Dresden to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Fri, Jun 19
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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 Dresden to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$99

Average price

$144

Fastest journey

5 h 48 m

Average duration

7 h 50 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

445 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Dresden to Karlsruhe will cost around $144 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Dresden to Karlsruhe without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    6:00 AM9h26
    Dresden, Bf Neustadt
    3:26 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    $991One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    5:45 AM9h41
    Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
    3:26 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    $991One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    6:53 AM8h33
    Dresden Hbf
    3:26 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    $1401One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    7:00 AM8h26
    Dresden-Neustadt station
    3:26 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    $1401One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1652 · ICE 371
    8:11 AM5h48
    Dresden Hbf
    1:59 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    $1831One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Dresden to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dresden to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a train costs an average of $32.

Distance: 276 miles (445 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$76

Average price

$45

Average price

Cheapest

$101

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 59m

Average total duration

7h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

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 Dresden to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $45 (€37).

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

A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dresden to Karlsruhe costing on average $76 (€62).

The fastest way to travel from Dresden to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 6h 50m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 29m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dresden and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dresden to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Dresden to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Dresden to Karlsruhe trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain5:45 AM Dresden, Bayrische Straße (Hauptbahnhof)
9h41
3:26 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain6:00 AM Dresden, Bf Neustadt
9h26
3:26 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain6:53 AM Dresden Hbf
8h33
3:26 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain7:00 AM Dresden-Neustadt station
8h26
3:26 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1652 · ICE 371
On time
8:11 AM Dresden Hbf
5h48
1:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche Bahn16508 · ICE 837+TGVTGV 9580
On time
8:12 AM Dresden Hbf
6h56
3:08 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Dresden 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.

Fri
Jun 19
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Why should you book Dresden to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Dresden to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Dresden to Karlsruhe run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:19, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 276 miles (445 km) distance in 5h 37m.

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 $27 (€22)
Distance
276 miles (445 km)
Average train duration
6h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
5h 37m
First train
12:19 AM
Last train
11:28 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
35 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 $27 (€22)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Dresden to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Dresden and Karlsruhe from $27 (€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 Duration
5h 37m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
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.
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
5h 41m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€80)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
7 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

ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe

Major contemporary art and media museum known for interactive digital exhibitions in a former industrial hall. One of Karlsruhe’s signature cultural venues.

  • Must visit

Badisches Landesmuseum

State museum in Karlsruhe Palace with archaeology, decorative arts, and regional history collections. A key stop for understanding Baden’s past.

  • Recommended

Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe

Important fine arts museum with European paintings from several centuries. A core destination for classical art lovers in the city.

Euro

Moderate for Germany. Public transport and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more during fairs and peak periods.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
Mid-range
EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 60-100+ per person at upscale venues.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or leave about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated at cafés; not expected for counter service.

FAQs: Trains from Dresden to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dresden 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 Dresden to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $76 (€62).
The train from Dresden to Karlsruhe takes 5h 37m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Dresden to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:19 AM.
The distance by train from Dresden to Karlsruhe is 276 miles (445 km).
The last train from Dresden to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:28 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Dresden to Karlsruhe. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dresden to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Dresden that goes to Karlsruhe is Dresden Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Dresden to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Dresden to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Saxony and the rolling hills of Thuringia, providing glimpses of charming villages and lush countryside.
A day trip from Dresden to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the travel time is 5h 37m and the distance is 276 miles (445 km). Trains operate 8 times per day.
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 Dresden to Karlsruhe.
Since both Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden to Karlsruhe

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

Departure train stations in Dresden
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Dresden station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Dresden to Karlsruhe leave from Dresden Hauptbahnhof. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Dresden city centre at Wiener Platz 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany.
Dresden HauptbahnhofWiener Platz 4, 01069 Dresden, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Dresden Hauptbahnhof from Dresden city centre

Dresden Hauptbahnhof is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus261, 366, 365, 360, 333, H/S · 5m · every ~5 min
Tram3 · 4m · $4 · every ~12 min

Dresden Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services

Dresden Hauptbahnhof 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: Burger King, asiagourmet, dean&david, Hot Dog King, Starbucks, Subway, BABA Döner, Marché, backWERK, Ditsch, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Kipping, Pullman Dresden Newa, IntercityHotel Dresden.

Dresden-NeustadtDresden-Neustadt, Schlesischer Platz 1, 01097 DresdenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Dresden-Neustadt from Dresden city centre

Dresden-Neustadt is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb60, Rb61, Re1, Re2 · 6m · $2 · every ~6 min
Rb61, Rb60, Re2, Re1 · 6m · $2 · every ~6 min
Re, Rb · 7m · $1 · every ~6 min
Bus477 · 8m
Re1, Rb61, Rb60, Re2 · 10m · $4 · every ~1 min
Tram3 · 7m · $4 · every ~12 min

Dresden-Neustadt train station facilities and services

Dresden-Neustadt 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: ElbUferei, Raskolnikoff, Byblos, Kantine No. 2

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Dresden-Neustadt. ATMs are available at Dresden-Neustadt.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Dresden-Neustadt. Information desks are available at Dresden-Neustadt.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Dresden-Neustadt. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dresden-Neustadt: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Dresden-Neustadt: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden-Neustadt.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden, Rothenburger Hof, Mezcalero, Villa Romantika.

Dresden MitteDresden Mitte, Jahnstraße 7, 01067 DresdenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Dresden Mitte from Dresden city centre

Dresden Mitte is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus68 · 4m · every ~11 min
Tram9, 2, 1 · 6m · $4 · every ~21 min

Dresden Mitte train station facilities and services

Dresden Mitte 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: Italienisches Dörfchen, BrennNessel, Kahnaletto, Cafe Friedrichstadt

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Dresden Mitte. ATMs are available at Dresden Mitte.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Dresden Mitte. Information desks are available at Dresden Mitte.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Dresden Mitte. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dresden Mitte: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Dresden Mitte: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden Mitte.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Elbflorenz, Penck Hotel, Hotel und Restaurant Cafe Friedrichstadt, Artis.

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