- Must visit
ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe
Major contemporary art and media museum known for interactive digital exhibitions in a former industrial hall. One of Karlsruhe’s signature cultural venues.
Cheapest price
$60
Average price
$163
Fastest journey
10 h 12 m
Average duration
10 h 30 m
Trains per day
18
Distance
806 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Budapest to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Karlsruhe will cost around $163 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.
It's difficult to get from Budapest to Karlsruhe without transferring at least once.
IC 854 · RJX 66 · ICE 1060 · 19036
RJX 66 · ICE 1060 · 19036
EC 144+
IC 740+
RJX 66+
ICE 1060
RJX 66+
ICE 1060+
RE1
EC 144+
IC 740+
RJX 66+
ICE 1060
R 4592 · RJX 62 · ICE 266
RJX 62 · ICE 266
RJX 62+
ICE 266
E 1852 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116
IC 864 · EC 142 · RJX 19916 · EC 114Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 11h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a train costs an average of $54.
Distance: 500 miles (806 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$139 Average price | $72 Average price Cheapest | $208 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 50m Average total duration Fastest 11h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 35m Average total duration 13h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Budapest to Karlsruhe:
A bus is $68 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Budapest to Karlsruhe costing on average $139 (€114).
Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 5m.
Tickets start at around $139 (€114) compared to roughly $208 (€171) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $69 (€57). The journey takes 11h 20m versus 9h 40m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Karlsruhe trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RJX 62+ IC 644+ EC 114+ ICE 910 | On time 9:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 11h55 | 9:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4 transfers | |
RJX 62 · ICE 266 | On time 9:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h22 | 7:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 62+ ICE 266 | On time 9:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h22 | 7:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
R 4642 · RJX 62 · ICE 266 | On time 9:40 AM Budapest-Deli | 10h12 | 7:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
EC 142 · RJX 19916 · EC 114 · ICE 910 | 10:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h55 | 9:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4 transfers | |
EC 142+ IC 646+ RJX 64+ ICE 560 | On time 10:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 11h22 | 9:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3 transfers | |
EC 142+ RJX19916+ EC 114+ ICE 910 | 10:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h55 | 9:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4 transfers | |
R 4614 · EC 142 · RJX 19916 · EC 114 | 10:40 AM Budapest-Deli | 10h45 | 9:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 5 transfers | |
RJX 64+ ICE 560 | On time 11:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h22 | 9:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
RJX 64 · ICE 560 | On time 11:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h22 | 9:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
R 4624 · RJX 64 · ICE 560 | On time 11:40 AM Budapest-Deli | 10h12 | 9:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
EC 144+ IC 740+ RJX 66+ ICE 1060 | 12:30 PM Budapest Keleti | 12h49 | 1:19 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4 transfers | |
RJX 66+ ICE 1060+ RE1 | 1:30 PM Budapest Keleti | 11h49 | 1:19 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
EC 148+ RJX19972 · RE5+ ICE 1014 | 4:30 PM Budapest Keleti | 15h01 | 7:31 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
EC 140+ RJX19976+ ICE 116+ RE1 | 8:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h55 | 7:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3 transfers | |
EC 140+ IC 642+ RJX 62+ ICE 266 | On time 8:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 11h22 | 7:52 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3 transfers | |
EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 · 19026 | 8:30 AM Budapest Keleti | 10h55 | 7:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3 transfers | |
E 1852 · EC 140 · RJX 19976 · ICE 116 | 8:40 AM Budapest-Deli | 10h45 | 7:25 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Budapest to Karlsruhe run on average 8 times per day, taking around 11h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) but you can travel from only $49 (€40) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:25, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 500 miles (806 km) distance in 9h 51m.
Distance 500 miles (806 km) |
Average train duration 11h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€44) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 9h 51m |
First train 12:25 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Karlsruhe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlsruhe trip today.
Major contemporary art and media museum known for interactive digital exhibitions in a former industrial hall. One of Karlsruhe’s signature cultural venues.
State museum in Karlsruhe Palace with archaeology, decorative arts, and regional history collections. A key stop for understanding Baden’s past.
Important fine arts museum with European paintings from several centuries. A core destination for classical art lovers in the city.
Large palace park ideal for walking, relaxing, and classic views back toward Karlsruhe Palace. A favorite green space for locals and visitors.
Historic central square with the Karlsruhe Pyramid, shops, and civic buildings. One of the city’s main meeting points.
Hill area above Durlach known for panoramic views, sunset photos, and one of the most popular scenic spots around Karlsruhe.
Large Swabian pasta pockets filled with minced meat, spinach, onions, and herbs, often served in broth or pan-fried. A beloved regional staple commonly found in Baden-Württemberg.
Soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with fried onions. This comforting southern German dish is popular across the region and widely eaten in Karlsruhe.
A thin, crisp tart from the Upper Rhine area, traditionally topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. It is closely associated with nearby Alsace and Baden food culture.
Well-regarded modern fine dining restaurant offering creative tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
Traditional Baden restaurant known for regional dishes, local wines, and a classic rustic atmosphere in central Karlsruhe.
Established venue in a historic industrial-style setting, popular for upscale regional and seasonal cuisine with a stylish atmosphere.
Moderate for Germany. Public transport and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more during fairs and peak periods.
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or leave about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated at cafés; not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Karlsruhe Hbf, Karlsruhe -> Marktplatz, Karlsruhe
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest 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.

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