- Recommended
Kurpfälzisches Museum
Heidelberg’s main city museum with archaeology, paintings, decorative arts, and regional history collections in a Baroque palace.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$4
Average price
$5
Fastest journey
20 m
Average duration
30 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
50 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg will cost around $5 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $4.
Fast buses
Of the 5 buses that leave Karlsruhe for Heidelberg on Fri, Jun 05, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct buses cover the 50 km distance in an average of 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 20 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest buses will take 40 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.
4:00 PM0h20Karlsruhe4:20 PMHeidelberg$41One-way0 transfers- 2:40 PM0h30Karlsruhe3:10 PMHeidelberg$41One-way0 transfers
- 11:10 AM0h20Karlsruhe11:30 AMHeidelberg$41One-way0 transfers
- 2:50 PM0h40Karlsruhe3:30 PMHeidelberg$51One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM0h40Karlsruhe8:40 AMHeidelberg$51One-way0 transfers
- 4:00 PM0h20Karlsruhe4:20 PMHeidelberg$41One-way0 transfers
- 11:10 AM0h20Karlsruhe11:30 AMHeidelberg$41One-way0 transfers
- 2:40 PM0h30Karlsruhe3:10 PMHeidelberg$41One-way0 transfers
- 2:50 PM0h40Karlsruhe3:30 PMHeidelberg$51One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM0h40Karlsruhe8:40 AMHeidelberg$51One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Karlsruhe to Heidelberg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $5.
Distance: 31 miles (50 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$11 Average price Cheapest | $14 Average price | $11 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 7m Average total duration 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 5m Average total duration Fastest 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg is a bus with an average price of $11 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg:
A bus is $3 (€2) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg costing on average $14 (€11).
The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg is by train with an average journey time of 35m.
Other travel options to Heidelberg take longer:
Bus takes on average 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Heidelberg including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about 11m sooner (37m by bus vs 48m by car) and save roughly $0.06 (€0.05) compared to fuel and tolls ($11 (€9) vs $11 (€9)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by BlaBlaCar, FlixBus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Karlsruhe to Heidelberg Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 12:59AM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 02:54AM | Duration 0h39 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 06:29AM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 06:39AM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 08:09AM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 08:40AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 10:39AM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 12:04PM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 01:49PM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 02:49PM | Duration 0h44 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $7 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $3 |
Live departures
Karlsruhe to Heidelberg bus times
The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Heidelberg buses for tomorrow, Friday, June 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM Karlsruhe | 0h40 | 8:40 AM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:10 AM Karlsruhe | 0h20 | 11:30 AM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:40 PM Karlsruhe | 0h30 | 3:10 PM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:50 PM Karlsruhe | 0h40 | 3:30 PM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:00 PM Karlsruhe | 0h20 | 4:20 PM Heidelberg | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Heidelberg 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
Jun 05
Jun 05
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Sun
Jun 14
Jun 14
Wed
Jun 17
Jun 17
Why should you book Karlsruhe to Heidelberg buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg
GermanyGermany
Buses from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg run on average 4 times per day, taking around 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by train.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 08:30, the last at 20:21. The fastest bus covers the 31 miles (50 km) distance in 39m.
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
Train from $5 (€4)
Distance 31 miles (50 km) |
Average bus duration 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 39m |
First bus 8:30 AM |
Last bus 8:21 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Train from $5 (€4)
Bus providers: BlaBlaCar, FlixBus from Karlsruhe to HeidelbergYou can travel by bus between Karlsruhe to Heidelberg with BlaBlaCar, FlixBus for as low as $5 (€4). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
39m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
FlixBus frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Heidelberg
Things to do in Heidelberg
Discover the best of Heidelberg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heidelberg trip today.
- Recommended
Deutsches Apotheken-Museum
Specialized museum inside Heidelberg Castle presenting the history of pharmacy, medicinal herbs, and historic apothecary interiors.
- Recommended
Körperwelten Museum Heidelberg
Popular anatomy museum using plastination to explain the human body, health, and lifestyle in an accessible way.
- Must visit
Altstadt Heidelberg
Heidelberg’s Old Town is the city’s essential walking area, packed with historic lanes, shops, and classic views.
- Must visit
Philosophenweg
Famous hillside path with panoramic views over Heidelberg, the castle, and the Neckar; especially popular at sunset.
- Recommended
Hauptstrasse
One of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, running through the Old Town and linking major sights.
- Gluten-free
Pfälzer Saumagen
A traditional regional specialty from nearby Kurpfalz and the Palatinate: seasoned pork, potatoes, and spices stuffed into a casing and sliced. It is one of the best-known hearty dishes around the He
Leberkndel Suppe
A classic southern German soup with liver dumplings served in clear broth. Common in traditional inns around Heidelberg and valued as a warming starter.
Maultaschen
Large Swabian-style filled pasta pockets, often served in broth or fried with onions. In Heidelberg they are widely eaten due to the regions southern German food culture.
Weinstube Schnitzelbank
Established cozy wine tavern known for Baden and Palatinate specialties, local wines, and a classic cellar-style ambiance.
Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus
Well-known brewpub serving house beer and hearty German classics in a rustic setting near the historic center.
Zum Roten Ochsen
One of Heidelbergs most famous historic student taverns, offering traditional regional fare in an old-world atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Student spots keep lunches affordable, but hotels and dining in the old town cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for a quick meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés if pleased.
myVRN
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 7.90
To the city center
Heidelberg, Alte Eppelheimer Straße (Hbf) -> Bismarckplatz, Heidelberg
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- You can buy VRN tickets in the myVRN app, at ticket machines, and at many stops; validate paper tickets if required before travel.
- Card payment availability varies by vehicle and machine, so carry a payment card and a small backup amount of cash for buses or older machines.
FAQs: Bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Heidelberg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg can start from as little as $11 (€9) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Karlsruhe to Heidelberg is $11 (€9) ; 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 bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg is 39m to travel the 31 miles (50 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg leaves at 8:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg leaves at 8:21 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg with BlaBlaCar, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg, you can count on BlaBlaCar, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Heidelberg. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Karlsruhe and Heidelberg and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Heidelberg from Karlsruhe is worth doing with a journey time of 39m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Heidelberg including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Heidelberg are:
- Heidelberg Castle, a historic ruin offering panoramic views of the Neckar River and the city
- Old Bridge, an iconic 18th-century stone bridge with picturesque views and statues
- Philosopher's Walk, a scenic path providing stunning vistas of Heidelberg and its castle
- Heidelberg University, Germany's oldest university with a rich academic heritage and beautiful architecture
- Church of the Holy Spirit, a prominent Gothic church located in the heart of the Old Town.
The best things to do in Heidelberg include:
- Heidelberg Zoo, a family-friendly attraction featuring a variety of animal exhibits and conservation programs
- Explore the vibrant Hauptstrasse, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, filled with shops, cafes, and local culture
- Take a boat tour on the Neckar River for unique views of the city and surrounding landscapes
- Visit the German Pharmacy Museum located within Heidelberg Castle, showcasing the history of pharmacy and medicine
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour in the nearby vineyards of the Baden region.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Karlsruhe and Heidelberg are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg among Omio's users.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Heidelberg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and near the train station. Common scams include distraction techniques in busy spots and overpriced taxi rides. Staying vigilant in popular tourist zones and using official transport services can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg
Karlsruhe
Heidelberg
The major bus 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 Heidelberg.
Karlsruhe Hbf
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Heidelberg is Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof for your trip to Heidelberg from Karlsruhe.
Heidelberg, Hauptbahnhof
information
Most popular bus connections from Karlsruhe
More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Heidelberg and Karlsruhe
Most popular bus connections to Heidelberg
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