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

Tue, Nov 25
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB Nightjet
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB Nightjet
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Nov 26

Cheapest price

$80

Average price

$146

Fastest journey

1 h 43 m

Average duration

1 h 43 m

Trains per day

10

Distance

172 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Basel to Karlsruhe will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $80.

Fast trains

Of the 10 trains that leave Basel for Karlsruhe on Wed, Nov 26, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Nov 26 the direct trains cover the 172 km distance in an average of 1 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 43 m .

On Wed, Nov 26 the slowest trains will take 1 h 45 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 1067
08:27AM1h58
Basel SBB
10:25AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$801One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 372
08:13AM1h45
Basel SBB
09:58AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$851One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 370
10:13AM1h45
Basel SBB
11:58AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$851One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 74
11:06AM1h43
Basel SBB
12:49PMKarlsruhe Hbf
$1011One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 76
09:06AM1h43
Basel SBB
10:49AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$1011One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Basel to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Karlsruhe 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: 106 miles (172 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€23

Average price

€15

Average price

Cheapest

2h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 38m

Average total duration

3h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

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

Basel to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Basel to Karlsruhe trains for today, Tuesday, November 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:41 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
obb_intercity_expressICE 374
On time
5:13 AM Basel SBB
1h45
6:58 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 374
On time
5:13 AM Basel SBB
1h45
6:58 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 78
On time
6:06 AM Basel SBB
1h43
7:49 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
obb_intercity_expressICE 78
On time
6:06 AM Basel SBB
1h43
7:49 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 372
On time
7:13 AM Basel SBB
1h45
8:58 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
obb_intercity_expressICE 372
On time
7:13 AM Basel SBB
1h45
8:58 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
obb_intercity_expressICE 1067
On time
7:27 AM Basel SBB
1h58
9:25 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1067
On time
7:27 AM Basel SBB
1h58
9:25 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrainFlixTrain8:27 AM Basel Bad Bhf
1h53
10:20 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 Basel 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.

Wed
Nov 26
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Basel to Karlsruhe

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconHygiene
IconSmoothly
IconGood value
Disadvantages
Iconto be paid in francs
IconMore expensive than by car
IconOnly worthwhile with a supplementary ticket
The track is very nice, there is good food in the IC, and everything is hygienic. The WCS is also really very clean. The train staff are friendly and helpful. The seating facilities and especially the quiet compartments are also very helpful. The on-board restaurant also makes quite tasty food, the latte machiatto was a bit watery.
Advantages
IconOn time
IconFast connection
IconClean
Disadvantages
IconFull
IconA little loud
IconExpensive (if no saver fare)
On this route, the ICE is a very good alternative to the car, especially with the many traffic jams on the A5. Unfortunately, it is only a little more expensive and on the day of travel also very crowded and accordingly noisy. The train left on time and also arrived in Karlsruhe on time. Everything was clean and well maintained.
Advantages
IconQuiet
Disadvantages
IconSlightly delayed
I travelled on this train in first class, which was very quiet and comfortable. I had a free choice of seats. At my seat there were 2 power sockets for 2 seats and an armrest and reading light for both. Unfortunately, I couldn't order food in the app, but there was a small piece of chocolate for free. The staff were very friendly when they asked if I wanted something from the dining car. I was able to get information about the current journey in the DB app or on one of the screens hanging in the walkway. The carriage, including the toilet, was clean. It took me about 2 hours for this journey, with a 10-minute delay. The price-performance ratio was okay.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Basel to Karlsruhe

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Basel to Karlsruhe run on average 15 times per day, taking around 1h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€6) if you book in advance.

There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 106 miles (172 km) distance in 1h 42m.

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
106 miles (172 km)
Average train duration
1h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
$7 (€6)
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
15
Fastest train
1h 42m
First train
00:06
Last train
23:54

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Basel to Karlsruhe start from as low as $7 (€6) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $29 (€23) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 15 daily trains from Basel to Karlsruhe with 15 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 1h 42m but the average duration is 1h 53m
Train Operators
  • Travel from Basel to Karlsruhe with Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, and ÖBB Nightjet
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Deutsche Bahn.
  • High-speed trains are available.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from Basel SBB and arrive in Karlsruhe Hbf
  • First train typically departs at 12:06 AM and the last at 11:54 PM
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, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet from Basel to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Basel and Karlsruhe from $7 (€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 42m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
1h 53m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€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 | 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
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€76)
ÖBB | ICE frequency
7 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

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
Average Duration
1h 59m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€72)
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

ÖBB Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Basel to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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
Yes, a day trip from Basel to Karlsruhe is feasible as the journey takes 1h 42m and trains run 15 times per day, covering a distance of 106 miles (172 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Karlsruhe's main attractions, including the Karlsruhe Palace, ZKM Center for Art and Media, and the Botanical Garden.
The distance by train from Basel to Karlsruhe is 106 miles (172 km).
The train station in Basel that goes to Karlsruhe is Basel SBB, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The train from Basel to Karlsruhe takes 1h 42m and runs 15 per day.
The train journey from Basel to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, and charming German villages.
The last train from Basel to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:54 PM.
Yes, there is a night train from Basel to Karlsruhe.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7 (€6), while the average price is around $29 (€23).
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Karlsruhe is by train, with a cost of around $7 (€6).
The first train from Basel to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:06 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Karlsruhe.
Yes, there is a direct train from Basel to Karlsruhe. This service operates 15 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | InterCity.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Basel to Karlsruhe

Basel
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel Bad Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel Bad Bhf for your trip from Basel to Karlsruhe.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
8
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Les Gareçons
  • Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Alexander
  • Hotel Wettstein
  • Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 330 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
  • Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
  • Tram: Line 2, Line 6
  • Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
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
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
10
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurant Da Roberto
  • Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • CHF 2
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Victoria
  • Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
  • GAIA Hotel
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 800 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
  • Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
  • Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
  • Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
  • Bus: Several lines available
Basel, Badischer BahnhofParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingCar Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km

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