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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Showing times and prices for Dec 16
Cheapest price
$56
Average price
$95
Fastest journey
1 h 53 m
Average duration
2 h 3 m
Trains per day
11
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 $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.
Fast trains
Of the 11 trains that leave Karlsruhe Hbf for Cologne Hbf on Tue, Dec 16, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Dec 16 the direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 2 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 53 m .
On Tue, Dec 16 the slowest trains will take 2 h 6 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.
ICE 10008:59PM2h11
Karlsruhe Hbf11:10PMCologne Hbf
$561One-way
0 transfers
ICE 274 · IC 2347 · 1084207:59PM3h54
Karlsruhe Hbf11:53PMCologne Hbf
$621One-way
2 transfers
ICE 2 · ICE 91008:37PM1h53
Karlsruhe Hbf10:30PMCologne Hbf
$621One-way
1 transfer
ICE 274 · ICE 51207:59PM2h06
Karlsruhe Hbf10:05PMCologne Hbf
$781One-way
1 transfer
ICE 10206:59PM2h06
Karlsruhe Hbf09:05PMCologne Hbf
$871One-way
0 transfers
ICE 2 · ICE 91008:37PM1h53
Karlsruhe Hbf10:30PMCologne Hbf
$621One-way
1 transfer
ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · S1908:37AM2h02
Karlsruhe Hbf10:39AMCologne Hbf
$1311One-way
2 transfers
ICE 274 · ICE 51207:59PM2h06
Karlsruhe Hbf10:05PMCologne Hbf
$781One-way
1 transfer
ICE 10206:59PM2h06
Karlsruhe Hbf09:05PMCologne Hbf
$871One-way
0 transfers
ICE 20208:59AM2h06
Karlsruhe Hbf11:05AMCologne Hbf
$1251One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train 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 €14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €14, and a train costs an average of €23.
Distance: 149 miles (240 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€54 Average price | €21 Average price Cheapest |
3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 46m Average total duration 4h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  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, December 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 8:32 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 376 · IC 2409 · 10816 | On time 6:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h54 | 10:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 376 · ICE 614 | On time 6:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h06 | 9:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ECE 8 · ICE 1012 · S19 | On time 7:37 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h02 | 9:39 AM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 202 | On time 7:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h06 | 10:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 374 · ICE 612 | On time 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h06 | 11:05 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 374 · IC 2407 · 10820 | On time 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h54 | 12:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 102 | On time 5:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h06 | 8:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 274 · ICE 512 | On time 6:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h06 | 9:05 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 274 · IC 2347 · 10842 | On time 6:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h54 | 10:53 PM Cologne Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 2 · ICE 910 | On time 7:37 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1h53 | 9:30 PM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 100 | On time 7:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h11 | 10:10 PM Cologne Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf 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.
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Why should you book Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB) as well as ÖBB Nightjet 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 (ICE,IC,RB)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB), but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB Nightjet 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 (ICE,IC,RB) with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RB)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of ÖBB Nightjet to help you choose the right option for your journey from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf
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
ComfortableQuickCheapSocketsWIFIDisadvantages
Many guestsTravelling 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
Very fastCleanPunctual departureDisadvantages
Slight delay on arrivalA little expensiveDirect connection often already fully booked one day before journeyThe 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
direct trainDisadvantages
too fullWifi 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
Trains from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€23) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:57, the last at 20:02. The fastest train covers the 149 miles (240 km) distance in 2h 4m.
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 $17 (€14)
Distance 149 miles (240 km) |
Average train duration 2h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€23) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 4m |
First train 03:57 |
Last train 20:02 |
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 $17 (€14)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Karlsruhe Hbf and Cologne Hbf from $17 (€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 4m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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
ÖBB Nightjet
About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 1m
Cheapest Price
$181 (€145)
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
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.
The train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf takes 2h 4m and runs 9 per day.
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.
The last train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 8:02 PM.
Yes, there is a night train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf is 149 miles (240 km).
A day trip from Karlsruhe Hbf to Köln Hbf is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 4m. However, there are 9 trains per day covering the 149 miles (240 km) route.
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€23), while the average price is around $68 (€54).
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The first train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf leaves at 3:57 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet.
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
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: 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
The major train station for arrivals in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your journey to Cologne from Karlsruhe.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
- There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
- asiagourmet
- Coffee Fellows
- dean&david
- Dunkin' Donuts
- KFC
- McDonald's
- Pizza Hut
- Nordsee
- Starbucks
- Schweinske
- & more
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Wyndham Koeln
- Hilton Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
- One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.
More options for your journey from Karlsruhe Hbf to Cologne Hbf
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf
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