- Must visit
Badisches Landesmuseum
Major regional museum inside Karlsruhe Palace, with archaeology, applied arts, and cultural history collections.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund to Karlsruhe
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08
Cheapest price on Oct 08
$112
Average ticket price on Oct 08
$143
Fastest journey on Oct 08
3 h 37 m
Average journey duration on Oct 08
4 h 16 m
Trains on Oct 08
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 $143 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $112.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Dortmund to Karlsruhe without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 2042 · ICE 2013 · ICE 371 · STR 39:36 AM4h37Dortmund Hbf2:13 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1121One-way3 transfers- ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · STR 38:20 AM5h23Dortmund Hbf1:43 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1261One-way3 transfers
- IC 2042 · ICE 105 · STR 39:36 AM3h47Dortmund Hbf1:23 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1431One-way2 transfers
- ICE 515 · ICE 279 · STR 38:36 AM3h37Dortmund Hbf12:13 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1431One-way2 transfers
- 26711 · ICE 797 · ICE 597 · ICE 1079:39 AM5h44Dortmund Hbf3:23 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1591One-way4 transfers
- ICE 515 · ICE 279 · STR 38:36 AM3h37Dortmund Hbf12:13 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1431One-way2 transfers
- IC 2042 · ICE 105 · STR 39:36 AM3h47Dortmund Hbf1:23 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1431One-way2 transfers
- 26812 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · STR 39:45 AM3h58Dortmund Hbf1:43 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1761One-way3 transfers
- IC 2042 · ICE 2013 · ICE 371 · STR 39:36 AM4h37Dortmund Hbf2:13 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1121One-way3 transfers
- ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · STR 38:20 AM5h23Dortmund Hbf1:43 PMEuropaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)$1261One-way3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe
GermanyGermany
Trains from Dortmund to Karlsruhe run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 but you can travel from only $22 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 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 $22
Distance 178 miles (287 km) |
Average train duration 3h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
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 1 day |
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
Live departures
Dortmund to Karlsruhe train times
The table below shows live departures for Dortmund to Karlsruhe trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · STR 3 | On time 8:20 AM Dortmund Hbf | 5h23 | 1:43 PM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 515 · ICE 279 · STR 3 | On time 8:36 AM Dortmund Hbf | 3h37 | 12:13 PM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2042 · ICE 105 · STR 3 | On time 9:36 AM Dortmund Hbf | 3h47 | 1:23 PM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2042 · ICE 2013 · ICE 371 · STR 3 | On time 9:36 AM Dortmund Hbf | 4h37 | 2:13 PM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) | 3 transfers | |
| 26711 · ICE 797 · ICE 597 · ICE 107 | 9:39 AM Dortmund Hbf | 5h44 | 3:23 PM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) | 4 transfers | |
| 26812 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 · STR 3 | 9:45 AM Dortmund Hbf | 3h58 | 1:43 PM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Dortmund to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain 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 FlixTrain 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.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Dortmund to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Dortmund and Karlsruhe from $22. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 1m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$24
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixTrain Duration
9h 22m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
$204
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
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
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.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Grand central square lined with major buildings and the city pyramid, ideal for orientation and architecture.
- Must visit
Schlossgarten
Large landscaped park behind the palace with tree-lined paths, gardens, and space for relaxed walks.
- Must visit
Turmberg
Wooded hill and lookout area above Durlach, popular for walks, sunsets, and broad views of the Rhine plain.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Badische Kartoffelsuppe
A hearty Baden potato soup, often finished with cream and herbs. It is a regional comfort dish common across Baden homes and inns.
Flädlesuppe
Thin pancakes sliced into strips and served in clear beef broth. Popular in Baden and Swabia, it is a classic starter in traditional restaurants.
- Vegetarian
Spätzle
Handmade egg noodles from nearby Swabian tradition, often served with cheese or lentils. Widely eaten in Karlsruhe and across Baden-Württemberg.
sein
Michelin-starred fine dining with creative tasting menus and polished service. Best for a high-end meal showcasing modern German cuisine.
Oberländer Weinstube
Traditional Baden restaurant in a historic setting, known for regional classics, seasonal menus, and a refined but welcoming atmosphere.
Vogelbräu Karlsruhe
Established brewery venue serving house beers and hearty German dishes. Lively, casual atmosphere popular for local food and social evenings.
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.
KVV.regiomove
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.30
- Day pass
- €7.70
To the city center
Karlsruhe Hbf -> Marktplatz, Karlsruhe
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Buy tickets in the KVV.regiomove app or from station machines before boarding. Proof-of-payment inspections are common.
- Card payment is widely available in the KVV.regiomove app and at many ticket machines, but onboard payment on vehicles is not consistently available.
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.
Train ticket prices from Dortmund to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $102.
The train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe takes 3h 1m and runs 8 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.
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Karlsruhe.
Popular day trips by train from Karlsruhe include Strasbourg, Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Basel, Freiburg im Breisgau.
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. 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 Dortmund
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.
Which Karlsruhe station do trains from Dortmund arrive at?
Trains from Dortmund to Karlsruhe arrive at Karlsruhe Hbf. Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 miles (2 km) from Karlsruhe city centre.
Karlsruhe HbfKarlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 Karlsruhe
City-centre transport
Getting to Karlsruhe Hbf from Karlsruhe city centre
Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Train74346, 80700, 80702, 80704, 80706, 80708, 84704, 84710, 84714, 84722, 84726, 84740, 84746, 84752, 84758, 84764, 84770, 84776, 84782, 84788, 84792, 84794, 84796, 84800, 84808, 84810, 84814, 84816, 84859, 84864, 84866, 84868, 84870, 84872, 84876, 84877, 84878, 84880, 84882, 84884, 84886, 84888, 84890, 84892, 84894, 84896, 84898, 84900, 84902, 84904, 84906, 84908, 84910, 84912, 84913, 84914, 84916, 84918, 84920, 84922, 84924, 84926, 84928, 84930, 84931, 84934, 84935, 84936, 84938, 84940, 84941, 84944, 84946, 84948, 84952, 84956, 84958, 84962, 84964, 84968, 84972, 84976, 84980, 84984, 84986, 84988, 84994, 84998, 85000, 85004, 85006, 85008, 85012, 85014, 85018, 85020, 85022, 85024, 85026, 85030, 85032, 85034, 85040, 85042, 85046, 85052, 85054, 85056, 85058, 85060, 85064, 85068, 85070, 85074, 85078, 85082, 85084, 85086, 85088, 85090, 85178, 85278, 85311, 85390, 85392, 85396, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85414, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85480, 85482, 85484, 85488, 85500, 85502, 85504, 85506, 85508, 85510, 85512, 85514, 85516, 85518, 85520, 85522, 85524, 85526, 85528, 85530, 85532, 85534, 85536, 85538, 85540, 85546, 85548, 85551, 85557, 85559, 85561, 85563, 85565, 85567, 85569, 85571, 85573, 85575, 85577, 85579, 85581, 85583, 85585, 85589, 85591, 85597, 85599, 85605, 85607, 85611, 85615, 85619, 85623, 85629, 85631, 85633, 85635, 85639, 85641, 85645, 85647, 85651, 85653, 85655, 85659, 85661, 85665, 85669, 85673, 85675, 85679, 85681, 85685, 85687, 85689, 85821, 85916, 85918, 85922, 85932, 85936, 85938, 85940, 85942, 85946, 85948, 85950, 85952, 85954, 85956, 85958, 85960, 85962, 85964, 85966, 85968, 85970, 85972, 85974, 85976 · 6m · every ~10 min
Tram2, Nl2 · 6m · every ~11 min
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 Dortmund to Karlsruhe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe and Dortmund
Most popular train connections to Karlsruhe
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
