Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar train with Deutsche Bahn (RE)

Sat, Sep 19
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Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF9 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 1h 32m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF9, while a train costs an average of CHF33.

Distance: 45 miles (73 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

CHF33

Average price

CHF9

Average price

Cheapest

CHF14

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 38m

Average total duration

1h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 18m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

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 Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar is a bus with an average price of CHF9.

This is compared to other travel options from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar:

A bus is CHF24 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar costing on average CHF33.

The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 2m.

Other travel options to Esslingen am Neckar take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 8m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Esslingen am Neckar including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar 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 10m sooner (1h 8m by train vs 1h 18m by car). Tickets start at around CHF33 compared to roughly CHF14 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.

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.

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), DB Regio Stuttgart and more offer trains services from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar.

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 ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or DB Regio Stuttgart to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar.
  • 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 to Esslingen am Neckar.

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 to Esslingen am Neckar.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar run on average 39 times per day, taking around 1h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF22 but you can travel from only CHF6 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:45, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 45 miles (73 km) distance in 47m.

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 CHF6
Distance
45 miles (73 km)
Average train duration
1h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF22
Trains per day
39
Fastest train
47m
First train
12:45 AM
Last train
11:47 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
2 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 CHF6

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TGV from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Esslingen am Neckar from CHF6. 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
47m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
CHF22
Deutsche Bahn frequency
20 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.
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

TGV

About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TGV Duration
48m
Cheapest TGV Price
CHF25
TGV frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Esslingen am Neckar

Things to do in Esslingen am Neckar

Discover the best of Esslingen am Neckar — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Esslingen am Neckar trip today.

  • Recommended

Stadtmuseum im Gelben Haus

City museum in the former Yellow House presenting Esslingen’s history, civic culture, and changing urban life in a central old-town setting.

  • Recommended

Archäologisches Museum St. Dionys

Museum dedicated to the city’s archaeological finds, from early settlement traces to medieval remains, with strong local context and interpretation.

  • Recommended

Villa Merkel – Galerien der Stadt Esslingen

Villa Merkel hosts contemporary art exhibitions in a grand historic villa and park. It is Esslingen’s leading venue for modern visual culture.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-range, local transit is reasonable, and day-to-day tourist costs are lower than Munich or Frankfurt.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a 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 coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is included, but rounding up is standard. Add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up for taxis, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF22, while the average price is around CHF33.
The train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar takes 47m and runs 39 per day.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar is 45 miles (73 km).
The first train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar leaves at 12:45 AM.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar leaves at 11:47 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar.
There is no direct train service currently available from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Esslingen am Neckar is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Esslingen (Neckar) station.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar is by bus, with a cost of around CHF6.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar is relatively scenic, offering views of the picturesque Swabian countryside, charming villages, and sections along the Neckar River, providing a pleasant and visually appealing travel experience.
Yes, a day trip from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar is feasible. The journey takes 47m and covers 45 miles (73 km). Trains run 20 times per day.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Esslingen am Neckar, allowing time to enjoy its medieval architecture, visit local wineries, and experience cultural sites like the Esslingen Castle and Old Town.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar.
Since both Karlsruhe and Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar include Frankfurt am Main, Strasbourg, Memmingen, Heidelberg, Darmstadt.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar 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 Esslingen am Neckar, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. While the city is generally safe, common scams include overcharging in taxis or at tourist shops. Staying alert in busy spots and using official transportation services 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 Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar

Most Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Esslingen (Neckar) station pair, with some services arriving at Esslingen-Mettingen. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Esslingen am Neckar train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Karlsruhe
Arrival train stations in Esslingen am Neckar

Which Karlsruhe station do trains to Esslingen am Neckar leave from?

Trains from Karlsruhe to Esslingen am Neckar leave from Karlsruhe Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Karlsruhe city centre at Karlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 Karlsruhe.
Karlsruhe HbfKarlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 KarlsruheWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Karlsruhe Hbf from Karlsruhe city centre

Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:

Train74346, 80700, 80702, 80704, 80706, 80708, 84704, 84710, 84714, 84722, 84726, 84740, 84746, 84752, 84758, 84764, 84770, 84776, 84782, 84788, 84792, 84794, 84796, 84800, 84808, 84810, 84814, 84816, 84859, 84864, 84866, 84868, 84870, 84872, 84876, 84877, 84878, 84880, 84882, 84884, 84886, 84888, 84890, 84892, 84894, 84896, 84898, 84900, 84902, 84904, 84906, 84908, 84910, 84912, 84913, 84914, 84916, 84918, 84920, 84922, 84924, 84926, 84928, 84930, 84931, 84934, 84935, 84936, 84938, 84940, 84941, 84944, 84946, 84948, 84952, 84956, 84958, 84962, 84964, 84968, 84972, 84976, 84980, 84984, 84986, 84988, 84994, 84998, 85000, 85004, 85006, 85008, 85012, 85014, 85018, 85020, 85022, 85024, 85026, 85030, 85032, 85034, 85040, 85042, 85046, 85052, 85054, 85056, 85058, 85060, 85064, 85068, 85070, 85074, 85078, 85082, 85084, 85086, 85088, 85090, 85178, 85278, 85311, 85390, 85392, 85396, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85414, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85480, 85482, 85484, 85488, 85500, 85502, 85504, 85506, 85508, 85510, 85512, 85514, 85516, 85518, 85520, 85522, 85524, 85526, 85528, 85530, 85532, 85534, 85536, 85538, 85540, 85546, 85548, 85551, 85557, 85559, 85561, 85563, 85565, 85567, 85569, 85571, 85573, 85575, 85577, 85579, 85581, 85583, 85585, 85589, 85591, 85597, 85599, 85605, 85607, 85611, 85615, 85619, 85623, 85629, 85631, 85633, 85635, 85639, 85641, 85645, 85647, 85651, 85653, 85655, 85659, 85661, 85665, 85669, 85673, 85675, 85679, 85681, 85685, 85687, 85689, 85821, 85916, 85918, 85922, 85932, 85936, 85938, 85940, 85942, 85946, 85948, 85950, 85952, 85954, 85956, 85958, 85960, 85962, 85964, 85966, 85968, 85970, 85972, 85974, 85976 · 6m · every ~10 min
Tram2, Nl2 · 6m · every ~11 min

Karlsruhe Hbf train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Vinarte, Am Tiergarten, Panorama, Alter Brauhof

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Barbarossa, Hotel Avisa, Am Tiergarten, Aparthotel Aijana.

Karlsruhe, Hbf SüdausgangBahnhofpl. 1A, 76137 Karlsruhe, Germany+49 30 586020930Accessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang from Karlsruhe city centre

Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:

Tram2, Nl2 · 1m · every ~11 min

Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang train station facilities and services

Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang.

Karlsruhe BahnhofsvorplatzBahnhofpl. 1A, 76137 Karlsruhe, Germany+49 30 586020930Accessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz from Karlsruhe city centre

Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:

Train74346, 80700, 80702, 80704, 80706, 80708, 84704, 84710, 84714, 84722, 84726, 84740, 84746, 84752, 84758, 84764, 84770, 84776, 84782, 84788, 84792, 84794, 84796, 84800, 84808, 84810, 84814, 84816, 84859, 84864, 84866, 84868, 84870, 84872, 84876, 84877, 84878, 84880, 84882, 84884, 84886, 84888, 84890, 84892, 84894, 84896, 84898, 84900, 84902, 84904, 84906, 84908, 84910, 84912, 84913, 84914, 84916, 84918, 84920, 84922, 84924, 84926, 84928, 84930, 84931, 84934, 84935, 84936, 84938, 84940, 84941, 84944, 84946, 84948, 84952, 84956, 84958, 84962, 84964, 84968, 84972, 84976, 84980, 84984, 84986, 84988, 84994, 84998, 85000, 85004, 85006, 85008, 85012, 85014, 85018, 85020, 85022, 85024, 85026, 85030, 85032, 85034, 85040, 85042, 85046, 85052, 85054, 85056, 85058, 85060, 85064, 85068, 85070, 85074, 85078, 85082, 85084, 85086, 85088, 85090, 85178, 85278, 85311, 85390, 85392, 85396, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85414, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85480, 85482, 85484, 85488, 85500, 85502, 85504, 85506, 85508, 85510, 85512, 85514, 85516, 85518, 85520, 85522, 85524, 85526, 85528, 85530, 85532, 85534, 85536, 85538, 85540, 85546, 85548, 85551, 85557, 85559, 85561, 85563, 85565, 85567, 85569, 85571, 85573, 85575, 85577, 85579, 85581, 85583, 85585, 85589, 85591, 85597, 85599, 85605, 85607, 85611, 85615, 85619, 85623, 85629, 85631, 85633, 85635, 85639, 85641, 85645, 85647, 85651, 85653, 85655, 85659, 85661, 85665, 85669, 85673, 85675, 85679, 85681, 85685, 85687, 85689, 85821, 85916, 85918, 85922, 85932, 85936, 85938, 85940, 85942, 85946, 85948, 85950, 85952, 85954, 85956, 85958, 85960, 85962, 85964, 85966, 85968, 85970, 85972, 85974, 85976 · 6m · every ~10 min
Tram2, Nl2 · 6m · every ~11 min

Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz train station facilities and services

Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz.

Most popular train connections to Esslingen am Neckar

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