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

Mon, Aug 31
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Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Geneva to Karlsruhe

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 31

Cheapest price on Aug 31

$57

Average ticket price on Aug 31

$144

Fastest journey on Aug 31

4 h 52 m

Average journey duration on Aug 31

5 h 25 m

Trains on Aug 31

5

Distance

354 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Geneva to Karlsruhe will cost around $144 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.

Fast trains

On Mon, Aug 31, we found 5 trains from Geneva to Karlsruhe, including 5 direct services.

On Mon, Aug 31 the direct trains cover the 354 km distance in an average of 5 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 52 m .

On Mon, Aug 31 the slowest trains will take 7 h 18 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
    8:35 AM4h58
    Geneva
    1:33 PMKarlsruhe
    $571One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:35 AM4h58
    Geneva
    11:33 AMKarlsruhe
    $1241One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    5:35 AM4h58
    Geneva
    10:33 AMKarlsruhe
    $1271One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    9:05 AM4h52
    Geneva
    1:57 PMKarlsruhe
    $1521One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:35 AM7h18
    Geneva
    2:53 PMKarlsruhe
    $2621One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Geneva to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Geneva to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $40 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 6m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, while a train costs an average of $67.

Distance: 219 miles (354 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$67

Average price

$40

Average price

Cheapest

$155

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 6m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 1m

Average total duration

6h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

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 Geneva to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $40 (€32).

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

A bus is $28 (€23) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Geneva to Karlsruhe costing on average $67 (€55).

The fastest way to travel from Geneva to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 4h 36m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 31m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Geneva and Karlsruhe including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Geneva to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 4m faster (4h 36m by train vs 4h 40m by car) and roughly $88 (€71) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($67 (€55) vs $155 (€126)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Geneva to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Geneva to Karlsruhe trains for today, Sunday, August 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIR 1823 · IC 527 · IR 1873 · ICE 1021:53 PM Geneva station
5h04
6:57 PM Karlsruhe Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIR 1823 · IC 527 · IR 1873 · ICE 102
On time
1:53 PM Geneva station
5h04
6:57 PM Karlsruhe
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 725 · IC 1627 · ICE 2742:24 PM Geneva station
5h32
7:56 PM Karlsruhe Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIR 1825 · IC 529 · IR 1875 · ICE 2742:53 PM Geneva station
5h03
7:56 PM Karlsruhe Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 727 · IC 1629 · ICE 23:24 PM Geneva station
5h09
8:33 PM Karlsruhe Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 727 · ICE 1003:24 PM Geneva station
5h33
8:57 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
Monday, August 31
Deutsche Bahn5:35 AM Geneva
4h58
10:33 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn6:35 AM Geneva
4h58
11:33 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:35 AM Geneva
7h18
2:53 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:35 AM Geneva
4h58
1:33 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn9:05 AM Geneva
4h52
1:57 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Geneva to Karlsruhe by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06

Why should you book Geneva to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Geneva to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Geneva 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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Geneva 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Geneva to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Geneva to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Geneva to Karlsruhe

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Geneva to Karlsruhe run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) but you can travel from only $28 (€23) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 219 miles (354 km) distance in 4h 52m.

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 $28 (€23)
Distance
219 miles (354 km)
Average train duration
4h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$47 (€38)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
4h 52m
First train
12:06 AM
Last train
11:48 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 $28 (€23)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Geneva to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Geneva and Karlsruhe from $28 (€23). 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
4h 52m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$47 (€38)
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

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
4h 51m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
$197 (€160)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
16 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 Geneva to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Geneva 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 Geneva to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€38), while the average price is around $67 (€55).
The train from Geneva to Karlsruhe takes 4h 52m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Geneva to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:06 AM.
The distance by train from Geneva to Karlsruhe is 219 miles (354 km).
The last train from Geneva to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Geneva to Karlsruhe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Geneva to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Geneva that goes to Karlsruhe is Geneva station, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Geneva to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
Yes, the train journey from Geneva to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss countryside and the Black Forest region in Germany.
A day trip from Geneva to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 52m and the distance is 219 miles (354 km). However, there are 9 train connections 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 Geneva to Karlsruhe.
Since both Geneva 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 Geneva 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.
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 Geneva to Karlsruhe

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

Departure train stations in Geneva
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Geneva station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Geneva to Karlsruhe leave from Genève. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Geneva city centre at Place de Cornavin, 1201 Genève, Switzerland.
GenèvePlace de Cornavin, 1201 Genève, Switzerland+41 900 300 300WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Genève from Geneva city centre

Bus10, 19, 20, 3, 5 · 4m · $12 · every ~38 min
15 · 10m · $12
274 · 13m · $2 · every ~2 min
Tram14, 18 · 4m · $10 · every ~34 min

Genève train station facilities and services

Genève has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Le Bistrot de Charlotte, Les Brasseurs, La Matze Restaurant

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Genève. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Genève: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Genève: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Warwick Geneva, Hotel Cornavin, ibis Styles Genève Gare.

Genève-AéroportRoute de l'Aéroport 21, 1215 Le Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland+41 900 300 300WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Genève-Aéroport from Geneva city centre

Genève-Aéroport is 4 km from Geneva city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus274 · 19m · $5 · every ~2 min
10 · 20m · $11 · every ~11 min
5, 10 · 27m · $11 · every ~24 min

Genève-Aéroport train station facilities and services

Genève-Aéroport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Le Chef Genève Aéroport, Montreux Jazz Café

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Genève-Aéroport. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Genève-Aéroport. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Genève-Aéroport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Genève-Aéroport: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Genève-Aéroport: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Novotel Suites Geneva, ibis Geneva Airport Hotel, Mövenpick Hotel & Casino Geneva.

Genève, CornavinPl. de Cornavin 7, 1201 Genève, SwitzerlandParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental

Genève, Cornavin train station facilities and services

Genève, Cornavin has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: La Matze Restaurant

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Genève, Cornavin.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Genève, Cornavin: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Genève, Cornavin: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Genève, Cornavin.

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