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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Showing times and prices for Nov 05
Cheapest price
$57
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
2 h 2 m
Average duration
2 h 29 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
240 km
Cheap tickets
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 $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Karlsruhe Hbf on Wed, Nov 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Nov 05 the direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 2 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 2 m .
On Wed, Nov 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 16 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.
EC 708:53AM2h54
Cologne Hbf11:47AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$571One-way
0 transfers
ICE 10308:55AM2h03
Cologne Hbf10:58AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$721One-way
0 transfers
ICE 515 · ICE 27709:55AM2h02
Cologne Hbf11:57AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$721One-way
1 transfer
S 19 · ICE 915 · ICE 7109:01AM2h08
Cologne Hbf11:09AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$781One-way
2 transfers
ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ICE 7309:53AM3h16
Cologne Hbf01:09PMKarlsruhe Hbf
$1131One-way
2 transfers
ICE 515 · ICE 27709:55AM2h02
Cologne Hbf11:57AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$721One-way
1 transfer
ICE 10308:55AM2h03
Cologne Hbf10:58AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$721One-way
0 transfers
S 19 · ICE 915 · ICE 7109:01AM2h08
Cologne Hbf11:09AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$781One-way
2 transfers
EC 708:53AM2h54
Cologne Hbf11:47AMKarlsruhe Hbf
$571One-way
0 transfers
ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ICE 7309:53AM3h16
Cologne Hbf01:09PMKarlsruhe Hbf
$1131One-way
2 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 prices starting from €12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 31m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €12, and a train costs an average of €15.
Distance: 149 miles (240 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€52 Average price | €22 Average price Cheapest |
3h 1m Average total duration Fastest 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration 3h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trains for today, Tuesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 7:56 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 615 · ICE 377 | Delayed 8:37 PM 6:55 PMCologne Hbf | 2h03 | 8:58 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 205 | Delayed 8:45 PM 7:55 PMCologne Hbf | 2h04 | 10:35 PM 10:35 PMKarlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, November 5 | |||||
| EC 7 | Delayed 8:13 AM 7:53 AMCologne Hbf | 2h54 | 11:19 AM 11:19 AMKarlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 103 | Delayed 8:03 AM 7:55 AMCologne Hbf | 2h03 | 9:58 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| S 19 · ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 8:01 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h08 | 10:09 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ICE 73 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 3h16 | 12:09 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 515 · ICE 277 | Delayed 9:22 AM 8:55 AMCologne Hbf | 2h02 | 10:57 AM 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 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.
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
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
ComfortableQuickCheapSocketsWIFIDisadvantages
Many guestsTravelling by train was very pleasant, the train is quite clean, the toilets were very clean, the seats are comfortable, there is wifi. There are power sockets on site, there are seats with tables and it is faster than by car and still the price is quite cheap. One disadvantage is that sometimes there are too many guests and then it is a bit noisy. I would definitely recommend travelling by train.
Advantages
Very fastCleanPunctual departureDisadvantages
Slight delay on arrivalA little expensiveDirect connection often already fully booked one day before journeyThe route from Cologne to Karlsruhe is one of the few high-speed lines still operated by Deutsche Bahn. This means that you can cover this distance in about 2 hours. There is also a direct connection several times a day, but unfortunately it is often fully booked the day before departure. Both trains of the connection were very clean and in Cologne we left on time, only the ICE, which we had to change to in Mannheim, was a little late, so that we arrived late in Karlsruhe. Overall, I think the price for the connection is also a bit expensive.
Advantages
direct trainDisadvantages
too fullWifi was available, but very slow.
Unfortunately, there was only one power socket for two seats.
The seats were fine, you could sleep in them without any problems.
Reservation of the seats was very easy and uncomplicated online, you choose the desired seat and get it.
Toilets were clean that day.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
GermanyGermany
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 $14 (€12)
Distance 149 miles (240 km) |
Average train duration 2h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 3m |
First train 03:32 |
Last train 22:42 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf start from as low as $18 (€15) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $64 (€52) depending on the train type and class.
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 $14 (€12)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf from $14 (€12). 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
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
The distance by train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is 149 miles (240 km).
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 3m. Trains run 7 times per day over a distance of 149 miles (240 km).
The train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf takes 2h 3m and runs 7 per day.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque Rhine Valley with its rolling hills, vineyards, and historic castles along the riverbanks.
Train ticket prices from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€15), while the average price is around $64 (€52).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€12).
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf leaves at 10:42 PM.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf leaves at 3:32 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Cologne
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
The major train station for arrivals in Karlsruhe is Karlsruhe Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Karlsruhe Hbf for your journey to Karlsruhe from Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Tuesday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Wednesday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Thursday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Friday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 20:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Vinarte
- Am Tiergarten
- Panorama
- Alter Brauhof
Hotel
- Hotel Barbarossa
- Hotel Avisa
- Am Tiergarten
- Aparthotel Aijana
Most popular train connections from Cologne Hbf
More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe Hbf and Cologne Hbf
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