- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Giessen to Karlsruhe
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$68
Average price
$68
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h
Trains per day
1
Distance
177 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Giessen to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Giessen to Karlsruhe will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Giessen for Karlsruhe on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 177 km distance in an average of 2 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 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.
9:59 AM2h00Giessen11:59 AMKarlsruhe$681One-way0 transfers
- 9:59 AM2h00Giessen11:59 AMKarlsruhe$681One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Giessen to Karlsruhe
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Giessen to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 18m. 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 $16, and a train costs an average of $51.
Distance: 109 miles (177 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$62 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $36 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Giessen to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $20 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Giessen to Karlsruhe:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Giessen to Karlsruhe costing on average $62 (€51).
The fastest way to travel from Giessen to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 2h 18m.
Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Giessen and Karlsruhe including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Giessen 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 1m sooner (2h 18m by train vs 2h 19m by car). Tickets start at around $62 (€51) compared to roughly $36 (€30) 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.
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
Giessen to Karlsruhe train times
The table below shows live departures for Giessen to Karlsruhe trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
.png) | 11:54 AM Giessen | 2h05 | 1:59 PM Karlsruhe | 1 transfer | |
| 1:54 PM Giessen | 2h05 | 3:59 PM Karlsruhe | 1 transfer | |
| 3:54 PM Giessen | 2h04 | 5:58 PM Karlsruhe | 1 transfer | |
| 5:02 PM Giessen | 2h21 | 7:23 PM Karlsruhe | 1 transfer | |
| 5:54 PM Giessen | 2h05 | 7:59 PM Karlsruhe | 1 transfer | |
| 7:54 PM Giessen | 2h05 | 9:59 PM Karlsruhe | 1 transfer | |
| 9:54 PM Giessen | 2h05 | 11:59 PM Karlsruhe | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 9:59 AM Giessen | 2h00 | 11:59 AM Karlsruhe | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Giessen 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
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Jun 22
Jun 22
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Jun 23
Jun 23
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Jun 24
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Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Giessen to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Giessen to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Giessen 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 Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Giessen 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 Giessen 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 Giessen to Karlsruhe.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Giessen to Karlsruhe
GermanyGermany
Trains from Giessen to Karlsruhe run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€42) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (177 km) distance in 2h 0m.
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 $16 (€13)
Distance 109 miles (177 km) |
Average train duration 2h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 (€42) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 0m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $16 (€13)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Giessen to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Giessen and Karlsruhe from $16 (€13). 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 27m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
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.
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 Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
8 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
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.
- Must visit
Schlossgarten
Large palace park ideal for walking, relaxing, and classic views back toward Karlsruhe Palace. A favorite green space for locals and visitors.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Historic central square with the Karlsruhe Pyramid, shops, and civic buildings. One of the city’s main meeting points.
- Must visit
Turmberg
Hill area above Durlach known for panoramic views, sunset photos, and one of the most popular scenic spots around Karlsruhe.
Maultaschen
Large Swabian pasta pockets filled with minced meat, spinach, onions, and herbs, often served in broth or pan-fried. A beloved regional staple commonly found in Baden-Württemberg.
- Vegetarian
Käsespätzle
Soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with fried onions. This comforting southern German dish is popular across the region and widely eaten in Karlsruhe.
Flammkuchen
A thin, crisp tart from the Upper Rhine area, traditionally topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. It is closely associated with nearby Alsace and Baden food culture.
Restaurant Sein
Well-regarded modern fine dining restaurant offering creative tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
Oberländer Weinstube
Traditional Baden restaurant known for regional dishes, local wines, and a classic rustic atmosphere in central Karlsruhe.
Kesselhaus
Established venue in a historic industrial-style setting, popular for upscale regional and seasonal cuisine with a stylish atmosphere.
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.
KVV mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 7.60
To the city center
Karlsruhe Hbf, Karlsruhe -> Marktplatz, Karlsruhe
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- You can buy tickets in the KVV mobil app, at ticket machines, or from some onboard validators depending on the line.
- Card payment is commonly available at major ticket machines, but not always on board buses and trams, so buy before boarding when possible.
FAQs: Trains from Giessen to Karlsruhe
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Giessen 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 Giessen to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€42), while the average price is around $62 (€51).
The train from Giessen to Karlsruhe takes 2h 0m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Giessen to Karlsruhe is 109 miles (177 km).
The first train from Giessen to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Giessen to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:32 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Giessen to Karlsruhe. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Giessen to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Giessen that goes to Karlsruhe is Giessen station, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Giessen to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Giessen to Karlsruhe offers scenic views of the German countryside, including rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque towns, especially as it passes through the scenic regions of Hesse and Baden-Württemberg.
A day trip from Giessen to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 0m. However, there are 7 trains available 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 Giessen to Karlsruhe.
Since both Giessen 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 Giessen 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 Giessen to Karlsruhe
Giessen
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Giessen is Gießen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gießen for your trip from Giessen to Karlsruhe.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 14:00
Dining
- Aydin Grill
- Südwinde
- Subway
- Alt Giessen
Hotel
- Liebig-Hotel
- Hotel Flamingo
- Hotel Köhler
- Hotel Adler
The major train station for arrivals in Karlsruhe is Karlsruhe Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Karlsruhe Hbf for your journey to Karlsruhe from Giessen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Tuesday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Wednesday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Thursday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Friday: 06:30 - 21:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 20:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Vinarte
- Am Tiergarten
- Panorama
- Alter Brauhof
Hotel
- Hotel Barbarossa
- Hotel Avisa
- Am Tiergarten
- Aparthotel Aijana
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 13:00
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Hubraum
- Vogel Hausbräu Durlach
- Asia Gourmet
- Borsalino
Hotel
- Hotel Große Linde
- Zum Erwin
- Der Blaue Reiter
Karlsruhe West
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Beim Schupi
- Rosenstüble 2.0
- Saloniki
- Rote Taube
Hotel
- Beim Schupi
Most popular train connections from Giessen
More options for your journey from Giessen to Karlsruhe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe and Giessen
Most popular train connections to Karlsruhe
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