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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Cologne
Showing times and prices for Dec 04
Cheapest price
$110
Average price
$130
Fastest journey
1 h 57 m
Average duration
2 h 44 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Karlsruhe to Cologne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Cologne will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Karlsruhe to Cologne without transferring at least once.
ICE 374 · IC 174908:00AM3h06
Karlsruhe Hbf11:06AMCologne Hbf
$1101One-way
1 transfer
RE 4470 · ICE 102008:06AM4h00
Karlsruhe Hbf12:06PMCologne Hbf
$1131One-way
1 transfer
ICE 374 · ICE 12808:00AM2h33
Karlsruhe Hbf10:33AMCologne Hbf
$1421One-way
1 transfer
ICE 78 · ICE 101208:51AM1h57
Karlsruhe Hbf10:48AMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1421One-way
1 transfer
ICE 374 · ICE 61408:00AM2h02
Karlsruhe Hbf10:02AMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1421One-way
1 transfer
ICE 78 · ICE 101208:51AM1h57
Karlsruhe Hbf10:48AMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1421One-way
1 transfer
ICE 374 · ICE 61408:00AM2h02
Karlsruhe Hbf10:02AMCologne Messe/Deutz
$1421One-way
1 transfer
ICE 374 · ICE 12808:00AM2h33
Karlsruhe Hbf10:33AMCologne Hbf
$1421One-way
1 transfer
ICE 374 · IC 174908:00AM3h06
Karlsruhe Hbf11:06AMCologne Hbf
$1101One-way
1 transfer
RE 4470 · ICE 102008:06AM4h00
Karlsruhe Hbf12:06PMCologne Hbf
$1131One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Karlsruhe to Cologne
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 34m. 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 €15, and a train costs an average of €20.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€72 Average price | €24 Average price Cheapest |
3h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Karlsruhe to Cologne train times
The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Cologne trains for today, Wednesday, December 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 2:58 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 PM Karlsruhe | 3h06 | 9:06 PM Cologne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, December 4 | |||||
| ICE 374 · IC 1749 | On time 7:00 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h06 | 10:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 374 · ICE 128 | On time 7:00 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h33 | 9:33 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 374 · ICE 614 | On time 7:00 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h02 | 9:02 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
| RE 4470 · ICE 1020 | On time 7:06 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4h00 | 11:06 AM Cologne Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 78 · ICE 1012 | On time 7:51 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1h57 | 9:48 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Cologne 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.
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Why should you book Karlsruhe to Cologne trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE) as well as ÖBB Nightjet offer trains services from Karlsruhe to Cologne. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE), but also compare tickets for the likes of ÖBB Nightjet to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
- 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,EC,IC,RE) with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (ICE,EC,IC,RE)'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 to Cologne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne
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
Wi-Fi availableToilets are cleanTrain conductors are niceSockets are availableDisadvantages
Food unfortunately got coldTrain wobbles a bitThe journey was very pleasant and passed quickly. There was wifi and power sockets, the comfort of the seats was very good. The train was a bit noisy, but you were well catered for. The train attendants were very nice and always gave the information in time. The toilets are very hygienic but the train unfortunately not so, the journey was very punctual and you did not have to change trains. The price was very good. But in all I would recommend it.
Advantages
Wifi availableSockets availableComfortable journeyToilet availableDisadvantages
The train is a bit noisyThe journey was quite comfortable and cosy. You have wifi and power sockets available on site, the staff are quite friendly, you have a TV on site showing the next station. The train was pretty punctual and I didn't have to change trains. The price is pretty okay for me, it was pretty worth it. The only downside is that the train was a bit noisy.
Advantages
On timeFriendlyDisadvantages
Lack of connectionsThe train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne was a pleasant and comfortable travel experience. The train was on time and well organised so that I could reach my destination without any problems. The seats on the train were comfortable and offered enough space to sit back and relax during the journey. The train staff were friendly and helpful and the service on board was satisfactory. However, a minor drawback is the limited train frequency on this route. It would be desirable if there were more connections to be more flexible in planning your journey. Nevertheless, I was able to plan my journey well and only had to spend minimal effort on booking tickets and changing trains.All in all, I can recommend the train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne. It was a relaxed and enjoyable journey with a good combination of comfort, service and scenic enjoyment. Whether for a weekend getaway or a business trip, the train offers a reliable and comfortable transport option.
Advantages
PunctualVery quietDisadvantages
NoneI travelled on the ICE 102 from Karlsruhe to Cologne in first class, which was very empty and quiet. My seat had 2 armrests and 2 power sockets. The wifi on the train worked well all the time except for a few minutes. The staff came by twice in between and asked if we would like something from the on-board bistro. The second time he gave me a small chocolate and was very friendly both times. The carriage, including the toilet, was clean. The train arrived about 5 minutes late. I could only find out about the train journey in the DB app, as the screens in the centre of the aisle only showed the route and no other information.
In my opinion, the price-performance ratio was okay.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Cologne
GermanyGermany
Trains from Karlsruhe to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 1h 57m.
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 (€15)
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
Average train duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 57m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
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 (€15)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet from Karlsruhe to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Cologne from $18 (€15). 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 57m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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 30m
Cheapest Price
$180 (€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 to Cologne
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Cologne 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, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Cologne is not feasible as the travel time is 1h 57m one way. However, there are 9 train trips available per day. The distance between the two cities is 147 miles (238 km).
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Cologne can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $89 (€72).
Three days are generally recommended to explore Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and museums.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the Rhine River, picturesque villages, and lush landscapes, particularly as you approach the wine-growing regions near the Rhine Valley.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Cologne is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
In Cologne, you can explore the Cologne Chocolate Museum to learn about chocolate history and production, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and visit the Botanical Gardens Flora for stunning floral displays. Discover trendy boutiques and vibrant street art in the Belgian Quarter, or attend a concert at the renowned Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Don't miss the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the modern art collection at Museum Ludwig, and the love lock-adorned Hohenzollern Bridge. Wander through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) and visit the diverse Cologne Zoo.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Cologne is 147 miles (238 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Cologne leaves at 12:01 AM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Karlsruhe to Cologne. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Cologne leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a night train from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
The train from Karlsruhe to Cologne takes 1h 57m and runs 9 per day.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Cologne is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Cologne Hbf.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Karlsruhe to Cologne
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
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
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmThe 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.
Köln-Ehrenfeld
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- I Siciliani-Dolce&Salato
- Burger King
- Café Franck
- Eichendorf
Hotel
- Kölnotel
- Black Hotels
Köln/Bonn Flughafen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 13:00 - 12:30 18:00
- Saturday: 09:00 13:30 - 13:00 16:00
- Sunday: 12:00 16:00 - 15:30 20:00
Distance to city center
13 kmDining
- Café Bistro Leysieffer
- Mishba
- Ständige Vertretung
- Kamps
Most popular train connections from Karlsruhe
More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cologne and Karlsruhe
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