Dortmund to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Mon, Aug 24
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Aug 24

Cheapest price

$23

Average price

$88

Fastest journey

4 h 23 m

Average duration

4 h 46 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

287 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Dortmund to Karlsruhe will cost around $88 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Dortmund for Karlsruhe on Mon, Aug 24, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 24 the direct trains cover the 287 km distance in an average of 4 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 23 m .

On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest trains will take 5 h 8 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    12:44 AM5h15
    Dortmund
    5:59 AMKarlsruhe
    $231One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:15 AM4h44
    Dortmund
    12:59 PMKarlsruhe
    $931One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:15 AM5h08
    Dortmund
    12:23 PMKarlsruhe
    $991One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:27 AM4h32
    Dortmund
    12:59 PMKarlsruhe
    $991One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:57 AM5h02
    Dortmund
    11:59 AMKarlsruhe
    $1001One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Dortmund to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dortmund to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 48m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a train costs an average of $23.

Distance: 178 miles (287 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$79

Average price

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$67

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 28m

Average total duration

4h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 58m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Dortmund to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).

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

A bus is $47 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe costing on average $79 (€63).

The fastest way to travel from Dortmund to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 3h 48m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 58m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dortmund and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 10m sooner (3h 48m by train vs 3h 58m by car). Tickets start at around $79 (€63) compared to roughly $67 (€54) 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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

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

Dortmund to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Dortmund to Karlsruhe trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn12:44 AM Dortmund
5h15
5:59 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn6:36 AM Dortmund
4h23
10:59 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn6:57 AM Dortmund
5h02
11:59 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:15 AM Dortmund
5h08
12:23 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Dortmund 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
Aug 24
Tue
Aug 25
Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30

Why should you book Dortmund to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Dortmund to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dortmund to Karlsruhe.

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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Dortmund 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dortmund to Karlsruhe.

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 Dortmund to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Dortmund to Karlsruhe run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:19, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 178 miles (287 km) distance in 3h 12m.

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 $22 (€18)
Distance
178 miles (287 km)
Average train duration
3h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€19)
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 12m
First train
12:19 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
7 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 $22 (€18)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Dortmund to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Dortmund and Karlsruhe from $22 (€18). 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
3h 12m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 12m
Cheapest Price
$75 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

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

Badisches Landesmuseum

Major regional museum inside Karlsruhe Palace, with archaeology, applied arts, and cultural history collections.

  • Must visit

ZKM | Center for Art and Media

Leading center for art and media with exhibitions on digital culture, contemporary art, and immersive technology.

  • Recommended

Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe

State art museum showing works from old masters to modern periods in a distinguished historic setting.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while transit is affordable and many casual meals stay reasonably priced.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Dortmund to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund 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 Dortmund to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $79 (€63).
The train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe takes 3h 12m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:19 AM.
The distance by train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe is 178 miles (287 km).
The last train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dortmund to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Dortmund that goes to Karlsruhe is Dortmund Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Dortmund to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The train journey from Dortmund to Karlsruhe offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the industrial Ruhr area gradually transitioning to the scenic rolling hills and forests of the Rhineland and Baden-Württemberg regions.
A day trip from Dortmund to Karlsruhe is not feasible due to a travel time of 3h 12m. The distance is 178 miles (287 km), and there are 10 trips per day by train.
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 Dortmund to Karlsruhe.
Since both Dortmund 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Dortmund to Karlsruhe

Most Dortmund to Karlsruhe trains use the Dortmund Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe West. Use this guide to compare Dortmund and Karlsruhe train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Dortmund
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Dortmund station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Dortmund to Karlsruhe leave from Dortmund Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Dortmund city centre at Dortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund.
Dortmund HbfDortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 DortmundWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Dortmund Hbf from Dortmund city centre

BusNe13, Ne12, Ne3, 460, 453 · 3m · every ~10 min

Dortmund Hbf train station facilities and services

Dortmund 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: Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.

Dortmund Signal Iduna ParkDortmund Signal-Iduna-Park, Bolmker Weg, 44139 DortmundWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Dortmund Signal Iduna Park from Dortmund city centre

Dortmund Signal Iduna Park is 2 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb53, Rb52, Re57 · 4m · $7 · every ~6 min
BusNe7 · 6m
Re57, Rb52 · 11m · $5
SubwayU46, U45, U41 · 14m · every ~2 min

Dortmund Signal Iduna Park train station facilities and services

Dortmund Signal Iduna Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Strobels, Rosenterassen

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. ATMs are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. Information desks are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Signal Iduna Park.

Dortmund-ScharnhorstDortmund-Scharnhorst, Flughafenstr., 44328 DortmundWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Dortmund-Scharnhorst from Dortmund city centre

Dortmund-Scharnhorst is 5 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 3m · $9

Dortmund-Scharnhorst train station facilities and services

Dortmund-Scharnhorst has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: S&E Café, S&E Imbiss

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst. ATMs are available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst. Information desks are available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund-Scharnhorst.

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