- Must visit
Badisches Landesmuseum
Major regional museum inside Karlsruhe Palace, with archaeology, applied arts, and cultural history collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe
Showing times and prices for Jul 16
Cheapest price
$68
Average price
$109
Fastest journey
2 h 17 m
Average duration
2 h 29 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
272 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe will cost around $109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast trains
Of the 11 trains that leave Düsseldorf for Karlsruhe on Thu, Jul 16, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 16 the direct trains cover the 272 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 17 m .
On Thu, Jul 16 the slowest trains will take 2 h 33 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.
ICE 101 · IC 2348 · ICE 25576:27 AM3h32Düsseldorf Hbf9:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$681One-way2 transfers- ICE 23 · ICE 711 · ICE 1015:26 AM3h33Düsseldorf Hbf8:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$751One-way2 transfers
- ICE 103 · IC 2040 · ICE 2798:27 AM3h32Düsseldorf Hbf11:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$971One-way2 transfers
- ICE 1016:27 AM2h32Düsseldorf Hbf8:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$971One-way0 transfers
- ICE 621 · ICE 95909:22 AM2h44Düsseldorf Hbf12:06 PMKarlsruhe Hbf$1101One-way1 transfer
- ICE 915 · ICE 719:06 AM2h17Düsseldorf Hbf11:23 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$1441One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1038:27 AM2h32Düsseldorf Hbf10:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$1291One-way0 transfers
- ICE 1016:27 AM2h32Düsseldorf Hbf8:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$971One-way0 transfers
- ICE 27 · ICE 515 · ICE 2799:26 AM2h33Düsseldorf Hbf11:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$1291One-way2 transfers
- ICE 25 · ICE 513 · ICE 25577:26 AM2h33Düsseldorf Hbf9:59 AMKarlsruhe Hbf$1101One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 52m. 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 $21, and a train costs an average of $23.
Distance: 169 miles (272 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$89 Average price | $30 Average price Cheapest | $62 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 22m Average total duration Fastest 2h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 56m Average total duration 4h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $30 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe:
A bus is $58 (€48) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe costing on average $89 (€73).
The fastest way to travel from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 2h 52m.
Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Düsseldorf and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Düsseldorf 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 53m sooner (2h 52m by train vs 3h 45m by car). Tickets start at around $89 (€73) compared to roughly $62 (€51) 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
Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe train times
The table below shows live departures for Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 23 · ICE 711 · ICE 101 | On time 5:26 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 3h33 | 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 101 | On time 6:27 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 2h32 | 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 101 · IC 2348 · ICE 2557 | On time 6:27 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 3h32 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 913 · ICE 2557 | On time 7:06 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 2h53 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 25 · ICE 513 · ICE 2557 | On time 7:26 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 2h33 | 9:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 103 · IC 2040 · ICE 279 | On time 8:27 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 3h32 | 11:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 103 | On time 8:27 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 2h32 | 10:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 915 · ICE 71 | On time 9:06 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 2h17 | 11:23 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 621 · ICE 9590 | On time 9:22 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 2h44 | 12:06 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 515 · ICE 279 | On time 9:26 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 2h33 | 11:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 225 · ECE 5 | On time 9:26 AM Düsseldorf Hbf | 3h57 | 1:23 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 Düsseldorf 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.
Thu
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Why should you book Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Düsseldorf 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) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe
GermanyGermany
Trains from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 169 miles (272 km) distance in 2h 17m.
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 $21 (€17)
Distance 169 miles (272 km) |
Average train duration 2h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 17m |
First train 12:11 AM |
Last train 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 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 $21 (€17)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Düsseldorf and Karlsruhe from $21 (€17). 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 17m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 27m
Cheapest Price
$176 (€145)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 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
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 Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $89 (€73).
The train from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe takes 2h 17m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe is 169 miles (272 km).
The first train from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:11 AM.
The last train from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:34 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Düsseldorf that goes to Karlsruhe is Düsseldorf Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe offers some scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhineland and the rolling hills of the Palatinate region. While not as dramatic as some other routes, passengers can enjoy glimpses of charming towns, lush forests, and the Rhine River along the way.
A day trip from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 17m. However, there are 10 departures per day for this route by train. The distance is 169 miles (272 km).
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 Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe.
Since both Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf 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.
More options for your journey from Düsseldorf to Karlsruhe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe and Düsseldorf
Most popular train connections to Karlsruhe
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