Bologna to Karlsruhe train with Trenitalia

Mon, Jun 01
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Trenitalia
Deutsche Bahn
Frecciarossa
Italo
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Frecciarossa
Italo
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Jun 01

Cheapest price

$174

Average price

$174

Fastest journey

10 h

Average duration

10 h

Trains per day

1

Distance

550 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bologna to Karlsruhe will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $174.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bologna to Karlsruhe without transferring at least once.

  • Deutsche BahnRJ 86 · ICE 266
    9:52 AM10h00
    Bologna Centrale
    7:52 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    $1741One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bologna to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 42m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a train costs an average of $72.

Distance: 341 miles (550 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

$197

Average price

$61

Average price

Cheapest

9h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

8h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

13h 2m

Average total duration

12h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

-

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
Trenitalia

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $61 (€49).

This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Karlsruhe:

A bus is $137 (€110) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Karlsruhe costing on average $197 (€159).

The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 8h 42m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 12h 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bologna and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.

Live departures

Bologna to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Karlsruhe trains for tomorrow, Monday, June 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnRJ 86 · ICE 266
On time
9:52 AM Bologna Centrale
10h00
7:52 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 Bologna 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.

Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07

Why should you book Bologna to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Trenitalia as well as Deutsche Bahn, Frecciarossa, Italo and more offer trains services from Bologna to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bologna to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio vs Trenitalia?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Trenitalia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, Frecciarossa or Italo to find the best option for your trip from Bologna 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 Trenitalia with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, Frecciarossa or Italo to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Karlsruhe.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bologna to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bologna to Karlsruhe

ItalyItaly
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Bologna to Karlsruhe run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€58) but you can travel from only $43 (€34) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:20, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 341 miles (550 km) distance in 9h 50m.

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
Bus from $43 (€34)
Distance
341 miles (550 km)
Average train duration
8h 42m
Cheapest ticket price
$72 (€58)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
9h 50m
First train
1:20 AM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
6 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
Bus from $43 (€34)

Train companies: Trenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Frecciarossa, Italo from Bologna to Karlsruhe trainsTrenitalia, Deutsche Bahn, Frecciarossa, Italo trains will get you between Bologna and Karlsruhe from $43 (€34). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Trenitalia

About
Trenitalia is not only Italy's national railroad company but also the country's largest train operator. Trenitalia’s fleet of trains ncludes the high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciargento and Frecciabianca trains as well as intercity, regional and night trains. Bathrooms and WiFi access are standard on long-distance routes. In most cases, the trains also provide barrier-free access. Trenitalia offers different tickets, which vary in price and flexibility: Base, Economy, Super Economy and Ordinaria. You can even use Trenitalia discount cards on Omio. Make sure to look out for the latest offers from Trenitalia on Omio to score special deals!
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, and spaces between seat backs
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on high-speed trains, trolley service with snacks and beverages, vending machines on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, costs extra except on high-speed trains where it's mandatory and included
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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
9h 50m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€58)
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

Frecciarossa

About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 3m
Cheapest Price
$231 (€186)
Frecciarossa frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone

Italo

About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
18h 23m
Cheapest Price
$222 (€179)
Italo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Karlsruhe

Things to do in Karlsruhe

Discover the best of Karlsruhe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlsruhe trip today.

  • Must visit

ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe

Major contemporary art and media museum known for interactive digital art, changing exhibitions, and its influence on media art internationally.

  • Must visit

Badisches Landesmuseum

Regional history museum inside Karlsruhe Palace, featuring archaeology, decorative arts, and cultural history collections from Baden and beyond.

  • Recommended

State Art Gallery Karlsruhe

Important fine arts museum with works from the Middle Ages to modern periods, especially strong in German, Dutch, and French painting.

Euro

Moderate by German standards. Public transport is reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
Mid-range
EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 60-100+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up in cafés and taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is common for good service; hand the tip directly when paying.

FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna 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
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $72 (€58), while the average price is around $197 (€159).
The train from Bologna to Karlsruhe takes 9h 50m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna to Karlsruhe is 341 miles (550 km).
The first train from Bologna to Karlsruhe leaves at 1:20 AM.
The last train from Bologna to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna to Karlsruhe.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bologna to Karlsruhe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bologna to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Karlsruhe is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around $43 (€34).
The train journey from Bologna to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, particularly through the Italian and Swiss Alps, showcasing picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and lush valleys along the route.
A day trip from Bologna to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey duration is 9h 50m and the distance is 341 miles (550 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Karlsruhe.
Since both Bologna and Karlsruhe 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.
Popular day trips by train from Karlsruhe include Strasbourg, Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Basel, Freiburg im Breisgau.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 Karlsruhe, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging in taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use official transportation services and verify fares beforehand. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps 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 train stations

Popular train stations from Bologna to Karlsruhe

Bologna
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Bologna is Bologna Centrale. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bologna Centrale for your trip from Bologna to Karlsruhe.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • A Cafè
  • VyTA Boulangerie
  • Venchi
  • Scambio
  • Juice Bar
  • KFC
  • Dispensa Emilia
  • Lavazza
  • Mokà
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Accessible facilities including barrier-free restrooms, elevators and ramps. Sala Blu mobility assistance available from 07:45 to 22:30 with advanced one-hour notice.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Starhotels Excelsior
  • Millenn Hotel Bologna
  • UNA Hotels
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Public transit options for Bologna Centrale
  • Bus lines: 21, 25, 30, 36, 61, 62, 77, BLQ
  • Monorail lines: Marconi Express
  • Train lines: FR, FA, FB, IC, ICN, R, Italo, ÖBB EC, EN

More options for your journey from Bologna to Karlsruhe

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