The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Cheapest price on Sep 18
CHF49
Average ticket price on Sep 18
CHF103
Fastest journey on Sep 18
2 h 1 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
2 h 2 m
Trains on Sep 18
29
Distance
240 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf will cost around CHF103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF49.
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 29 trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf, including 6 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 2 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 1 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 2 h 3 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.
FlixTrain · FlixTrain8:14 AM11h13Cologne Hbf7:27 PMKarlsruhe HbfCHF491One-way1 transfer
IC 2048 · ICE 3774:53 PM3h06Cologne Hbf7:59 PMKarlsruhe HbfCHF491One-way1 transfer
ICE 23 · ICE 711 · ICE 1015:53 AM3h06Cologne Hbf8:59 AMKarlsruhe HbfCHF501One-way2 transfers
ICE 511 · ICE 2755:48 AM2h11Cologne Hbf7:59 AMKarlsruhe HbfCHF521One-way1 transfer
ICE 2014:56 PM2h05Cologne Hbf7:01 PMKarlsruhe HbfCHF661One-way0 transfers
10917 · ICE 919 · ICE 731:22 PM2h01Cologne Hbf3:23 PMKarlsruhe HbfCHF1841One-way2 transfers
10909 · ICE 915 · ICE 719:22 AM2h01Cologne Hbf11:23 AMKarlsruhe HbfCHF1071One-way2 transfers
10921 · ICE 1011 · ICE 73:22 PM2h01Cologne Hbf5:23 PMKarlsruhe HbfCHF1761One-way2 transfers
ICE 1038:56 AM2h03Cologne Hbf10:59 AMKarlsruhe HbfCHF1031One-way0 transfers
ICE 1016:56 AM2h03Cologne Hbf8:59 AMKarlsruhe HbfCHF1031One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF25 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 57m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF25, while a train costs an average of CHF65.
Distance: 149 miles (240 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
CHF65 Average price | CHF25 Average price Cheapest | CHF42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 57m Average total duration Fastest 2h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 1m Average total duration 5h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf:
A bus is CHF40 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf costing on average CHF65.
Other travel options to Karlsruhe Hbf take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 31m.
You'll arrive about 25m sooner (2h 27m by train vs 2h 52m by car). Tickets start at around CHF65 compared to roughly CHF42 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 921 · 4251 · ICE 511 · ICE 275 | Delayed 1:50 AM 3:50 AMCologne Hbf | 4h09 | 6:00 AM 6:00 AMKarlsruhe Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
ICE 511 · ICE 275 | On time 5:48 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h11 | 7:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 23 · ICE 711 · ICE 101 | On time 5:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2348 · ICE 277 | On time 6:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 101 | On time 6:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 25 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h30 | 11:23 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 513 · ICE 277 | On time 7:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
FlixTrain · FlixTrain | 8:14 AM Cologne Hbf | 11h13 | 7:27 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2040 · ICE 279 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 11:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 103 | On time 8:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 10:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10909 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 9:22 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 11:23 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 515 · ICE 279 | On time 9:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 11:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 | On time 9:55 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h28 | 1:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 2013 · ICE 371 | On time 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 1:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 105 | On time 10:56 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 1:01 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 225 · ECE 5 | On time 11:20 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h03 | 1:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 29 · ICE 919 · ICE 73 | On time 11:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h30 | 3:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 517 · ICE 371 | On time 11:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 1:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2044 · ICE 373 | On time 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 3:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 107 | On time 12:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 3:01 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10917 · ICE 919 · ICE 73 | On time 1:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 3:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 519 · ICE 373 | On time 1:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 3:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 229 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7 | On time 1:55 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h28 | 5:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
IC 2046 · ICE 375 | On time 2:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h05 | 5:58 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 109 | On time 2:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 5:01 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
10921 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7 | On time 3:22 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h01 | 5:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 611 · ICE 375 | On time 3:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h04 | 5:58 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 927 · 4483 | On time 3:54 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h59 | 7:53 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 2048 · ICE 377 | On time 4:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 3h06 | 7:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 201 | On time 4:56 PM Cologne Hbf | 2h05 | 7:01 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf 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.
Sep 18
Sep 19
Sep 20
Sep 21
Sep 22
Sep 23
Sep 24
Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trains with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
- 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf

Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF15 but you can travel from only CHF14 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:49, the last at 22:13. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (240 km) distance in 1h 46m.
Distance 149 miles (240 km) |
Average train duration 2h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF15 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 46m |
First train 1:49 AM |
Last train 10:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, FlixTrain, TGV from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, FlixTrain, TGV trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf from CHF14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
Hessische Landesbahn
FlixTrain
TGV
FAQs: Trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Most Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trains use the Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre
Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
Köln Hbf train station facilities and services
Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Getting to Karlsruhe Hbf from Karlsruhe city centre
Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe Hbf train station facilities and services
Karlsruhe Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Vinarte, Am Tiergarten, Panorama, Alter Brauhof
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Barbarossa, Hotel Avisa, Am Tiergarten, Aparthotel Aijana.
More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

