Hamburg to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Fri, Dec 19
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
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Österreichische Bundesbahnen
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

€157

Average price

€181

Fastest journey

4 h 54 m

Average duration

5 h 25 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

521 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Hamburg to Karlsruhe will cost around €181 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €157.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Hamburg for Karlsruhe on Sun, Dec 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 the direct trains cover the 521 km distance in an average of 5 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 54 m .

On Sun, Dec 21 the slowest trains will take 6 h 17 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 BahnECE 5
08:29AM4h54
Hamburg Hbf
01:23PMKarlsruhe Hbf
1571One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 577 · ICE 107
09:29AM5h30
Hamburg Hbf
02:59PMKarlsruhe Hbf
1571One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 107
08:42AM6h17
Hamburg Hbf
02:59PMKarlsruhe Hbf
1611One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 73
10:29AM4h54
Hamburg Hbf
03:23PMKarlsruhe Hbf
2121One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 579 · ICE 109
11:29AM5h30
Hamburg Hbf
04:59PMKarlsruhe Hbf
2201One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Hamburg to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 42m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €21, and a train costs an average of €18.

Distance: 521 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€87

Average price

€41

Average price

Cheapest

6h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 0m

Average total duration

8h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.3kg

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

Hamburg to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Karlsruhe trains for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:24 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus+flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain3:00 AM Hamburg, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof
11h26
2:26 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 103
On time
3:41 AM Hamburg Hbf
6h18
9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 573 · ICE 103
On time
4:29 AM Hamburg Hbf
5h30
9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 71
On time
5:29 AM Hamburg Hbf
4h54
10:23 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 105
On time
5:45 AM Hamburg Hbf
6h14
11:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 575 · ICE 105
On time
6:29 AM Hamburg Hbf
5h30
11:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnECE 5
On time
7:29 AM Hamburg Hbf
4h54
12:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 107
On time
7:42 AM Hamburg Hbf
6h17
1:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 577 · ICE 107
On time
8:29 AM Hamburg Hbf
5h30
1:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 73
On time
9:29 AM Hamburg Hbf
4h54
2:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 109
On time
9:45 AM Hamburg Hbf
6h14
3:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 579 · ICE 109
On time
10:29 AM Hamburg Hbf
5h30
3:59 PM 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 Hamburg to Karlsruhe by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Sat
Dec 20
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Hamburg to Karlsruhe?

The best time to book your train from Hamburg to Karlsruhe is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Hamburg to Karlsruhe route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Hamburg 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 Hamburg to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hamburg to Karlsruhe run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €18 if you book in advance.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 521 km distance in 4h 45m.

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
Distance
521 km
Average train duration
5h 42m
Cheapest ticket price
€18
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
4h 45m
First train
00:11
Last train
23:55
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen from Hamburg to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Österreichische Bundesbahnen trains will get you between Hamburg and Karlsruhe from €18. 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
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
€18
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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest Price
€33
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Österreichische Bundesbahnen

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 55m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Hamburg to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg 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
On average the Hamburg to Karlsruhe train time is 5 h 40 min   covering the 520 km long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Hamburg to Karlsruhe leaves at 06: 46. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Hamburg to Karlsruhe leaves at 21: 28.
There are 26 trains a day from Hamburg to Karlsruhe which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
Take the Hamburg to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn or FlixTrain. However, it's always good to check out all possible train providers for the route to Karlsruhe from Hamburg as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 21: 28.

When departing from Hamburg, you have various train station options to start your trip from including Hamburg Hbf, Hamburg Airport and Hamburg, Hauptbahnhof/Spitalerstraße. When arriving in Karlsruhe, you can end your trip in train stations like Karlsruhe Hbf, Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz and Karlsruhe-Durlach station.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Hamburg Hbf, which is located around 1.9 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Karlsruhe Hbf, located 1.5 miles (2.4 km) away from the city centre.

The cheapest month to travel from Hamburg to Karlsruhe by train is September.
Yes, you can take a coach to Karlsruhe from Hamburg.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Hamburg to Karlsruhe

Hamburg
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Hamburg is Hamburg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Hamburg Hbf for your trip from Hamburg to Karlsruhe.
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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:30
  • Sat - Sun: 08:00 - 20:15
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • The station has luggage lockers.
Dining
Dining
  • Le Crobag
  • Burger King
  • Coffee Fellows
  • Havin Grill
  • KFC
  • Mr. CLOU
  • Starbucks
  • dean&david
  • SPAR Express
  • Pommesfreunde
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station
  • IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof
  • Park Hyatt Hamburg
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.
Hamburg-HarburgWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Tuesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Wednesday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Thursday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Friday: 07:40 - 18:30
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 13:30
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 14:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Dining
Dining
  • Café Bom Dia
  • Hünkar
  • Yoko Sushi Harburg
  • Mathewes Grill
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Panorama
  • Hotel Harburger Hof
  • Hotel Jeta
  • Hotel Süderelbe
Hamburg-AltonaWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Friday: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Ethio
  • Trattoria Toscana
  • Marta
  • Pavillon
Hotel
Hotel
  • Schanzenstern Bio-Restaurant
  • Hotel Hamburg Altona
  • Hotel Central
  • Best Western Raphael Hotel Altona

More options for your journey from Hamburg to Karlsruhe

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Most popular train connections to Karlsruhe

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