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

Wed, Dec 10
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
FlixTrain
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | InterCity
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
FlixTrain
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | InterCity
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Basel

Showing times and prices for Dec 11

Cheapest price

€12

Average price

€54

Fastest journey

1 h 44 m

Average duration

1 h 47 m

Trains per day

7

Distance

172 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Basel will cost around €54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €12.

Fast trains

Of the 7 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Basel on Thu, Dec 11, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Dec 11 the direct trains cover the 172 km distance in an average of 1 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 44 m .

On Thu, Dec 11 the slowest trains will take 1 h 49 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.

FlixTrainFlixTrain
07:10PM2h08
Karlsruhe Hbf
09:18PMBasel Bad Bhf
121One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 5
07:59AM1h49
Karlsruhe Hbf
09:48AMBasel SBB
341One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 101
09:00AM1h48
Karlsruhe Hbf
10:48AMBasel SBB
341One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnECE 151
09:11AM1h44
Karlsruhe Hbf
10:55AMBasel SBB
431One-way
0 transfers
ÖBB | ICEICE 101
09:00AM1h48
Karlsruhe Hbf
10:48AMBasel SBB
851One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Karlsruhe to Basel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 53m. 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 €10, and a train costs an average of €6.

Distance: 172 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€17

Average price

€15

Average price

Cheapest

2h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 37m

Average total duration

3h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Karlsruhe to Basel train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Basel trains for today, Wednesday, December 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 4:02 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 5
On time
6:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1h49
8:48 AM Basel SBB
0 transfersDirect
obb_intercity_expressICE 101
On time
8:00 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1h48
9:48 AM Basel SBB
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 101
On time
8:00 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1h48
9:48 AM Basel SBB
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnECE 151
On time
8:11 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1h44
9:55 AM Basel SBB
0 transfersDirect
obb_intercity_expressICE 2758:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1h49
10:48 AM Basel SBB0 transfersDirect
obb_intercity_expressICE 10310:00 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1h48
11:48 AM Basel SBB0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain4:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
1h49
6:14 PM Basel Bad Bhf0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Basel 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.

Wed
Dec 10
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Dec 11
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Dec 30

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Karlsruhe to Basel?

The best time to book your train from Karlsruhe to Basel is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Karlsruhe to Basel route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Karlsruhe to Basel 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 Karlsruhe to Basel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Basel

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Basel run on average 13 times per day, taking around 1h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €6 if you book in advance.

There are 13 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:02, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 172 km distance in 1h 44m.

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
172 km
Average train duration
1h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
€6
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
13
Fastest train
1h 44m
First train
02:02
Last train
23:53
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, ÖBB | ICE, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity from Karlsruhe to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Basel from €6. 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
1h 48m
Cheapest Price
€30
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
€87
ÖBB | ICE frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
€5
FlixTrain frequency
1 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

ÖBB | Euro City (EC)

About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 44m
Cheapest Price
€68
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

ÖBB | InterCity

About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Basel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Basel 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 Basel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The average journey time by train from Karlsruhe to Basel is 1 h 36 min   to travel the 171 km long journey, with around there are 28 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Basel leaves at 04: 56. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Basel leaves at 22: 13.
Yes, there are 28 direct trains a day from Karlsruhe to Basel with Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB, ÖBB | ICE or ÖBB | Euro City (EC). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
For the best Karlsruhe to Basel train to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | ICE, Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | InterCity or SNCF TER. However, it's always good to check all possible train companies with services to Basel from Karlsruhe to compare what amenities they may offer.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 22: 13.

When departing from Karlsruhe, you have various train station options to start your trip from including Karlsruhe Hbf, Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz and Karlsruhe-Durlach station. When arriving in Basel, you can end your trip in train stations like Basel SBB, Basel Bad Bhf and Basel St. Johann.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Karlsruhe Hbf, which is located around 1.5 miles (2.4 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Basel SBB, located 1.3 miles (2.1 km) away from the city centre.

The cheapest month for a train from Karlsruhe to Basel is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Basel including taking a coach or train.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Karlsruhe to Basel

Karlsruhe
Basel
The major train station for departures in Karlsruhe is Karlsruhe Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Karlsruhe Hbf for your trip from Karlsruhe to Basel.
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: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Friday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Vinarte
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Panorama
  • Alter Brauhof
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Barbarossa
  • Hotel Avisa
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Aparthotel Aijana
Karlsruhe-DurlachWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Tuesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Wednesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Thursday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Friday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 13:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Hubraum
  • Vogel Hausbräu Durlach
  • Asia Gourmet
  • Borsalino
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Große Linde
  • Zum Erwin
  • Der Blaue Reiter
Karlsruhe-KnielingenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost 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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Dining
Dining
  • Vesuvio
  • El Taco
  • Emily’s Thai Spezialitäten
  • Pizzeria Steinofen

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