Cologne to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC,RE,RB)

Thu, Jan 29
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Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
Regiojet
Northern Rail (3)
TransPennine Express
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
Regiojet
Northern Rail (3)
TransPennine Express
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Jan 30

Cheapest price

€46

Average price

€74

Fastest journey

1 h 52 m

Average duration

2 h 2 m

Trains per day

10

Distance

238 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe will cost around €74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €46.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Cologne for Karlsruhe on Fri, Jan 30, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jan 30 the direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 2 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 52 m .

On Fri, Jan 30 the slowest trains will take 2 h 5 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Deutsche BahnICE 511 · ICE 275
05:48AM2h11
Cologne Hbf
07:59AMKarlsruhe Hbf
€461One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 101
06:54AM2h05
Cologne Hbf
08:59AMKarlsruhe Hbf
€651One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 25 · ICE 71
07:50AM3h33
Cologne Messe/Deutz
11:23AMKarlsruhe Hbf
€691One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 27 · ECE 5
09:50AM3h33
Cologne Messe/Deutz
01:23PMKarlsruhe Hbf
€691One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2960 · ICE 279
08:37AM3h22
Cologne Hbf
11:59AMKarlsruhe Hbf
€691One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €14, and a train costs an average of €15.

Distance: 238 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€64

Average price

€24

Average price

Cheapest

3h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 22m

Average total duration

3h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cologne to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Karlsruhe trains for today, Thursday, January 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 6:10 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnIC 2960 · ICE 279
On time
7:08 AM Cologne Hbf
3h51
10:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 103
Delayed
8:11 AM 7:54 AMCologne Hbf
2h05
10:00 AM 10:00 AMKarlsruhe Hbf		0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 27 · ECE 5
On time
8:22 AM Cologne Hbf
4h01
12:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 915 · ICE 71
On time
8:31 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1h52
10:23 AM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 515 · ICE 279
Delayed
8:59 AM 8:54 AMCologne Hbf
2h05
10:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 219 · 15975
On time
8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
2h46
11:44 AM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnIC 2013 · 15979
On time
9:40 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
4h04
1:44 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 105
On time
9:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h05
11:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf		0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 225 · ECE 5
Delayed
10:44 AM 10:28 AMCologne Hbf
1h55
12:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 517 · ICE 371
Delayed
10:56 AM 10:54 AMCologne Hbf
2h05
12:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 107
On time
11:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h05
1:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 919 · ICE 73
On time
12:30 PM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1h53
2:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 229 · ICE 7
On time
12:43 PM Cologne Hbf
3h40
4:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 519 · ICE 373
On time
12:54 PM Cologne Hbf
2h05
2:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
Friday, January 30
deutsche_bahnICE 511 · ICE 2754:48 AM Cologne Hbf
2h11
6:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1648 · ICE 277
On time
5:08 AM Cologne Hbf
3h51
8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf		1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 1015:54 AM Cologne Hbf
2h05
7:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Karlsruhe by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Fri
Jan 30
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Karlsruhe?

The best time to book your train from Cologne to Karlsruhe is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Karlsruhe route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Karlsruhe per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Karlsruhe run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €15 but you can travel from only €14 by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 238 km distance in 2h 1m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €14
Distance
238 km
Average train duration
2h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
€15
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 1m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €14

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Karlsruhe from €14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest Price
€15
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Karlsruhe by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Karlsruhe, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Cologne to Karlsruhe can start from as little as €15 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cologne to Karlsruhe is €64; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Cologne to Karlsruhe is 2h 1m to travel the 238 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Cologne to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Cologne to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes,there are 3 direct trains a day from Cologne to Karlsruhe with Deutsche Bahn. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Cologne to Karlsruhe, you can count on Deutsche Bahn for the best way to get you to Karlsruhe. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Cologne and Karlsruhe and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Karlsruhe from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 1m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cologne to Karlsruhe is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Karlsruhe

Cologne
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Köln HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Köln Messe/DeutzWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Köln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 Köln
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Imbiss Athena
  • Arena Grill
  • Cafe Especial
  • Joe Champs
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pension Helenenwall
  • Zur guten Quelle
  • Zum Goldenen Hut
  • Merlin
Köln/Bonn FlughafenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Köln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 Köln
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
  • Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bistro Leysieffer
  • Mishba
  • Ständige Vertretung
  • Kamps

More options for your journey from Cologne to Karlsruhe

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Tickets and more information for trains to Karlsruhe

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