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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Karlsruhe
Showing times and prices for Dec 03
Cheapest price
$37
Average price
$57
Fastest journey
2 h 3 m
Average duration
2 h 34 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Karlsruhe on Wed, Dec 03, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Dec 03 the direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 2 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 3 m .
On Wed, Dec 03 the slowest trains will take 2 h 54 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.
06:55AM2h03
Cologne08:58AMKarlsruhe
$371One-way
0 transfers
04:55AM2h03
Cologne06:58AMKarlsruhe
$451One-way
0 transfers
06:53AM2h54
Cologne09:47AMKarlsruhe
$621One-way
0 transfers
06:54AM2h54
Cologne09:48AMKarlsruhe
$621One-way
0 transfers
10:53AM2h55
Cologne01:48PMKarlsruhe
$791One-way
0 transfers
06:55AM2h03
Cologne08:58AMKarlsruhe
$371One-way
0 transfers
04:55AM2h03
Cologne06:58AMKarlsruhe
$451One-way
0 transfers
06:53AM2h54
Cologne09:47AMKarlsruhe
$621One-way
0 transfers
06:54AM2h54
Cologne09:48AMKarlsruhe
$621One-way
0 transfers
08:53AM2h54
Cologne11:47AMKarlsruhe
$821One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cologne to Karlsruhe
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 37m. 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 €14, and a train costs an average of €15.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€64 Average price | €24 Average price Cheapest |
3h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration 3h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cologne to Karlsruhe train times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Karlsruhe trains for today, Tuesday, December 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 1:43 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 7 | On time 7:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h54 | 10:47 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 103 | On time 7:55 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2h03 | 9:58 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 8:10 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1h59 | 10:09 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 121 · ICE 277 | On time 8:28 AM Cologne Hbf | 2h29 | 10:57 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 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 | On time 8:57 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 2h00 | 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 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cologne to Karlsruhe?
The best time to book your train from Cologne to Karlsruhe is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cologne to Karlsruhe route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cologne to Karlsruhe per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Trains
from $22Buses
from $17ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Karlsruhe
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
Wi-Fi availableToilets are cleanTrain conductors are niceSockets are availableDisadvantages
Food unfortunately got coldTrain wobbles a bitThe journey was very pleasant and passed quickly. There was wifi and power sockets, the comfort of the seats was very good. The train was a bit noisy, but you were well catered for. The train attendants were very nice and always gave the information in time. The toilets are very hygienic but the train unfortunately not so, the journey was very punctual and you did not have to change trains. The price was very good. But in all I would recommend it.
Advantages
Wifi availableSockets availableComfortable journeyToilet availableDisadvantages
The train is a bit noisyThe journey was quite comfortable and cosy. You have wifi and power sockets available on site, the staff are quite friendly, you have a TV on site showing the next station. The train was pretty punctual and I didn't have to change trains. The price is pretty okay for me, it was pretty worth it. The only downside is that the train was a bit noisy.
Advantages
On timeFriendlyDisadvantages
Lack of connectionsThe train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne was a pleasant and comfortable travel experience. The train was on time and well organised so that I could reach my destination without any problems. The seats on the train were comfortable and offered enough space to sit back and relax during the journey. The train staff were friendly and helpful and the service on board was satisfactory. However, a minor drawback is the limited train frequency on this route. It would be desirable if there were more connections to be more flexible in planning your journey. Nevertheless, I was able to plan my journey well and only had to spend minimal effort on booking tickets and changing trains.All in all, I can recommend the train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne. It was a relaxed and enjoyable journey with a good combination of comfort, service and scenic enjoyment. Whether for a weekend getaway or a business trip, the train offers a reliable and comfortable transport option.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cologne to Karlsruhe
GermanyGermany
Trains from Cologne to Karlsruhe run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $18 (€14) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 2h 1m.
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 $18 (€14)
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
Average train duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 1m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
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 $18 (€14)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne and Karlsruhe from $18 (€14). 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 1m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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 to Karlsruhe
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne 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.
A day trip from Cologne to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 1m. Trains run 10 times per day.
The train journey from Cologne to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, particularly as it passes along the Rhine River, showcasing picturesque vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles.
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 train from Cologne to Karlsruhe takes 2h 1m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Karlsruhe is 147 miles (238 km).
The last train from Cologne to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:58 PM.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Karlsruhe is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19 (€15), while the average price is around $79 (€64).
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€14).
The first train from Cologne to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:01 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Karlsruhe. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cologne to Karlsruhe
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.
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
Köln-Mülheim
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Tuesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Wednesday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Thursday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
- Friday: 08:30 12:45 - 12:00 16:30
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Zum Piccolo
- Kolpinghaus
- Pizzeria Marco Polo
- Grill Stube
Hotel
- Pension Europa
- Hotel Geisler
- The niu Mill
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Köln Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Subway
- Ganesha
- Magnus
- Borsalino
Hotel
- Hotel Chelsea
- Hotel Mado
- Elite Hotel
- Blacksheep Hostel
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
10 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Hotel
- Haus Wester
Köln-Chorweiler Nord
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
11 kmDining
- Weiler Kebap
- Başak Grill
- Le'zzet
- Seniorencafé Treffpunkt
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Imbiss Athena
- Arena Grill
- Cafe Especial
- Joe Champs
Hotel
- Pension Helenenwall
- Zur guten Quelle
- Zum Goldenen Hut
- Merlin
Köln Airport-Businesspark
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmDining
- Yilmaz
- Bistro im Park
- Restaurant Fernandes
- Orient Palais Restaurants & Catering
Köln Hansaring
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- McDonald's
- Wartesaal am Dom
- Alte Feuerwache
- Al Andalus
Hotel
- A&O Köln Dom
- City Pension Storch II
- Azimut Hotel
- First Domizil
Porz-Wahn
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
12 kmDining
- Brauhaus Eltzhof
- Cafe Wanda
- East Time
- Olymp
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
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 13:00
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Hubraum
- Vogel Hausbräu Durlach
- Asia Gourmet
- Borsalino
Hotel
- Hotel Große Linde
- Zum Erwin
- Der Blaue Reiter
Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmMore options for your journey from Cologne to Karlsruhe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe and Cologne
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