Erlangen to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (IC)

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Erlangen to Karlsruhe

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$52

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$52

Fastest journey on Sep 19

3 h 33 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

3 h 33 m

Trains on Sep 19

1

Distance

200 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Erlangen to Karlsruhe will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Erlangen to Karlsruhe, including 1 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 200 km distance in an average of 3 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 33 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 3 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    10:20 AM3h33
    Erlangen
    1:53 PMKarlsruhe
    $521One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Erlangen to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Erlangen to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $37 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 2m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, while a train costs an average of $67.

Distance: 124 miles (200 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$67

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$46

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 2m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 5m

Average total duration

5h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 59m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

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 Erlangen to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $37.

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

A bus is $30 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe costing on average $67.

The fastest way to travel from Erlangen to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 3h 32m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Erlangen and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erlangen 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 $67 compared to roughly $46 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-21.14. The journey takes 3h 32m versus 2h 59m 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.

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

Live departures

Erlangen to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Erlangen to Karlsruhe trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn9:03 AM Erlangen
4h26
1:29 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn10:20 AM Erlangen
3h33
1:53 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Erlangen 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Erlangen to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

TGV as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Erlangen to Karlsruhe.
Omio is the only official third party seller for TGV tickets.

Why book with Omio vs TGV?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for TGV, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Erlangen 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 TGV with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Erlangen to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Erlangen to Karlsruhe run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:19, the last at 22:32. The fastest train covers the 124 miles (200 km) distance in 3h 22m.

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
Distance
124 miles (200 km)
Average train duration
3h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$9
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 22m
First train
12:19 AM
Last train
10:32 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
2 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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TGV from Erlangen to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV trains will get you between Erlangen and Karlsruhe from $9. 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 22m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$9
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

TGV

About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TGV Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest TGV Price
$22
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
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

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 Erlangen to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erlangen 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 Erlangen to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9, while the average price is around $67.
The train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe takes 3h 22m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe is 124 miles (200 km).
The first train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:19 AM.
The last train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe leaves at 10:32 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe.
Yes, there is a direct train from Erlangen to Karlsruhe. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erlangen to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Erlangen that goes to Karlsruhe is Erlangen station, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Erlangen to Karlsruhe is by train, with a cost of around $9.
The train journey from Erlangen to Karlsruhe offers a pleasant view of the German countryside, passing through charming towns, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, especially as you travel through the Franconian region. While not as dramatic as alpine routes, it provides a relaxing and scenic experience.
A day trip from Erlangen to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 22m. However, trains run 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 Erlangen to Karlsruhe.
Since both Erlangen 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 Erlangen 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 Erlangen to Karlsruhe

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

Departure train stations in Erlangen
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Erlangen station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Erlangen to Karlsruhe leave from Erlangen. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Erlangen city centre at Erlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 Erlangen.
ErlangenErlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 ErlangenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Erlangen from Erlangen city centre

Bus295, 290, 289 · 4m · $4 · every ~14 min

Erlangen train station facilities and services

Erlangen 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: Basilikum, Ilias, Ristorante Carpaccio, Goldene Sonne

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen. ATMs are available at Erlangen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Erlangen. Information desks are available at Erlangen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Erlangen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Erlangen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Erlangen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include NH Hotel, A. B. Hotel, Zeitwohnhaus, Hotel Villa Soy.

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