Distance Buses".
- Arrival in Lübeck: Most buses terminate at the Lübeck Holstentor bus stop, located just outside the historic city center and a 10-minute walk from Lübeck Hauptbahnhof. Some may also stop at Lübeck University.
Schedule, Tickets & Advice:
Journey time is typically 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Buses run multiple times daily. Book online in advance for the lowest fares (as low as â¬5 on promotions). Prices increase as the departure date nears, with standard fares ranging from â¬10-â¬20.
Luggage: One suitcase and one hand luggage are usually included. Check FlixBus's specific luggage policy for size/weight limits.
Comfort: Buses offer free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets. While not as fast as the train, they provide a direct, comfortable, and extremely cost-effective ride.
By Taxi or Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most expensive option, recommended only for specific situations such as late-night arrivals, groups, or travelers with heavy luggage or mobility issues.
Cost & Options:
- Official Airport Taxi: Taxi ranks are outside Terminal 1 and 2. The fare to Lübeck city center is â¬130 - â¬180, depending on exact destination and traffic. The journey takes 60-75 minutes.
- Pre-Booked Private Transfer: Companies like Welcome Pickups or KiwiTaxi offer fixed-price, pre-paid transfers. You'll be met at arrivals with a name sign. Prices are similar to or slightly higher than metered taxis but offer price certainty and reliability.
- Ride-Sharing (Uber): Uber operates in Hamburg. Availability for the long trip to Lübeck is not guaranteed and the price may be dynamic, often comparable to a taxi.
When to Consider It:
- Your flight arrives after public transport has stopped (roughly after 11:30 PM).
- You are a group of 3-4 people, making the cost per person reasonable.
- You have significant luggage that would be cumbersome on trains/buses.
Important: Always confirm the approximate fare with the driver before starting the journey if taking a metered taxi.
Cost & Time Comparison: Hamburg Airport to Lübeck
| Transport Mode | Approx. Journey Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Transfers / Stops | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (S-Bahn + RE) | 1h 40m | â¬20 - â¬28 | 1 (at Hamburg Hbf) | Most travelers, good balance |
| Bus (FlixBus) (Cheapest) | 1h 50m - 2h | â¬5 - â¬20 | Direct | Budget travelers, solo backpackers |
| Taxi / Private Transfer (Fastest Door-to-Door) | 60m - 75m | â¬130 - â¬180 | Direct | Groups, late-night, luxury |
| Rental Car | 60m - 75m | â¬40 - â¬80/day + fuel & parking | Direct | Exploring the region further |
Verdict: For most travelers, the train is the best overall choice. For the absolute lowest cost, choose the bus. Only opt for a taxi/transfer if convenience outweighs cost for your specific situation.
Traveler Tips & Insider Advice
- Navigating Hamburg Hauptbahnhof: The station is large. Allow a minimum of 10 minutes for your transfer from the S-Bahn to the regional train platforms. Look for the yellow departure boards ("Abfahrt"). The DB Navigator app provides real-time platform numbers.
- Late-Night Arrivals: The last S-Bahn and regional train connections typically depart before 11:30 PM. If your flight lands later, your only public transport option is the night bus (Nachtbus), which involves complex changes and takes much longer. A pre-booked taxi or airport hotel is strongly advised.
- Ticket Validation: For paper tickets bought from machines for the S-Bahn/HVV network, you must stamp them in the small red or blue boxes on the platform before your first ride. Mobile tickets or DB tickets do not require validation.
- Luggage Storage: If you want to explore Hamburg before heading to Lübeck, use the "Gepäckaufbewahrung" (luggage storage) at Hamburg Hbf. Lübeck Hbf also has lockers.
- Day Trip Potential: The train journey is scenic. Consider getting a Hamburg Group Day Ticket if you're 2+ people and plan to explore Hamburg first. It covers the S-Bahn from the airport and all transport in Hamburg.
FAQs: Hamburg Airport to Lübeck
Is there a direct train from Hamburg Airport to Lübeck?
No. There is no single direct train. You must take the S-Bahn S1 to Hamburg Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) and transfer to a regional train (RE8, RE80, or RB85) to Lübeck.
What is the cheapest way to get from Hamburg Airport to Lübeck?
The FlixBus is consistently the cheapest option, with advance fares as low as â¬5-â¬10. The train is more expensive but offers more frequency and a central transfer point.
How do I get from Hamburg Airport to Lübeck late at night?
After public transport ends (around 11:30 PM), your only practical options are a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. The cost is high (â¬130+). Alternatively, consider staying at an airport hotel and traveling the next morning.
Is the Deutschland-Ticket (â¬49 Ticket) valid for this journey?
Yes, it is perfect for this trip. The â¬49 Ticket covers the S-Bahn S1 from the airport and all regional trains (RE, RB) to Lübeck. It is the most cost-effective option if you plan on using regional transport elsewhere in Germany during the month.
How long is the train journey from Hamburg Airport to Lübeck?
The total journey time, including the S-Bahn ride and transfer, is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. This can vary slightly depending on your waiting time for the connecting train.
Is it better to fly or take the train from Hamburg to Lübeck?
Taking the train is vastly superior. There are no direct commercial flights. "Flying" would involve a long train/bus to another airport, security, a very short flight, and then transport from Lübeck's small airport (LBC) to the city, taking more time and money than the direct train/bus.
Where do I buy train tickets for this route?
The easiest method is via the DB Navigator app. You can also use ticket machines at the Hamburg Airport S-Bahn station. Ensure you buy a ticket for the entire journey ("Hamburg Flughafen to Lübeck Hbf").
Is the journey from Hamburg Airport to Lübeck scenic?
The second leg on the regional train from Hamburg Hbf to Lübeck passes through pleasant countryside and small towns in Schleswig-Holstein. It's a pleasant, though not spectacular, rural view.