Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB,RE)

Wed, Mar 18
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Showing times and prices for Mar 18

Cheapest price

$35

Average price

$54

Fastest journey

2 h 2 m

Average duration

2 h 34 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

240 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Karlsruhe Hbf for Cologne Hbf on Wed, Mar 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Mar 18 the direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 2 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 2 m .

On Wed, Mar 18 the slowest trains will take 3 h 28 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 BahnECE 8 · ICE 1012 · S19
08:37AM2h02
Karlsruhe Hbf
10:39AMCologne Hbf
$351One-way
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020
08:37AM3h28
Karlsruhe Hbf
12:05PMCologne Hbf
$441One-way
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 376 · ICE 1049
07:59AM3h06
Karlsruhe Hbf
11:05AMCologne Hbf
$491One-way
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 202
08:59AM2h06
Karlsruhe Hbf
11:05AMCologne Hbf
$691One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 376 · ICE 614
07:59AM2h06
Karlsruhe Hbf
10:05AMCologne Hbf
$741One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $21.

Distance: 149 miles (240 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$59

Average price

$26

Average price

Cheapest

3h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 52m

Average total duration

4h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 10:10 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 376 · ICE 614
On time
6:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
2h06
9:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnICE 376 · ICE 1049
On time
6:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
3h06
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf
1 transfer
deutsche_bahnECE 8 · ICE 1012 · S19
On time
7:37 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
2h02
9:39 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnECE 8 · ICE 1012 · ICE 1020
On time
7:37 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
3h28
11:05 AM Cologne Hbf
2 transfers
deutsche_bahnICE 202
On time
7:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
2h06
10:05 AM Cologne Hbf
0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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
Mar 18
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Why should you book Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

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) to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
  • 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 Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

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 Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconComfortable
IconQuick
IconCheap
IconSockets
IconWIFI
Disadvantages
IconMany guests
Travelling by train was very pleasant, the train is quite clean, the toilets were very clean, the seats are comfortable, there is wifi. There are power sockets on site, there are seats with tables and it is faster than by car and still the price is quite cheap. One disadvantage is that sometimes there are too many guests and then it is a bit noisy. I would definitely recommend travelling by train.
Advantages
IconVery fast
IconClean
IconPunctual departure
Disadvantages
IconSlight delay on arrival
IconA little expensive
IconDirect connection often already fully booked one day before journey
The route from Cologne to Karlsruhe is one of the few high-speed lines still operated by Deutsche Bahn. This means that you can cover this distance in about 2 hours. There is also a direct connection several times a day, but unfortunately it is often fully booked the day before departure. Both trains of the connection were very clean and in Cologne we left on time, only the ICE, which we had to change to in Mannheim, was a little late, so that we arrived late in Karlsruhe. Overall, I think the price for the connection is also a bit expensive.
Advantages
Icondirect train
Disadvantages
Icontoo full
Wifi was available, but very slow. Unfortunately, there was only one power socket for two seats. The seats were fine, you could sleep in them without any problems. Reservation of the seats was very easy and uncomplicated online, you choose the desired seat and get it. Toilets were clean that day.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) but you can travel from only $18 (€14) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:24, the last at 17:06. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (240 km) distance in 2h 2m.

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 $18 (€14)
Distance
149 miles (240 km)
Average train duration
3h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
$21 (€17)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 2m
First train
00:24
Last train
17:06
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 $18 (€14)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Karlsruhe Hbf and Cologne Hbf from $18 (€14). 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 2m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
7 a day

FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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 Cologne Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $59 (€48).
The train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 2h 2m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 12:24 AM.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 149 miles (240 km).
The last train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 5:06 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€14).
The train journey from Karlsruhe Hbf to Köln Hbf offers scenic views of the Rhine Valley, featuring picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and vineyards, especially around the Middle Rhine region.
A day trip from Karlsruhe Hbf to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 2m. However, there are 9 trains per day covering the 149 miles (240 km) route.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf

Karlsruhe
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Karlsruhe is Karlsruhe Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Karlsruhe Hbf for your trip from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Vinarte
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Panorama
  • Alter Brauhof
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Barbarossa
  • Hotel Avisa
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Aparthotel Aijana

More options for your journey from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf

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Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf

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