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4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Karlsruhe
Cheapest price
€18
Average price
€49
Fastest journey
1 h 51 m
Average duration
1 h 52 m
Trains per day
37
Distance
238 km
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 €49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €18.
Of the 37 trains that leave Cologne for Karlsruhe on Thu, Jul 30, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 30 the direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 1 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 51 m .
On Thu, Jul 30 the slowest trains will take 1 h 53 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.
33609 · ICE 921 · 4751 · 41443:56 AM4h48Cologne Hbf8:44 AMKarlsruhe Hbf€181One-way4 transfers- ICE 921 · 4251 · 29697 · S63:49 AM4h10Cologne Hbf7:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf€181One-way4 transfers
- ICE 617 · ICE 6779:54 PM2h35Cologne Hbf12:29 AMKarlsruhe Hbf€181One-way1 transfer
- ICE 2058:54 PM2h05Cologne Hbf10:59 PMKarlsruhe Hbf€181One-way0 transfers
- ICE 619 · IC 6040312:13 AM3h47Cologne Hbf4:00 AMKarlsruhe Hbf€231One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1013 · ICE 755:32 PM1h51Cologne Messe/Deutz7:23 PMKarlsruhe Hbf€631One-way1 transfer
- ICE 915 · ICE 719:31 AM1h52Cologne Messe/Deutz11:23 AMKarlsruhe Hbf€631One-way1 transfer
- ICE 919 · ICE 731:30 PM1h53Cologne Messe/Deutz3:23 PMKarlsruhe Hbf€581One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1011 · ICE 73:30 PM1h53Cologne Messe/Deutz5:23 PMKarlsruhe Hbf€481One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1015 · ECE 97:30 PM1h53Cologne Messe/Deutz9:23 PMKarlsruhe Hbf€481One-way1 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 29m. 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 €16.
Distance: 238 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€62 Average price | €22 Average price Cheapest |
2h 59m Average total duration Fastest 2h 29m 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 |
Most popular train company |  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, Wednesday, July 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:42 AM Cologne | 3h17 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:53 AM Cologne | 3h06 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:53 AM Cologne | 3h13 | 11:06 AM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:58 AM Cologne | 2h46 | 10:44 AM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:43 AM Cologne | 3h16 | 11:59 AM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:53 AM Cologne | 3h30 | 12:23 PM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:53 PM Cologne | 3h05 | 4:58 PM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, July 30 | |||||
| ICE 619 · IC 60403 | Delayed 12:13 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h47 | 2:00 AM 2:00 AMKarlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 827 · ICE 273 | Delayed 3:21 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h38 | 4:59 AM 4:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 33609 · ICE 921 · 4751 · 4144 | 3:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h48 | 8:44 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 511 · ICE 275 | On time 5:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h11 | 7:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 23 · ICE 711 · ICE 101 | 5:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2348 · ICE 277 | On time 6:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 101 | 6:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 33623 · 4475 | 6:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 4h57 | 11:53 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 513 · ICE 277 | On time 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
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.
Jul 30
Jul 31
Aug 01
Aug 02
Aug 03
Aug 04
Aug 05
Why should you book Cologne to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Karlsruhe?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Karlsruhe
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Karlsruhe run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €16 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 1h 52m.
Distance 238 km |
Average train duration 2h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price €16 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 52m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) 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
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.
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.
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.
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Karlsruhe
Most Cologne to Karlsruhe trains use the Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Karlsruhe train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Cologne station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre
Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services
Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.
Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre
Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services
Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.
Which Karlsruhe station do trains from Cologne arrive at?
Getting to Karlsruhe Hbf from Karlsruhe city centre
Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe Hbf train station facilities and services
Karlsruhe Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Vinarte, Am Tiergarten, Panorama, Alter Brauhof
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Barbarossa, Hotel Avisa, Am Tiergarten, Aparthotel Aijana.
Getting to Karlsruhe-Durlach from Karlsruhe city centre
Karlsruhe-Durlach is 5 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe-Durlach train station facilities and services
Karlsruhe-Durlach has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Hubraum, Vogel Hausbräu Durlach, Asia Gourmet, Borsalino
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Karlsruhe-Durlach: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Karlsruhe-Durlach: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Große Linde, Zum Erwin, Der Blaue Reiter.
Getting to Karlsruhe West from Karlsruhe city centre
Karlsruhe West is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe West train station facilities and services
Karlsruhe West has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Beim Schupi, Rosenstüble 2.0, Saloniki, Rote Taube
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe West. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe West. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Karlsruhe West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Karlsruhe West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Beim Schupi.
Most popular train connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Karlsruhe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe and Cologne
Most popular train connections to Karlsruhe
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