Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (RE)

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
TGV
​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB)
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
TGV
​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

CHF22

Average price

CHF22

Fastest journey

1 h 16 m

Average duration

1 h 16 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

73 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe will cost around CHF22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF22.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Esslingen am Neckar for Karlsruhe on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 73 km distance in an average of 1 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 16 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 1 h 16 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.

  • Regional-Express
    9:10 AM1h16
    Esslingen am Neckar
    10:26 AMKarlsruhe
    CHF221One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from CHF5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF5, and a train costs an average of CHF22.

Distance: 45 miles (73 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

CHF27

Average price

CHF12

Average price

Cheapest

CHF14

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 35m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 37m

Average total duration

1h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 17m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of CHF12.

This is compared to other travel options from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe:

A bus is CHF15 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe costing on average CHF27.

The fastest way to travel from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 1h 5m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 7m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Esslingen am Neckar and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Esslingen am Neckar 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 12m sooner (1h 5m by train vs 1h 17m by car). Tickets start at around CHF27 compared to roughly CHF14 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.

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

Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn9:15 AM Esslingen am Neckar
1h16
10:31 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Esslingen am Neckar 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as TGV, ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) and more offer trains services from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Esslingen am Neckar 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 TGV, ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) to find the best option for your trip from Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe run on average 18 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF22 but you can travel from only CHF5 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:17, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 45 miles (73 km) distance in 1h 10m.

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 CHF5
Distance
45 miles (73 km)
Average train duration
1h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF22
Trains per day
18
Fastest train
1h 10m
First train
12:17 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
14 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 CHF5

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TGV, ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB), DB Regio Stuttgart from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV, ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB), DB Regio Stuttgart trains will get you between Esslingen am Neckar and Karlsruhe from CHF5. 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
1h 10m
Cheapest Price
CHF26
Deutsche Bahn frequency
13 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 Duration
56m
Cheapest Price
CHF10
TGV frequency
4 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

​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 7m
Cheapest Price
CHF32
​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH frequency
4 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
CHF37
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
5 a day

DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest Price
CHF27
DB ZugBus Regionalverkehr Alb-Bodensee GmbH (RAB) frequency
8 a day

DB Regio Stuttgart

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
57m
DB Regio Stuttgart 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

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 Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF22, while the average price is around CHF27.
The train from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe takes 1h 10m and runs 18 per day.
The first train from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:17 AM.
The distance by train from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe is 45 miles (73 km).
The last train from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Esslingen am Neckar that goes to Karlsruhe is Esslingen (Neckar) station, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around CHF5.
Yes, the train journey from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, as it passes through picturesque landscapes of the Swabian Alps, charming villages, and stretches of the Neckar River, making it visually appealing especially during spring and autumn.
Yes, a day trip from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe is feasible, with a travel duration of 1h 10m and a distance of 45 miles (73 km). Trains run frequently with 20 trips 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 Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe.
Since both Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe

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

Departure train stations in Esslingen am Neckar
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Esslingen am Neckar station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Esslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe leave from Esslingen (Neckar). The station is from Esslingen am Neckar city centre at Esslingen (Neckar), Bahnhofsplatz 1, 73728 Esslingen am Neckar.
Esslingen (Neckar)Esslingen (Neckar), Bahnhofsplatz 1, 73728 Esslingen am NeckarWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk

Esslingen (Neckar) train station facilities and services

Esslingen (Neckar) 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: Weiler Hof, Posthörnle, Multi Pizza Service, Brauhaus Schwanen

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen (Neckar). ATMs are available at Esslingen (Neckar).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Information desks are available at Esslingen (Neckar).

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Esslingen (Neckar). Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Esslingen (Neckar): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen (Neckar).

OberesslingenOberesslingen, Ulmer Strasse 75, 73730 Esslingen am NeckarWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Oberesslingen from Esslingen am Neckar city centre

Oberesslingen is 1 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS1 · 2m · CHF0.99 · every ~8 min
BusN16, 140, 115, 114, 106, 104, 101 · 7m · CHF3 · every ~20 min

Oberesslingen train station facilities and services

Oberesslingen 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: Zum Froschkönig, Iglu, Ziegelhof, Kohinoor

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Oberesslingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Oberesslingen.

Esslingen-MettingenEsslingen-Mettingen, Cannstatterstraße 61, 73733 Esslingen am NeckarWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Esslingen-Mettingen from Esslingen am Neckar city centre

Esslingen-Mettingen is 2 km from Esslingen am Neckar city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS1 · 2m · CHF0.99 · every ~9 min
Bus101 · 4m · CHF3 · every ~7 min

Esslingen-Mettingen train station facilities and services

Esslingen-Mettingen 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: Kaiserpalast, Cafe Mocca, La Conchiglia, Betriebsrestaurant

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. ATMs are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Information desks are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Esslingen-Mettingen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Esslingen-Mettingen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Esslingen-Mettingen.

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to KarlsruheEsslingen am Neckar to Karlsruhe train

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